TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY DIVING SAFETY MANUAL. Revised: 1 May 1989 SECTION 1.00 GENERAL POLICY

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1 TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY DIVING SAFETY MANUAL Revised: 1 May 1989 SECTION 1.00 GENERAL POLICY This Document establishes standards which originated in the Scripps Institute, modified by the Texas A&M University in its University Guide for Diving Safety dated May 1970, and the Diving Certification and Operation of Scientific Diving programs, revised April PURPOSE 1.11 The Scientific Diving Standards The purpose of these scientific diving standards is to ensure that all scientific diving is conducted in a manner that will maximize protection of scientific divers from accidental injury and/or illness, and to set forth standards for training and certification. It is designed to assure general conformance with standards generally agreed upon by the scientific diving community at many universities, and to represent the safest and most efficient operating methods in scientific diving The Texas A&M University (TAMU) Scientific Diving Standards This document sets forth minimal standards for the establishment of TAMU and American Academy of Underwater Scientists AAUS-recognized scientific diving programs, the organizational structure for the conduct of these programs, and the basic regulations and procedures for safety in scientific diving operations. It also establishes a framework for reciprocity between member organizations, which adhere to these minimum standards The Goals of this Scientific Diving Manual The goals of this Scientific Diving Manual are to provide for the development and implementation of policies and procedures that will enable us to meet requirements of environmental and operational conditions, both in the Continental United States and in foreign countries where Texas A&M-sponsored diving is carried out, and to comply with the AAUS scientific diving policy The Standards for Texas A&M-sponsored diving will adhere to the following: 1

2 1. Maintain documentation to cover the following topics: a. Safety procedures for the diving operations. b. Responsibilities of the dive team members. c. Equipment use and maintenance procedures. d. Emergency procedures. 2. Establish emergency evacuation and medical treatment procedures for each diving location, including information as to the closest treatment chamber and diving-qualified medical aid Review of Standards To conform to AAUS guidelines, an annual report and review of diving activities shall be prepared and submitted to the AAUS. This report will contain recommendations and suggestions for modification of AAUS standards CONTROL 1.21 Scientific Diving Defined All diving performed by individuals necessary to and part of a scientific, research, or educational activity, in conjunction with a project or study under the jurisdiction of any public or private research or educational institution or similarly recognized organization, department or group Membership Organization Auspices Defined For the purpose of these standards, the auspices of TAMU includes any scientific diving operation to which TAMU personnel are connected because of ownership of any equipment used, locations selected, or relationship with the individual(s) concerned. This includes all cases involving the operations of employees of auxiliary organizations, where such employees are acting within the scope of their employment, and the operation of other persons who are engaged in scientific diving of the member organization or are diving as members of an organization recognized by the AAUS member organization. When TAMU personnel are involved in scientific diving under the auspices of another institution, whether as directors or as divers, they will adhere to the general guidelines of this Document. Those individuals directly responsible for an individual diving project will be responsible for obtaining appropriate insurance coverage, and will be finally responsible for approving any exceptions required to safely fulfill its mission Certification Types 2

3 Texas A&M University requires that no person shall engage in scientific diving unless that person holds a recognized valid certificate issued by TAMU or an organization of the AAUS or equivalent body which adheres in general to the provisions of this manual (see Section 3.00 and 4.00). Examples of recognized certificates include but are not limited to: 1. Diver-in-Training Permit. This permit signifies that a diver has completed and been certified as at least an open water diver through a nationally or internationally recognized certifying agency, scientific diving program, or its equivalent. 2. Scientific Diver Certificate. This is a permit to dive, usable only while it is current and for the purpose intended. 3. Temporary Diver Permit. This permit constitutes a waiver of the requirements of Section 4.00 and is issued only following a demonstration of the required proficiency in diving. It is valid only for a specific time, as determined by the Diving Health and Safety Officer Equipment 1.25 Sites All diving equipment used on TAMU-sponsored diving, regardless of ownership, shall conform to the standards set forth in this manual. The regulations herein shall be observed at all locations where scientific diving is conducted under Texas A&M sponsorship and approval Reciprocity A scientific diver in good standing, currently certified under the auspices of one member organization of the AAUS shall also be so recognized by TAMU, and will operate under these Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Waiver of Requirements The Texas A&M Diving Control Board (DCB) may grant a waiver for specific requirements of training, examinations, depth certifications, and minimum activity to maintain certification ORGANIZATION The Texas A&M University shall appoint a Diving Health and Safety Officer and a Diving Control Board. 3

4 1.31 The Diving Health and Safety Officer (DHSO) 1. Shall be appointed by the President, of Texas A&M University or designated representative. 2. Shall be a scientific diver and member as defined by the AAUS. 3. Shall be responsible through the DCB, to the responsible administrative officer or designee, for the conduct of the TAMU scientific diving program. The operational authority for this program, including the conduct of training and certification, approval of dive plans, maintenance of diving records, and insuring compliance with this manual and all relevant TAMU regulations rests with the DHSO. 4. May permit portions of this program to be carried out by a qualified delegate, although the DHSO may not delegate responsibility for the safe conduct of the Texas A&M University diving program. 5. Shall be guided and advised in the performance of the required duties by the advice of the DCB, but operational responsibility for conduct of the TAMU diving program will be retained by the DHSO. 6. Shall have the authority to suspend diving operations, when conditions are unsafe or unwise. When such action is taken, contact the Diving Control Board as soon as practicable to have this suspension ratified The Diving Control Board 1. Voting members shall include the Diving Officer, the responsible administrative officer or designee, and will include the University Safety Officer, a University physician, as well as selected members of the faculty who are engaged in scientific diving programs. The internal structure of the DCB will be established by the DHSO who will be the Chairman. The chairman or any member may request the presence of any individual to a DCB meeting on a Ad Hoc basis to provide their expertise concerning a given problem. 2. Shall be responsible to the University s administrative officer and the DHSO in matters concerning the scientific diving program. When requested to do so, a DCB member may represent the University on diving matters. 3. Shall act as board of appeal to consider diver-related problems. 4. Shall recommend the issue, re-issue, or revocation or diving certificates. 4

5 5. Shall recommend changes in policy and amendments to the AAUS and the Texas A&M University Guide to Diving Safety as the need arises. 6. Shall approve training programs through which the applicants for certification can satisfy the requirements of the TAMU diving safety manual. 7. Shall suspend diving programs which it considers unsafe or unwise. 8. Shall aid the DHSO in the approval of criteria for equipment selection and use as appropriate. 9. Shall aid the DHSO in the approval of new equipment of techniques when appropriate. 10. Shall aid the DHSO in approval of facilities for the inspection and maintenance of diving and associated equipment when appropriate. 11. Shall aid the DHSO to ensure that the Texas A&M-sponsored air stations meet air quality standards. 12. Shall periodically review the DHSO s performance and program. 13. Shall sit on a board of investigation to inquire into the nature and cause of diving accidents or violations of the Texas A&M University Guide to Diving Safety Ultimate Authority The administrative officer appointed by the President of Texas A&M has the ultimate authority for the scientific diving program of the University, and its related activities Organization Policy Policy recommendations relating to the Texas A&M University diving program shall be made to the responsible administrative officer or designee. The development of these recommendations is the joint responsibility of the Diving Safety Officer and the DCB INSTRUCTIONAL PERSONNEL 1.51 Qualifications All personnel involved in diving instruction under TAMU auspices shall be qualified for the type of instruction given. 5

6 1.52 Selection Instructional personnel will be selected by the responsible administrative officer, or designee, who will solicit the advice of the DCB in conducting preliminary screening of applicants for instructional positions MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS All certified divers shall pass a medical examination the expiration date of which will appear on the diving certificate. After each illness or injury requiring hospitalization of more than 24 hours, or after an episode of unconsciousness, or after treatment in a hyperbaric chamber following a diving accident or other serious illness, certified divers shall submit to a medical interview or examination appropriate to the nature and extent of the injury or illness, as determined by the examining physician before resuming diving activities GENERAL POLICY SECTION 2.00 No person shall engage in scientific diving operations under the auspices of Texas A&M University diving program unless a current certificate has been issued under the provisions of this manual. No non-university certified diver will be employed to take part in officially sponsored diving without first notifying the Research Foundation attorney and the Diving Health and Safety Officer. All divers whether members of this University or not, will adhere to these guidelines. Scientific diving shall not be conducted unless procedures have been established for emergency evacuation of the diver(s) to a hyperbaric chamber or appropriate medical facility DIVING PROCEDURES 2.21 Solo Diving Prohibition All diving conducted under the auspices of the Texas A&M University shall be planned and executed in such a manner as to ensure that every diver maintains constant, effective communication with at least one other comparable equipped, certified scientific diver in the water. This buddy system is based upon mutual assistance, especially in the case of an emergency. Dives should be planned around the competency of the least experienced diver. If loss of effective communication occurs within a buddy team, all divers shall surface and reestablish contact (except as specified in Section 2.40). 6

7 2.22 Enclosed or Confined Spaces Where an enclosed or confined space is not large enough for two divers, a diver shall be stationed at the underwater point of entry and an orientation line shall be used Diver s Flag A diver s flag shall be displayed prominently whenever diving is conducted under circumstances where required or where water traffic is possible Flotation Devices Each diver shall possess on every dive the capability of attaining and maintaining positive buoyancy Timing Devices and Depth and Pressure Gauges Both members of the diving pair must have an underwater time-keeping device, an approved depth indicator, and a submersible tank pressure gauge. Depth gauges and timepieces will not be required by divers when the depth of operation has already been determined by a depth gauge, and there is contact with a surface time keeper who has a reliable method of notifying divers of the time to surface. Under such a situation, the diver still will be required to have a tank pressure gauge Dive Tables Although a decompression meter may be used, a set of appropriate diving tables must be available at the dive location. These tables must be at least as safe as the United States Navy Decompression Tables Depth Limits The Scientific diving certificate will authorize the holder to dive to the depth entered on the certificate. The certificate must bear the signature of the Texas A&M DHSO. 1. A certified diver diving under the auspices of TAMU shall not exceed his or her depth certification unless accompanied by a diver certified to a greater depth. Under these circumstances, the diver may not exceed his or her depth limit by more than one step without special permission of the DHSO. 2. Dives between fsw (0-40 msw) in depth must be in conformance with Section

8 3. Dives exceeding 130 fsw (40 msw) in depth must be in accordance with Section Diving is not permitted deeper than 190 fsw (58 msw) except under the special approval of the DCB and DHSO, and the Institutional Review Board (IRB) Refusal to Dive 1. The decision to dive belongs to the diver personally. A diver may refuse to dive without fear of penalty whenever the diver feels it is unsafe to make the dive (see Section 2.63 #1). 2. Safety. The ultimate responsibility for safety rests with the individual diver. It is the diver s responsibility and duty to refuse to dive if, in their judgement, conditions are unsafe or unfavorable, or if they would be violating the precepts of their training or the regulations of this guide Termination of the Dive 1. The Dive Master will terminate a dive whenever they feel that unsafe or dangerous conditions exist for any reason. 2. It is the responsibility of each diver to terminate the dive without fear of penalty whenever the diver feels that their physical condition is not conducive to safe diving, or when felt that it is unsafe to continue the dive, unless it compromises the safety of another diver already in the water (see Section 2.63 #1). 3. The dive shall be terminated while there still is sufficient tank pressure to permit the diver to safely reach the surface, including decompression time, or to safely reach an additional air source at the decompression station. 2.29b Closed and Semi-closed Circuit SCUBA Closed and semi-closed circuit SCUBA (rebreathers) shall meet the following requirements: 1. Oxygen partial pressure in the breathing gas shall not exceed values approved by the Texas A&M DHSO. The generally accepted inspired maximum value is 1.5 atmospheres absolute at depths greater than 25 fsw (7.6 fsw) for bounce diving. For saturation diving, the inspired oxygen will not exceed 380 mm Hg, or 0.5 atmospheres absolute for storage in the habitat. Short excursions may be made on air to a greater depth after approval by the DHSO. 8

9 2. Chemicals used for absorption of carbon dioxide shall be kept in a cool, dry location in a sealed container until required for use. Attention will be paid to the fact that carbon dioxide absorbers do not work well if cold. This must be taken into account in rebreathers and submersibles. 3. A rebreathing device that provides for a constant inspired PO2 will be used only with special decompression tables designed for that purpose. Standard USN Air Decompression tables will not be used. All rebreather-type diving will be specifically approved in advance by the DHSO. 4. The designated person-in-charge shall determine that the carbon dioxide absorption canister is used in accordance with the manufacturer s instructions. 5. Closed and semi-closed diving equipment will not be used at a depth greater than recommended by the manufacturer of the equipment SURFACE SUPPLIED DIVING (OTHER THAN ON HOOKAH) Surface supplied divers shall comply with all SCUBA diving procedures in this manual (except Section 2.21). Surface supplied diving shall not be conducted at depths greater than 190 fsw (58 msw). 1. Divers using the surface supplied mode shall be equipped with a diver-carried independent reserve breathing gas supply. 2. Each surface supplied diver shall be hose tended by a separate dive team member while in the water. 3. Divers using the surface supplied mode shall maintain voice communication with the surface tender. 4. The surface supplied breathing gas supply shall be sufficient to support all surface supplied divers in the water for the duration of the planned dive, including decompression. 5. During surface supplied diving operations when only one diver is in the water, there must be a standby diver in attendance at the dive location. 6. Surface supplied diving will not take place if the currents are greater than 1.5 kts HOOKAH Hookah divers shall comply with all SCUBA diving procedures in this manual. 9

10 1. Divers using the hookah mode shall be equipped with a diver-carried independent reserve breathing gas supply if they are operating at a depth greater than 33 fsw (10 msw). 2. Each hookah dive shall be hose-tended by a dive team member while in the water. If the depth is 33 fsw or less, one tender may tend more than one diver. 3. The hookah breathing gas supply shall be sufficient to support all HOOKHA divers in the water for the duration of the planned dive, including decompression. 4. All hookah divers served by the same air source will remain at approximately the same depth during the dive and subsequent decompression. 5. If one hookah diver aborts his dive, all other divers on the same air source will abort also. 6. All hookah divers shall have a way of achieving positive buoyancy SATURATION DIVING When either saturation diving is contemplated, in a chamber or in an underwater habitat, the DHSO will be contacted. The DHSO will study the situation and promulgate guidelines for each specific instance. Among other requirements will be the following: 1. The partial pressure of inspired oxygen in the habitat or chamber will not exceed 0.5 atmospheres absolute (ata). 2. The decompression profile will be approved by the DHSO prior to the beginning of the first dive. If decompression is to take place while submerged in the habitat assurance must be given that the habitat will withstand the external pressure difference between one ata inside versus ambient water pressure outside. Also that the divers will be able to expeditiously lock out of the habitat into the water to reach the surface. 3. If decompression is to take place on the surface, assurance will be given that travel to the surface will be by closed bell or rapidly enough to allow the diver to be back under pressure within no more than 5 minutes from leaving the bottom. The DHSO may waive this 5-minute time under his discretion but this waiver must be in writing. 4. If surface decompression is undertaken, the decompression chamber will be able to compress the divers to at least 165 fsw (50 msw or 6 ata), and to deliver pure oxygen by mask with overboard dump of exhaled gas by built-in breathing system (BIBS). 10

11 2.60 COLD WATER DIVING Diving in water colder than 40 degrees F (5 degrees C), or diving under ice will not be carried out without specific authority of the DHSO and the DCB CAVE DIVING Cave diving will not be carried out without specific authority of the DCB and the DHSO. Authority to engage in such diving will require that all divers be trained in cave diving techniques and that standard safety precautions and safety equipment follow National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI) or another nationally recognized diving training association requirements DIVING OPERATIONS 2.81 Dive Master/Lead Diver For each dive, one individual shall be designated as the Dive Master or Lead Diver. The DHSO and the DCB shall approve this person at the time the dive program is approved. The DHSO and the DCB shall approve them at the time the dive program is approved. This person will be responsible for the following: Coordination. Diving shall be coordinated with other known activities in the vicinity, which are likely to interfere with diving operations Determination of the location of the nearest hyperbaric chamber, and the method of evacuation of any injured divers to that location or to proper medical assistance Assure that all diving equipment in use on the project is fully functional and has been properly maintained. This applies to personal as well as University-owned equipment Assure that each diver is in good health just prior to his or her dive. The Dive Master will not permit anyone to dive who is ill or fatigued, or shows any apprehension about the dive. Special care will be taken to see that no diver with unhealed sprains, bad bruises, broken bones or other recent injuries or an illness is allowed to dive Assure that all appropriate records are maintained, including a description of any diving-related accidents Briefing. The dive team members shall be briefed on: a. Dive objectives. 11

12 b. Unusual hazards or environmental conditions likely to affect the safety of the diving operation. c. Modification to diving or emergency procedures necessitated by the specific diving operations. d. Reporting any physical problems or adverse physiological effects including symptoms of pressure-related injuries Dive Planning. Planning of a diving operation shall include considerations of the safety and health aspects of the following: a. Diving mode. b. Surface and underwater conditions and hazards. c. Breathing gas supply. d. Thermal protection. e. Diving equipment. f. Dive team assignments. g. Residual inert gas status of dive team members. h. Decompression schedules and altitude corrections. i. Emergency procedures including available oxygen and a medical kit DIVE PLANS Before conducting any diving operations under the auspices of Texas A&M University, the Dive Master/Lead Diver for a proposed operation will consider the following information: 1. Diver s qualifications and the type of certification or permit held by each diver. 2. Name, telephone number, and relationship of person to be contacted for each diver in the event of an emergency. 3. Approximate number of proposed dives. 4. Location(s) of proposed dives. 12

13 5. Estimated depth(s) and bottom time(s) anticipated. 6. Repetitive dives, if required. 7. Any proposed use of decompression diving, diving tables, etc. 8. Proposed work, equipment, and boats to be employed. 9. Any hazardous conditions anticipated Pre-dive Safety Checks 1. Diver s Responsibility: a. Each scientific diver shall conduct a functional check of his or her diving equipment in the presence of the diving buddy or tender. b. It is the diver s responsibility and duty to refuse to dive if, in their judgement, conditions are unfavorable, or if they would be violating the precepts of their training, or the Texas A&M University s University Guide to Diving Safety. c. No dive team member shall be required to be exposed to hyperbaric conditions against their will, except when necessary to prevent or treat a pressure-related injury. d. No dive team member shall be permitted to dive for the duration of any known condition, which is likely to affect adversely affect their safety and health or that of other divers. e. The diver shall terminate the dive while there is still sufficient tank pressure to permit the diver to safely reach the surface including decompression. f. No female who is, or thinks she might be pregnant will be allowed to dive. It is her responsibility to notify the Dive Master that she is removing herself from the diving roster, although she may not wish to explain why she does so. If any diver does not remove themselves from the diving roster the Dive Master will not request an explanation for such action, although it may be volunteered either publicly or privately. If it is revealed privately, the Dive Master will not discuss the matter with any other individual except with a physician involved in the program if advice is needed. When a diver removes themselves from diving it will be noted in the dive log. 13

14 2. Equipment Evaluations: a. Each diver should perform a check of the submersible pressure gauge, timing device, and depth gauge unless divers are operating under the provisions of Section b. Each diver shall have the capability of achieving and maintaining positive buoyancy at all times. c. If mixed gas is used as the breathing media, appropriate diving tables shall be used. The use of these tables will be approved by the DHSO for each environment when initial approval is given. d. Closed and semi-closed circuit SCUBA (rebreathers) shall meet the requirements as outlined in Section Diver s Qualifications: Each scientific diver shall be currently certified, trained, and qualified for the diving mode being used, and each dive team member shall have experience or training in the following: a. The use of the instruments and equipment appropriate to the diving activity to be conducted. b. Dive planning and emergency procedures. c. Current certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. d. Diver rescue techniques and diving-related first aid. e. Diving-related physics and physiology, recognition of pressure related injuries and the appropriate emergency treatment. Emphasis will be placed on conducting a simple neurological check of the victim so that appropriate information can be given to any physician by telephone Post-Dive Safety Check 1. After the completion of a dive, each diver shall report any physical problems, symptoms of decompression sickness, or equipment malfunction. 2. When diving outside the no-decompression limits, the divers should remain awake for at least one hour after diving, and in the company of a dive team member who is prepared to transport him or her to a hyperbaric chamber if necessary. 14

15 2.85 Emergencies and Deviations from Regulations Any diver may deviate from the requirements of this manual to the extent necessary to prevent or minimize a situation that is likely to cause death, serious physical harm, or major environmental damage. A written report of such actions must be submitted to the DHSO and the DCB explaining the circumstances and justifications Consequences of Violations of Regulations Failure to comply with the regulations of this standard may be cause for the revocation or restriction of the diver s scientific diving certification by the TAMU DCB RECORD KEEPING AND REQUIREMENTS 2.91 Personal Diving Log 1. Each certified scientific diver should log every dive made under the auspices of the TAMU program, except that those divers operating under the sponsorship of the Nautical Archaeology program may have this consolidated by that agency. Even in that situation, divers are urged to maintain their own dive log. The TAMU DCB will provide standard forms. Log sheets shall be submitted to the DHSO to be placed in the diver s permanent file. The diving log shall include at least the following: a. Name of diver, partner, and Dive Master. b. Date, time, and location of activities. c. Diving modes used. d. General nature of diving activities. e. Approximate surface and underwater conditions. f. Maximum depths, bottom times, surface intervals, and mixed gas profiles if used. g. Diving tables used if other than U.S. Navy Standard Air Tables. h. Detailed report of any accidents or potentially dangerous incidents. 2. If pressure-related injures are suspected, or if symptoms are evident, the following additional information shall be recorded and retained by the DCB, with records of the dive for period of five years: 15

16 a. Complete accident report. b. Description of symptoms, including depth and time of onset. c. Description and results of treatment. 3. TAMU DCB shall investigate and document any incident of pressure-related injury and prepare a report, a copy of which is to be forwarded to the AAUS Record Maintenance The DHSO or designee shall maintain permanent records for each individual scientific diver certified. The file shall include evidence of certifications, log sheets, results of current physical examination, waiver, reports of disciplinary actions by the TAMU DCB, and other pertinent information deemed necessary. 1. Availability of Records: a. Application for diving certification automatically grants approval for Medical records to be made available to the attending physician of a diver or former diver and the DHSO or DCB as necessary. b. Records and documents required by this standard shall be retained by TAMU for the following periods; 1) Physician s written reports of medical examination for dive team members - 5 years. 2) Manual for diving safety current document only. 3) Records of dive 1 year, except 5 years when there has been an incident of diving-related injury. 4) Pressure-related injury assessment 5 years. 5) Equipment inspection and testing records current entry or tag, or until equipment is withdrawn from service. 3. In the event, TAMU discontinues its diving program, a summary of organizational activities for the past 5 years will be forwarded to the AAUS Required Accident Report All diving accidents requiring recompression or resulting in serious injury shall be reported to the TAMU DHSO who will, upon approval of the University Systems 16

17 Attorney report the incident to the AAUS for information. The TAMU regular procedures for accident reporting shall be followed. Where conflict exists, the Texas A&M University Policies and Procedures Manual shall take precedence EVALUATION 3.11 Medical Examination SECTION 3.00 ENTRY-LEVEL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS The applicant for training shall be certified by a licensed physician to be medically qualified for diving before proceeding with the training as designated in Section 3.20 (see Section 7.00 and Appendices 1 through 6) Swimming Evaluation The applicant for training shall successfully perform the following tests, or their equivalent, in the presence of the DHSO or an examiner approved by the DHSO. 1. Enter water with full equipment. 2. Clear facemask. 3. Demonstrate buddy breathing as both donor and recipient, with and without a facemask. 4. Demonstrate ability to alternate between snorkel and SCUBA while kicking. 5. Demonstrate understanding of underwater sign and signals. 6. Demonstrate in-water mouth-to-mouth resuscitation while on the surface. 7. Rescue and transport, as a diver, a passive simulated victim of an accident. 8. Demonstrate ability to remove and replace equipment while submerged. 9. Demonstrate watermanship ability that is acceptable to the instructor Written Examination Before completing training, the trainee must pass a written examination that demonstrates knowledge of applicable portions of the following: 1. Function, care, use and maintenance of diving equipment. 17

18 2. Physics and physiology of diving. 3. Diving regulations and precautions. 4. Near-shore currents and waves. 5. Dangerous marine animals. 6. Emergency procedures, including buoyant ascent and ascent while buddy breathing. 7. Currently accepted no-decompression, repetitive no-decompression, and decompression procedures. 8. Underwater communications. 9. Aspects of fresh water and altitude diving. 10. Hazards of breath-hold diving and ascent. 11. Planning and supervising diving operations. 12. Diving hazards. 13. Cause, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of the following: near drowning, air embolism, carbon dioxide excess, squeezes, oxygen poisoning, nitrogen narcosis, exhaustion and panic, respiratory fatigue, motion sickness, decompression sickness, hypothermia, CO poisoning, and hypoxia/anoxia CPR Certification The trainee must provide proof of current certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The DHSO may permit a 60-day grace period beyond the stated expiration date if circumstances warrant Open Water Evaluation The trainee must satisfy an instructor, approved by the DHSO, of their ability to perform at least the following in open water: 1. Surface dive to a depth of 10 feet in open water without SCUBA. 2. Demonstrate proficiency in buddy breathing as both donor and receiver. 18

19 3. Enter and leave the open water or surf, or leave and board a diving vessel, while wearing SCUBA gear. 4. Kick on the surface 330 yards (300 meters) while wearing SCUBA gear, but not breathing from the SCUBA unit. 5. Demonstrate judgement adequate for safe diving. 6. Demonstrate, where appropriate, the ability to maneuver efficiently in the environment, at and below the surface. 7. Complete a simulated emergency swimming ascent. 8. Demonstrate clearing of mask and regulator while submerged. 9. Demonstrate ability to achieve and maintain neutral buoyancy while submerged. 10. Demonstrate techniques of self-rescue and buddy rescue. 11. Navigate underwater. 12. Plan and execute a dive. 13. Successfully complete five open water dives of which 1.5 hours cumulative bottom time must be on SCUBA. 14. Demonstrate bringing an inert diver to the surface from the depth at which the diver is being certified DIVER-IN-TRAINING PERMIT LEVEL This permit signifies that a diver has completed a minimum of 40 hours of training with at least five open water dives, and possesses a nationally recognized certificate Eligibility 1. Those individuals who, as a part of their diver training program have completed the requirements as outlined in Section 3.10 and 3.20, or 2. Those individuals already certified as divers who meet the following minimum requirements: a. A medical examination as outlined in Section

20 b. Provide proof of at least 40 hours of diver training with a minimum of five open water dives. c. Possesses a nationally recognized diving certificate. d. Or, possesses a Diver-in-training permit from another institution accredited with the AAUS GENERAL POLICY SECTION 4.00 SCIENTIFIC DIVER CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS The following are considered minimal standards for scientific diver certification PREREQUISITES 4.12 Eligibility A person diving under the auspices of an organization that subscribes to the practices of the AAUS is eligible for scientific diver certification Application Application for certification shall be made to the DHSO on the form prescribed by the TAMU Diving Control Board Medical Examination Each applicant for diver certification shall submit a statement from a licensed physician, based on an approved medical examination, attesting to the applicant s fitness for diving (see Section 7.00 and Appendices 1-6) Qualifications Must hold a diver-in-training permit, or its equivalent (see Section 3.00), or hold a diver-in-training certificate from another AAUS institution, or upon demonstration of acceptable proficiency REQUIREMENTS FOR SCIENTIFIC DIVER CERTIFICATE Submission of documents and participation in aptitude examinations does not automatically result in certification. The applicant must convince the DHSO or their representative, and members of the DCB that the applicant is sufficiently skilled and proficient to be certified. The signature of the Diving Health and 20

21 Safety Officer will acknowledge this skill. Any applicant who does not possess the necessary judgement, under diving conditions, for the safety of the diver and his or her partner, may be denied TAMU scientific diving privileges. Minimum documentation and examinations required as follows: 4.21 Documents 1. Application for certification. 2. Medical clearance. 3. Proof of diver-in-training permit level or its equivalent. 4. Current CPR certification Training The diver must complete additional theoretical aspects and practical training beyond the diver-in-training permit level for a minimum cumulative time of 100 hours, including both practical in-water tests as well as written examinations. 1. Theoretical aspects should include principles and activities appropriate to the intended area of scientific study. Suggested topics include, but are not limited to, data gathering techniques, collecting, common biota of importance to diver safety, behavior, installation of scientific apparatus, site location and relocation, ecology, scientific dive planning, coordination with other agencies and appropriate government and TAMU regulations. In addition, where needed, examinations will cover tagging, photography, animal and plant identification, etc. 2. Practical training shall include additional dives to ensure a cumulative total of at least 6 supervised open water dives in a variety of dive sites and diving conditions, for a cumulative bottom time of four hours Examinations 1. Written examinations appropriate for the certificate level. 2. Examinations on equipment use and operation. 3. Sheltered water or pool checkout examination including emergency ascent techniques. 4. Open water checkout dives to appropriate depths Temporary Certification 21

22 Requirements of Section 4.21 and 4.22 may be waived by the DHSO if the person in question has demonstrated proficiency in diving in the environment to which this diver will be exposed. A statement of the temporary diver s qualifications shall be submitted toe the DHSO as a part of the dive plan. Temporary certification shall be restricted to the planned diving operation and shall comply with all other policies, regulations, and standards of this manual, including medical requirements DEPTH CERTIFICATION The scientific diving certificate will authorize the holder to dive to the depth indicated on the certificate Certification to 30 Foot Depth (10 meters) This is the initial certification, approved upon the successful completion of training listed in Section Certification to 60 Foot Depth (20 meters) A diver holding a 30-foot (10-meter depth) certificate may be certified to a depth of 60 feet after successfully completing, under supervision, four logged training dives to depths between 30 and 60 feet (10-20 meters) for a minimum total time of four hours, and a check-out by a certified dive master. This check-out will include bringing an inert diver to the surface from a depth of approximately 60 feet Certification to 100 and 130 Foot Depth A diver holding a 60-foot certificate may be certified to depths of 100 and 130 feet (30-40 meters) respectively, by logging four dives near the maximum depth category and a check-out by a certified dive master. This check-out will include bringing an inert diver to the surface from a depth of approximately the maximum to which the diver is applying to be certified Certification to Depths Over 130 Feet (40 meters) A diver may be certified to depths of 150 and 190 feet (46-58 meters) after the completion of four dives to near each depth. Dives shall be planned and executed under close supervision of a diver certified to this depth, and with the specific approval of the DHSO. The diver must also demonstrate knowledge of the special problems of deep diving, the increased potential dangers, and the special safety requirements CONTINUATION OF CERTIFICATE 22

23 4.41 Minimum Activity to Maintain Certification During any 12-month period, each certified scientific diver must log a minimum of six dives. At least one dive must be logged near the maximum depth of the diver s certification during each 6-month period. Divers certified to 150 feet (46 meters) or deeper may satisfy these requirements with dives to 130 feet or over. IN ALL INSTANCES IN WHICH THE DIVER HAS NOT DIVED WITHIN THE PAST 30 DAYS, IF THE PLANNED DIVE IS TO BE OVER 100 FEET, A DIVE WILL BE FIRST TO 60 FEET, FOLLOWED IN NO LESS THAN 48 HOURS BY THE DEEPER DIVE. Failure to meet these requirements may be cause for revocation or restriction of certification Re-qualification of Depth Certification Once the initial certification requirements of Section is met, divers whose depth certification has lapsed due to lack of activity may be re-qualified by procedures adopted by the TAMU DCB. Ordinarily, such procedure shall include at least one supervised dive to the appropriate depth and include bringing an inert diver to the surface from that depth Annual Medical Examination All certified scientific divers should pass an annual medical examination. After each major illness or injury, as described in Section 7.12, a certified scientific diver shall submit to a medical interview or examination before resuming diving activities REVOCATON OF CERTIFICATION A diving certificate may be revoked or restricted for cause by the DHSO or the DCB. Violations of regulations set forth in this manual, or other governmental subdivision not in conflict with this manual, may be considered cause. The Diving Safety Officer shall inform the diver in writing of the reason(s) for revocation. The diver will be given the opportunity to present their case in writing for reconsideration and/or re-certification. All such written statements and requests, as identified in this section are formal documents which will become a part of the diver s file RE-CERTIFICATION If a diver s certification expires or is revoked, the diver may be re-certified after complying with such conditions as the DHSO or the DCB may impose. The diver shall be given an opportunity to present their case to the DCB before conditions for re-certification are stipulate. 23

24 SECTION 5.00 DIVING EQUIPMENT 5.10 GENERAL POLICY All equipment shall meet standards as determined by the DHSO and the DCB. Equipment that is subjected to extreme usage should require frequent testing during the period of diving operations as well as special testing upon completion of the diving operations Record Keeping Each diver engaged in TAMU-sponsored diving shall maintain records on each piece of personal diving equipment. This shall include major inspections, testing, repair, calibration, or other maintenance service. These records shall include the date, nature of work performed, serial number of the item, and the name of the person performing the work. Diving equipment requiring records are as follows: 1. Regulators. 2. Submersible pressure gauges. 3. Depth gauges. 4. SCUBA cylinders. 5. Cylinder valves. 6. Diving helmets. 7. Submersible breathing masks. 8. Compressors. 9. Gas control panels. 10. Air storage cylinders. 11. Air filtration systems. 12. Analytical instruments Regulators 24

25 1. Approval. Only those makes and models specifically approved by the DHSO and the DCB shall be used. All regulators currently on the U.S. market have such approval provided they have not been modified. All equipment that has been modified must have specific approval. 2. Inspection and Testing. SCUBA regulators shall be inspected and tested prior to the first use and every twelve months thereafter. If they are privately owned the owner is responsible for such inspection and testing. If the equipment is University-owned, the responsibility for this testing rests with the Director/Scientist responsible for the specific research program Breathing Masks and Helmets Breathing masks and helmets shall have the following special components: 1. A non-return valve at the attachment point between helmet or mask hose, which shall close readily and positively. 2. An exhaust valve. 3. A minimum ventilation rate capable of maintaining all of the divers at the depth to which they are diving SCUBA Cylinders SCUBA cylinders shall be designed, constructed, and maintained in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Unfired Pressure Vessel Safety Code and the Department of Transportation (DOT). 1. SCUBA cylinders must be hydrostatically tested in accordance with DOT standards. 2. SCUBA cylinders must have an internal inspection at intervals not to exceed twelve months. 3. SCUBA cylinder valves shall be functionally tested at intervals not to exceed twelve months Auxiliary Equipment 1. Approval. All auxiliary equipment shall be of a type approved by the DHSO and /or the DCB. 2. The person using them shall regularly examine backpacks and weight systems. 25

26 3. Gauges. Only those makes and models of submersible pressure gauges and depth gauges specifically approved by the DHSO and the DCB shall be used. Approval is automatic for standard commercially available gauges sold in the U.S., provided they have not been modified since purchase. These gauges shall be inspected and tested before first use and every 12 months thereafter. Inspection and testing is the responsibility of the owner. Inaccurate gauges shall not be used. A record of inspections, tests, and repairs shall be maintained. The DHSO should be consulted if there is any question concerning these tests. 4. Quick release devices. All weight systems and SCUBA backpacks worn by the diver shall be equipped with a quick release device designed to permit jettisoning the entire gear, PROVIDED the backpack and the flotation device are not an integral unit. If the backpack and flotation device is an integral unit, the weight system shall be a separate system that can be jettisoned. If the weight also is integral with the backpack or flotation device, a way shall be available to jettison the weights from the rest of the system. Quick release devices must operate easily with a single motion from either hand. 5. Personal floatation systems, buoyancy compensators, dry suits, or other variable volume buoyancy compensation devices shall be equipped with an exhaust valve. These devices shall be functionally inspected and tested at intervals not to exceed 12 months. Buoyancy inflation cartridges shall be removed and inspected before each dive. Following each diving day they again will be removed and cleaned of salt water. 6. First aid supplies. A first aid kit shall be available at the dive location. When used in a hyperbaric chamber or bell, the first aid kit shall be suitable for use under hyperbaric conditions to avoid implosion of any containers. Venting will be arranged when required. The DHSO may be consulted in event of questions. 7. Oxygen. All TAMU-sponsored diving shall have oxygen available at the dive site. 8. Hand held underwater power tools. Electrical tools and equipment used underwater shall be specifically approved for that purpose. Electrical tools and equipment supplied with power from the surface shall be de-energized before being placed into or retrieved from the water. Hand held power tools should not be supplied with power from the dive location until requested by the diver. 9. Underwater cutting and welding. No TAMU-sponsored divers shall engage in underwater cutting or welding without the expressed approval of the DHSO or the DCB. 26

27 6.10 MINIMUM STANDARDS SECTION 6.00 BREATHING AIR Breathing air for SCUBA shall meet the following specifications: a. Minimum oxygen atmospheric b. Oxygen content special mixtures must be approved by the DHSO or the DCB. c. Maximum carbon monoxide: 1) Decompression dives % (10 ppm) 2) Non-decompression dives % (20 ppm) d. Maximum carbon dioxide % (1000 ppm) e. Dust and droplets of oil and water absent f. Odors and vapors absent 6.20 COMPRESSOR SYSTEMS TAMU CONTROLLED 1. Design and Location of Compressor a. Low-pressure compressors used to supply air directly to the diver shall be equipped with a volume tank with a check valve between the two. Compressors shall also have a pressure gauge, relief valve, and drain valves for each stage. b. Compressed air systems over 500 psig shall have slow-opening shut-off valves. It is forbidden to use ball valves over 500 psig in an oxygen or compressed air system. c. All air compressor intakes shall be located away from areas containing exhaust or other contaminants. 2. Compressor Operation and Air Test Records a. Gas analyses and air tests shall be performed on each TAMU-controlled breathing air compressor at regular intervals of no more than 100 hours of 27

28 6.21 Oxygen Safety operation or six months, whichever occurs first. The results of these tests shall be entered in a formal log and be maintained. b. A log shall be maintained showing operation, repair, overhaul, filter and maintenance for each compressor. a. Equipment used with oxygen or mixtures containing over 40 percent oxygen by volume of oxygen shall be designed and maintained for oxygen service. b. Components (except umbilicals) exposed to oxygen or mixtures containing over 40 percent by volume of oxygen shall be cleaned in accordance with DOT regulations. c. Oxygen systems over 125 psig shall have slow-opening shut-off valves. SECTION 7.00 MEDICAL STANDARDS 7.10 MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS OF DIVE TEAM 7.11 General 1. TAMU Diving Safety Officer and the DCB shall determine that dive team members who are exposed to hyperbaric conditions have passed a current diving physical examination and have been declared by the examining physician to be fit to engage in diving activities within whatever limitations or restrictions are outlined in the medical evaluation report. 2. All medical evaluations required by this standard shall be performed by, or under the direction of a licensed physician of the applicantdiver s choice, preferably one trained in diving/undersea medicine. 3. The diver must be free of any acute chronic disabling disease such as those contained in the list of conditions for which restrictions from diving is generally recommended (See Section 7.15) Frequency of Medical Evaluations Medical evaluations shall be completed: 1. Before a diver may dive, a medical evaluation must have been made within the preceding 12 months, the TAMU DHSO has obtained the results of that 28