THE
DIVING
COMPANY
PTY LTD
INTRODUCTION TO COMMERCIAL DIVING
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Contents 1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 4
2. Personnel and Training ................................................................................................................... 4
2.1 Commercial Divers ........................................................................................................................ 4
2.2 Standby Diver ................................................................................................................................ 6
2.3 Diving Supervisor .......................................................................................................................... 7
2.4 Divers Attendant ........................................................................................................................... 8
2.5 Working Conditions/Required Personnel ..................................................................................... 9
2.6 Decompression ........................................................................................................................... 10
2.7 Dive Team ................................................................................................................................... 10
3. Organisation and Planning ............................................................................................................ 11
3.1 Dive Team Selection .................................................................................................................... 11
3.2 Equipment & Plant Selection ...................................................................................................... 11
4. Plant and Equipment..................................................................................................................... 12
4.1 Diver Personal Equipment .......................................................................................................... 12
4.2 Air Supply (Breathable Gas) ........................................................................................................ 12
4.2.1 Diving Helmets/Masks ......................................................................................................... 12
4.2.2 Diving Hose (Umbilical) ........................................................................................................ 13
4.2.3 Primary Air Supply - Air Compressor ................................................................................... 14
4.2.4 Secondary Air Supply (HP Cylinders) .................................................................................... 14
4.2.5 Control Panel ........................................................................................................................ 15
4.3 Tools and Machinery ................................................................................................................... 18
4.3.1 Hand Tools ........................................................................................................................... 18
4.3.2 Pneumatic Tools .................................................................................................................. 18
4.3.3 Hydraulic Tools ..................................................................................................................... 18
4.3.4 Welding/Cutting ................................................................................................................... 18
4.4 Work Vessels ............................................................................................................................... 18
5. Safety - Overview .......................................................................................................................... 19
6. On-Site .......................................................................................................................................... 20
6.1 Transport ..................................................................................................................................... 20
6.2 Mobilisation ................................................................................................................................ 20
6.2.1 Boat ...................................................................................................................................... 20
6.2.2 Shore .................................................................................................................................... 20
6.3 Diving works ................................................................................................................................ 20
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6.3.1. Authorisation ...................................................................................................................... 20
6.3.1 Communication .................................................................................................................... 20
6.4 Environment ................................................................................................................................ 21
7. Maintenance ................................................................................................................................. 21
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1. Introduction The commercial diving industry is a small niche industry providing engineering and construction
support for projects requiring underwater attention. Many of the procedures, methodologies and
training may be unfamiliar to those outside of the industry which may often lead to
miscommunication and misplaced concerns regarding the work carried out.
This document is designed to provide stakeholders with a generalised overview of the various
aspects involved in commercial diving including safety, processes, equipment, machinery, statutory
requirements and training. By providing transparency in these aspects of diving work better
communication can be achieved between stakeholders which will allow higher levels of safety,
quality and project management to be achieved.
The relevant standards for commercial diving is AS/NZS 2299 - Occupational diving operations, Part
1: Standard operational practices.
2. Personnel and Training Commercial diving is a highly regulated industry which requires accreditation and medical
examinations for an individual to maintain an active diving status. On-site the diving team needs to
be able to work together, often in high pressure situations, to tackle any issues that may be
presented by the project. To achieve this safely and with maximum efficiency, a well established
support and hierarchal system is in place for the roles and responsibilities of the various team
members.
2.1 Commercial Divers A commercial diver must be recognised through the accreditation scheme provided by the
Australian Government which goes under the name 'Australian Diver Accreditation Scheme' (ADAS).
To be deemed suitable to be accredited for commercial diving works, members must pass
knowledge, practical and medical examinations. Once qualified as a commercial diver medical
examinations are carried out annually to ensure the divers meet health requirements and are fit to
dive.
The accreditation system is tiered and once achieving a base level competency, members may
choose to do additional training and accreditation to raise their allowable limitations for diving
works. These limitations include the use of different tools, allowable working depths, use of
decompression equipment, and training in various other form plant and equipment. Quite often
commercial divers will have a previous background in military, trade or offshore diving. The
additional skills which these previous experiences provide allow very diverse teams of skills and
abilities to be assembled and suited to each job type.
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The relevant certification courses for commercial diving works are shown in the following table:
SSBA (Part 2)
Minimum 4 weeks duration, minimum 20 days duration.
SSBA to 30m (Part 2) is a progressive step from Occupational SCUBA to 30 metres and introduces the use of surface supported breathing apparatus (SSBA) as the basis for underwater construction activities. This significantly increases the diver’s ability to operate under working situations. The course includes the use of welding and cutting equipment, pneumatic and hydraulic tools, salvage equipment, air and water dredging equipment, construction tools and other work related subjects to meet on shore diving industry requirements
Divers a restricted to a depth of 30m. The course includes certification in the following:
CPCCOHS1001A Work safely in the construction industry
ADASSSBA024A Utilise and maintain SSBA equipment
ADASSSBA025A Implement emergency procedures for SSBA
ADASSSBA026A Undertake pre-dive preparations for SSBA diving operation
ADASSSBA028A Undertake post-dive procedures for a surface supplied diving operation
ADASSSBA027A Undertake underwater deployment in a surface supplied diving operation
ADASSSBA030A Undertake basic diving work tasks for a surface supplied diving operation
ADASSSBA029A Undertake a compression chamber dive
ADASCON035A Perform underwater work with powered tools
ADASCON036A Perform underwater work using cutting and welding
ADASCON037A Perform underwater construction work tasks
ADASCON038A Identify basic safety and statutory requirements for underwater explosives work
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SSBA (Part 3)
The SSBA to 50m (Part 3) certification is a progressive step from ADAS Part 2 and includes the use of surface supported breathing apparatus. The qualification significantly increases the diver‘s ability to operate under working situations including the use of wet bells, deck decompression chambers and other work related subjects to meet offshore diving industry requirements. The objective of Part 3 training is to prepare Part 2 Divers to both safely and competently:
dive on SSBA to depths of 50msw
use hydraulic tools at depths to 50msw
conduct decompression dives using in water decompression and SurDO2
act as chamber operators
dive using hot water suits, and operate hot water generators
engage in diving operations using wet bells as a:
in-water standby diver; and surface standby diver.
Divers a restricted to a depth of 50m. Course certified the following competencies:
ADASOFF004A Work safely in offshore diving
ADASSSBA031A Undertake underwater deployment on SSBA to 50m
ADASSSBA032A Use hot water suit and hot water supply system
ADASSSBA033A Participate in wet bell diving operations
ADASCON039A Perform advanced underwater work to 50m
ADASHYP053A Prepare, operate and maintain twin-lock compression chamber
ADASHYP008A Assist as an attendant inside a hyperbaric chamber
On completion of the course a diver will be given a certificate followed by receiving an identification
card with the relevant competency level shown on the reverse of the card.
2.2 Standby Diver During diving works using a single diver in the water, a standby diver is present to provide assistance
to the diver if it is required. They are required to be fit to dive if assistance is required by the
submerged diver. In a 4 man dive team application, the standby diver is often the diver who will be
in the water directly after the current diver has reached their diving time limit or 'bottom time' limit.
Bottom time will be discussed further in section 2.5 Working Conditions and required personnel.
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2.3 Diving Supervisor Diving operations are overseen and managed by the diving supervisor. The role of the supervisor is
to provide knowledge and experience, coupled with additional training to ensure diving works are
conducted in a safe and regulated manner. Becoming a diving supervisor requires accreditation
from ADAS which is in addition to accreditations in the relevant level of diving the individual is to
supervise, e.g. to supervise part 3 works (up to 50m) a supervisor must have part 3 diving as well as
part 3 supervisor accreditation.
In order to be eligible for diving supervisor accreditation a diver must have completed a certain
amount of practical experience relevant to the ticket they wish to apply for, be assessed as
"competent" by other supervisors as well as demonstrate awareness, leadership and maturity with
regard to all diving works. The following table shows the requirements in more detail as described by
ADAS:
Diving Supervision – SSBA to 30m (Part 2) As a minimum, the candidate should present logged evidence of 200 logged dives and 200 hours logged bottom time during occupational dives that include a broad range of SSBA dives involving zero and limited visibility, salt and fresh water, current and varied sea states across the range of depths to 30 metres gained over at least two (2) years.
Competencies gained on completion:
ADASSUP063A Undertake role of the dive supervisor
ADASSUP064A Implement and monitor occupational health and safety programs.
ADASSUP065A Apply diving physics and physiology and perform associated calculations.
ADASSUP066A Manage diving illnesses and medical emergencies
ADASSUP067A Manage risk associated with dive operations
ADASSUP068A Plan dive operations
ADASSUP069A Conduct dive operations
ADASSUP070A Implement plant, equipment and maintenance procedures
ADASSUP071A Manage people
ADASSUPCD075A Supervise use of tools and explosives in a dive operation
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Diving Supervision – SSBA to 50m (Part 3) As a minimum, the candidate should present logged evidence of 200 logged dives and 200 hours logged bottom time during occupational SSBA dives that include a broad range of high complexity dives involving decompression diving, deep diving (in the range 30 – 50m), dives involving compression chambers and additional specialist equipment such as hot water suits and ancillary service equipment gained over at least two (2) years.
Competencies gained on completion: All of Part 2 competencies plus: ADASSUPCC072A Supervise on site chamber operations ADASSUPWB073A Supervise wet bell diving
On completion of the relevant diving supervisor course the following
identification card will be issued as part of the Australian Diver
Accreditation Scheme (ADAS) along with a certificate of completion.
The I.D. will include the level of supervision which has been attained
as well its expiry.
2.4 Divers Attendant During diving works, especially those carried out on a water vessel, the diver will require constant
monitoring and assistance on the surface. The diving supervisor will control and monitor the diving
works as a whole including experienced analysis and assessment of environment, hazards and risks.
The diving attendant is responsible for the direct interaction with the diver and is not to be involved
in activities which do not relate to the diver currently underwater. Requirements of the diver’s
attendant include:
Working knowledge of:
requirements of underwater work
signals used during diving works including non-visual signals
decompression procedures
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diving plant and equipment in use, including ancillary fittings such as pressure gauges, air
compressors and air filters.
The actions which may require the diving attendant during a dive may include:
Helping the diver get equipped for dive (dressing in)
Monitoring gauges and air compressors
Monitoring location and consistency of bubbles in the water (indication of divers breathing
and location)
Monitoring the tension and location of the divers air hose (belaying); provides
communication for works where the diver does not have direct verbal contact with the
surface crew as well as limits entanglement of the diving hose on objects.
Providing the diver with tools and equipment on request
Helping retrieve the diver (getting the diver out of the water)
Assisting the diver in removing equipment (dressing out)
2.5 Working Conditions/Required Personnel
Diving personnel or "manning" levels are dependent upon a number of determinant factors :
Water depth/duration of dive: The deeper the depth the less bottom time the diver has
before decompression is required . This non decompression time decreases exponentially
with depth. Thus to complete a task and/or provide a full days diving operations may require
additional divers.
Decompression diving: If water depth is greater than 30m or whenever decompression stops
are planned it is mandatory to have an operational diver decompression chamber on site.
Confined Space: Certain diving operations do not allow direct access and egress for the diver
such as working in a pipeline, tank, or other confined space. Additional personnel may be
required to safely undertake such tasks.
Minimum crew is 3 men:
1 x Diver in the water- requirements:
1. Diving Supervisor: monitor diving operations at all times not undertake any other tasks
which detract from primary task
2. Diver
3. Standby Diver: To be able to be deployed immediately and at all times if so required
2 x divers in water requirements:
Requires minimum 4 man team: one diver can act as standby diver providing divers are in constant
visual contact.
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2.6 Decompression Decompression times and requirements will vary with depth of water and the amount of time a
diver is working at a given depth.
AUS/NZ Standards 2299 outlines the requirements for decompression with tables. These are
followed strictly when completing diving works.
For diving work at a depth of more than 9m below the surface, decompression times will need to be
observed . Work completed above 9m to the surface will not require decompression.
Decompression diving: If water depth is greater than 30m or whenever decompression stops are
planned it is mandatory to have an operational diver decompression chamber on site.
Figure 1 Decompression Chamber (left) High Volume Air Compressor (right)
2.7 Dive Team Complementary to the roles and responsibilities outlined for the various positions in a dive team, the
best policy for safety and completion of works is using 'best practices’ judgement during diving
operations. This may include simple actions such as assisting other crew members if needed, all
members staying vigilant for potential hazards and maintaining a general state of awareness during
diving works. The roles and responsibilities being followed creates the minimum responsibility
required for each person in the dive team, however through a proactive approach to safety and
good team attributes, the hazards and subsequent risks associated with commercial diving are
greatly reduced.
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3. Organisation and Planning Before commencing works the diving operations team will provide all required documentation
pertaining to Work Health and Safety which includes SWMS, JSA, MSDS and any other
documentation required for the project. These are legal requirements and do not necessarily give
an explanation of the processes and considerations undertaken during the organisation and planning
stage. This section aims to provide an explanation so the procedures and considerations used by the
dive teams can be understood by the stakeholders.
3.1 Dive Team Selection The selection of divers for a particular contract or job type will often reflect the required skills for
that particular project. In most cases, all of the divers employed are suitable for the majority of
works carried out. In the event that there is specialist skills or experience are required then the
most appropriate or relevantly accredited divers will be used.
The selection of the right dive team for a job has positive outcomes for all stakeholders involved in
the project. In terms of safety, the selection of the most appropriate divers for a particular purpose
will mean increased experience and as a result, reduced likelihood of incidents due to
misjudgement.
The principal contractor benefits through the divers used being able to complete works with minimal
disruption due to human error and inexperience. The sub-contractor benefits from knowing the
work will be completed to a level which will ensure their reputation and future contract
opportunities are preserved.
3.2 Equipment & Plant Selection Much of the work completed in the commercial diving industry is often short-term stays on various
projects. As a result the plant and equipment used for diving operations must be highly mobile and
able to be mobilised, used for diving works and demobilised all within the space of a working day.
Depending on the type of works being conducted this may range from a simple collection of diving
equipment (dive spread) used for a simple inspection job (which would include a diving helmet, bail
out, air compressor, auxiliary air supply, pressure gauges, control panel and umbilical) to a much
more elaborate collection required for specialist or deep water works which may include water
pumps, hydraulic pumps, a range of specialist tools, cable reels, large and small vessels, dredges and
as well as a huge amount of back up equipment for isolated works.
The selection of the equipment required for a particular job is overseen by both the diving
supervisor and the diving superintendant. Equipment selection will normally take into account
multiple working conditions and as many potential difficulties or barriers which may be faced during
a project. These decisions are made by highly experienced members of the dive team and are
paramount in the organisation and planning stage of diving works.
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4. Plant and Equipment Water is a very unique environment which provides both advantages and disadvantages as a
function of its inherent properties. It follows therefore that commercial diving is a very unique
industry with specialist techniques and equipment required for often very simple work. The industry
is also very small which means purpose built equipment may not be commercially available for all
types of work. Additionally the equipment that is available may not be suited for the intended
application. Often custom designs must be fabricated to meet the needs of diving operations to
ensure they are safe and efficient. The following section aims to introduce some of the plant and
equipment which is used in the industry, as well as some basic explanation regarding its purpose or
function.
4.1 Diver Personal Equipment Typically a diver will supply their own wetsuit, protective footwear (booties), dive fins and weight
belt. These items are often customised for specific needs and thus are not suitable to be provided en
mass by the company. In cases where it is deemed necessary for the diver not to come in contact
with the water (temperature or contamination) a "dry-suit" may be used.
The diver is provided with protective gloves with may vary in durability and thickness depending on
application and apparent hazards. For a task which may require high dexterity and is considered low
risk, lightweight gloves may be used. Protective booties are worn both to protect the divers feet and
provide traction whilst needing to use force to move something under water. These booties are light
weight and will normally fit inside specially designed dive fins.
Under normal conditions a human body will float, combined with a highly buoyant wetsuit and other
equipment and it quickly becomes difficult to swim deeper underwater. The solution to this
problem is a weight belt which is designed to balance out the buoyancy of the diving equipment .
The weight belt is a single buckle system which can be safely and easily removed if required. It
should be noted that even when a weight belt is worn the diver can usually swim to the surface,
without flippers.
A harness is worn by the diver allows the diver to be assisted or retrieved if they are unable to do so
themselves.
4.2 Air Supply (Breathable Gas) The most basic requirement for commercial diving operations is the source of breathable gas for the
diver. All operations which require the submersion of a diver to complete any task will use a surface
supplied breathing apparatus (SSBA) and thus require a minimum certification of "Part 2" as
discussed in section 2. The following is a brief explanation of the items of breathing equipment used
for commercial diving
4.2.1 Diving Helmets/Masks
There is a large range of dive masks, dive helmets and associated accessories for use in commercial
diving. Specialist equipment exists for applications such as contaminated water, specialist gas mixes
such as those used off-shore and any other special requirement which may exist for various types of
recreational diving.
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A diving mask/helmet is the point at which the supplied air reaches the diver and is used for normal
respiratory function. The main points of interest when it comes to the diving mask/helmet are the
regulator and the visibility. The regulator converts the highly pressurised gas from the compressor
into low pressure, breathable gas for the diver. The visibility is an important aspect as it allows the
diver to clearly see what they are working on. Fogging is a problem often associated with breathing
apparatus, however both of the helmets used have built in anti fogging systems which are directly
controlled by the diver.
There are two breathing apparatus used for the majority of commercial work undertaken. These
include:
Band-Mask "18" - This mask has a solid face which connects and seals onto a soft flexible
hat. The Mask is then further held with is a 5 point harness which goes around the head.
The helmet is equipped with a wired communication system
Kirby Morgan Superlight 37 Helmet: The commercial diving standard helmet utilized
worldwide in 95% of all operations. Its advantages include: diver head protection, dry
interior , environmentally sealed, thermal protection. Comes with hard wired
communications to the surface.
Figure 2 Band Mask "18" (left) and Full helmet "37" (right)
4.2.2 Diving Hose (Umbilical)
The surface supplied air is sent to the diver using an "umbilical". The umbilical consists of a breathing
hose, a pneumofathometer (measures depth of the diver), communications cable and video/light
cable bundled and taped along with a safety rope.
The umbilical will be attached to the diver through a safety harness which is designed for emergency
retrieval of the diver.
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Figure 3 Umbilical
4.2.3 Primary Air Supply - Air Compressor
The air compressor is the primary source of breathable gas for the diver during works. The
compressor takes ambient air from an intake which is attached via a flexible hose allowing it to be
moved into a position which will provide fresh air (normally in a high position, up-wind from the
compressor). The air then passes through multiple filters before being compressed and stored
under pressure for use by the diver(s).
Figure 4 Gas Control Panel (left) Compressor (right)
4.2.4 Secondary Air Supply (HP Cylinders)
Secondary Air supply is provided by high pressure (HP) air cylinders which are kept in the same
vicinity as the air compressor and control panel for easy access. The purpose of the HP cylinders is to
supply breathable gas to the diver in the event that there is a problem with the air compressor so
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the diver may return to the surface. These cylinders will vary in volume depending on the depth of
the work being carried out as well as the number of divers being supplied
4.2.5 Emergency Gas Supply (Bail-Out Cylinder)
In the event the air supply provided to the diver(s) via an umbilical is cut the diver is equipped with a
high pressure gas cylinder attached to their harness. This 'bail out' cylinder allows the diver to have
an auxiliary air supply while they return to the surface.
4.2.6 Control Panel
The control panel is essentially the control centre for the source and distribution of the breathable
gas available to the diver. The control panel will also provide the depth of the diver at any point in
time.
The source control, both intake and output allows the diver to draw on 3 separate sources of air
including that from the air compressor, the emergency bottled air which is kept next to the control
panel for quick access and the bail out which is located on the divers safety harness.
Diver Air Supply - Flow Diagram
Compressed Air (Motorised
Compressor)
Control Panel
High Pressure Air Cylinder
Diver(s)
Emergency Air Cylinder (Bail
out)
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Figure 5 - Commercial Diver Prepared for Operations
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Figure 6 Commercial Diver Prepared for Diving operations
Figure 7 Dive Spread - Air supply, Monitoring and Communication Systems
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4.3 Tools and Machinery Commercial diving works require unique tools which are able to operate safely and reliably under
water. The environment present in sub-surface works will vary in depth, chemical composition and
visibility and the tools and equipment used for each case will change accordingly. This section aims
to provide a general overview of some of the tools and equipment which may be used for a project.
4.3.1 Hand Tools
Divers can utilize underwater the same array of hand tools as used by trades people on the surface
such as spanners, hand saws, hammers, screwdrivers etc as well as customised tools for particular
applications on a project.
4.3.2 Pneumatic Tools
Tools which are powered by compressed air are referred to as pneumatic tools or air tools.
Pneumatic (Air) tools are used for certain applications but generally lack power and durability for
sustained underwater use.
4.3.3 Hydraulic Tools
Hydraulic tools provide the diver with an extensive array of underwater tools including
jackhammers, chipping hammers, chainsaws, grinders, drills, diamond core drilling rigs, impact guns
to name a few. Hydraulic tools require their own, separate power source which is referred to as a
"power pack". The power pack provides pressurised oil through purpose built hoses which tools are
highly durable and the fittings at each end of the hose are specially designed locking fittings which
eliminate potential for oil leaks.
4.3.4 Welding/Cutting
Hot works including welding and cutting will be required where construction using steel or metal
components is being performed. Both welding and cutting are certified under ADAS stage 2 and 3 as
described earlier in this document. The main type of welding which can be completed under water
is "arc welding" and the main type of hot works cutting is "ultra-thermic" cutting.
Wet welding: qualified divers are able to do structural and non structural welds underwater
using specialized arc welding equipment.
Ultra Thermic Cutting: commonly called by its trade name ‘Broco’ this is a method of cutting
ferrous and non ferrous metals underwater to a thickness of 100mm .
4.4 Work Vessels In many cases it is both safer and more efficient to complete diving works from a vessel. Depending
on the requirements of the project different sized vessels may be used. These include small
fibreglass vessels, medium aluminium flat bottom vessels (7 - 10m), large flat barges with crane
equipment (10 - 20m) and offshore vessels (designed for open ocean conditions).
All vessels used need to comply with the safety and licensing and registration requirements for the
relevant authorities present in the area of work (Roads and Maritime Services RMS for all NSW
based work).
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5. Safety - Overview As has been mentioned throughout this document, safety is always a primary concerns during diving
operations. This means not only complying with all relevant regulatory bodies and legal
requirements, but also promoting a general, safety conscious attitude among members of a dive
crew/team.
In order to understand safety in diving works it is important for stakeholders to understand the
hazards and risks related to commercial diving works from a statistical and historical perspective.
Mitigation of risks is best handled using a system which is based on analysis of high risk hazards and
features of work and methods for actively mitigating those risks.
The following table is an example of activities which are perceived to pose high risks:
Activity Risks Mitigation Strategies
Works in the vicinity of pressure differential (suction). This may include pumps, inlets, dams, and any other system which may produce a suction effect on a diver.
Risks associated with pressure differentials are those relating to the safety of the diver. If a pressure differential is activated while a diver is in the vicinity it may cause serious injury or even fatality.
The mitigation strategies for pressure differentials are highly reliant on the education of external operators. Lockouts are placed on all relevant operation points before diving work begins. If these are misunderstood or ignored through ignorance on the behalf of an operator then a risk returns.
Crane movements and slewing loads over water.
Loads being moved in an unsafe manner around a submerged diver leading to harm. This risk is mainly due to a lack of communication between operators.
Clear communications between the crane operator and diving supervisor. Constant communications between the diving supervisor and the diver.
These risks are those which are seen by the industry and the divers to pose the most risk to the
health and safety of workers and therefore are an important focus point for safety documentation.
Conversely there are risks which are often associated with commercial diving from external influence
which, although taken into consideration, do not pose a likely risk to divers. Examples of these
include:
Danger from Aquatic Creatures - The main issues pertaining to the safety and wellbeing of
workers in the commercial diving industry are related to communicative issues and human
error. Injuries which may be caused by sea creatures are generally not a consideration for
commercial diving operations. This is due to the fact that is poses an extremely low
statistical threat to the safety and wellbeing of a diver. Additionally, precautions are
inadvertently taken through the use of protective dive equipment which will protect divers
against stings and nips from aggressive sea creatures.
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6. On-Site
6.1 Transport Transportation of personnel, equipment and machinery is carried out generally using company
vehicles. If larger equipment or transportation needs are present then these are outsourced to
certified companies. The majority of the equipment used is able to be lifted and relocated by
members of the dive team. For heavier or more awkward objects the vehicle mounted cranes may
be used so safety lift and place the equipment/machinery.
6.2 Mobilisation The setup of the equipment is an important factor for both safety and efficiency, the diving
supervisor will make a decision based on their assessment of the surrounding environment and likely
conditions as to the most appropriate setup.
6.2.1 Boat
Boats will normally be setup before arriving on a project. The flat bottom aluminium boats have
customised features which make the working area safer whilst maximising working space. These
include specialised features for hoses, gas bottles and other essential equipment.
6.2.2 Shore
If working from a vessel is not required then the dive spread may be set up on the shore. The area
used for this will be assessed by the dive supervisor and the decision as to the location of the
different equipment will be determined.
6.3 Diving works Once the working platform as been established and the equipment is mobilised the diving works can
begin. The outlines for different aspects of diving works are included below.
6.3.1. Authorisation
Essential to inform Ports Authority, RMS, or other relevant authority of intended diving operations in
or near a shipping channel.
Ensure all parties are informed where potential pressure differential exists: i.e. shutdown pumps,
lock out engines on ships and vessels etc
Permits to work are completed before commencement of any diving works.
6.3.1 Communication
6.3.1.1 Diver
Communication between the diver and the dive crew is maintained through verbal, visual and
experience based communication. The diver will be in contact with the diving supervisor or the
diving attendant through the use of internal speakers in the dive helmet.
6.3.1.2 Crew
Diving works are often noisy and the use of ear protection means communication is often achieved
through hand signals. These signals are established before works commence and are simple, easily
distinguishable gestures which effectively convey information from one team member to the next.
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6.3.1.3 Other
Communication between the diving vessel and other water vessels is achieved through a visual
signalling. This generally in the form of a diving flag which is displayed in an elevated position on the
boat and if necessary in additional positions near the site to ensure passing vessels are able to view
it. Other forms of communication include the placement of channel markers, buoy's and other
means of communication to ensure the working area is safe for the diver(s).
6.4 Environment A large majority of diving works carried out are in habited marine environments with active eco-
systems. As a result, diving works are regulated by different environmental bodies to ensure that the
works completed have a minimal impact of flora and fauna. This is added to with precautions taken
by divers and supervisors to minimise the footprint of works carried out and cause minimal
disruption to the natural state of the environment. In scenarios where it is necessary to disturb
surrounding environments a habitat study may be carried out prior to works. Other precautions may
include the use of silt catchment screens and curtains.
Divers are also made aware of different pest species of weeds and fish so they may be able to
report them to the appropriate habitat authority to be further investigated. It should be noted that
as a general statement a lot of commercial divers also dive for fun in their spare time and therefore
value the preservation of the environments they visit recreationally.
7. Maintenance The company operates a computerized planned maintenance system which is compliant with or
exceeds relevant standards and manufacturers schedules. All maintenance on equipment and
machinery is done so to the regulations prescribed by Australian standards as well as suggested
maintenance periods as described by manufacturers.