Scientific Diving Operations Manual · 2020. 10. 22. · Diving Safety Committee, Work and Health...

Scientific Diving Operations Manual

RESEARCH INFRASTRUCTURE

[JAMES COOK UNIVERSITY] February 1, 2019

| GENERAL POLICY ii

James Cook University History Version 2019.1 Documentation The Boating and Diving Management Facility will use the following procedures to ensure that this Diving Operations Manual is kept up to date and that all relevant people are notified of any changes to the document. The master copy of this Operations Manual and all associated documents are managed by the Boating and Diving Office. Copies other than the master copies are considered uncontrolled. If any changes are to be made to the document the Boating and Diving Office will ensure that they are made and recorded in the “Changes” section at the front of this document. Any out of date sections of this Operations Manual must be removed and replaced with current information. Changes must be properly recorded and a copy of the out dated Operations Manual must be kept as per the university’s record retainment procedures. A copy of the Operations Manual is available to be inspected by any person associated with diving operations of the University. If any changes are made to the Operations Manual the Boating and Diving Office will notify all relevant people and provide them with access to the updated Operations Manual. Staff and students will be notified using the User mailing lists. Review and Evaluation James Cook University will conduct an internal audit / review of this Diving Operations Manual annually. This audit will check that the information contained in this Operations Manual is up to date and that any changes to the organisation, the vessel or associated documents are recorded. The audit will be managed by the Boating and Diving Office and will be conducted in conjunction with the Boating and Diving Safety Committee, Work and Health and Safety Coordinator. The results of the audit and any changes made to the Operations Manual will be communicated to all relevant people and they will be provided with access to the updated Operations Manual. Staff and students will be notified using the James Cook University mailing list. The results of the audit and any changes made during the audit are recorded in the “Changes” section at the front of this document. Changes must be properly recorded and a copy of the out dated Operations Manual must be kept as per the university’s record retainment procedures.


| GENERAL POLICY iii

About this document This Diving Operations Manual for underwater, compressed gas and breath-hold diving and the associated Standard Operating Procedures are prepared by the Boating & Diving Management Facility, James Cook University to meet the requirements National Work Health & Safety Regulation 2011 (Part 4.8 Diving Work).

Document

Prepared by: Boating & Diving Office

Approved by: Chair of Boating & Diving Safety Committee

Approval date:

Review date:

Details of review/changes

Date Description Modified by Approved by

Feb 2019 Updated section 8 – snorkelling procedures.

Updated emergency flowcharts – Missing diver, treatment for injured diver in section 9 – Emergency Procedures

Added;

Appendix 1 – snorkelling health declaration, Appendix 2 – competency assessment for snorkelling, Appendix 3 – take 5 checklist, Appendix 16 – OIRS emergency evacuation procedure, Appendix 17 – Snorkelling Standard, Form 7 – Snorkel Log

G.Ewels


| GENERAL POLICY iv

:

Contact Information

Phone Fax Email

Vice Chancellor of James Cook University

+61 7 4781 4165 +61 7 4781 4050 [email protected]

Dean of Research Infrastructure +61 7 4232 1234 [email protected]

Associate Director, Health, Safety & Environment

+61 7 4232 1219 [email protected]

Diving &Marine Officer + 61 7 4781 4729 +61 7 4781 6990 [email protected]

Diving Officer (alternate Marine Officer)

+61 7 4781 6071 +61 7 4781 6990 [email protected]

Boating and Diving Office +61 7 4781 5562 +61 7 4781 6990 [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]







| GENERAL POLICY v

Contents 1 GENERAL POLICY ................................................................................................................................................ x

1.1 OVERVIEW ..................................................................................................................................................... x 1.2 DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................................................. x 1.3 RESPONSIBILITIES ........................................................................................................................................ x 1.4 REFERENCED MATERIAL............................................................................................................................ x 1.5 RELATED POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ................................................................................................. xi 1.6 PURPOSE ........................................................................................................................................................ xi 1.7 SCOPE ............................................................................................................................................................. xi 1.8 DUTY OF CARE AND LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES ................................................................................. xi 1.9 DEFINITIONS ................................................................................................................................................ xii

2 DIVING POLICY and PROCEDURES ................................................................................................................. 1 2.1 JAMES COOK UNIVERSITY DIVING PROCEDURES ............................................................................... 1

2.1.1 Scientific Diving Definition .......................................................................................................................... 1 2.1.2 Liability ......................................................................................................................................................... 1 2.1.3 Review of Procedures ................................................................................................................................... 1

2.2 OPERATIONAL CONTROL ........................................................................................................................... 1 2.2.1 James Cook University Auspices Defined .................................................................................................... 1 2.2.2 James Cook University's Scientific Diving Standards and Safety Manual ................................................... 1 2.2.3 Consequences of Violation of Regulations ................................................................................................... 1

3 ORGANISATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES ......................................................................................................... 2 3.1 BOATING and DIVING SAFETY COMMITTEE (Dive Control Board) ....................................................... 2 3.2 UNIVERSITY DIVING OFFICER .................................................................................................................. 2 3.3 HEAD OF COLLEGE, CENTRE OR INSTITUTE ......................................................................................... 3 3.4 SUPERVISOR OF APPLICANT ..................................................................................................................... 3 3.5 MANAGER (OIRS) .......................................................................................................................................... 3 3.6 SHIP’S MASTER ............................................................................................................................................. 3 3.7 PRINCIPAL DIVE SUPERVISOR .................................................................................................................. 4 3.8 DIVE SUPERVISOR and ACTING DIVE SUPERVISOR ............................................................................. 4 3.9 DIVER .............................................................................................................................................................. 4 3.10 DIVER'S ATTENDANT................................................................................................................................... 5

3.10.1 Diver’s Attendant May Not: ..................................................................................................................... 5 3.11 BOAT HANDLER ............................................................................................................................................ 5 3.12 INSTRUCTIONAL PERSONNEL ................................................................................................................... 5 3.13 DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES .................................................................................................................... 6

4 MEDICAL and FITNESS REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................................................... 7 4.1 MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................................................................... 7

4.1.1 Frequency of Medical Evaluations ............................................................................................................... 7 4.2 FITNESS FOR WORK ..................................................................................................................................... 7 4.3 DRUGS AND ALCOHOL ................................................................................................................................ 7 4.4 USE OF MEDICATION ................................................................................................................................... 7

5 CLASSIFICATION and DIVING REQUIRMENTS ............................................................................................ 8 5.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................................................ 8 5.2 CONTINUATION OF AUTHORISATION TO DIVE .................................................................................... 8

5.2.1 Term of Authorisation................................................................................................................................... 8 5.2.2 Minimum Activity to Maintain Diver Listing ............................................................................................... 8 5.2.3 Diver Induction Requirements ...................................................................................................................... 8

5.3 DIVER CLASSIFICATIONS ........................................................................................................................... 8 5.3.1 Breath-hold diving ........................................................................................................................................ 8 5.3.2 JCU Scuba Diver Classification and Training Requirements ....................................................................... 9

5.4 DIVE SUPPORT PERSONNEL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS ................................................................. 13 5.5 WORK-UP DIVES ......................................................................................................................................... 14 5.6 FITNESS TO DIVE ........................................................................................................................................ 14 5.7 JCU DIVER REGISTER ................................................................................................................................ 14 5.8 RECORD KEEPING RESPONSIBILITIES ................................................................................................... 15

5.8.1 UDO Responsibilities ................................................................................................................................. 15 5.8.2 Diver’s Responsibilities .............................................................................................................................. 15

6 DIVING REGULATIONS FOR SCUBA (OPEN CIRCUIT, COMPRESSED AIR)....................................... 16 6.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................... 16 6.2 PRE-DIVE OPERATION PROCEDURES .................................................................................................... 16


| GENERAL POLICY vi

6.2.1 Project Registration ..................................................................................................................................... 16 6.2.2 Risk Assessment ......................................................................................................................................... 16 6.2.3 Dive Plans ................................................................................................................................................... 16

6.3 DIVE TEAMS ................................................................................................................................................. 16 6.3.1 Normal dive teams ...................................................................................................................................... 16 6.3.2 Exceptions to normal dive teams ................................................................................................................ 17 6.3.3 SCUBA diving operations in swimming pools or in sheltered open water ................................................. 18 6.3.4 Lost buddy procedures ................................................................................................................................ 18

6.4 PRE-DIVE SAFETY CHECKS ...................................................................................................................... 19 6.4.1 Dive Briefing .............................................................................................................................................. 19 6.4.2 Diver's Responsibility: ................................................................................................................................ 19 6.4.3 Equipment Evaluations ............................................................................................................................... 19 6.4.4 Pre-Dive Equipment Check. ....................................................................................................................... 19 6.4.5 Site Evaluation ............................................................................................................................................ 19 6.4.6 ‘LOW RISK’ conditions defined ................................................................................................................ 19

6.5 DIVING PROCEDURES ................................................................................................................................ 20 6.5.1 Normal Dive Procedures ............................................................................................................................. 20 6.5.2 Refusal to Dive ........................................................................................................................................... 20 6.5.3 Termination of the Dive .............................................................................................................................. 20 6.5.4 Emergencies and Deviations from Regulations .......................................................................................... 20 6.5.5 Flying or Ascending to Altitude after Diving ............................................................................................. 21

6.6 SHORE DIVING ............................................................................................................................................ 21 6.7 NIGHT DIVING ............................................................................................................................................. 21 6.8 UNDERGRADUATE COURSES INVOLVING DIVING ............................................................................ 21 6.9 RECOMPRESSION CHAMBER SUPPORT OF DIVING ........................................................................... 21 6.10 DIVING WITH OTHER GROUPS ................................................................................................................ 23

6.10.1 Research Diving in Conjunction with another Scientific Organisation .................................................. 23 6.10.2 Research Diving In Conjunction with Tourist Operators or Commercial Charters ................................ 23

6.11 COMMUNICATIONS .................................................................................................................................... 23 6.11.1 Lifelines .................................................................................................................................................. 23 6.11.2 Voice Communications .......................................................................................................................... 23

6.12 RECORD OF DIVES ...................................................................................................................................... 23 6.13 POST-DIVE CONSIDERATIONS FOR DIVERS ......................................................................................... 24

7 DECOMPRESSION TABLES AND DIVE COMPUTERS................................................................................ 25 7.1 DECOMPRESSION TABLES........................................................................................................................ 25 7.2 SAFETY STOPS ............................................................................................................................................. 25 7.3 ASCENT RATES ............................................................................................................................................ 25 7.4 ALTERATIONS TO BOTTOM TIMES FOR ‘REMOTE’ DIVING OPERATIONS ................................... 25 7.5 MULTI-LEVEL DIVING ............................................................................................................................... 25 7.6 DIVE COMPUTERS ...................................................................................................................................... 26

8 SNORKELLING PROCEDURES ........................................................................................................................ 27 8.1 FITNESS FOR SNORKLERS ........................................................................................................................ 27 8.2 SIZE AND SUPERVISION OF SNORKEL TEAMS .................................................................................... 27 8.3 SUPERVISION OF LARGE GROUPS .......................................................................................................... 27 8.4 SNORKELLING PROCEDURES .................................................................................................................. 27

8.4.1 Site setup, control and supervision ............................................................................................................. 27 8.4.2 Breath-hold diving ...................................................................................................................................... 28 8.4.3 Emergency response and aborting activities ............................................................................................... 28

8.5 EQUIPMENT .................................................................................................................................................. 29 8.5.1 Exposure Protection .................................................................................................................................... 30

8.6 SNORKELLING & SCUBA DIVING COMBINED ACTIVITIES .............................................................. 30 9 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES............................................................................................................................ 31

9.1 INJURED DIVER ........................................................................................................................................... 31 9.2 OXYGEN THERAPY..................................................................................................................................... 31 9.3 PROCEDURE FOR TREATING INJURED DIVER / SNORKELER .......................................................... 32 9.4 MISSING DIVER ........................................................................................................................................... 33 9.5 MISSING DIVER PROCEDURE................................................................................................................... 34

10 DIVING EQUIPMENT ..................................................................................................................................... 35 10.1 GENERAL POLICY ....................................................................................................................................... 35

10.1.1 Compulsory Equipment for All Divers (Snorkel and Scuba) ................................................................. 35 10.1.2 Compulsory Equipment for SCUBA, and Breathing Gas Supply .......................................................... 35


| GENERAL POLICY vii

10.1.3 Other equipment which may be required ................................................................................................ 35 10.1.4 Additional equipment which may be used by divers .............................................................................. 36

10.2 AIR COMPRESSOR SYSTEMS .................................................................................................................... 36 10.2.1 Design and Location of Compressors ..................................................................................................... 36 10.2.2 Compressor Operation and Air Test Records ......................................................................................... 36 10.2.3 Breathing Air Compressors .................................................................................................................... 37 10.2.4 Enriched Air Nitrox Compressors .......................................................................................................... 37

10.3 EQUIPMENT SECURITY ............................................................................................................................. 37 10.4 JCU ‘LOAN EQUIPMENT’ ........................................................................................................................... 37 10.5 SCUBA CYLINDERS .................................................................................................................................... 37

10.5.1 Testing of SCUBA Cylinders ................................................................................................................. 37 10.5.2 Filling of SCUBA Cylinders .................................................................................................................. 38

10.6 USE OF JCU EQUIPMENT BY NON-JCU PERSONNEL ........................................................................... 38 10.6.1 Diving Equipment .................................................................................................................................. 38 10.6.2 University Research Vessels .................................................................................................................. 38

10.7 USE OF PERSONAL DIVING EQUIPMENT BY JCU DIVERS/PERSONNEL ......................................... 38 10.8 EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE/RECORD KEEPING ................................................................................ 38 10.9 EQUIPMENT HYGIENE ............................................................................................................................... 39 10.10 DIVER'S FLAG .............................................................................................................................................. 39 10.11 SUPPORT EQUIPMENT ............................................................................................................................... 40

10.11.1 First Aid Supplies ................................................................................................................................... 40 10.11.2 Oxygen Administration .......................................................................................................................... 40

10.12 BREATHING GAS ......................................................................................................................................... 41 10.12.1 Breathing Air Standards ......................................................................................................................... 41 10.12.2 Air to be Mixed with Greater Than 40% Oxygen .................................................................................. 41 10.12.3 Oxygen and Mixed Gas .......................................................................................................................... 41

11 NITROX DIVING GUIDELINES ................................................................................................................... 42 11.1 PREREQUISITES ........................................................................................................................................... 42 11.2 REQUIREMENTS FOR PERMISSION TO USE NITROX .......................................................................... 42

11.2.1 Training .................................................................................................................................................. 42 11.2.2 Examinations .......................................................................................................................................... 42 11.2.3 Minimum Activity to Maintain JCU Nitrox Diver classification ........................................................... 42

11.3 NITROX TRAINING GUIDELINES ............................................................................................................. 42 11.3.1 Classroom Instruction ............................................................................................................................. 42 11.3.2 Practical Training ................................................................................................................................... 42 11.3.3 Written Examination (based on classroom instruction and practical training) ....................................... 43 11.3.4 Open water EAN Dives .......................................................................................................................... 43

11.4 JCU NITROX DIVING REGULATIONS ...................................................................................................... 43 11.4.1 Dive Personnel Requirements ................................................................................................................ 43 11.4.2 Dive Parameters...................................................................................................................................... 43

11.5 NITROX DIVING EQUIPMENT ................................................................................................................... 45 11.5.1 Oxygen Cleaning and Maintenance Requirements ................................................................................. 45 11.5.2 SCUBA Cylinder Identification Marking ............................................................................................... 45 11.5.3 Regulators ............................................................................................................................................... 45 11.5.4 Other Support Equipment ....................................................................................................................... 45

12 SPECIALISED DIVING MODES ................................................................................................................... 46 12.1 GENERAL ...................................................................................................................................................... 46 12.2 ‘COMMERCIAL’ DIVING OPERATIONS .................................................................................................. 46

12.2.1 Minimum Experience ............................................................................................................................. 46 12.2.2 Training Requirements ........................................................................................................................... 46 12.2.3 Minimum Equipment Requirements....................................................................................................... 46 12.2.4 Minimum Operational Requirements ..................................................................................................... 46

12.3 RESTRICTED OVERHEAD ENVIRONMENTS ......................................................................................... 46 12.3.1 Minimum Certification and Experience ................................................................................................. 47 12.3.2 Minimum Equipment Requirements....................................................................................................... 47 12.3.3 Minimum Operational Requirements ..................................................................................................... 47

12.4 BLUE-WATER DIVING ................................................................................................................................ 47 12.4.1 Minimum Certification and Experience ................................................................................................. 47 12.4.2 Equipment Requirements ....................................................................................................................... 48 12.4.3 Operational Requirements ...................................................................................................................... 48

13 RECORD KEEPING AND REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................. 49


| GENERAL POLICY viii

13.1 DIVING LOGS ............................................................................................................................................... 49 13.1.1 University Diving Operations Log ......................................................................................................... 49 13.1.2 Personal Diving Log ............................................................................................................................... 49 13.1.3 Accounting Procedures for Dive and Snorkel Operations ...................................................................... 49

13.2 INCIDENT REPORTING ............................................................................................................................... 49 13.2.1 Reporting procedures .............................................................................................................................. 49

13.3 EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE .................................................................................................................... 51 13.3.1 Record Keeping ...................................................................................................................................... 51 13.3.2 Compressor Operation and Air Test Records ......................................................................................... 51 13.3.3 Air Quality Standards ............................................................................................................................. 51

14 FACTORS KNOWN TO INCREASE DIVING RISKS ................................................................................ 52 14.1 AGE ................................................................................................................................................................ 52 14.2 ALCOHOL ...................................................................................................................................................... 52 14.3 COLD .............................................................................................................................................................. 52 14.4 CURRENTS .................................................................................................................................................... 52 14.5 DANGEROUS MARINE ANIMALS ............................................................................................................ 52

14.5.1 Jellyfish .................................................................................................................................................. 53 14.5.2 Sharks ..................................................................................................................................................... 53

14.6 DECOMPRESSION DIVING ........................................................................................................................ 53 14.7 DEHYDRATION ............................................................................................................................................ 53 14.8 DEEP DIVES .................................................................................................................................................. 54 14.9 DIVE PROFILES ............................................................................................................................................ 54 14.10 DIVING WHILE THE DIVE BOAT IS UNDER WAY ................................................................................ 54 14.11 DRUGS/MEDICATION ................................................................................................................................. 54 14.12 EXERCISE ...................................................................................................................................................... 54 14.13 FATIGUE ........................................................................................................................................................ 54 14.14 PHYSICAL FITNESS..................................................................................................................................... 55 14.15 FRESH WATER DIVING .............................................................................................................................. 55 14.16 HIGH RISK SHALLOW DIVES .................................................................................................................... 55 14.17 INJURY & ILLNESS...................................................................................................................................... 55 14.18 INEXPERIENCED DIVERS .......................................................................................................................... 55 14.19 LACK OF LOCAL KNOWLEDGE ............................................................................................................... 55 14.20 LONG DIVE TIMES ...................................................................................................................................... 55 14.21 MEDICAL ASSISTANCE ............................................................................................................................. 56 14.22 MULTI-DAY REPETITIVE DIVES .............................................................................................................. 56 14.23 MULTIPLE ASCENTS .................................................................................................................................. 56 14.24 NIGHT DIVING ............................................................................................................................................. 56 14.25 OBSTRUCTED ASCENTS ............................................................................................................................ 56 14.26 OVERSEAS DIVING ..................................................................................................................................... 56 14.27 SATURATION DIVING ................................................................................................................................ 57 14.28 STRONG WIND WARNINGS and ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS ............................................... 57 14.29 SURFACE ATTENDANT - DIVING WITHOUT ONE ................................................................................ 57 14.30 TIME SINCE LAST DIVE ............................................................................................................................. 57 14.31 TASK RELATED FACTORS ........................................................................................................................ 57 14.32 TWO PERSON DIVING ................................................................................................................................ 57

15 INSURANCE COVER FOR SCUBA DIVING .............................................................................................. 58 15.1 AUSTRALIAN WATERS .............................................................................................................................. 58 15.2 OTHER THAN AUSTRALIAN WATERS .................................................................................................... 58 15.3 EMERGENCY EVACUATION ..................................................................................................................... 58 15.4 DIVERS ALERT NETWORK COVERS ....................................................................................................... 58

16 DEFINITION OF TERMS ............................................................................................................................... 59 17 APPENDIX 1 – SNORKELLING & SWIMMING HEALTH DECLARATION ....................................... 64 18 APPENDIX 2 – COMPETENCY ASSESSMENT FOR SNORKELLING .................................................. 65 19 APPENDIX 3 – TAKE 5 RISK CHECKLIST ................................................................................................ 67 20 APPENDIX 4 – DIVING INDUCTION AND EVALUATION ..................................................................... 68 21 APPENDIX 5 - DIVE BRIEFING .................................................................................................................... 69 22 APPENDIX 6 - RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH DIVING OPERATIONS .................................. 70 23 APPENDIX 7 - SINGLE LIFE-LINE CODE. ................................................................................................ 71 24 APPENDIX 8 - MODIFIED DCIEM AIR DIVING TABLES ...................................................................... 72 25 APPENDIX 9 - FIRST AID EQUIPMENT FOR DIVING OPERATIONS ................................................ 74 26 APPENDIX 10 - RISK ASSESSMENTS FOR JCU DIVING OPERATIONS ............................................ 75


| GENERAL POLICY ix

27 APPENDIX 11 - Principal Dive Supervisor Responsibilities ......................................................................... 82 28 APPENDIX 12 - DIVER RESPONSIBILITIES ............................................................................................. 84 29 APPENDIX 13 - SAMPLE DIVE PROTOCOL ............................................................................................. 85 30 APPENDIX 14 - DIVING MEDICAL AS PER AS2299 ................................................................................ 86 31 APPENDIX 15 - AAUS STATISTICS COLLECTION CRITERIA AND DEFINITIONS ....................... 87 32 APPENDIX 16 – OIRS EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURE .................................................... 90 33 APPENDIX 17 – SNORKELLING STANDARD (LARGE GROUPS) ........................................................ 95 34 FORM 1 – RECOMMENDED PHYSICIANS WITH EXPERTISE IN DIVING MEDICINE ............... 106 35 FORM 2 - DIVER INJURY REPORT .......................................................................................................... 107 36 FORM 3 - FIELD NEUROLOGICAL ASSESSMENT TEST .................................................................... 110 37 FORM 4 - JCU BASIC SCUBA DIVING SKILLS STATEMENT OF ACHIEVEMENT ...................... 112 38 FORM 5 - AAUS REQUEST FOR DIVING RECIPROCITY ................................................................... 113 39 FORM 6 - JAMES COOK UNIVERSITY – Record of dive ....................................................................... 114 40 FORM 7 - SNORKEL LOG ........................................................................................................................... 115


| GENERAL POLICY x

1 GENERAL POLICY 1.1 OVERVIEW James Cook University is committed to continuously improving the management and standards of Occupational Health and Safety, and this extends to minimising the risks associated with diving activities. This Diving Procedure provides the minimum requirements for all diving activities undertaken by James Cook University employees.

1.2 DEFINITIONS Accountable Person: An individual, who assumes responsibility for the health and welfare of any other person in a workplace by providing instruction, direction, assistance, advice or service, is deemed an accountable person in accordance with the Workplace Health & Safety Regulations 1998. All management and supervisory staff (which include those with responsibility for students) are therefore considered “accountable persons”. Employee: For the purposes of this Procedure, employee refers to any staff member, student, contractor or visitor. Responsible Officer:

Deans, Heads of Division, Heads of College and Administrative Sections have been designated as Responsible Officers under the Workplace Health & Safety Act 1995.

1.3 RESPONSIBILITIES Accountable Person: Accountable Persons must ensure employees are able to undertake diving activities safely by implementing this procedure, and ensuring that appropriate records relating to diving activities are kept. For further information regarding duties of Accountable Persons please refer to the JCU’s Occupational Health and Safety Policy. Where an employee is required to supervise a diving activity, the accountable person is responsible for ensuring that delegated safety responsibilities are fulfilled and that appropriate supervision is provided.

Boating and Diving Safety Committee James Cook University’s Boating and Diving Safety Committee (BDSC) is an authoritative body for all of the university’s diving and boating operations and has responsibilities listed on pg 2:

Employee: Employees must ensure that prior to undertaking any diving activity, they meet or exceed all requirements outlined in the University’s Field Work Policy and Diving Procedures Manual. Whilst undertaking any diving activity, employees are required to undertake the activities in a manner which does not adversely affect their own health and safety, or that of others, by following such Procedures. They must immediately report to the Accountable Person any matter which may affect their own or others’ health and safety.

Responsible Officer: Responsible Officers must ensure that where employees are required to undertake diving activities, such activities are undertaken in accordance with this Procedure.

University Diving Officer: Research Infrastructure’s Diving Officer is a University-wide suitably qualified and experienced Diver who has responsibility for Diving activities. 1.4 REFERENCED MATERIAL American Academy of Underwater Sciences – Standards for Scientific Diving - 2001; Australian Institute of Marine Science Diving Procedures Manual - September 1997; DCIEM Diving Manual - Part 1: Air Decompression Procedures and Tables; Dive Computers - A Consumer’s Guide to History, Theory and Performance 1991, Ken Loyst, Karl Huggins & Michael Steidley, Watersport Books; Diving and Subaquatic Medicine: 1976, Edmonds, Lowry and Pennefather, Diving Medical Centre. National Work Health & Safety Regulation 2011; NOAA Diving Manual – 4th Edition (2001); Standards Australia AS2030 - Storage of Compressed Gases; AS3848.2 – Filling of Gas Cylinders for Diving; Standards Australia AS2299.1: 2007 – Occupational Diving Operations Part 1 – Standard Operational Practice; Standards Australia AS/NZS 2299.2: 2002 Part 2 – Scientific Diving; Standards Australia AS2815.1: 1992 Training and certification of occupational divers Part 1: SCUBA diving to 30m; Standards Australia AS2815.2: 1992 Training and certification of occupational divers Part 1: Air diving to 30m;

• Standards Australia AS2815.6: 200? Training and certification of occupational divers Part 6: Restricted Occupational SCUBA Divers;


| GENERAL POLICY xi

• University of Hawaii Diving Manual; • University of Queensland - Heron Island Research Station Diving Procedures Manual; • University of Tasmania – Diving Policy & Procedures; • University of Western Australia – Code of Practice for Underwater Diving; • Workplace Health and Safety Compliance Standard 1996 - Underwater Diving Work;

1.5 RELATED POLICIES AND PROCEDURES The policies listed below relate directly to issues covered in this Manual, and should be consulted for detailed information should one or more need to be addressed by a Risk Assessment or Dive Permission Form.

• Occupational Health & Safety Policy • Alcohol, Tobacco & Drugs in the Workplace • Boating Activity Policy

Prior to conducting any JCU diving operation, you must have read and understood a copy of the latest version of this Manual

1.6 PURPOSE The purpose of this document is to ensure that scientific diving carried out under the auspices of James Cook University is conducted in a manner that will maximise the protection of scientific divers from accidental injury and/or illness and to set forth details for training and certification to allow a working reciprocity between scientific institutions. 1.7 SCOPE This document is James Cook University’s Diving Operations Manual. It is intended to provide information and advice for all divers involved in underwater research and teaching activities at the University, as well as providing a concise statement of approved policy and procedures governing all Snorkel (breath hold) and Compressed Air diving operations conducted through the University, or that could be deemed to be related to the University in any way. The aim of these procedures is to ensure users conduct their diving operations in a safe manner, and it is the responsibility of each individual diving with the University to ensure they are familiar with this manual, and follow its requirements. Procedures indicated as "not permitted" in this manual may be allowed by the University Diving Officer (UDO), in exceptional circumstances. Variations can only be permitted by the UDO, with detailed conditions set down in writing and agreed to in writing by all parties involved. These shall be kept on file by the UDO for at least 7 years. At this time, the following activities are NOT permitted, without explicit written permission from the UDO:

• Diving to depths of greater than 30 meters; • Diving with gas mixtures other than air (including in water decompression using oxygen); • Diving with closed circuit or semi-closed circuit rebreather equipment

1.8 DUTY OF CARE AND LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES The following points are designed to provide guidelines to divers and dive teams while operating in the field.

• Under ‘Duty of Care’, each person has a responsibility for their own health and safety, as well as for the health and safety of other personnel working within the same environment;

• Diving can be hazardous, however education, training and teamwork will lower risk. This manual is to be used as a procedures manual, and if all procedures are followed any risks to health and safety will be significantly reduced;

• Individuals or groups participating in compressed air or breath hold diving operations under the control of the University must operate within the guidelines and intent of all related R I standards and procedures;

• Individuals or groups who fail to follow safe diving practices as outlined by this Manual, or as directed by the UDO or a DC, may be legally responsible and liable for their actions in the event of any incident;

• The nominated Principal Dive Supervisor for a field trip is responsible for the entire Dive Team during the period in which that Dive Team is under his/her control, however it must be noted that risk assessment is the responsibility of all team members. In the event that weather conditions, environmental factors, equipment or personnel are considered by any member of the team to create or contribute to an unsafe working situation, then the diving operation must not continue until the situation is corrected to the satisfaction of the entire team;

• At all times any tasks assigned by Principal Dive Supervisors or Team Leaders must be within the experience and training of the diving personnel concerned, and the capacity of the equipment available.


| GENERAL POLICY xii

1.9 DEFINITIONS No effort has been made to rigidly standardise the terminology used in this Manual, as there are no agreed definitions for many of the terms used. Certain words however, are used in instances where instructions or recommendations are given, and these must be interpreted as follows:

MUST - there are no circumstances under which this recommendation may be ignored

WILL/SHALL - other than in exceptional circumstances this recommendation should always be followed

SHOULD / - normal diving practice requires this recommendation be followed, but there may be RECOMMENDED circumstances in which it is appropriate for it to be relaxed

CAN/MAY - the diver/diving operation may well benefit from employing this technique.


| DIVING POLICY and PROCEDURES 1

2 DIVING POLICY and PROCEDURES 2.1 JAMES COOK UNIVERSITY DIVING PROCEDURES This document is statement of approved policy and procedures governing SCUBA diving and provides information and advice for divers (employees, students and visitors) involved in underwater research and teaching activities of James Cook University.

2.1.1 Scientific Diving Definition

Scientific diving is defined as diving performed as a necessary part of a scientific, research, or educational activity by persons whose purpose for diving is to carry out such tasks.

2.1.2 Liability In adopting the policies set forth in this manual, the James Cook University assumes no liability not otherwise imposed by law. Outside of those University employees diving in the course of their employment, each diver is assumed under this policy to be voluntarily performing activities for which he/she assumes all risks, consequences and potential liability. James Cook University also assumes no responsibility for the validity of the information supplied by persons wishing to gain acceptance on the Boating & Diving Office’s Dive Register.

2.1.3 Review of Procedures As part of an annual report, any recommendations for modifications of these procedures shall be submitted to the Diving and Boating Safety Committee and AAUS for consideration. 2.2 OPERATIONAL CONTROL

2.2.1 James Cook University Auspices Defined For the purposes of these standards the auspices of James Cook University includes any workplace controlled by the James Cook University 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 James Cook University or employees of auxiliary organisations, where such employees are acting within the scope of their employment, and the operations of students and other persons who are engaged in authorised activities of James Cook University or are diving as members of a James Cook University recognised organisation.

2.2.2 James Cook University's Scientific Diving Standards and Safety Manual This diving safety manual provides for the development and implementation of policies and procedures that will enable the University to meet requirements of local environments and conditions as well as to comply with James Cook University diving standards and Government scientific diving regulation, codes of practice and standards and shall include but not be limited to;

a) Emergency evacuation and medical treatment. b) Criteria for diver training and certification. c) Standards written or adopted by reference for each diving mode utilized which include the following:

1. Safety procedures for the diving operation. 2. Responsibilities of the dive team members. 3. Equipment use and maintenance procedures 4. Emergency procedures.

2.2.3 Consequences of Violation of Regulations

Failure to comply with the regulations of this standard may be cause for the revocation or restriction of the University’s diving program both within Australia and of the organisational member’s recognition by the AAUS.


| ORGANISATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES 2

3 ORGANISATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES 3.1 BOATING and DIVING SAFETY COMMITTEE (Dive Control Board) The James Cook University Boating and Diving Safety Committee, is a formal authoritative group reporting to the University’s Health, Safety and Environment Committee. The BDSC duties include, but are not limited to:

• Compliance, Operational Activities & Hazards (Planning)

The Committee shall advise HSEAC of the University’s position in relation to the University Level Performance Measures relating to Boating and Diving Safety (WHS Legislative Compliance Progress Scorecard).

The Committee will make its own arrangements for ensuring HSE compliance via work groups if it is considered necessary.

The Committee may discuss concerns with respect to operational infrastructure and procedural implementation.

• Resources & Process (Implementation of Standards)

The Committee shall develop, implement, monitor and review the Boating and Diving Safety Standard that forms part of the University’s Health, Safety and Environment Integrated Management System (HSE Plan).

• Analysis & Response (Measure & Evaluate)

The Committee shall review all relevant reports, including RiskWare at each of its meetings and advise HSEAC of the status of action taken in respect of outstanding matters;

I. Workplace Inspections & Audits II. Injury / Illness Management & Prevention

III. Hazard Incident Management Performance Scorecard IV. Effective implementation of the Boating & Diving Standard

• Reporting & Verification (Management Review)

The Committee shall advise HSEAC of the University’s position in relation to Boating and Diving Safety matters. In addition, HSEAC will be notified of any Notifiable Event, Regulatory Notice, potential/actual high risk matter deemed necessary by the Chairperson for immediate notification.

The Committee may raise issues, where it is considered beyond the control of the Boating and Diving Safety Sub Committee with HSEAC for advice and direction. HSEAC will advise the Committee of the proposed action.

3.2 UNIVERSITY DIVING OFFICER The Diving Officer shall be responsible, through the Boating and Diving Safety Committee for the conduct of the scientific diving program of the University. Specifically, the Diving Officer is responsible for:

• assess projects and persons suitability for James Cook University operations; • approve persons for participation in University diving operations; • providing advice in planning research diving operations to maximise scientific yield without compromising

safety; • supervision, instruction and evaluation of all training programs; • provide, organise or advise any further diver training if needed; • maintaining an up-to-date Diver Register for all divers; • implementation and compliance of all applicable JCU policies and standards; • surveillance of the use and maintenance of James Cook University’s diving equipment including the

compressors, and divers regulators etc; • evaluation of diving equipment and technologies; • ensuring air tests are carried out for all University compressors and that they are within limits prescribed in

Clause 3.13.1 of Australian Standard 2299.i:2007; • supervising the use of specialist diving equipment; • prohibiting the use of equipment he considers unsafe;



• maintaining records of: dive plans, dive logs, maintenance/repair of, scuba cylinders, compressors, and incident records etc and keeping these records as per the university’s record retainment procedures.

3.3 HEAD OF COLLEGE, CENTRE OR INSTITUTE The Head of College, Centre or Institute as signatory for field work proposals agrees that the logistical and operational parameters of the proposal are achievable by the applicant. In support of the applicant the College, Centre or Institute will provide the resources required to fulfil Duty of Care obligations. 3.4 SUPERVISOR OF APPLICANT The Supervisor as signatory for field work proposals agrees that the logistical and operational parameters of the proposal are achievable by the applicant. The supervisor is required to support the applicant in meeting all the field work safety requirements.

The Supervisor must ensure that no activities are undertaken unless the correct workplace training, procedure and personnel obligations are in place for every field trip covered by the proposal. 3.5 MANAGER (OIRS) The Manager of the Orpheus Island Research Station acts under the guidelines of the University Diving and Boating Authority and the University Diving Officer. The Manager is responsible for the day to day organisation of diving. Divers from James Cook University should have their dive plans signed by the University Diving Officer or delegate prior to arrival at the station and be able to supply a signed copy to the station management on Orpheus Island. The Orpheus Island Research Station, through its Manager, accepts day-today responsibility for:

• ensuring that all divers are aware of the University’s diving regulations and their own responsibilities. • checking where necessary, diver’s qualifications and ensuring that they are current and meet the University’s

minimum requirements. • restricting or suspending any dive operation considered unsafe • ensuring that the station’s scuba tanks are in current hydrostatic test and that quarterly air quality tests are

conducted • ensuring that scuba compressors are serviced regularly and that all tank filling equipment is in serviceable

condition. • having medical oxygen and air resuscitation equipment available at the station and a staff member qualified

in its use and in general first aid. • having medical oxygen and oxygen therapy and resuscitation equipment available for diving trips to reefs

away from the Orpheus Island group. • allocating divers boats with dive flags and providing dive flags on floats for attachment immediately adjacent

to a dive site, if required. • maintaining records of Dive Plans, Record of Dive forms and maintenance/repair of, scuba cylinders,

compressors, and incident records and keeping these records as per the university’s record retainment procedures..

• submitting copies of all Dive Plans, Diver Questionaries, Record of Dive forms etc, approved on site, to the University Diving Officer.

3.6 SHIP’S MASTER The Principal Dive Supervisor/Supervisor shall brief the master of all mother ships being used for diving, on the diving activity to be undertaken. The responsibilities of the Master of all vessels used by the University for diving operations is to:

• supervise the launching and recovery of boats and ensure all relevant safety equipment is on-board before the boat leaves the mother ship;

• cancel diving operations if he considers that present or anticipated weather conditions would prevent the rendering of assistance or would endanger the vessel;

• if required by the Principal Dive Supervisor/Supervisor to post lookouts, hoist signals, warn approaching vessels and maintain radio communications;

• ensure that no work is carried out on-board the vessel when diving is in progress if there is any possibility that it could hinder the vessel from rendering assistance in an emergency;

• ensure that propellers cannot turn whilst divers are near the vessel; • ensure that fishing is not undertaken and that rubbish and sewage is not jettisoned whilst divers are near the

vessel; • maintain records of: dives, maintenance/repair of scuba cylinders, compressor, and incident records and

keeping these records as per the university’s record retainment procedures.;



• ensure that when diving operations are being carried out that personnel trained in first-aid, oxygen therapy and emergency action are on hand in the event of a diving accident;

• ensure that sufficient medical oxygen is available for treatment of a diving accident; • shall in the event of a diving emergency, assist the Principal Dive Supervisor/Supervisor in accessing all outside

assistance required. 3.7 PRINCIPAL DIVE SUPERVISOR A Principal Dive Supervisor is the legally designated leader for the operation of any Dive Team, as per AS/NZS 2299.2:2002, and JCU Principal Dive Supervisors must be approved by the University Diving Officer. The role of Principal Dive Supervisor involves significant responsibilities, before, during and after each dive trip, and meeting these is essential to ensure dives are conducted safely and to the level required by the applicable Australian Standards and this operational procedure manual. Principal Dive Supervisors must ensure they maintain a comprehensive knowledge of the requirements of their position, as listed at Appendix 8, and must meet these requirements in practice. A designated Principal Dive Supervisor must be in charge of every JCU diving operation, and may act as either a Dive Supervisor, Diver’s Attendant or as a Diver during any diving operation - provided an adequate replacement is available on site for them should they enter the water. The dive supervisor may authorize a variation to the approved dive plan if the conditions are different from those expected – for example if the water depth is deeper or shallower than expected. Any change should be documented and not involve risks greater than that in the approved plan and must meet the requirements of this manual for times and dive profiles. 3.8 DIVE SUPERVISOR and ACTING DIVE SUPERVISOR For every dive operation there shall be present a Dive Supervisor. When the Principal Dive Supervisor is not able to occupy this position then they shall delegate a suitably trained team member to carry out these duties. The Dive Supervisor may perform the duties of a Diver’s Attendant should the need arise. The Dive Supervisor for the dive operation shall nominate one person as the Dive Leader. This person would normally be the most experienced diver and/or the person in charge of the research project. The Dive Supervisor is responsible for: Ensuing that the dive team operates within the University’s diving regulations. The Dive Supervisor has additional responsibilities under these regulations if diving is done without a boat person (see section 6.3). In this situation, the Dive Supervisor is responsible for checking that the University Diving Officer or delegate has not expressly prohibited certain diving activities. He/she is also responsible for ensuring that the dive flag is displayed, a float line is deployed if needed and that the anchor is checked upon starting the dive.

• ensuring that each diving operation is performed in accordance with a dive plan that meets the requirements of this manual.

• discussing control measures, with the dive team and any other person responsible for the workplace, if any dive operation contains high risk factors listed in Appendix 3.

• restricting or suspending any operation considered unsafe. • ensuring that the Record of Dive is completed for every dive. • maintaining surveillance of divers and lookout over dive site conditions and outside influences.

3.9 DIVER All JCU Divers must have had training and experience in accordance with the requirements of this manual, as well with operation of any equipment being used and any work being carried out during diving. Every diver should be aware that ultimately they are the best ‘safety device’ they could have, and must exercise common sense when deciding whether or not a particular dive is within their capabilities. As well as the duties listed elsewhere in this Manual, JCU Divers must ensure they maintain a comprehensive knowledge of the requirements of their role, as listed at Appendix 9, and meet these. If any diver is concerned about participating on a particular dive for any reason, or about any aspects of that dive, they have a responsibility to refuse to take part in the dive – and this shall occur without prejudice from any individual. Each diver is responsible for:

• abiding by the University’s diving regulations and decisions made by the University Diving Officer concerning particular diving operations.



• conduct a functional check of their diving equipment in the presence of the diving buddy or Diver’s Attendant • maintain contact with dive buddy • monitoring air supply and inform buddy at regular intervals of air supply status. Only under extenuating

circumstances should a diver surface from a dive with less than 30 bar of air remaining in their tank. • not diving with any malfunctioning equipment and reporting the fault if the equipment belongs to the

University. • maintaining all dive equipment in use by them • ensuring that they are medically and physically fit for each dive • notifying the Principal Dive Supervisor as soon as possible of any diving-related injury that occurs to him/her

or to his/her buddy diver. • maintain an up to date Log Book

3.10 DIVER'S ATTENDANT Whenever a diver goes underwater (other than two person diving in authorised area) the divers shall be attended by a diver's attendant. The diver’s attendant may be the Dive Supervisor if not diving) or Boat Handler who should have training and knowledge of the following:

• a rescue diver certification, within Queensland an AQF rescue, or higher • have a complete working knowledge of the Dive Plan and associated tasks; • signals in use • dive tables in use • diving plant and equipment in use • first aid and oxygen administration certification • be in charge of record of dive sheet. • establish and maintain a constant look-out over the divers. Except under certain conditions, authorised by

the Dive Safety Officer or delegate, the number of Dive Teams per attendant is one. If conditions do not permit the constant location of the dive team then the use of a surface marker buoy should be considered to mark the site at which the divers are working;

• assist with the recovery of divers and equipment;

3.10.1 Diver’s Attendant May Not: • leave the boat at any time, to swim or snorkel , other than in an emergency or when operating in an area which

allows two person diving; • carry out any activities, such as read, sleep or fish, which may divert his/her attention from the responsibilities

set out above; 3.11 BOAT HANDLER The Boat Handler is a key member of the dive team responsible to the Dive Supervisor. The Boat handler should hold the required operating ticket and experience for the vessel in use. The responsibilities of the Boat Handler are to:

• ensure safety equipment and fuel are adequate for the trip; • ensure that the boat is trimmed for operation and all equipment is stowed safely; • have a good working knowledge of boats and must be ready and able to give assistance quickly and

efficiently in an emergency; • be in charge of the boat to and from the dive site and maintain position at the dive site, usually by anchoring; • display the dive flags and signals from the boat while dive operations are taking place; • maintain radio communications with the research station, mother ship or shore when required; • maintain surveillance of the vessel and be in a position to react to any changes in its soundness; • maintain constant vidual of atmospheric and sea conditions. So as to be in a position to recall divers should

adverse conditions threaten the safety of the vessel or the recovery of the divers; 3.12 INSTRUCTIONAL PERSONNEL Qualifications - All personnel involved in diving instruction on behalf of James Cook University shall be qualified for the type of instruction being given, and approved by the UDO and BDSC.

Selection – The UDO and BDSC shall be responsible for selection of any Instructional personnel used for the training of JCU divers.



3.13 DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES Should the Diving Officer have concerns as to whether any individual has failed to adhere to the requirements of the University’s Diving Procedures Manual, the Diving Officer should discuss his/her concerns with the individual in the first instance. In addition, the Diving Officer should advise the individual’s Supervisor of the matter as soon as possible thereafter.

If the matter is of a serious or repeated nature, or where the matter has been unable to be resolved at the section level, the Head of College for the individual/s concerned should be notified, and the individual/s should be suspended from diving immediately, pending formal investigation by the University Diving Officer and the Boating and Diving Safety Committee (BDSC), who shall investigate the circumstances and then make recommendations as to the appropriateness of suspension or cessation of diving activities for any individual concerned. The BDSC will then advise the employee/s, student/s and their Supervisor in writing where suspension/cessation of their diving privileges is an outcome, and of any other remedial action that may be required.

In cases where any individual or group is suspended from diving with the University, the BDSC shall inform the individuals concerned in writing, outlining the reason/s. Any person/s in this situation shall be given the opportunity to present their case (in writing) for consideration of readmission to the Diver Register. All correspondence regarding any disciplinary matters relating to any individual must be in writing, and shall be classed as formal documents and kept on the individual’s personal file.

In the event that a diver’s registration has been suspended, they may apply for re-registration after complying with any conditions imposed by the University Diving Officer and/or BDSC.

The WH&S Unit will advise members of the BDSC of any such incidents as require their involvement, that are otherwise not referred through that body.


| MEDICAL and FITNESS REQUIREMENTS 7

4 MEDICAL and FITNESS REQUIREMENTS 4.1 MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS All JCU staff, students and volunteers intending to dive with the University shall have a dive medical, performed by a doctor trained in diving medicine, to the criteria set out in the Australian Standard AS/NZ 2299.1 Supplement 1:2015. All visiting scientific divers shall have a current occupational dive medical to AS/NZ 2299 or equivalent.

The certificate must show the following -

• the name of the person who holds the certificate • the date it was issued • the person is medically fit to dive according to the relevant fitness criteria in AS 2299.1 - Occupational Diving • any limitations on diving imposed by the doctor, for example, a depth limitation

4.1.1 Frequency of Medical Evaluations

Medical evaluation shall be completed:

(a) annually unless it has been revoked, superseded or has a time or some other limitation imposed upon the certificate to preclude the holder from participating in the proposed diving operation. The results of any subsequent examination should be forwarded to the Diving Officer

(b) after any major injury or illness, or any condition requiring hospitalisation for more than 24 hours, or after any diving accident requiring treatment in a hyperbaric chamber, a physician's clearance is required to return to diving. If the injury or illness is pressure related, then the clearance to return to diving must come from a physician trained in diving medicine.

4.2 FITNESS FOR WORK JCU is responsible for taking all reasonably practicable steps to protect the health and safety of all employees and third parties (including Visitors) acting for, on behalf of, or at the direction of JCU and as such shall ensure that persons are fit for work.

Fit for Work means that an individual is in a state (medically, physically and psychologically) to perform work tasks assigned to them competently and in a manner which does not compromise the safety or health of themselves or others.

An individual's Fitness for Work may be impaired by a variety of factors including level of medical and physical fitness, fatigue, psychosocial factors or impairment due to alcohol and drugs (including prescription, non-prescription and illicit drugs).

Participants in field work shall be fit for work and ensure any illness/injury is reported to the OIC, Dive Supervisor and UDO. 4.3 DRUGS AND ALCOHOL All JCU staff, students and volunteers shall comply with the requirements of the JCU Fitness for Work policies and procedures including the Drugs & Alcohol Management and Testing Procedure.

All personnel shall maintain a blood alcohol content of 0.00% while undertaking work and always remain under 0.05% when in the field

The unauthorised consumption or possession of illicit drugs and/or alcohol while in the field undertaking diving operations upon which JCU work is being undertaken is prohibited. 4.4 USE OF MEDICATION All JCU staff, students and volunteers who use medication that might affect their ability to work safely shall notify their OIC and/or Principal Dive Supervisor who may then discuss in consultation with a diving medical practitioner whether (temporary) measures need to be taken to reduce the WH&S-related risks.

The consumption of prescription medication by a person other than the prescribed person is prohibited unless authorised by a medical practitioner


| CLASSIFICATION and DIVING REQUIRMENTS 8

5 CLASSIFICATION and DIVING REQUIRMENTS

5.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS All individuals seeking to participate in diving activities with the University must apply to the Diving Officer for listing on the University Diver Register, completing and/or forwarding the following: • Copies of their relevant diving and boating qualifications; • Complete copies of their diving logbooks; and • A copy of a current occupational (AS2299) diving medical (contact the Boating & Diving Office for list of doctors

who can perform this).

See Appendix 1 of this Manual for a list of diver requirements – which must be met prior to registration.

All University divers should note the following: • After listing on the University Diver Register, and before diving takes place, individuals must familiarise

themselves with the University Diving Procedures Manual and decompression tables to be used, and sign a paper copy of the JCU’S Diving Procedures Statement Of Understanding form (at Form 6). This must be acknowledged as received by the UDO before diving can to take place;

• It is the responsibility of all divers to maintain a high level of knowledge and competence with regard to the type/s of diving they undertake, as well as knowledge of diving equipment in use. In particular, Principal Dive Supervisors must ensure they are fully conversant with the requirements of their position;

• It is highly recommended that all diving personnel maintain a level of physical fitness commensurate with the type of diving operation/s in which they are likely to be involved whilst at the University. As a MINIMUM, all JCU divers should ensure they are able to meet the requirements of the swim and practical tests listed at Appendix 1 of this document;

• Divers who have not been involved in a diving operation within a six-month period shall not dive or act as a Principal Dive Supervisor, without contacting and receiving written permission from the UDO. A competency assessment may be required, at the discretion of the UDO.

5.2 CONTINUATION OF AUTHORISATION TO DIVE

5.2.1 Term of Authorisation On an annual basis, each diver will need to confirm their desire to remain listed as a JCU diver. Unless this is completed, a diving authorisation shall expire one year from the date of issuance, or six months from the date of the last logged dive, or upon expiration of dive medical, or first aid, or oxygen administration certification.

5.2.2 Minimum Activity to Maintain Diver Listing

During any 12-month period, each JCU diver must log a minimum of 12 dives on each type of equipment they wish to be listed for, or they may be required to undertake a checkout dive with the UDO or UDO’s delegate.

5.2.3 Diver Induction Requirements As well as all meeting all other requirements listed in this section for JCU divers, all new JCU divers must undertake an induction with the UDO or delegate, and this shall include at least the items listed on the JCU Diving Induction Form, knowledge review, theory test and pool session or check-out dive.

5.3 DIVER CLASSIFICATIONS

5.3.1 Breath-hold diving JCU divers intending to undertake breath-hold diving operations must meet at least the requirements listed at Section 8, complete a snorkel register questionnaire and fulfil all other listed requirements of this manual. All breath-hold divers shall be classified by the UDO to a particular level, depending on their experience and training.



5.3.2 JCU Scuba Diver Classification and Training Requirements

Individuals intending to undertake diving operations with the University using compressed air must fulfil all listed requirements of this Manual for the level of classification they apply for, and shall subsequently be classified by the UDO based on their qualifications and experience, as well as the UDO's assessment of their abilities. Regardless of experience, all divers should be listed as Restricted on commencement of diving operations with the University, until such time as they have demonstrated competence and gained experience with JCU dive protocols. 1 to 5 dive trips under control of a JCU Principal Dive Supervisor would usually be deemed sufficient for this, depending on the individual and their intended tasks.

Minimum training requirements and experience for each classification, and tasks able to be undertaken at each level are listed below. As well as these training requirements, all divers must be prepared to achieve the competencies listed in Australian Standard AS/NZS 2299.2:2002 (Scientific Diving) should the UDO require this.

Until such time as all required competencies are met (at the discretion of the UDO with regard to a diver’s experience), any new diver on the University Diver Register shall be listed as Restricted, and may be limited in the tasks they can perform whilst diving underwater.

5.3.2.1 Trainee Diver

Able to participate on approved JCU diving courses. A qualified Diving Instructor approved by the UDO must be present in the water and in sight of any trainee diver at all times they are underwater (except for snorkel diving).

Requirements:

Meet requirements at Section 3.9 and Section 5.2.3 above, and the Diver Evaluation Test at Appendix1 (NB. due to the closely supervised nature of open water training, at the discretion of the UDO, students undertaking such training may be permitted to waive the full diver evaluation. In such cases at least the standard recreational open water swim requirements must be met;

Have a working familiarity with the JCU Field and Diving Procedures Manuals; Complete all required documentation prior to commencing any diving sections of the training course; Fulfil all responsibilities and obligations listed for JCU divers in this Manual; Supply a occupational diving medical1 dated within the past 12 months and stating that the diver is fit to

dive using compressed air, as well as noting any limitations imposed by the doctor; and Meet any other requirements specified by the UDO for the particular training course being undertaken.

5.3.2.2 Incidental Diver

Able to dive on snorkel or SCUBA (as approved by the UDO for each individual) to depths of less than 9m, on approved JCU excursions. Qualified DIVEMASTER/S (see Glossary) must be present on site with recommended in water supervision of undergraduate divers at all times that they are in the water.

Requirements:

Meet the requirements listed in the Diver Evaluation Test at Appendix 1; Agree to follow all instructions given by the Principal Dive Supervisor/s during the excursion; Hold at least an ‘Open-Water’ diver certification from a recognised diver training agency; Fulfil all responsibilities and obligations listed in this Manual for JCU divers; Supply an occupational diving medical dated within the past 12 months and stating that the diver is fit to

dive using compressed air, as well as noting any limitations imposed by the doctor; and Have logged at least 15 hours of diving experience since completion of ‘Open-Water’ dive course, with at

least five of those dives logged within the past six months.



5.3.2.3 Restricted Diver

Able to dive Supervised Short Term on snorkel, SCUBA or SSBA (as approved by the UDO) to depths of less than 15m in ‘Low Risk Conditions’ (see Section 6.4.6 & Appendix 3), on any approved JCU diving operation where direct in-water supervision can be provided by a qualified un-restricted diver.

Requirements:

Meet the requirements listed at Section 5.1 and Section 5.2.3 above, and the Diver Evaluation Test at Appendix 1 (if Diver Evaluation test is NOT passed, diver may be restricted to shallower depths);

Have a working familiarity with the JCU Diving Procedures and any relevant Field Manuals; Fulfil all responsibilities and obligations listed in this Manual for JCU divers; Hold a minimum of a Rescue diver certification with an accredited diver training organisation, plus current

O2 Provider, CPR and 1st Aid Certification; Hold a current occupational diving medical to Australian Standard AS2299 (Occupational Diver) or

equivalent from a doctor registered with SPUMS; Have a working familiarity with the short form DCIEM Air Decompression Tables; Have logged (countersigned and validated) a minimum experience of 15+hrs underwater not including

training dives; NB: To be registered to use any equipment or technique other than standard SCUBA (e.g. Nitrox diving), a diver

must hold certification for and have logged dives with that equipment/technique to the satisfaction of the UDO. Regardless of qualifications held, a theory examination may be required.

5.3.2.4 Limited Diver

A diver who is registered as a Conditional Scientific Diver – Limited, has met all the minimum requirements of a CSD except does not possess the ‘Perform Diver Rescues’ Statement of Attainment.

The Limited diver classification is a temporary permit to dive A Limited diver may be permitted to dive for a limited period of time (no more than 28 days of diving within a 6

month period) but after 6 months must upgrade their dive qualifications to the appropriate level. A Limited diver may only undertake Low Risk Scientific Diving work, and the Principal Diving Supervisor at the site

must be a JCU Scientific Diver

5.3.2.5 Conditional Scientific Diver

Able to dive on snorkel, SCUBA or SSBA (as approved by the UDO) to depths of less than 18m in ‘Low Risk Conditions’ (see Section 6.4.6 & Appendix 3), on any approved JCU diving operation.

Requirements:

Meet the requirements listed at Section 5.1 and Section 5.2.3 above, and the Diver Evaluation Test at Appendix 1 (if Diver Evaluation test is NOT passed, diver may be restricted to shallower depths);

Have a working familiarity with the JCU Diving Procedures and any relevant Field Manuals; Fulfil all responsibilities and obligations listed in this Manual for JCU divers; Hold a minimum of an AQF Rescue diver (Certificate of Attainment, SISOSCB306A/SROSCB007A

"Performs Diver Rescues") certification with an accredited diver training organisation, plus current O2 Provider, CPR and 1st Aid Certification;

Hold a current occupational diving medical to Australian Standard AS2299 (Occupational Diver) or equivalent from a doctor registered with SPUMS;

Have a working familiarity with the short form DCIEM Air Decompression Tables; Have logged (countersigned and validated) a minimum experience of 30+hrs underwater not including

training dives; NB: To be registered to use any equipment or technique other than standard SCUBA (e.g. Nitrox diving), a diver

must hold certification for and have logged dives with that equipment/technique to the satisfaction of the UDO. Regardless of qualifications held, a theory examination may be required.



5.3.2.6 Scientific Diver

Able to dive or act as a Dive Leader on dives using any method for which they are approved to depths of less than 24m (39m if Nitrox qualified, with special approval) - on any approved JCU diving operation.

Requirements:

Meet all the requirements listed at Sections 5.1 and Section 5.2.3 of this Manual (NB: if the Diver Evaluation test at Appendix1 is NOT fully passed, an Unrestricted Diver shall be restricted to a maximum depth of 18m, and may have other site based restrictions applied (e.g. able to dive in sheltered waters only);

Have attended an approved JCU Accountable Person’s training course, and update this at least every 3 years;

Hold an Australian recognised Occupational diver qualification (AS2815) or internationally recognised dive qualification/s of Divemaster or higher, or a minimum of an AQF Rescue diver (SISSCB306A/SROSCB007A "Performs Diver Rescues") certification with an accredited diver training organisation, plus current O2 Provider, CPR and 1st Aid Certification;

Successfully complete a rescue refresher course at least every two years; Meet all relevant requirements for an Unrestricted Scientific Diver as listed in the AS/NZS 2299.2:2002

Scientific Diving Standard, either with an accredited diver training organisation, or at the discretion of the UDO, through demonstrated knowledge (which may involve a completion of a theory examination) and logged experience;

Have a working familiarity with any Decompression Tables to be used; Have logged (countersigned and validated) at least 50 hours using standard SCUBA outside dive courses,

with 3 of those dives logged within the past six months; and If requiring unrestricted accreditation for other equipment/techniques standard SCUBA (e.g. Nitrox diving) -

have logged at least 25 hours diving using these, with at least 3 of those dives logged within the past six months and in waters similar to those to be encountered (where relevant).

To maintain an Unrestricted Diver rating, an individual should log at least one dive with the University in any six month period. Logged recreational dives may be accepted as equivalent at the UDO’s discretion.

5.3.2.7 Principal Dive Supervisor

At all times while a diver is in the water there shall be present a dive supervisor appointed by the diving officer. This principal dive supervisor shall at all times be responsible for the safe conduct of the diving and shall coordinate and direct the activity of the dive teams.

Requirements:

A principal dive supervisor shall be-

A trained, experienced diver and who has experience in the diving techniques which may be required to be used and in the use of equipment and procedures used in the diving operation to be performed

Appointed in writing by the dive officer to supervise the diving operations; and trained in the recognition and management of diving emergencies.

Duties of principal dive supervisors;

A principal dive supervisor shall ensure that all diving operations under supervision are carried out in accordance with this manual and shall be familiar with any legislative requirements which may be applicable to the diving operation.

5.3.2.8 Visiting Scientific Diver

As well as the details at Section 5.1 and Section 5.2.3, the following shall apply to all visiting personnel:

Written application to dive with the University must be received no later than five working days prior to the intended date/s of any dive/s, and must provide all relevant details of the intended diving operation and include all personnel information required by this Manual;

Hold a minimum of a Rescue Diver certification with an accredited diver training organisation, plus current O2 Provider, CPR and 1st Aid Certification;




Have logged (countersigned and validated) at least 60 hours using standard SCUBA outside dive courses, with 3 of those dives logged within the past six months; and

The visitor must notify the UDO of any medical condition/injury that may have commenced/occurred to them since date of last medical, and which would increase their level of risk if they undertook a dive

The UDO must have listed them as a diver on the JCU Dive Register; They must familiarise themselves with this Manual, undergo an induction fully describing relevant safety

protocols/issues, and sign a copy of the JCU Diving Induction Form - to be forwarded to the UDO to confirm listing on the Diver Register;

If intending to use their own SCUBA diving equipment they must supply documentation to show that it is in current test and/or service, as per this Manual.

5.3.2.9 Volunteers

As well as the details listed at Section 5.1 regarding qualifications, the following shall apply to all volunteers wishing to participate in a James Cook University diving operation:

They must complete a JCU Volunteer Acknowledgement of Induction and medical form (at Appendix11), and an application to dive with the University must be received in writing no later than five working days prior to the intended date/s of any dive/s. This must provide all relevant details of the intended diving operation and include all personnel information as required by this Manual

Hold a minimum of an AQF Rescue diver (SISOSCB306A/SROSCB007A "Performs Diver Rescues") certification with an accredited diver training organisation, plus current O2 Provider, CPR and 1st Aid Certification;


Have logged (countersigned and validated) at least 50 hours using standard SCUBA outside dive courses, with 3 of those dives logged within the past six months; and

The volunteer must notify the UDO of any medical condition or injury that may have commenced/occurred to them since the date of their last medical, and which would increase their level of risk if they undertook a dive;

They must familiarise themselves with this Diving Procedures Manual, undergo an induction fully describing all relevant safety protocols and issues, and sign a copy of the JCU Diving Induction Form. This must be forwarded to the UDO before listing on the Diver Register will be considered

If intending to use their own SCUBA diving equipment, it must be inspected by the UDO or delegate, and they must supply evidence to show that it is in current test and/or service, as per this Manual.



5.3.2.10 Proof of Diving Experience, and Exceptions

Divers without a logbook claiming to have the required experience for listing on the JCU Diver Register may be permitted to dive at the discretion of the UDO. If permitted, the person must first submit a certified signed statement outlining their diving experience (available from the UDO).

Staff and students with less than the required hours of diving experience may be allowed to dive at the discretion of the UDO, subject to the following:

At least one fully qualified and experienced diver (i.e. with at least 50 hours experience) must be a dedicated buddy to the inexperienced diver

The diving activity undertaken must be in the ‘low risk’ category (see Section 6.4.6); No dive shall be deeper than 9 m.

5.4 DIVE SUPPORT PERSONNEL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS Most diving operations require the use of personnel in a range of roles. Individuals used to assist in these roles during JCU diving operations must meet all requirements of this Manual.

5.4.1.1 Ship’s Master

Responsibilities of the Master of a mother ship used for a JCU diving operation are listed at Section 3.6.

Requirements:

The Master of any such JCU vessel must meet all requirements of Maritime Safety Queensland (or equivalent regulatory body if in another State) for their vessel.

5.4.1.2 Boat Handler/Coxswain

Responsibilities of the Coxswain of any vessel being used for a JCU diving operation are listed at Section 3.11.

Training requirements:

Meet all requirements of Maritime Safety Queensland (or equivalent regulatory body if in another State) Hold current Oxygen Provider, CPR and Level 2 Workplace First Aid Certification Have a working familiarity with the JCU Diving Procedures and any relevant Field Manuals; and Complete a JCU vessel familiarisation induction with the University Boating and Diving Officer. Knowledge of marine radio operations. A radio operators certificate is recommended.

5.4.1.3 Diver’s Attendant/Surface Attendant

The responsibilities of a JCU Dive Attendant are listed at Section 3.10 of this Manual.

Training requirements:

Must have training and knowledge of any signals in use Must have a complete working knowledge of the Dive Plan, and associated tasks Must have training and knowledge of all diving plant and equipment in use Hold a Rescue Diver certification, current Oxygen Provider, CPR and Level 2 Workplace First Aid

Certification (except where a second person with such training and knowledge is present and remains at the surface with them)

Have a working familiarity with the JCU Diving Procedures and any relevant Field Manuals; and Complete a JCU vessel familiarisation induction with the University Diving Officer or delegate if Boat

Handler is not on site.



5.5 WORK-UP DIVES At the discretion of the UDO, Divers who have not dived for an extended period of time (>6 months), or those who wish to dive to increased depths, may be required to perform a series of ‘work up’ dives.

5.6 FITNESS TO DIVE All personnel who have successfully passed an annual occupational diving medical examination and JCU Swim Assessment shall generally be classed as fit to dive, however it must be stressed that the physical ability of an individual to act in a role, or perform any task, can only be determined by that individual on the day of a dive.

Analysis of diving accident statistics makes it clear that many diving fatalities are strongly linked to lack of fitness in the victim/s. To reduce the risk of such adverse outcomes in the event of an incident or accident, JCU requires that all divers on the JCU Diver Register undertake regular swim assessment (as detailed on the JCU Diver Evaluation at Appendix 1).

A JCU diver who does not renew (or who does not pass) their swim assessmen, may at the discretion of the UDO, be permitted to continue diving for up to a further 6 months - however in such cases they shall be restricted as follows:

• They can only dive to a maximum depth of 12m; • They are restricted to sheltered waters; and • They can only dive in ‘low risk’ conditions (as described in this document).

It is the responsibility of every diver to notify the UDO, should any medical condition or injury have commenced/occurred to them since their last medical, which may increase their level of risk if they dive. If an individual decides they are fit to dive, then their fitness may be further assessed by the Principal Dive Supervisor on site, or by the UDO at any time, with either of those individuals able to veto any dive if they see fit.

The Principal Dive Supervisor on site MUST prohibit diving for any individual if that person’s physiological or psychological state has been altered, or appears to have been altered, by illness, fatigue, injury, intoxication, or loss of coordination from the effects of prescription drugs or other substances. 5.7 JCU DIVER REGISTER Individuals wishing to dive for JCU must complete an online registration in the JCU Boating & Diving Register.

Using the JCU Boating & Diving register

The Register is at - https://boatndive.jcu.edu.au/

New users:

• Select the Boating & Diving login • If you have an existing JCU login, then use that to start your account o If you don’t have a JCU login, then

first ‘create an account’, complete your personal details (your email must be correct – your log-in will be emailed to you), when you receive your password, you can log-in.

• Go to ‘Edit Profile’, enter your details in the personal profile page and change your password • Upload a photo of yourself • ‘REGISTERS’ - Select the register you wish to apply for (Diving, Snorkelling

or Boating) • Press ‘Start New Application’ to complete the questionnaire for that register • CERTIFICATIONS’ – choose your certifications from the list and provide details (eg. scuba certificates,

dive medical , first aid, boat licence etc). If a certificate or licence is not perpetual, then please enter the expiry date. o NOTE: Dive medical expires 12months from issue date, First Aid expires 3 years from issue date, CPR & Oxygen expires 12months from issue date.

• Upload copies of your certificates - a digital or scanned PDF is preferable, ensure that any attached documents can be clearly read and understood! Copy both sides of dive cert cards as one document. Please don’t make multiple entries of the same certification!

• ‘EQUIPMENT LIST’ - Add details about your own diving equipment if relevant

Once all your mandatory information is provided, the Diving / Boating Officer will arrange a time for you to have the relevant inductions. When your inductions are completed your register status will be activated. All users must ensure that expired certifications are removed and replaced with updated ones. All new certificates will be re-validated by the Diving / Boating Officer.

https://boatndive.jcu.edu.au/



5.8 RECORD KEEPING RESPONSIBILITIES

5.8.1 UDO Responsibilities The Boating & Diving Office shall maintain records as per the university’s record retainment procedures:

• Details of all divers involved in JCU diving operations and records of evidence used to assess the diver’s diving competencies and fitness;

• Each approved University diving operation; • Servicing of all equipment used for JCU diving operations (including private) and results thereof; • All equipment defects and how these were dealt with; • Any incidents and accidents they have been notified of; and • Any other relevant details.

5.8.2 Diver’s Responsibilities

All divers shall keep and maintain a permanent log of all diving undertaken for the University, which shall include:

• The diver’s photograph; • Next of kin information; • The diver’s name, address, DOB and signature; • A record of medical examinations conducted for the purpose of occupational diving; • A record of JCU diving activity undertaken; and • A record of any relevant accidents and incidents including decompression treatment/s.

The diving doctor should sign the diver’s logbook at each diving medical examination, and the diver must make this available to the UDO on request.


| DIVING REGULATIONS FOR SCUBA (OPEN CIRCUIT, COMPRESSED AIR) 16

6 DIVING REGULATIONS FOR SCUBA (OPEN CIRCUIT, COMPRESSED AIR)

6.1 INTRODUCTION No person shall engage in diving operations under the auspices of the University's diving program unless he/she is currently enrolled on James Cook University’s Dive Register pursuant to the provisions of this manual. 6.2 PRE-DIVE OPERATION PROCEDURES

6.2.1 Project Registration Dive operations for James Cook University shall be registered with the Boating & Diving Office by the principal researcher on commencement of any JCU project involving diving. Applications can be made through the Trip Tracker on-line system or if the applicant cannot access Field Trip Tracker then paper versions of the required forms can be requested from the Boating and Diving Office.

The application reflects all safety and logistical aspects of the project and should contain information on emergency planning and contact procedures, number and length of trips per year, proposed areas of operation for the field trips associated with the project and confirmation signatures from the applicants Supervisor and Head of Department.

6.2.2 Risk Assessment An important phase of dive planning is risk assessment. It is the responsibility of the Dive Supervisor to ensure, as far as practicable, that diving hazards are identified for staff, students and visiting divers. Following an assessment of the risks involved in a particular diving operation, the Diving Officer must ensure that suitable measures to control risks are determined In addition, he/she must be sure that the Dive Supervisor responsible for implementing the control measures is capable of doing so.

The diving /boating risk assessment is then to be entered into the University’s Risk Ware program with the other hazards identified for the field trip.

A copy of the risk assessment is required to be on site at all times.

6.2.3 Dive Plans Any JCU work involving diving or snorkelling must be submitted through the Register under ‘Trips’.

All information asked for in the system must be supplied.

A detailed instruction sheet explaining how to submit a trip can be found on your ‘Home Page’ in the Register

Any delays in approving a Trip are typically due to:

• A lack of detail in the information supplied, or • An inadequate risk assessment for the work, or • Unregistered or unsuitable personnel chosen for the work

Important: The Scientist in charge must ensure that the Dive Plan has been signed by the University Diving

Officer or delegate at least three working days before undertaking any diving operation. 6.3 DIVE TEAMS

6.3.1 Normal dive teams A normal dive team comprises a group of individuals, who as a unit under the control of a Principal Dive Supervisor can perform the duties of a, Dive Supervisor, Diver/s (Dive Leader and buddy/s), Diver’s Attendant/s and Boat Handler (where required). A ‘normal’ dive team for depths < 15m may be made up of:

• Two qualified divers diving within proximity as to be able to render assistance in an emergency at all times and one competent Dive Attendant; or

• Three qualified divers diving within proximity as to be able to render assistance in an emergency and one competent Dive Attendant; or

• More than three divers, grouped into pairs or trios (and diving within proximity as to be able to render assistance in an emergency), and one or more competent Dive Attendants, as required.



NB: Where more than one Dive Team is in the water and there is only one Dive Attendant, dive teams must work in close proximity to each other (within 30m), or one diver in each team must tow a surface marker buoy to allow their location to be easily determined.

A ‘normal’ dive team for depths > 15m may be made up of:

• Two qualified divers and two competent boat/shore person, or • Three qualified divers and two competent boat/shore person;

6.3.2 Exceptions to normal dive teams 6.3.2.1 Two Person Dive Teams The use of two person dive teams is discouraged, but may be approved by the UDO in some circumstances, such as in the case of two experienced divers working at shallow depths in sheltered waters, or one diver working tethered at shallow depths in sheltered waters. Before approval is given for any two person diving operation, the UDO should consider the divers involved, and the dive plan and risk assessments submitted for the dive - with particular reference to all identifiable potential risk factors (see Section 14 – Factors Known to Increase Diving Risk, and Appendix 3). 6.3.2.2 Diving without a Dive Attendant (at the surface) Diving without a surface Dive Attendant will only be approved by the UDO or delegate in exceptionally safe circumstances, such as in cases of experienced divers working at shallow depths in sheltered waters. Diving without a Dive Attendant shall not be permitted where there will be more than two buddy groups in the water at one time (i.e. more than six divers). Before approval is given for diving to occur without a surface Dive Attendant, the UDO should consider all relevant factors (as listed Section 14, Appendix 3 of this Manual). As well as the conditions listed above, controls, which must be met before diving without a Dive Attendant may take place, are as follows:

• The divers involved must agree they are prepared to dive without a Boat Handler/Surface Attendant; • Both divers must be confident that they can, in an emergency, recover the other into the boat without

assistance; • Both divers must continually monitor conditions during the dive, and must agree to abort the dive at a signal

from the other diver if either feels that conditions cease to be safe; • Dive flag must be displayed; • Any boat used must be moored as close to the dive site as possible, and all divers must stay within 50m of

the vessel; • A check must be made that the anchor of the boat being used is secure, immediately upon starting the dive; • Surface conditions must be checked regularly during the dive, but not by ascending to the surface (i.e. the

divers must be able to see the surface from their worksite on the bottom). Where such a diving operation is to take place waters, the Principal Dive Supervisor should consider the deployment of a Jesus/current line from the stern of the boat - before divers enter the water. 6.3.2.3 Two Person Dive Team – single tethered or buoyed diver

Conditions, which must be met before diving may take place with a two-person dive team using a Dive Attendant and a tethered or ‘buoyed’ diver, are as follows:

• The operation must have been approved for two person diving; • At the time of the dive, the Principal Dive Supervisor must have determined that "low-risk conditions" are

prevailing at the dive site (these conditions are defined at Section 6.4.6); • Where the above points have been met, the Standby Diver and diver must monitor the on-site conditions,

and the diver must agree to abort the dive at a signal from the Dive Attendant should conditions cease to be safe;

• Any boat used must be moored as close to the dive site as possible, and all divers must stay within 30m of the vessel;

• The dive site must be of such a nature that there is no risk of serious entanglement of the tether; • The Standby Diver must dressed ready to enter the water in an emergency, must be able to see the diver’s

bubbles at all times, must watch for these on a regular basis (at least every minute) and must terminate the dive if conditions change such that this becomes difficult.



6.3.3 SCUBA diving operations in swimming pools or in sheltered open water • The following personnel shall be present: • One dive supervisor. • One diver. • One diver’s attendant.

Thus, the minimum dive team for dives in aquarium tanks and swimming pools or in sheltered open water is THREE, one of whom shall remain at the surface dive coordinating position. In exceptional circumstances, where minimal risk is present, the diving officer may authorise a minimum team of TWO. If the operation is conducted in free-swimming SCUBA mode, then two divers may be underwater operating as a buddy pair. Where one diver is in the water, the Principal Dive Supervisor shall maintain constant visual contact with the diver and be capable of removing the diver from the water in an emergency or if the diver requests assistance. Authorisation of a dive team of two shall not be considered if any of the following apply:

• Poor visibility. • Danger to the diver from natural currents or currents associated with weirs, sluices, locks, outlets or inlets in

the vicinity of the workplace. • Risk of entrapment of the diver or entanglement in his equipment. • A situation in which third party assistance is not readily available in an emergency. • If the dive is from a boat, and the boat cannot be securely anchored or moored. • Bottom depth is greater than 10m.

6.3.4 Lost buddy procedures

Where divers are paired together on a dive, and lose contact with each other during that dive, the ‘lost buddy’ procedure to be followed should be the standard procedure taught on most ‘open-water’ diving courses in Australia. This involves trying to locate each other through the following set routine:

• Immediately on noticing contact has been lost with their buddy, each diver should circle 360˚, looking for the buddy, or their exhaust bubble trail (often easier to see if looking up slightly);

• If visual contact is not made after the above procedure, each diver should ascend 3 - 5 metres, and repeat the procedure;

• If contact is still not re-established, each diver should surface (at a rate of no more than 9 m/minute). On regaining contact at the surface the dive may be recommenced or terminated, at the discretion of the Principal Dive Supervisor or Dive Leader. If a diver is still missing more than 5 minutes after his/her buddy surfaces an immediate search should be instigated where it is safe to do so, and continued until either the diver is located or the searching diver deems that further assistance is required.

NB: Lost buddy procedures must be discussed in every pre-dive briefing.



6.4 PRE-DIVE SAFETY CHECKS

6.4.1 Dive Briefing To help ensure a successful diving operation, it is important that each member of the dive team understands the objectives of the dive - in particular that they understand their roles and the roles of all other members of the dive team during the dive. It is the responsibility of the Principal Dive Supervisor to ensure that a dive briefing is conducted before every dive. This allows for the exchange of the above information, and also permits minor modifications to be made to the dive plan as a result of on-site conditions (e.g. adverse environmental conditions or problems with the physical condition of any member/s of the dive team). A dive briefing should include, but not be limited to:

• the objectives of the operation • conditions in the operating area • assignments of each member of the dive team • review of communications (including any special hand signals, use of slates etc.) • any special equipment or considerations • a review of the Risk and Hazard Identification form noting any changes. • lost contact procedures, eg. search for 1 min underwater if no contact, surface to continue search and

reunite. • conditions controlling the termination of the dive (time, remaining air supply, etc) • review emergency response plan and recall procedures • soliciting questions to ensure understanding of task and assignments

6.4.2 Diver's Responsibility:

• Each scientific diver shall conduct a functional check of his/her diving equipment in the presence of the diving buddy or tender.

• It is the diver's responsibility and duty to refuse to dive if, in his/her judgement, conditions are unfavourable, or if he/she would be violating the precepts of his/her training, of this manual.

• No dive team member shall be required to be exposed to hyperbaric conditions against his/her will, except when necessary to prevent or treat a pressure-related injury.

• No dive team member shall be permitted to dive for the duration of any known condition that is likely to adversely affect the safety and health of the diver or other dive team members.

• No diver should enter the water within 12 hours of consuming any alcohol or other intoxicants.

6.4.3 Equipment Evaluations Each diver shall insure that his/her equipment is in proper working order and that the equipment is suitable for the type of diving operation. Each diver shall also know the safe operation, capabilities and limitations of any equipment they use.

6.4.4 Pre-Dive Equipment Check. For all dives an adequate pre-dive check shall be performed on both the diver's and stand-by diver's equipment. The pre-dive checks should include but are not limited to;

Check for uninterrupted air flow from tank, check zeroing of contents gauge before turning on air supply, air supply turned on, contents of tank, leaking hoses and or gauges, operation of contents gauge, operation of second stages, second stage free-flow, torn mouth piece, etc. Depth gauge reads zero, maximum depth indicator is zeroed. Inflator hose connected, inflator operation, dump valve operation, security of tank in BCD harness, etc.

6.4.5 Site Evaluation The environmental and other conditions (eg. Weather, visibility, tide, currents, temperature, presence of any other craft etc.) at the site will be evaluated by the dive team members.

6.4.6 ‘LOW RISK’ conditions defined • Maximum depth does not exceed is 15 metres • Conditions are such that diving is not strenuous or difficult (nil to slight currents, waves/swell <0.5m) • Visibility is greater than 4 metres • No operational plant/machinery at the site • No entrapment hazards & direct access maintained • Simple & low risk tasks are performed • Divers form buddy pairs or tethered



• Dives are during daylight hours only • Site located away from other vessels operating in the area

6.5 DIVING PROCEDURES

6.5.1 Normal Dive Procedures Normal dive procedures may contain but are not limited to; when the vessel is on site,

• Dive flag displayed, • Equipment and environment checks, • Control devices deployed (Jesus line, shot line etc.), • Dive briefing, • Surface interval, repetitive factor and time in recorded, maximum bottom time established for the dive plus

any contingency times for variations in the dive profile, • Entry and check with buddy, • Check that the anchor is secure, • Compare depth gauge readings with other members of the dive team. Any discrepancies shall be checked

against an accurately measured depth of water. • Start in-water operation, • Dive attendant is on constant lookout where the divers are operating and for any external influences on the

dive operation, • Divers attempt to achieve objectives, • Dive ends, slow ascent (< 9m/min), Safety stop/s if required, • Time out, bottom time and maximum depth recorded, • Debrief dive, • Record any problems, divers showing and signs of discomfort after diving shall be assessed and treated

accordingly. Forms 4 and 5 may assist with assessment, when in doubt seek outside assistance. 6.5.1.1 All diver and boat attendants should know that: Most accidents, diver distress and panic situations are noticed at the surface, not underwater.

• If a diver surfaces away from the work site, well within the planned dive time, he may not be immediately missed, and there will be less search effort than if he is overdue.

• Depending upon surface conditions, the occupants of the attendant boat may be able to follow the diver’s bubbles and keep track of his whereabouts the use of a site marker is highly recommended.

• Due to the diver's low position in the water, although at times he may be able to see the attendant boat or mother ship, it does not follow that persons in those vessels will see him. In conditions where this is possible the diver shall carry a device such as an inflatable “safety sausage”, whistle, etc.

• Searchers in a small boat are unlikely to hear a whistle with the motor running. If it is known that the divers carry whistles, searchers should stop the motor at frequent intervals.

6.5.2 Refusal to Dive

(a) The decision to dive is that of the diver. A diver may refuse to dive, without fear of reprisal, whenever he/she feels it is unsafe for them to make the dive.

(b) The ultimate responsibility for safety rests with the individual diver. It is the diver's responsibility and duty to refuse to dive if, in his/her judgement, conditions are unsafe or unfavourable, or if he/she would be violating the precepts of his/her training or the regulations in this manual.

6.5.3 Termination of the Dive

(a) It is the responsibility of the diver to terminate the dive, without fear of reprisal, whenever he/she feels it is unsafe to continue the dive, unless it compromises the safety of another diver already in the water.

(b) The dive shall be terminated while there is still sufficient cylinder pressure to permit the diver to safely reach the surface, including safety stop time with a reserve of 20-30 bar of air remaining.

6.5.4 Emergencies and Deviations from Regulations

Any diver may deviate from the requirements of this manual to the extent necessary to prevent or minimise 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 Boating and Diving Safety Committee explaining the circumstances and justifications.



6.5.5 Flying or Ascending to Altitude after Diving Due to increased risk of DCI incurred through exposure to altitude after diving, restrictions on road and air travel apply where JCU divers are subject to pressures of greater than one atmosphere whilst breathing compressed air. These shall apply to all JCU divers and must be followed, except in the event of an extreme emergency where no other option is available. In any such case, these rules should only be breached on the advice of medical personnel trained in hyperbaric medicine, and with the consent of all diving personnel involved. After incurring any form of decompression illness, a diver should not be exposed to greater than 300m effective altitude for seven days.

To minimise the risk of developing DCS whilst travelling after diving, a diver should have a minimum surface interval of 24 hours before ascending to altitude or flying.

6.6 SHORE DIVING In addition to normal dive procedures the following procedures shall be followed for diving from the shore:

• Diving restricted to 50 metres from the shore or greater subject to Dive Officer approval; • Diver’s attendant must have communication link to emergency services; • Access to oxygen resuscitation equipment within 5 minutes of point of entry; • When shore diving is being conducted in an environment of strong currents, strong surge and limited

visibility, a rescue tender shall be on standby.

6.7 NIGHT DIVING In addition to normal low risk dive procedures the following procedures shall be followed for night diving:

• Dives are limited to 21 metres; • All divers must have a minimum classification of Scientific Diver unless participation JCU diver training

exercise; • A minimum of two dive attendants are required at the surface; • The dive site should be marked during daylight hours prior to the night dive; • The site entry and exit points shall be marked with an activated light source; • All divers shall have an activated cyalumes (or other suitable light source) attached in a prominent position

to their equipment; • Divers must carry a backup light/torch.

6.8 UNDERGRADUATE COURSES INVOLVING DIVING Where diving is conducted as part of an undergraduate course, low risk conditions shall exist and there must be a person in-charge of the group who is trained or experienced in dive leadership. This person shall ensure that

• all records of divers times and repetitive groups and surface intervals are kept • that sufficient lookouts are posted • that consideration is given to both in and out of water supervision • a depth limit of 9 metres is imposed • dive teams are buddied less experienced with experienced diver • that there is a means to go to the assistance of a person or persons in trouble • first aid and oxygen equipment are available and there are personnel trained in its use • there is a means of summoning assistance in an emergency

The use of a dive protocol shall be used to assist undergraduates in understanding some ground rules for the field trip (a sample dive protocol is given in Appendix 10). Also special consideration shall be given to enforcing a maximum depth and area limitation and a means for recall of divers. The use of a surface marker buoy for each buddy pairing may facilitate some of these requirements.

6.9 RECOMPRESSION CHAMBER SUPPORT OF DIVING The requirements of this section have been adapted from Australian Standard AS/NZS 2299.2:2002 – Occupational Diving Operations: Scientific Diving, and this document should be consulted for further information.



6.9.1.1 Availability of Recompression Chamber Support Planning for JCU dives must consider availability of emergency recompression chamber support, which may or may not be dedicated to supporting the diving operation, and may involve an on-site, or remote chamber. 6.9.1.2 Diving Without a Recompression Chamber On-site Diving undertaken without on-site recompression chamber support should be performed with controlled ascents and routine safety stops as required by this section and Section 7.2. Where multiple dives are undertaken, approved decompression tables shall be followed and residual nitrogen times taken into account in calculating subsequent allowable dive times. When completing a dive plan, it is the responsibility of the Principal Dive Supervisor (with advice from the UDO if required) to set out a procedure for transporting divers to the nearest acceptable and available recompression facility, and to communicate this Emergency Plan to all other divers on the dive team. They must also realistically estimate the time necessary for the transportation of a diver to the recompression facility in the event of an accident (with such time taken as the time from when the diver leaves the water to the commencement of recompression in the chamber). In the event that one or more significant identifiable risk factor/s are present before, during or after a dive (e.g. cold water, fatigue, hard work, post dive exercise, etc), the Principal Dive Supervisor must ensure that allowance is made for these and that if at all possible details of such are communicated to all divers BEFORE the dive. Such allowance shall be implemented by reducing the available time for the dive, with the amount of time reduction to be determined as follows:

a) Where the dive is within 2 hrs of a recompression chamber – bottom time or effective bottom time for a dive shall not exceed the yellow sections of Table A2 of JCU’s copy of the DCIEM tables; or

b) Where the dive is 2 to 6 hrs of a recompression chamber, - bottom time or effective bottom time for a dive shall not exceed the blue sections of Table A2 of JCU’s copy of the DCIEM tables.

As well, for all dives of greater than 9 metres in depth, or between 7 m and 9 m in depth where a dive is for longer than 180 minutes duration, divers must perform a safety stop at between 3 to 5 metres depth for at least 5 minutes. 6.9.1.3 Alterations to Bottom Times for ‘Remote’ Diving Operations Where divers are working in remote2 areas, it is likely that access to a Hyperbaric Unit may be delayed in the event of a diving accident. For this reason, where a diving operation is conducted in an area with greater than 2 hours travelling time from the nearest recompression facility, care must be taken during planning for the diving operation to consider all risk factors that may increase a diver’s susceptibility to DCI. During such diving operations a safety margin must be added to dives by reducing the maximum bottom time permitted by the dive tables. The following rules must be adhered to at all times during remote diving operations:

• If the permitted Effective Bottom Time (EBT) is exceeded during any dive, the diver concerned must not re-enter the water for at least 24 hrs.

• After any dive, divers must avoid any activity likely to increase their risk of contracting DCI (e.g. exercise); • During dive planning, when determining the amount of time required to evacuate a patient from the dive

site to a recompression chamber, the following points should be taken into account: a) The time commences from when the diver is removed from the water or shows any signs of DCI, and

ends when they can be placed inside the recompression chamber. b) The only form of transport that can reliably be counted on to be available for patient evacuation is the

means by which the dive site was initially accessed (i.e. car/boat). The assumption must not be made that air or road ambulance will be available, contactable, and able to reach the site within a reasonable time period;

c) As mentioned above, where identifiable factors are present, or likely to be present, that may increase the risk of DCI during a dive, the Principal Dive Supervisor must build an extra safety margin into any dive plan. This is particularly important if diving in areas greater than 2 hrs away from the nearest recompression facility.

Notwithstanding the above, the table in Appendix 5 shall be used to derive maximum repetitive group limits for diving each day, depending on the level of recompression chamber support available.



6.10 DIVING WITH OTHER GROUPS Due to the nature of University research, situations often arise where James Cook University divers need to work with divers from other groups/organisations. The following sections outline the requirements to be met by JCU divers when operating under these circumstances.

6.10.1 Research Diving in Conjunction with another Scientific Organisation Where JCU divers operate with divers from another scientific organisation there are two scenarios that may occur.

1. Where JCU personnel are working with another organisation (i.e. with their divers, and/or using their vessel), then the JCU diver/s will normally be bound by that organisation’s diving code, provided that code has been approved by the UDO prior to the planned operation. In this situation they must meet all certification requirements of that organisation, and gain approval to dive as required by the relevant diving procedure. The responsible JCU Diving Officer must be notified of such diving operations, but the diver/s involved need not complete JCU dive planning and dive record forms for these dives.

2. Where JCU personnel are working with divers from another organisation based from a JCU vessel, or on any official JCU diving operation.

In this situation, divers from the other organisation must meet all certification requirements of James Cook University, and gain approval to dive from the UDO prior to commencement of the operation.

6.10.2 Research Diving In Conjunction with Tourist Operators or Commercial Charters From time to time JCU divers may operate in conjunction with tourist operators or commercial charters. In all such situations the diving operation must be approved by the UDO ahead of time, and all participating JCU divers must follow the relevant JCU diving procedures (including approvals). It is of the utmost importance that the Principal Dive Supervisor for such an operation makes it clear to the ‘public’ divers participating that they are in no way connected with the University in any capacity.

Note: An individual who is not listed on the JCU Volunteer Register may not travel in any JCU vehicle or vessel, except in case of emergency.

6.11 COMMUNICATIONS

6.11.1 Lifelines In situations where JCU divers are required to operate with lifelines tethering them to the boat, attended by a Diver’s Attendant, all divers must be familiar with the standard communication signals listed at Appendix 4.

6.11.2 Voice Communications Where divers are intending to use voice communication systems, they must be conversant with the particular equipment to be used, prior to attempting any dive. It should be noted that familiarisation with equipment is especially important where full facemasks are being used. In such cases, consideration should be given to performing a familiarisation dive or dives with the equipment to be used, in sheltered waters, prior to undertaking field operations. 6.12 RECORD OF DIVES For every University dive, the Principal Dive Supervisor must ensure that an entry on the ‘JCU Record of Dive’ (at Form 6) is completed for each diver, listing all requested details of that dive. This should be completed at the surface by the Dive Attendant, except where the dive has been approved for ‘two person’ diving (with no surface Dive Attendant), when each diver must complete the form immediately after the dive. The record of dive shall include at least the following:

• Location, date and time. • Dive plan and FTT numbers. • Name of diver and Buddy. • Scientist in charge.



• Maximum depth, bottom time, repetitive groups and factors, surface interval. On completion of the diving operation, the Principal Dive Supervisor must ensure the data from these forms is forwarded to the Boating and Diving Office within 1 week from the last dive. As well as the above, the Principal Dive Supervisor must generate a Post-Dive report, and complete all relevant details prior to submitting this to the UDO for approval. 6.13 POST-DIVE CONSIDERATIONS FOR DIVERS It is the responsibility of each diver after every dive to report to their Principal Dive Supervisor any problems that may have occurred, including equipment issues, physical problems, or potential symptoms of decompression illness. In the event of any of these occurring, the UDO must be notified as soon as practically possible. It shall be noted that any diver presenting with symptoms of an illness that may be associated with DCI shall be administered high concentration oxygen and advice from a doctor trained in diving medicine sort, without delay. If diving has taken place outside the no-decompression limits, any divers concerned should remain awake for at least one hour after diving, and should be monitored for this period by another dive team member. Form 3 may assist with assessment, when in doubt seek outside assistance


| DECOMPRESSION TABLES AND DIVE COMPUTERS 25

7 DECOMPRESSION TABLES AND DIVE COMPUTERS The use of a conservative decompression table is essential for safe, ‘low’ risk diving. Dive computers and dive tables are simply guides that attempt to take into account the physiological processes involved with the breathing of compressed gases at depths. They are most definitely not infallible, and do not take into account many factors that can affect an individual’s susceptibility to decompression sickness. These factors include variations in age, sex, weight, physical condition, recent illnesses/injuries, as well as many others. During the formulation of the dive plan the JCU Principal Dive Supervisor must give consideration to any existing or potential risk factors that may render the dive less safe (also see Section 14 & Appendix 3 of these procedures). 7.1 DECOMPRESSION TABLES The DCIEM (Canadian Defence and Civil Institute for Environmental Medicine) Short Standard Air decompression tables must be used for all JCU air diving operations. Either the equivalent air depth method, or a UDO approved EANx decompression table must be used for monitoring all JCU dives performed using EANx. Any method/table used must be specified in the project application and protocol, and approved by the UDO prior to diving. Copies of these tables are available from the UDO, and a familiarisation session in their use must be conducted by the UDO or Delegate for all new JCU divers. If at any time divers have questions about any dive tables, they should consult the University Diving Officer for advice. 7.2 SAFETY STOPS For any dive of greater than 9 metres depth where the dive is within 2 repetitive groups of the no decompression limit; and For any dive of between 7 m and 9 m in depth where a dive is for longer than 180 minutes duration; - divers must perform a safety stop at between 3 to 5 metres depth for at least 3 minutes provided it is safe to do so. The performance of safety stops by divers, even after short dives to shallow depths, has been proven to reduce the incidence of DCI in divers. 7.3 ASCENT RATES It is highly recommended that wherever possible all divers adopt an ascent rate of slower than 9 metres per minute when surfacing after any dive to a depth of 30 m or less. Reduction in ascent rates to this speed has been shown to be beneficial in reducing the incidence of DCI in divers. 7.4 ALTERATIONS TO BOTTOM TIMES FOR ‘REMOTE’ DIVING OPERATIONS Where divers are working in remote areas, it is likely that in the event of a diving accident, access to a Hyperbaric Unit may be delayed. For this reason, where any JCU diving operation is conducted in an area that is greater than 2 hours travelling time from the nearest recompression facility, great care must be taken during planning for the diving operation to allow for all risk factors that may increase a diver’s susceptibility to DCI. During such diving operations a safety margin must be added to dives by reducing the maximum bottom time permitted by the dive tables, and the amended bottom times given at Table 2A in Appendix 5 must be used as a basis for the dive plan. 7.5 MULTI-LEVEL DIVING Details regarding use of any tables or dive computers for multi-level diving must be noted on the Dive Plan and approved by the UDO prior to departure. Such details must include WHY such use is requested, as well as measures that will be taken to ensure such multi-level diving is safe. For this reason, where any JCU diving operation is conducted in an area that is greater than 2 hours travelling time from the nearest recompression facility, great care must be taken during planning for the diving operation to allow for all risk factors that may increase a diver’s susceptibility to DCI. During such diving operations a safety margin must be added to dives by reducing the maximum bottom time permitted by the dive tables, and the amended bottom times given at Table 2A in Appendix 5 must be used as a basis for the dive plan.


| DECOMPRESSION TABLES AND DIVE COMPUTERS 26

7.6 DIVE COMPUTERS Important Note: At this time, an approved dive table must be used for planning and control of all JCU air dives. A computer may only be used to keep track of, or assist with any dive. Divers using computers must be familiar with their use, including any peculiarities specific to the type being used. Any diver wishing to use a dive computer other than one of those supplied by the University must notify the UDO, providing information on the type of computer, its permitted ascent rate/s, and any other relevant factors. Rules for dive computer use:

• Read the instruction manual carefully before using the computer, ensuring you understand it; • Where a diver is using a dive computer as well as dive tables, the advice of the more conservative of the two

must always be followed. Although this is usually the dive tables (especially with DCIEM tables), many brands of dive computer take into account factors such as multiple ascents, multiple diving days and errors in planned dive profiles, and because of this, on some occasions, a dive computer may indicate a diver’s bottom time has expired earlier than the dive tables indicate that the dive should be ended;

• A diver must not begin using a dive computer if they have had an exposure to ambient pressures of greater than 1 ATA during the previous 24 hours (e.g. from diving, or time spent in a recompression chamber) - unless the computer was also exposed at the same time, to the same pressure (i.e. it was being worn at the time);

• Where a computer has facility to do so, it should be adjusted to a more conservative setting than the base setting. If this facility is not offered, it may be possible to adjust the altitude setting to a higher one than the actual altitude of the dive - which will have the same effect;

• Wherever possible, the deepest dive in a series must be performed first, and each repetitive dive should be at a shallower depth than the last;

• Computers must not be shared between divers during any diving operation. Each diver must have their own computer for the duration of any diving trip;

• Where a particular brand of computer permits an ascent rate of > 9 metres per minute, the diver must restrict their ascent rate to approximately 9 m/min or slower, rather than following the rate indicated by the computer;

• Do not ‘push the limits’ of any computer - they are not infallible. When planning your dive using the tables, allow for relevant risk factors that are known to increase the risk of DCI, such as cold water, fatigue etc;

• Use ‘safe’ dive profiles. Avoid ‘saw-tooth’, ‘reverse’ and ‘square’ profile dives. If approved, multi-level dives must start at the deepest depth and become shallower during the dive;

• For all dives of greater than 9 metres in depth, or between 7 m and 9 m in depth where a dive is for longer than 180 minutes duration divers must perform a safety stop at between 3 to 5 metres depth for at least 5 minutes where it is not unsafe to do so.

If a computer fails during a dive after indicating the need for decompression (NB: decompression dives are not permitted!), either of the following ‘omitted decompression procedures’ should be adopted where no symptoms of Decompression Illness are being exhibited by the diver/s concerned. Where symptoms are noted – medical advice must be sought immediately. Any such incident must be reported to the UDO as soon as possible. NB. These procedures are for emergency use only.

a) Within 7 minutes of surfacing, secure an adequate air supply and return to the decompression Stop listed on the DCIEM tables that is 3m deeper than the first omitted Stop. Decompress at this depth for the time of the first omitted Stop, then continue the decompression as per the Table A schedule on the DCIEM tables;

b) Where a Recompression Chamber is available within 7 minutes of surfacing, the diver/s may be placed in the Chamber and recompressed on O2 at a pressure equivalent to a sea level depth of 12 m. The diver should remain on O2at this pressure for twice the total omitted decompression time. Chamber ascent time (on oxygen) is 2 minutes. After conducting either of these procedures, the diver’s condition must be monitored for at least 24 hours after the dive for symptoms of DCI, and the diver must not enter the water again until at least 24 hours after the dive. As well, the diver must not expose him/herself to anything likely to increase the risk of DCI (e.g. exercise, altitude, alcohol etc), or which could mask the symptoms of DCI (e.g. alcohol, drugs). If symptoms of DCI occur, the diver should be transported to the nearest recompression facility as soon as possible.

The Principal Dive Supervisor for any dive must ensure dive tables are used more conservatively than normal if a diver is subject to any factor/s likely to increase DCI risk before, during or immediately after a dive (see Section 14, Appendix 3, and Appendix 7 of these procedures).


| SNORKELLING PROCEDURES 27

8 SNORKELLING PROCEDURES Snorkelling by JCU personnel should only be used as an observation and/or a light recovery or collection technique, and no difficult or strenuous work of any kind should be attempted while snorkelling. Any JCU staff, students or volunteers intending to snorkel shall follow all the relevant procedures in this Manual, including creating a profile in My Register, and uploading any relevant qualifications and certificates, and completing the Snorkelling & Swimming Health Declaration. (Appendix 1) The Boating and Diving Office will determine if further competency assessment of individuals is required in accordance with the criteria as set out in Appendix 2. All trips involving snorkelling must be lodged in My Register, which are then reviewed by the Boating and Diving Office. 8.1 FITNESS FOR SNORKLERS Snorkelling in open waters can be physically demanding and require a reasonable degree of physical stamina, mental focus and skill, especially when environmental conditions are less than ideal. Fitness for snorkelling means that an individual is in a state (medically, physically and psychologically) to perform work tasks assigned to them competently and in a manner which does not compromise the safety or health of themselves or others. An individual's fitness for work may be impaired by a variety of factors including level of medical and physical fitness, fatigue, psychological factors or impairment due to alcohol and drugs (including prescription, non-prescription and illicit drugs). All persons engaged in field work shall be fit for work and ensure any illness, injury or impairment is reported to the Trip Leader and Snorkelling Supervisor before the commencement of any activity. All persons intending to snorkel must, as a minimum, complete the Snorkelling & Swimming Health Declaration. (Appendix 1) All snorkelers will be asked by the Snorkelling Supervisor to confirm if they are fully fit to snorkel pre-dive as part of the Pre-dive Risk Checklist. (Appendix 3) 8.2 SIZE AND SUPERVISION OF SNORKEL TEAMS The size of a normal snorkelling team is three; two snorkelers operating as a buddy pair and a snorkelling supervisor at the surface of the dive site. Under very low risk conditions, a team of two may be approved, which could comprise either a snorkeler and a surface supervisor, or two buddy snorkelers. For a 2-person snorkel team to be approved, the Snorkelling Supervisor must demonstrate how risks are mitigated addressing the relevant parts in section 6.3.2. A snorkelling supervisor shall assume the same role and responsibility as Principal Dive Supervisor (see section 3.4). Specifically, a snorkelling supervisor shall:

• Have a thorough working knowledge of the operating and emergency procedures and risk assessments which have been developed to safely manage the activities at the site.

• Have reasonable experience of the site, and/or has experience in supervising snorkelling / diving activities at similar locations.

• Be able to recognise hazards and risks in the marine environment. • Be able to recognise changes to risks due to snorkeler’s abilities and behaviour. • Be able to respond quickly to changes in risk and alter or abort activities as necessary. • Be a capable swimmer and experienced snorkeler. • Be competent to carry out a rescue of a snorkeler. • Be competent to provide first aid, oxygen resuscitation, and operation of an AED. • Be capable of coordinating the emergency management plan.

It is highly recommended that all snorkelers should possess current first aid, CPR and oxygen resuscitation certificates. 8.3 SUPERVISION OF LARGE GROUPS Where activities involve large groups of snorkelers, such as during a class field trip, refer to the JCU Snorkelling Standard (Appendix 17) 8.4 SNORKELLING PROCEDURES

8.4.1 Site setup, control and supervision One or more dive flags must be raised centrally at the site. When a two-person snorkelling team is operating from a vessel without a surface supervisor;

• The security of anchoring must be thoroughly checked • The snorkelers should not be working more than 50 metres from the vessel. • It is highly recommended that towed dive floats should be used – it is important that snorkelers provide

maximum visibility of their location to any passing vessel. If a mothership is present, a long mermaid line should be deployed.



Emergency communications systems should be tested before the commencement of activities. Special attention should be given to the movement of currents which may sweep snorkelers away from the vessel. For shore-based snorkelling;

• The Supervisor shall be positioned to maintain full unobstructed vision of the snorkelers. • The First Aid Kit, Oxygen Resuscitation Kit and AED should be positioned at the egress point (unless the EMP

provides for rapid communication and delivery of equipment from a nearby location). • If snorkelers are in the water with no surface supervision, the use of towed dive floats is mandatory. It is also

highly recommended that a reliable communications device is carried (such as a hand-held VHF radio, mobile phone in waterproof case, nautilus lifeline or PLB).

• An emergency communications protocol must be developed by the snorkelling supervisor, and understood by all participants before the commencement of activities.

A pre-dive briefing must be given by the Supervisor to re-inforce;

• Snorkelling techniques, equipment instruction and task limitations (if any) • Site boundaries • Hazards present and control measures that are being used to minimise risk • Entry and egress methods • Emergency assistance signals • Recall signal

For duck-diving; • Reinforce the risks of hyperventilation and shallow water blackout • Reinforce the risks of ear and sinus barotrauma when doing multiple duck-dives. • Duck-diving should not exceed depths greater than 2m • Ensure no snorkeler is negatively weighted • Ensure buddy pairs operate one up / one down, and maintain constant visual contact with each other.

8.4.2 Breath-hold diving

Breath-hold diving is a technique that involves a diver going to depths greater than 2m on a single breath-hold. Breath-hold diving is considered to increase risk due to the following factors;

• The competence of a person to conduct breath-hold diving • The risk of shallow-water blackout • The possibility of buddy separation and rescue capability • The potential for ear and sinus barotrauma • The increased exertion of the activity

In managing the added risks associated with breath-hold diving, the following guidance is provided from the Recreational Snorkelling Code of Practice 2018;

• The risk posed to breath-hold divers of hypoxic blackout, which if undetected will lead to serious injury, unconsciousness and death.

• The risk is increased significantly for breath-hold divers who hyperventilate by taking repeated deep breaths before descending, or who do deep dives. Consequently divers should be strongly advised not to hyperventilate in this manner.

• Experienced breath-hold divers are at particular risk in that they do longer and deeper dives. • Breath-hold divers should always dive in buddy pairs where one buddy remains on the surface and observes

the other buddy whilst they are diving. • Breath-hold divers using weight belts should be carefully weighted to ensure that they are neutrally or positively

buoyant while at the surface. The weight belts should have a quick release mechanism and divers should be familiar with its operation.

When snorkelling activities are planned which involve repetitive breath-hold diving, the Snorkelling Supervisor must ensure that added risks are being managed appropriately taking into account;

• The competence, fitness and physical condition of divers on the day • Environmental conditions and underwater visibility • Hazards posed by boating traffic in the area • The viability of using float / life lines for each diver • The overall number of dives to be conducted daily • The remoteness of the dive site for access to emergency services • The need to develop a specific Operating Procedure for the planned activities

8.4.3 Emergency response and aborting activities

An emergency management plan must be developed for every trip, with particular focus on the accessibility of emergency service providers in that area, and the facilities that are available.



Particular care must be taken when snorkelling in areas of high boating traffic (e.g. around boat ramps, shipping channels or in popular boating areas). It is recommended that snorkelling occurs directly adjacent to the work vessel, and/or there is a means to make snorkelers highly visible to passing vessels, for example using towed dive floats and high visibility suits/vests/hoods. Consideration for aborting activities and recalling snorkelers from the water should be considered if;

• A significant hazard becomes evident at the site. • If weather or environmental conditions deteriorate. • If any risks are suddenly elevated.

Recalling snorkelers and aborting activities must occur if; • A crocodile or large dangerous shark is sighted in the immediate area. • A snorkeler goes missing. • A person requires first aid treatment or medical attention. • Dangerous marine stingers are present

The procedure for treating a drowning or diving incident is in Appendix 8 The procedure for responding to a missing person is in Appendix 6 8.5 EQUIPMENT All First Aid equipment listed below, and at least one form of reliable Communications equipment capable of contacting emergency services is mandatory and must be at the site and immediately accessible for use if required. Both visual and audible signalling devices which can be used to communicate between snorkelers and the surface supervisor should be carried. Types and specifications of equipment that are recommended for use are as follows; Standard snorkeler’s equipment should include;

• Appropriate exposure protection for cold, sun burn and stinger protection (wetsuit or lycra suit) o Protection from stingers includes full length steamer, gloves, boots and hood (see section 8.5.1)

• Mask, snorkel and fins Extra floatation devices;

• Personal Floatation Devices (PFD) AS4758.1 Level 50 minimum • The Snorkelling Supervisor shall decide if floatation devices are to be used based on the competency of

snorkelers and the risk nature of the activities. Rescue devices and aids; The Snorkelling Supervisor shall determine the necessity or advantage of using the following types of equipment when planning the activities;

• Binoculars • Buoyant ropes • Throw lines • Mermaid lines • Life buoys • Kayak / rescue boards • Lifesaver buoys / tubes.

First Aid equipment and supplies; • First Aid Kit – NSCV scale G minimum (or closest equivalent) is mandatory at the site. • Vinegar – 4 litres minimum • Oxygen resuscitation kit - DAN kit or Bag Valve Mask (BVM) capable of delivering ANAP 100% oxygen to

a breathing or non-breathing person. • Oxygen supply cylinder(s);

o For remote sites - within 2hrs of professional medical assistance: minimum 1 x C-size, 2-6hrs: minimum 1 x D-size, >6hrs: minimum 2 x D-size.

• NOTE - It is recommended to have access to an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) at the site, although it may be impractical to store and use on small vessels.

Communications and signalling devices; • Dive flag (flag Alpha) – mandatory for dive site marking: minimum 50cm x 50cm, for dive floats: minimum

30cm x 30cm • VHF and/or 2-way radio – mandatory for vessel-based operations • Loudspeaker • Air horn • Mobile phone • Whistle / siren • Nautilus life-line



8.5.1 Exposure Protection

Snorkelers, as with scuba divers shall wear suitable clothing to protect themselves from environmental conditions such as cold, sun, marine animals, abrasions etc. A full-length wetsuit or stinger-proof suit is recommended at all times.

During periods of the year when marine stingers may be present, full body cover is highly recommended. Full body cover is mandatory when working in inshore areas where Chironex (box jelly fish) are likely to be present. 8.6 SNORKELLING & SCUBA DIVING COMBINED ACTIVITIES Doing snorkelling work following a SCUBA dive is discouraged, as is any strenuous exercise post-diving. No breath-hold diving is to be undertaken by any diver who has a repetitive factor (RF) of greater than 1.0


| EMERGENCY PROCEDURES 31

9 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Each University workplace will develop emergency procedures that follow the standards of care of the community and must include procedures for emergency care, recompression and evacuation for each dive location. 9.1 INJURED DIVER The following actions must be taken during a diving emergency.

• Assist the injured person(s) immediately by providing first aid.

• Recall all divers or swimmers to the boat or shore.

• Ensure that other members of the diving team are not at risk and that all divers are present.

• Follow instructions laid down in JCU Diving Emergency Procedures.

• Recover as much of the injured diver's equipment as possible after the emergency Keep apart from other equipment prior to expert examination, do not disassemble equipment.

NOTE: The Dive Supervisor may decide not to recover items if to do so would be unsafe or cause undue delay.

• Ensure that no equipment has been left in a dangerous condition.

• Ensure that the Diver's Log Sheet(s) and Log Book are available for the doctor, particularly if recompression is required.

In the case of a fatality or serious accident requiring recompression and/or hospitalisation, the Chair of the Boating and Diving Safety Committee or University Diving Officer must notify the Vice Chancellor or delegate by telephone as soon as possible.

When the immediate emergency has passed, and all necessary steps have been taken to assist the casualty, a full record of the incident should be compiled. While details are still fresh in everyone's mind, the Dive Supervisor or another member of the team should start making notes, obtain details from other divers, record exact times, etc. (see Form 4)

NOTE: The buddy of a diver who develops symptoms of decompression illness, even on a dive apparently carried out according to the DClEM tables, may also develop symptoms later and require treatment.

9.2 OXYGEN THERAPY Provision of oxygen on the surface is an emergency first aid measure for decompression illness, air embolism and shock. It shall be administered as necessary during transfer to hospital or recompression facilities or on advice from a diving medical doctor by a qualified operator.

Oxygen resuscitation equipment will be available at all JCU dive sites, with a sufficient supply of medical grade oxygen available to transport a patient to the nearest medical treatment facility. This equipment shall be capable of delivering as close as practicable to 100% oxygen concentration to a spontaneous breathing patient and a concentration exceeding 50% to a non-breathing patient. All JCU Dive Supervisors, Scientific Divers, Restricted Scientific Divers and Visiting Scientific Divers shall be trained in its use.



9.3 PROCEDURE FOR TREATING INJURED DIVER / SNORKELER

Treatment for: drowning, barotrauma, decompression sickness, shock.

Casualty is conscious Casualty is unconscious

Lay casualty down flat Protect from exposure

Provide 100% oxygen

Reassure and conduct secondary assessment

Continue to monitor vital signs

Contact emergency services and relay information

Record details

Maintain contact with emergency services and prepare for evacuation of casualty

Not breathing breathing

provide CPR and AED

Casualty begins breathing

Place in recovery position

Not recovering Provide 100% oxygen

Continue CPR and AED

Monitor airway & breathing



9.4 MISSING DIVER Where divers are paired together on a dive, and lose contact with each other during that dive, the ‘lost buddy’ procedure to be followed should be the standard procedure taught on most ‘open-water’ diving courses in Australia. This involves trying to locate each other through the following set routine:

• Immediately on noticing contact has been lost with their buddy, each diver should circle 360˚, looking for the buddy, or their exhaust bubble trail (often easier to see if looking up slightly);

• If visual contact is not made after the above procedure, each diver should ascend 3 - 5 metres, and repeat the procedure;

• If contact is still not re-established, each diver should surface (at a rate of no more than 9 m/minute). On regaining contact at the surface the dive may be recommenced or terminated, at the discretion of the Principal Dive Supervisor or Dive Leader. If a diver is still missing more than 5 minutes after his/her buddy surfaces an immediate search should be instigated where it is safe to do so, and continued until either the diver is located or the searching diver deems that further assistance is required.

NB: Lost buddy procedures must be discussed in every pre-dive briefing. Follow Missing Diver Flowchart:

• Diver's Attendant immediately activates their emergency response plan detailing situation and requests assistance, this may include notifying research station management or ships master. Station manager, Vessel Master or authorised person to notify police and JCU Diving Officer, Chair of D&BSC or JCU WPH&S Officer.

• Mark with an emergency marker buoy the last known position of the lost diver.

NOTE: If any person sights the missing diver, they should maintain visual focus on that position.

• If divers are still in the water, recall using the recall signal such as starting the motor and revving 3 times.

• Search should begin where diver was last seen using the emergency marker buoy as reference.

• Search should be conducted in pairs.

• Sink (do not swim) to the bottom to determine effect of current.

• Divers involved in search must not subject themselves to risks such as decompression illness.

• If the diver is located proceed with appropriate actions and notify appropriate persons.

• Complete paperwork and submit report



9.5 MISSING DIVER PROCEDURE

Maintain contact with emergency services and prepare for evacuation of casualty If person not found – continue search as long as possible

Follow procedure for treating injured diver / snorkeler

Call emergency services and relay information

Diver recovered Person not found after 2 minutes

Rescue and retrieve Person

Response to a missing person at sea

Use all available lookouts. Search downwind and down current. If a scuba diver – search for bubbles

Can see bubbles: Use scuba search team, ensure recall

method

Person found floating

Supervisor to mark last known location (GPS preferred). Question buddy, note time and details

Buddy reports missing diver / snorkeler


| DIVING EQUIPMENT 35

10 DIVING EQUIPMENT

10.1 GENERAL POLICY • Diving equipment purchased by individual users (ie. Researchers, Centres and Laboratories) for use on JCU diving

projects, should be done through, or in consultation with the Boating and Diving Office. This is to ensure the type, quality, function and condition of such equipment is compliant with the relevant diving standards and also suitable for the tasks intended.

• All equipment shall meet standards as determined by the Diving Officer and the Boating and Diving Safety Committee. Equipment that is subjected to extreme usage under adverse conditions should require more frequent testing and maintenance.

• All equipment shall be regularly examined by the person using it. Any defects in the operation of the equipment will require the item to be put aside and tagged with the details of the problem and the owners of the equipment notified.

It is the responsibility of the Principal Dive Supervisor to ensure that all required equipment is used or carried by each diver on every dive, unless special dispensation has been granted by the UDO.

10.1.1 Compulsory Equipment for All Divers (Snorkel and Scuba)

The following equipment must be used or carried by each diver unless dispensation has been granted by the UDO:

• Exposure protection (wetsuit or drysuit) appropriate to the prevailing environmental conditions, including a hood (consideration should be given to carrying windproof clothing to wear over a wetsuit after diving);

• Mask, fins, snorkel (attachable or attached to mask) and a sharp diver’s knife. The knife shall be worn in such a way (e.g. on inside of leg) that it will not foul any discarded equipment such as released weights;

• A weight belt, or a buoyancy control device incorporating an integrated weight system with quick-release; • Where divers are operating in free-swimming SCUBA mode in circumstances in which there is surface support,

there must be a means to recall the divers to the surface, independent of the vessel motors; • The Principal Dive Supervisor must ensure that at or close to their dive site there is adequate means of immediate

communication in the event of an accident or emergency.

10.1.2 Compulsory Equipment for SCUBA, and Breathing Gas Supply As well as the equipment listed the following equipment must be used or carried by each diver on every SCUBA dive unless special dispensation has been granted by their UDO or delegate:

• An approved SCUBA cylinder and valve designed in accordance with AS 2030; • An approved regulator and alternative air source or air supply, such as a pony bottle or octopus regulator; • An approved Flotation Device/s

a) Each diver shall have the capability of achieving and maintaining positive buoyancy. b) Personal flotation systems, buoyancy compensators, dry suits, or other variable volume/buoyancy

compensation devices shall be equipped with an exhaust valve. c) These devices shall be functionally inspected and tested at intervals not to exceed 12months.

• An industry approved half or full face mask; • An approved air cylinder pressure gauge, depth gauge and timing device, e.g. watch or dive computer; • Sufficient quantity of breathing gas to complete the planned dive plus a reserve amount providing a minimum

safety margin of 25% for dives shallower than 21m, and 30% for dives to deeper than 21m; • A high visibility inflatable position-signalling device (eg. ‘safety sausage™’);

NB: Exposure Protection Divers shall protect themselves, by the use of wetsuits, dry suits, stinger suits, overalls etc, from environmental conditions such as cold, sun, marine animals, abrasions etc. Full body protection is required in areas where dangerous marine jellyfish frequent. High risk areas shall follow the Marine Coelenterate Protocol.

10.1.3 Other equipment which may be required Additional equipment, which may be required for safe conduct of a dive, includes:

• Emergency air supplies; • Further exposure protection, such as gloves; • A compressed air powered signalling device;



• Submersible dive tables; • A lifeline or float-line; • Night diving equipment as appropriate, including primary and backup torch, and cyalume stick/s.

10.1.4 Additional equipment which may be used by divers

The following equipment may be used by JCU divers provided diver safety is not compromised:

• Underwater photographic equipment; • Underwater slates, measuring tapes, lightweight grids, frames, collection bags and traps; • Sledge hammer or hammer, to pound in stakes and pickets; • Small hand tools such as screw drivers, pliers, etc, and small hand held pneumatic tools as approved; • Small lift bags - of no greater than 20 litres volume unless under of the supervision of an AS2815 qualified diver; • Small air lifts - of no greater than 250 litres per minute air flow rate.

Other than as listed above, no JCU diver shall use a tool underwater unless they have received appropriate training, are familiar with the operation that item of equipment, for example: breathing masks, helmets, etc and have received permission from the UDO. Signalling devices useful for divers

There are times when gaining attention of divers, boats and aircraft is essential. There are on the market many pieces of equipment to do such things, following are but a few examples. Hammerhead, a pneumatic device useful for signaling above and below water, Safety sausage an inflatable orange plastic tube, Heliograph a mirrored surface used to reflect light (sun, search light) towards search aircraft or vessels, 10.2 AIR COMPRESSOR SYSTEMS

10.2.1 Design and Location of Compressors

The following features should be considered in the design and location of compressor systems: • Any power driven compressor systems used to provide compressed breathing air for University diving operations

must comply with the guidelines set out in AS/NZS 2299.1:2007 for such systems. • Fill station controls located in a remote position, shielded from cylinders being filled, to minimize risk of injury in

the event of a cylinder failure; • Pressurized gas bank cylinders secured to prevent falling; • All high pressure lines and fittings of appropriate rated working pressures and secured every 60 cm; • All air compressor intakes located away from areas containing engine exhaust or other contaminants.

10.2.2 Compressor Operation and Air Test Records

Personnel filling pressure cylinders from or diving with any JCU air compressor or fill station shall be trained and qualified in operation of that equipment. Such training shall be documented and kept on file by the UDO. . It is illegal to fill a SCUBA tank if the annual test has expired or the tank has signs of damage. It is the responsibility of the person filling the tank to check it is in test. Where a power driven compressor is driven by an internal combustion engine, particular care must be taken to prevent the compressor from sucking in exhaust gases from the engine, either by extending the exhaust of the engine, the inlet of the compressor, or both. If either of these modifications is made, care must be taken to ensure that any such extensions meet the compressor manufacturer’s recommendations/specifications. An oil-lubricated compressor should be checked for oil and hydrocarbon contamination at least every 100 hours or 6 months (whichever comes first). The results of these tests shall be entered in a formal log maintained by the UDO, and copies of the results shall be kept on file by the UDO. This log shall also record hours of operation, repair, overhaul, filter maintenance, and temperature adjustment for each compressor. James Cook University has Compressor equipment for filling SCUBA in Townsville and in the TropWATER seagrass group in Cairns. Check with the JCU dive officer for the availability and suitability of these facilities.



10.2.3 Breathing Air Compressors

Any power driven compressor systems used to provide compressed breathing air for University diving operations must produce air to the standard specified in AS/NZS 2299.1:2007.

Component Maximum

Oxygen not less than 20% and not more than 22% by volume Carbon Monoxide not more than 10 p.p.m. by volume Carbon Dioxide not more than 480 p.p.m. by volume Condensed Hydrocarbons not more than 1mg/m3 Water Vapour not more than 130 p.p.m. by volume Objectionable Odours or taste Nil

10.2.4 Enriched Air Nitrox Compressors In addition to the above, any compressor/filtration system used for production of EAN must produce oil-free air as per applicable standards. Extra filtration and/or an oil-free or oil-less compressor is highly recommended when blending or mixing Nitrox using O2 concentrations greater than 40%, to reduce the presence of oil mist and reduce the possibility for oxygen ignition of hydrocarbons; 10.3 EQUIPMENT SECURITY Diving and boating equipment should be deemed life support equipment, and all maintenance requirements must be met at mandated intervals (see Section 10.8), with details recorded on the Diving & Boating electronic system. Originals of all service certifications must be forwarded to the UDO as soon as possible after servicing, for central filing. To assist with ongoing tracking and maintenance of equipment, all JCU diving and boating equipment must be stored in a secured area wherever possible. Such areas should be kept clean, and as ‘dust free’ as possible. It is also recommended that research/teaching labs and individuals purchase or hire dive equipment through Diving & Boating office and store diving equipment at the Boating & Diving complex. This is to ensure correct surveillance, storage and compliance with workplace regulations. At any JCU site where research/teaching labs or individuals are issued with diving equipment for long-term use, and are to be held responsible for such equipment, consideration should be given to ensuring that such individuals have access to their own dedicated storage area. As noted above, security for such areas should ideally be implemented via a swipe card access system, or similar system that allows for restricted access, as well as ‘tracking’ of personnel accessing the storage area. Access to diving compressors and fill panels MUST be restricted to individuals who have undertaken a training session and induction with the UDO or their delegate into the use of these items. 10.4 JCU ‘LOAN EQUIPMENT’ Where University equipment is issued on loan to a JCU diver, a form detailing the condition of the equipment must be signed by both parties (UDO and diver) at handover and on return of the equipment. After issue, the diver shall be fully responsible for care of the equipment, and must ensure proper cleaning and maintenance is carried out as described in this Manual. Problems with any item must be reported to the UDO as soon as possible. In the event of any JCU equipment being abused, damaged, or stolen, due to inadequate care, the individual concerned shall replace/repair the item/s involved immediately, at their own expense. 10.5 SCUBA CYLINDERS JCU cylinders must not be used for non-JCU activities, except with permission of the UDO.

10.5.1 Testing of SCUBA Cylinders All JCU SCUBA cylinders must be tested and serviced at least annually, and any cylinder used on a JCU dive must be in test at the time of the dive. If any cylinder is found to be totally drained of air at the time of filling, it must be inspected and tested prior to being used again, with costs to be paid by the last user. Any cylinder rated for Nitrox use must be serviced as oxygen clean if such use is to be continued.



10.5.2 Filling of SCUBA Cylinders

JCU SCUBA cylinders may only be filled at approved filling stations, or with a portable air compressor unit approved for such use by the UDO or delegate. After filling, cylinders should have their valves taped or capped to prevent contamination and allow easy identification of full cylinders. The amount of air pressure left in returned cylinders must be checked prior to filling, and cylinders must contain at least 30 BAR of pressure. If, at the time of filling, any cylinder is found to be totally drained of air, it must be inspected and tested prior to being used again, the cost for which will be charged to the last user of the cylinder. Cylinders with any defects (e.g. air leaks from valves) must be tagged OUT OF SERVICE and the UDO notified, with the details recorded in the University’s diving equipment defects log (which shall be kept by the UDO). SCUBA cylinders should be stored partially filled, unless about to be used. Users who have not previously used the University’s cylinder filling compressors must not do so until they have been given detailed operational and safety instructions by the UDO or their delegate, and received permission. SCUBA cylinders which do not belong to the University may be filled with the University’s compressors at the discretion of the UDO or delegate, provided the diver who will be using it is a certified SCUBA diver, and: i. the cylinder has passed a hydrostatic inspection during the previous year, ii. a record is kept of the compressor run time a record sheet kept by the compressor. This must include the date, time of

use, total hours and checks completed. 10.6 USE OF JCU EQUIPMENT BY NON-JCU PERSONNEL Personnel from outside the University may only use JCU equipment under the following conditions:

10.6.1 Diving Equipment Where JCU diving equipment is issued to an external group or organisation, or an individual not listed on the JCU Diver Register, the issuing Diving Officer must ensure that any user is fully qualified and trained in the use of the equipment. Equipment condition must be ‘signed off’ prior to issue and on return by both parties. After issue, the user shall be fully responsible for care of such equipment, and ensure proper cleaning and maintenance is carried out. Problems with any item must be reported to the issuing Diving Officer as soon as possible. If equipment is damaged or stolen due to inadequate care, the user to whom it was issued concerned shall be required to replace/repair (as decided by the B&DO), the item/s at their own expense.

10.6.2 University Research Vessels Organisations/groups who charter University vessels may dive following their own diving procedures, provided those procedures meet all relevant government standards for the type of diving operation and that no JCU personnel are officially associated with the diving operation. Other than as outlined or in cases of emergency, no persons other than those affiliated with JCU are permitted to use or be transported by JCU vessels. 10.7 USE OF PERSONAL DIVING EQUIPMENT BY JCU DIVERS/PERSONNEL Personal diving equipment may be used by JCU divers/personnel provided the following conditions are met:

• Equipment must be approved for use by the UDO; • Equipment must be maintained in service at the owners expense, as per Section 10.8 below, unless otherwise

agreed; • A copy of all relevant and current service certificates for the equipment must be forwarded to the UDO prior to use,

and kept on file for a minimum of seven years. 10.8 EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE/RECORD KEEPING All diving/safety equipment used on University diving operations (including personal equipment) must be maintained and serviced at least to the manufacturer’s specifications, or more often if in regular use. Details of such servicing/maintenance must be recorded on the B&DO system, and original copies of all documentation must be forwarded to the UDO as soon as possible after servicing for central filing.



As a minimum, the following service schedules must be observed for the equipment listed below: Table - Equipment service intervals

SCUBA cylinder Annual service/test required at qualified test station Air storage cylinder Service/test required every 5 years at qualified test station Regulator/Contents gauge Annual service required by a qualified technician Depth gauge (mechanical) Must be checked for accuracy every three months Depth gauge (electronic) Must be checked for accuracy every six months Dive computer Depth sensor must be checked for accuracy every six months BCD inflator unit/valves Annual check required Air compressor systems Air purity - every 6 months or 100hrs, whichever comes first - to

AS/NZS 2299.2:2002 breathing air standard (see section 13.3.3); mechanical systems - as per manufacturer’s instructions

Air delivery hoses Annually - to test pressure

All equipment in use should be cleaned and/or flushed with fresh water at the end of every working day, and any faults or defects shall be noted. Defective equipment must be tagged OUT OF SERVICE3 to prevent accidental use, and all defects reported to the Principal Dive Supervisor or Diving Officer. Equipment known to be faulty in any way MUST NOT be used for any JCU diving operation. Maintenance records for all JCU equipment must be filed by the UDO in a central location, including information regarding all repairs, servicing, and testing. 10.9 EQUIPMENT HYGIENE To help prevent possible transmission of infectious diseases between divers, sharing of masks, snorkels and regulators between divers is discouraged if an appropriate disinfection schedule has not been completed. Where JCU divers are issued with equipment, they are responsible for equipment hygiene whilst it is in their care. Personnel must ensure that oil, petrol lubricants, chemicals or preserving solutions (such as formalin) do not come into contact with diving equipment, as these will destroy the equipment or otherwise render it unusable. Such products must not be stored or transported in close proximity to JCU diving equipment at any time. If equipment is contaminated, the affected item/s must not be used, and the following steps must be taken:

• The equipment should be rinsed thoroughly with water to remove as much of the contaminant as possible; • The equipment must be clearly tagged OUT OF SERVICE, indicating that it must not be used, and detailing the

type of contaminant with which it has been in contact; • The equipment must be forwarded to the UDO/SDO for cleaning, with a report detailing the circumstances under

which the contamination occurred. Where an item of JCU equipment is rendered unusable by damage or contamination caused by negligence or carelessness, the diver to whom the equipment was issued will be responsible for its replacement. 10.10 DIVER'S FLAG The international dive flag (code alpha - white with blue swallow tail) must be flown from any boat used as a platform for a JCU diving operation. As well, a dive flag must be used in the following situations:

• When diving in water of less than 3 m depth, a large dive flag must be positioned immediately above the dive site, either in a boat, or through use of a float supported flag - particularly in areas where there is a high level of danger from boat traffic (such as near boat ramps);

• When diving from shore, either a large dive flag must be placed on the shore to indicate the position of the dive site, and one diver from each buddy group involved on the dive should tow a smaller dive flag on a surface float to indicate the position of that buddy group at all times, or a large floating flag must be towed by the divers;

• Where a diving operation involves two or more buddy groups, and those groups are not intending to dive together, one diver from each buddy group involved on the dive must tow a smaller dive flag on a surface float to display the position of that buddy group to the Dive Attendant at all times.



10.11 SUPPORT EQUIPMENT

10.11.1 First Aid Supplies For every JCU diving operation, a first aid kit adequate for any injuries that may be reasonably foreseen must be available on site. The UDO should be contacted for a sample list, describing minimum contents of an appropriate diving first aid kit – which should be added to as needed, for long trips, or other special circumstances i.e. there should be at least 2 litres of vinegar and some cold packs for the treatment of jellyfish stings (where appropriate).

10.11.2 Oxygen Administration For every JCU diving operation involving compressed air breathing apparatus, there must be available, on site, oxygen resuscitation equipment. Provision of 100% oxygen via a facemask on the surface is recognised as the main first aid procedure for treating diving injuries such as decompression illness, embolisms and shock. The University provides DAN oxygen kits to fulfil this requirement. The kits are to be used by trained operators or under the guidance of diving medical personnel. A supply of medical oxygen sufficient to transport at least two patients to the nearest treatment facility.

Where possible such equipment must be carried for snorkel diving operations as well.

All such oxygen resuscitation equipment shall be kept clean and dry in a waterproof case, and maintained as required by workplace regulations.

Breathing oxygen should not be seen as a final step in first aid treatment. Improvement in the patient’s condition while being treated on oxygen does not negate the need for proper medical assessment by a doctor trained in diving medicine.



10.12 BREATHING GAS

10.12.1 Breathing Air Standards Breathing air for JCU diving operations shall meet the standard set out in AS/NZS 2299.1:2007 (see section 13.3.3).

10.12.2 Air to be Mixed with Greater Than 40% Oxygen In addition to standards outlined in AS/NZS 2299.1:2007, the following standards shall be met for breathing air that is to be placed in contact with oxygen concentrations greater than 40%, or used in Enriched Air Nitrox (EAN) filling operations by the partial pressure mixing method, with greater than 40% oxygen as the enriching agent:

Specifications for Air to be Mixed with Greater than 40% Oxygen. Air Purity As per AS/NZS 2299.1:2007 (see section

13.3.3). Condensed Hydrocarbons <0 5 mg/m3 Hydrocarbon Contaminants less than or equal to 0.1 mg/m3

10.12.3 Oxygen and Mixed Gas

Oxygen O2 used for mixing Enriched Air Nitrox (EAN) or mixed gas shall meet purity levels for Medical (U.S.P.) Grade.

Medical (U.S.P.) Grade Oxygen Specifications. Oxygen Content Minimum 99.5% Contaminants Maximum Nitrogen 0.1% Argon 0.4% Hydrocarbons 3 ppm Methane 25 ppm Carbon Dioxide 5 ppm Carbon Monoxide 1 ppm Moisture 25 ppm

Authorisation Production of special gas mixtures (EAN, Heliox, Trimix, etc) shall be authorised and approved by the UDO, and personnel involved in the production of EAN and mixed gas shall be appropriately trained and qualified for the method of production used, as determined by the UDO.


| NITROX DIVING GUIDELINES 42

11 NITROX DIVING GUIDELINES The following guidelines address the use of Enriched Air Nitrox (see glossary) by JCU divers. 11.1 PREREQUISITES Any diver wishing to use Nitrox for a JCU dive must hold at least an approved Nitrox Diver certification. Application to use Nitrox must be made to the UDO (accompanied by proof of qualifications/experience), and written permission received, before a diver may use Nitrox on any JCU dive. 11.2 REQUIREMENTS FOR PERMISSION TO USE NITROX Submission of the required documents will not automatically result in authorisation to use Nitrox. The applicant must also convince the UDO that he/she is skilled and proficient in its use. Even after completion of training and evaluation, authorisation to use Nitrox may be denied to a diver who cannot demonstrate to the satisfaction of the UDO the appropriate judgment or proficiency to ensure the safety of the diver and any dive buddy. Prior to authorisation to use Nitrox, the following minimum requirements should be met:

11.2.1 Training Hold an approved Nitrox Diver certification from a recognized diver training organisation; and have logged at least five dives using Nitrox during or post-training.

11.2.2 Examinations Each diver should demonstrate proficiency in skills and theory in written, oral, and practical examinations covering:

• Written examinations covering the information presented in the classroom training session (i.e., gas theory, oxygen toxicity, partial pressure determination, etc);

• Practical examinations covering the information presented in the practical training session (i.e., gas analysis, documentation procedures, etc);

• Open water checkout dives, to appropriate depths, to demonstrate the divers theoretical and practical skills.

11.2.3 Minimum Activity to Maintain JCU Nitrox Diver classification The diver should log at least one Nitrox dive per year. 11.3 NITROX TRAINING GUIDELINES Training in these guidelines shall be in addition to that needed for a full scientific diver certification under the AS/NZS 2299.2:2002 Australian Standard. Nitrox training may be included as part of a Scientific Diver training course.

11.3.1 Classroom Instruction Topics should include, but are not limited to: review of previous training; physical gas laws pertaining to Nitrox; partial pressure calculations and limits; equivalent air depth (EAD) concept and calculations; oxygen physiology and oxygen toxicity; calculation of oxygen exposure and maximum safe operating depth (MOD); determination of decompression schedules (both by EAD method using approved air dive tables, and using approved Nitrox dive tables); dive planning and emergency procedures; mixing procedures and calculations; gas analysis; personnel requirements; equipment marking and maintenance requirements; dive-station requirements. The DBSC may choose to limit standard Nitrox diver training to procedures applicable to diving, and subsequently reserve training such as Nitrox production methods, oxygen cleaning, and dive station topics to divers requiring specialised authorization in these areas.

11.3.2 Practical Training The practical training portion will consist of a review of skills as stated for SCUBA in the AS/NZS 2299.2:2002 Australian Standard for Scientific Diving, with additional training as follows:

a) Oxygen analysis of Nitrox mixtures;



b) Determination of MOD, oxygen partial pressure exposure, and oxygen toxicity time limits, for various Nitrox mixtures at various depths;

c) Determination of nitrogen-based dive limits status by EAD method using air dive tables, and/or using Nitrox dive tables, as approved by the BDSC;

d) Nitrox dive computer use may be included, as approved by the BDSC.

11.3.3 Written Examination (based on classroom instruction and practical training) Before approval to dive using Nitrox is granted, the trainee should successfully pass a written examination demonstrating knowledge of at least the following:

a) Function, care, use, and maintenance of equipment cleaned for Nitrox use; b) Physical and physiological considerations of Nitrox diving (ex.: O2 and CO2 toxicity); c) Diving regulations and procedures as related to Nitrox diving, either scuba or surface-supplied (depending on

intended mode); d) Given the proper information, calculation of:

i) Equivalent air depth (EAD) for a given fO2 and actual depth; ii) pO2 exposure for a given fO2 and depth; iii) Optimal Nitrox mixture for a given pO2 exposure limit and planned depth; iv) Maximum operational depth (MOD) for a given mix and pO2 exposure limit; v) For Nitrox production purposes, percentages/pressure of oxygen present in a given mixture, and

pressure of each gas required to produce a fO2 by partial pressure mixing. e) Dive table and dive computer selection and usage; f) Nitrox production methods and considerations; g) Oxygen analysis; and h) Nitrox operational guidelines, dive planning, and dive station components

11.3.4 Open water EAN Dives

A minimum of five supervised open water dives using Nitrox is required for authorization. The mode used in the dives should correspond to the intended application (i.e., scuba or surface-supplied). If the MOD for the mix being used can be exceeded at the training location, direct, in-water supervision is required.

11.4 JCU NITROX DIVING REGULATIONS

11.4.1 Dive Personnel Requirements An Unrestricted JCU diver, who has met the training and practical requirements of these guidelines, may be authorised by the UDO to use Nitrox.

On any dive during which Nitrox will be used, the Principal Dive Supervisor must be an authorised JCU Nitrox Diver, and hold appropriate authorisations required for the dive as specified above.

Authorisation by the UDO for Nitrox dives must occur as part of the dive plan approval process, and any proposed Nitrox dive must be flagged clearly as such by the Principal Dive Supervisor.

In addition to the responsibilities listed at Section 3.7, for any dive operation the Principal Dive Supervisor must:

• Verify that all divers intending to use Nitrox on a dive are properly qualified and authorised; • As part of the pre-dive procedures, confirm with each diver the Nitrox mixture being used, and establish dive team

maximum depth/time limits, according to the shortest time limit or shallowest depth limit among the team members;

The Principal Dive Supervisor or Dive Leader should also give consideration to reducing the maximum allowable pO2 exposure limit for the dive team if on-site conditions so indicate (see Section 11.4.2 below).

11.4.2 Dive Parameters

a) Oxygen Exposure Limits

i. The inspired oxygen partial pressure experienced at depth should not exceed 1.4 ATA. EAN dives should comply with the current NOAA Oxygen Exposure Limits;

ii. The maximum allowable exposure limit should be reduced in cases where cold, strenuous dive conditions or extended exposure times are expected, and the UDO should consider this in the review of any dive plan application, which proposes to use Nitrox. The Principal Dive Supervisor should also review on-site conditions and reduce the allowable pO2 exposure limits if conditions indicate this would reasonably be warranted.



iii. If using the equivalent air depth (EAD) method the maximum depth of a dive should be based on the oxygen partial pressure for the specific Nitrox breathing mix to be used.

b) Bottom Time Limits i. Maximum bottom time should be based on the depth of the dive and Nitrox mixture being used. ii. Bottom time for a single dive must not exceed the NOAA maximum allowable “Single Exposure Limit” for

any O2 partial pressure, as listed by the NOAA O2 Exposure Limits. c) Decompression Tables and Gases

i. A set of JCU approved Nitrox decompression tables must be available at the dive site for all Nitrox dives unless using the equivalent air depth (EAD) method, in which case dives should be conducted using the DCIEM air decompression tables.

ii. If Nitrox is used to increase the safety margin of air-based dive tables, the MOD and oxygen exposure and time limits for the Nitrox mixture being dived must not be exceeded.

iii. Breathing mixtures used for in-water decompression, or for bail-out purposes, should contain the same or greater oxygen content as that being used during the dive, within the confines of any applicable depth limitations and the oxygen partial pressure limits outlined above.

d) Nitrox Dive Computers With the written approval of the UDO a dive computer may be used to compute decompression status during Nitrox dives. This will only be permitted subject to the following:

i. Any computer used must be set to a personal adjustment level determined by the UDO before use; ii. The diver must read and follow all manufacturers’ guidelines and operating instructions; iii. Any dive computer use must comply with the guidelines listed at Section 7.6 of this Manual, where these

are more conservative than those applied by the computer operating instructions; iv. Any JCU diver applying for permission to use a computer to monitor Nitrox diving must demonstrate a

clear understanding of the display operations of the unit being used, to the satisfaction of the UDO or his/her delegate, prior to diving with the computer;

v. Where Nitrox is used to increase the safety margin of an air-based dive computer, the MOD and oxygen exposure and time limits for the Nitrox mixture being dived must not be exceeded;

vi. Prior to each dive, the diver MUST check any dive computer capable of pO2 limit and fO2 adjustment, to ensure compatibility with the mix being used; and

vii. Decompression requirements must be calculated for the dive, for the maximum depths/times to be dived, using an approved Nitrox decompression table or DCIEM tables and equivalent air depths. These requirements are to be written down and carried by each diver during the dive in case of computer failure.

e) Repetitive Diving When performing repetitive dives using Nitrox gas mixtures, the following shall apply:

i. Repetitive dives using Nitrox mixtures must be performed in compliance with all procedures required by the specific dive tables used;

ii. Residual nitrogen time should be based on the EAD for the specific Nitrox mixture to be used on the repetitive dive, and not that of the previous dive;

iii. The total cumulative exposure (bottom time) to a partial pressure of oxygen in a given 24 hour period should not exceed the current NOAA Diving Manual 24-hour Oxygen Partial Pressure Limits for “Normal” Exposures;

iv. When repetitive dives expose divers to different oxygen partial pressures from dive to dive, divers should account for accumulated oxygen exposure from previous dives when determining acceptable exposures for repetitive dives. Both acute (CNS) and chronic (pulmonary) oxygen toxicity concerns should be addressed.

f) Oxygen Parameters i. Authorised mixtures - Only gas mixtures that are approved by the UDO may be used for Nitrox

diving. These would most commonly be EAN32 and EAN36. ii. Purity - Oxygen used for mixing any breathing gases for use on JCU dives must meet the standards

specified at Section 10.12 of this document g) Gas Analysis

i. Personnel Requirements Individuals responsible for analysing EAN mixtures must be trained and experienced in the technique; and only those individuals approved by the UDO may analyse Nitrox mixtures.

ii. Analysis Verification by User Prior to any dive it is the responsibility of each diver to analyse the oxygen content of his/her scuba cylinder, and acknowledge in writing the following information for each cylinder: fO2, MOD, cylinder pressure, date of analysis, and user’s name. All Nitrox dives carried out as part of a JCU diving operation must be recorded on a copy of a ‘JCU Open Circuit Dive Record form’.



h) Gas Mixing i. Personnel Requirements

Individuals responsible for producing Nitrox mixtures must be trained and experienced in all aspects of the technique, and only those individuals approved by the UDO may mix Nitrox mixtures.

ii. Production Methods The specific Nitrox production method used for JCU diving must be approved by the UDO. 11.5 NITROX DIVING EQUIPMENT All of the designated equipment and stated requirements regarding scuba equipment required by the AS/NZS 2299.2:2002 Scientific Diving Standard shall apply to JCU Nitrox diving operations.

Additional equipment necessary for Nitrox diving operations includes:

11.5.1 Oxygen Cleaning and Maintenance Requirements

Equipment which may be exposed to concentrations of greater than 40% oxygen at pressures above 10 ATA during a dive or the cylinder filling process must be cleaned and maintained for oxygen service;

a) Equipment used with oxygen or mixtures containing over forty percent (40%) by volume oxygen shall be designed and maintained for oxygen service;

b) Oxygen systems operating at greater than 8 ATA shall have slow-opening shut-off valves.

This should include the following equipment: Scuba cylinders Hoses Cylinder valves Diver support equipment Scuba and other regulators Compressors Cylinder pressure gauges Fill station components and plumbing

11.5.2 SCUBA Cylinder Identification Marking SCUBA cylinders to be used with Nitrox mixtures should display the following identification/documentation:

a) Cylinder markings indicating “NITROX”, or “EANx”, or “Enriched Air”;

b) Nitrox identification colour coding should include a 10 cm wide green band around the cylinder, starting immediately below the shoulder curvature. If the cylinder is not yellow, the green band should be bordered above and below by a 2.5 cm yellow band;

c) The alternate marking of a yellow cylinder by painting the cylinder crown green and printing the word “NITROX” parallel to the length of the cylinder in green print is acceptable;

d) A contents label - detailing the current fO2, MOD/pO2, date of analysis and name of analyser;

e) A label indicating whether the cylinder is prepared for O2 or mixtures containing greater than 40% O2.

11.5.3 Regulators

Regulators to be used with Nitrox mixtures containing greater than 40% oxygen must be cleaned and maintained for oxygen service, and marked in an identifying manner as such.

11.5.4 Other Support Equipment

a) Oxygen analysers: An oxygen analyser is required which is capable of determining the oxygen content in the SCUBA cylinder. Two analysers are recommended to reduce the likelihood of errors due to a faulty analyser. The analyser should be capable of reading a scale of 0 to 100% oxygen, within (one) 1% accuracy. All diver and support equipment should be suitable for the fO2 being used. b) Compressor systems: Any compressor system used for production of Nitrox for JCU operations must meet the requirements detailed at Section 10.2 of this document. c) Fill Station Components:

• All components of a Nitrox fill station that will contact Nitrox mixtures containing greater than 40% oxygen must be cleaned and maintained for oxygen service. This includes cylinders, whips, gauges, valves, and connecting lines.


| SPECIALISED DIVING MODES 46

12 SPECIALISED DIVING MODES 12.1 GENERAL Any dive requiring staged decompression, conducted in restricted overhead environments (cavern, cave, tunnel, ice, or shipwreck penetration), conducted in blue-water (open ocean), incorporating breathing gas mixtures other than air and EAN, involving breathing gas delivery systems other than open-circuit SCUBA, or conducted in any other particularly hazardous environments, shall be considered Specialised Diving. For each of these modes, this section defines specific considerations regarding the following issues:

• Special Medical Examination requirements, if any; • Training and/or experience verification requirements for University authorisation; • Equipment requirements; • Operational Requirements and additional safety protocols to be used.

For dives that involve more than one specialised diving mode, all requirements for each diving mode shall be met.

Decompression diving shall be defined as any diving during which the diver cannot perform a direct return to the surface without performing a mandatory decompression stop to allow the release of inert gas from the diver’s body. Such diving shall only be performed with the permission of the UDO and BDSC. 12.2 ‘COMMERCIAL’ DIVING OPERATIONS The following shall be observed when any JCU diver is conducting diving that could be deemed to be ‘commercial’ in nature by the UDO.

12.2.1 Minimum Experience

a) For diving on open circuit, divers shall hold an ADAS part 1 diver qualification as per Australian Standard AS2815.1 (or ADAS recognised international equivalent), as well as logged experience appropriate to the type of work being performed;

b) For diving on surface supply, divers shall hold an ADAS part 2 diver qualification as per Australian Standard AS2815.2 (or ADAS recognised international equivalent), as well as logged experience appropriate to the type of work being performed;

12.2.2 Training Requirements

All training for commercial diving operations shall be conducted by an ADAS accredited diving school (or ADAS recognised international equivalent).

12.2.3 Minimum Equipment Requirements All equipment used for commercial diving operations shall be as referenced in the Australian Standard AS/NZS 2299.1:2007 Commercial Diving Standard.

12.2.4 Minimum Operational Requirements All ‘JCU sponsored’ occupational diving operations shall meet the requirements of this Manual, as well as Queensland’s Occupational Diving Work Code of Practice-2005, the Australian Standard AS/NZ 2299.2:2002, Occupational Diving Operations – Scientific Diving and the AAUS Scientific Diving Standard. 12.3 RESTRICTED OVERHEAD ENVIRONMENTS Restricted overhead environments include any diving environment in which a direct ascent to the surface is impeded by a physical barrier, including cave, cavern, ice and shipwreck penetration. It does not include underwater arches, lava tubes, opened shipwrecks or kelp forests, in which:

• Two divers can easily swim abreast; • There is no significant danger of entrapment or entanglement;



• Loss of visibility due to siltation is unlikely; • Direct sunlight is always available for illumination.

12.3.1 Minimum Certification and Experience

a) Divers shall document training in restricted overhead environment diving appropriate for the conditions in which dive operations are to be conducted. Such documentation shall be to the satisfaction of the UDO and/or BDSC. Training shall be conducted by agencies and instructors approved by the UDO.

b) Divers shall demonstrate to the UDO, proficiency in planning and executing dives in a restricted overhead environment appropriate to conditions in which diving operations are to be conducted.

12.3.2 Minimum Equipment Requirements

a) Divers shall employ a continuous line from a point outside the overhead environment to their position; b) A minimum of three lights shall be carried by each diver except in environments in which direct sunlight is visible,

where each diver shall carry a minimum of two lights; c) Redundant breathing gas delivery systems shall be designed such that no single component failure can prevent

access by the diver to an appropriate breathing gas supply; d) An alternate second stage shall be included with a hose of adequate length to facilitate emergency gas sharing

while swimming in a single file formation; e) The BDSC may require redundancy in other equipment systems to ensure dive team safety, including:

• Submersible Cylinder Pressure Gauges; • Dive Computers or Decompression Calculation Devices; • Dive Timing Devices; • Depth gauges; • Buoyancy Control Devices.

12.3.3 Minimum Operational Requirements

a) Divers shall immediately begin exiting from a restricted overhead environment when a light source or a piece of

equipment fails or malfunctions; b) Divers shall begin exiting the overhead environment as soon as any member of the dive team reaches two-

thirds of his/her starting air supply; c) Where an enclosed or confined space is not large enough for two divers, a diver shall be stationed at the

underwater point of entry, an orientation line shall be used, and an emergency breathing gas supply will be available at the point of entry;

d) Emergency procedures for loss of gas supply, equipment malfunction, team separation, unexpected diving conditions and loss of visibility shall be developed. All participating divers must review emergency procedures prior to commencement of each day of diving.

12.4 BLUE-WATER DIVING Bluewater diving is defined as diving conducted in any body of water in which there is no physical bottom within diving depth ranges. The following regulations are derived from the publication, Bluewater Diving Guidelines. Exceptions to this may be made on a case-by-case basis, if a risk of entanglement with other structures exists, or there are other means of physical control. Procedures for diver control and communication must be developed to the satisfaction of the UDO and/or BDSC.

12.4.1 Minimum Certification and Experience The diver shall have completed practical training in blue-water diving techniques, and demonstrate proficiency to the satisfaction of the UDO or delegate. This training shall include:

Bluewater diving equipment deployment; Out of air procedures;

Entry procedures; Dangerous marine life defensive techniques;

Buoyancy control and awareness; Exit procedures;

Scientific procedure



12.4.2 Equipment Requirements

a) Divers shall employ a down-line and counterweighted trapeze line system in order to maintain diver contact and depth control;

b) The total weight in water of the down-line and tether array shall be no greater than 5 kg; c) All diver tether attachments shall use connectors that can be quickly released by the diver while the line is under a

tension at least equivalent to the weight of the entire array. Attachments shall be to either the diver’s BCD, or to a separate harness, but not to the diver’s weight belt.

12.4.3 Operational Requirements

a) A safety diver shall be stationed at the trapeze attachment point. This diver’s sole function is to monitor and control the dive team, and monitor the diving environment for potential hazards. This diver shall be authorised to terminate diving operations for any or all members of the dive team;

b) A lookout/boat operator shall be stationed aboard any small craft from which blue-water diving is conducted as long as divers are in the water.


| RECORD KEEPING AND REQUIREMENTS 49

13 RECORD KEEPING AND REQUIREMENTS 13.1 DIVING LOGS

13.1.1 University Diving Operations Log All dives for a University project shall be recorded and lodged with the Dive Officer after every trip.

13.1.2 Personal Diving Log Each diver shall log every dive made under the auspices of the University’s dive program, and is encouraged to log all other dives.

13.1.3 Accounting Procedures for Dive and Snorkel Operations For normal dive operations, every diver shall have an entry on a dive log listing all the relevant details and calculations about the divers (time-in and out, surface intervals, depth, etc). Upon completion of the diving operation these details shall be submitted to the University Diving Officer.

For diving operations involving any groups a Record of Dive for Diving and Snorkelling Groups shall be kept listing all the relevant details and calculations. Upon completion of all in water activities, associated with the dive, the form is to be signed by all participants. This shall be done just prior to departing the dive site to confirm all persons have exited the water and all in water activities have terminated. Completed forms are to be submitted to the University Diving Officer. 13.2 INCIDENT REPORTING

13.2.1 Reporting procedures

To comply with the HSE Policy, all staff (including casuals) and students are required to use the RiskWare reporting software to communicate any work-related incidents, injuries or hazardous situations. A work-related incident or hazard is identified by two key elements:

1. The workplace or work activity contributed to the incident, injury, illness or hazard and

2. The incident, injury, illness or hazard occurred during the course of employment

All work-related incidents must be reported on RiskWare within 24 hours of the incident. If full details of the work-related incident or injury are not available within this timeframe, the essential details of the incident or injury as they are known should be submitted and then updated at a time when more detail becomes available. It is also possible to report a work-related incident on behalf of other people, such as a colleague, student, contractor or visitor. If an incident has occurred or a hazard has been identified that is not work-related (i.e. work was not a contributory factor and/or the incident did not occur during the course of employment) it must not be logged on RiskWare. If you are unsure please contact the HSE Unit for advice.

Also note there are a number of incidents that MUST be reported to WorkSafe QLD (via HSE) as a matter of urgency. They are not always severe medical incidents that require hospitalisation, but could be incidents that could result in that sort of outcome.



WHS Injury / Illness Management (Rehabilitation) Flow Chart Work Related - Employee

Workplace Injury / Illness occurs – treat injury / illness in first instance depending on the severity of the injury

Notify Manager / Supervisor that you have had an injury

and seek First Aid / Medical treatment. Report incident on RiskWare (incident and Hazard Management System)

Get the appropriate Medical treatment:

• First Aid • Doctor • Hospital

Order of events depends upon circumstance

If seeking Medical Treatment other than First Aid, employee to obtain WorkCover Compensation Medical Certificate from Doctor

Complete WorkCover Application with WorkCover Medical Certificate

Contact HSE Injury Prevention and Management Advisor via [email protected] / 07 4781 6182

Stay in contact with Manager / Supervisor and HSE Injury Prevention and Management Advisor, to keep them informed about your progress.

Claiming WorkCover Compensation • WorkCover Application • Medical Authority Form • Work Capabilities Form • EAP Brochure

If required a return to work suitable duties plan will be developed based on restrictions/guidelines as per medical certificate in consultation with relevant stakeholders.

Participate in your rehabilitation and return to

work process.

Employee Responsibilities • Attend rehabilitation

appointments (e.g. physiotherapy) where possible outside of scheduled work hours

• Participate in development of suitable duties plans

• Provide all new certificates or forms given to you by your treating medical practitioner

• Keep your Manager / Supervisor and HSE Injury Prevention and Management Advisor informed on your progress

• Advise Manager / Supervisor of any issues with your return to work plan

Attend all reviews with your Treating Medical Practitioner and/or other specialist on the dates required.

Workers’ Compensation Medical Certificate to be provided advising of full clearance to return to normal duties without further restrictions/treatment required.




13.3 EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE

13.3.1 Record Keeping Each equipment modification, repair, test, calibration, or maintenance service shall be logged, including the date and nature of work performed, serial number of the item, and the name of the person performing the work for the following equipment:

• Regulators • Submersible pressure gauges • Depth gauges • Scuba cylinders • Cylinder valves • Compressors • Buoyancy control devices

13.3.2 Compressor Operation and Air Test Records

(a) Gas analyses and air tests shall be performed on each University-controlled breathing air compressor at regular intervals of six months or if irregularly used (field compressors) before being taken into the field. The results of these tests shall be entered in a formal log.

(b) A log shall be maintained showing operation, repair, overhaul, filter maintenance, and temperature adjustment for each compressor.

13.3.3 Air Quality Standards

Breathing air for scuba should meet the following specifications as set forth by Clause 3.13.1 AS/NZS 2299.1:2007.

• Oxygen not less than 20% and not more than 22% by volume • Carbon Monoxide not more than 10 p.p.m. by volume • Carbon Dioxide not more than 480 p.p.m. by volume • Condensed Hydrocarbons not more than 1mg/m3 • Water Vapour not more than 130 p.p.m. by volume (this is sometimes impossible to

achieve in the tropics) • Objectionable Odours or taste Nil


| FACTORS KNOWN TO INCREASE DIVING RISKS 52

14 FACTORS KNOWN TO INCREASE DIVING RISKS A Risk Assessment (see Appendix 7) must be carried out for all JCU diving operations. It is the initial responsibility of the Principal Dive Supervisor for any particular diving operation, to ensure as far as is practicable that all hazards are identified for that operation through the Risk Assessment process. Following this assessment, the Project Supervisor and UDO must ensure that suitable measures to control any risks have been determined. In addition, they must be sure that any Principal Dive Supervisor responsible for implementing the control measures is capable of doing so. Once on site, day to day risk assessment is the responsibility of the Principal Dive Supervisor for each operation. A copy of the JCU On-site RA form (see Appendix7) should be consulted prior to each dive, to assist this process. The UDO and any Principal Dive Supervisor concerned must give special consideration to dives involving any high risk factors (see below, and see Appendix 3, and Appendix 7 for lists of potential risk factors). It is the responsibility of the UDO to ensure the Principal Dive Supervisor has considered such hazards, and if these do not preclude the diving operation, to ensure that control measures are in place to minimise such hazards. The following are known diving risk factors and should be carefully considered during risk assessment preparation:

14.1 AGE Due to the decrease in efficiency of the respiratory and circulator systems as the body ages older divers tend to be more susceptible to DCI than younger ones. Therefore as a diver ages they should dive more conservatively.

14.2 ALCOHOL Alcohol should not be consumed within 12 hours prior to diving, and must not be taken until after any diving for the day is over. At all times, especially when diving over multiple days, alcohol should only be consumed in moderation, if at all. All personnel shall maintain a blood alcohol content of 0.0% while undertaking work on diving or boating operations and always remain under 0.05% while in the field. Alcohol consumption will increase a diver’s susceptibility to DCI, enhance the effects of inert gas narcosis, and increase a diver’s rate of heat loss in cold water.

14.3 COLD From the data available it would appear that if divers start out warm and get cold during a dive or are exposed to excessive cold after a dive increase the risk of DCI. A diver should cease diving operations if they become more than uncomfortably cold. To minimise the effects of cold, all divers should take care to keep warm before the dive, and must wear appropriate exposure protection during the dive. In particularly cold water, dives should be planned to minimise the amount of time in the water and the number of entries and exits made during the day. Sufficient time between dives must be allowed for a diver to rewarm adequately, prior to the next dive. It should be noted that divers will continue to lose heat from their bodies for some time after exiting the water, and this ‘after-drop’ in body core temperature can reach dangerous limits even if the diver was in a reasonable state on exiting the water. For this reason, Dive Attendants should monitor all divers for signs of hypothermia after any dive in cold water.

14.4 CURRENTS Diving in currents stronger than a diver can easily swim against is strongly discouraged. If permitted, all divers involved must be experienced in diving in currents and be tethered to the boat or use a surface float, so that their location is always visible. An experienced boat handler with knowledge of local conditions must be in the vessel. Where an anchored boat is being used for untethered SCUBA operations in such conditions, a current line of > 50m length and 10mm diameter must be streamed behind the vessel, and the divers must work ‘up-current’ of the vessel.

14.5 DANGEROUS MARINE ANIMALS Divers working with dangerous marine animals must indicate this on their Dive Permission application. As well, they must brief the UDO and any persons in their dive team of the most appropriate first aid procedures for injuries associated with such animals. This is especially important for marine injuries requiring specialised treatment. Divers whose tasks may attract dangerous marine animals, or who are diving at sites where they may reasonably be expected to be found on occasion, must explicitly flag this on the Dive Permission proposal, and must implement procedures to minimise risks to divers, and to deal with any emergency that may occur.



Estuarine crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) are common on the North Queensland mainland and some adjacent Islands they are able to swim long distances at sea. Divers and snorkelers should leave the area immediately if a crocodile is sighted, report the sighting BDSC, and not return to that area for at least 48 hours.

Operating procedures if a crocodile is encountered If a diver encounters a crocodile while undertaking scientific operations the following actions should be taken.

• Remain calm do not rush to the surface; • Attract the attention of your buddy if they are not aware of the crocodile; • Both divers should face each other to keep a watch behind the other diver; • if possible move towards the support vessel before ascent; • If using towed buoys the emergency signal should be given, this should consist of rapid up and down

deployment of the buoy to attract the attention of the surface vessel. On seeing the signal, the vessel should immediately be positioned over the divers buoy/s and prepare for the retrieval of the divers;

• During ascent divers should prepare for quick entry into the vessel by undoing all harness attachments to facilitate this;

• The ascent should be made in a calm manner being aware of your breathing and ascent rate; • Approaching the surface your BC should be removed and weight belt dropped so as a quick assisted entry into

the vessel can be achieved.

14.5.1 Jellyfish Box jellyfish (Chironex fleckeri) can be lethal, these animals are usually found close to the mainland. Irukandji syndrome is a very painful and potentially deady reaction to stings from a range of jellyfish species. The small, transparent jellyfishes that cause irukandji syndrome can be found in offshore waters. There has been an increase in the number of reported irukandji stings in Queensland in recent years, including two deaths.

• Full body protection required during jellyfish season; • Suspension of diving operations in the event of a sting; • Vinegar, oxygen and first aid available on site; • Jellyfish protocol to be followed for persons working in jellyfish hot spots or working with jellyfish;

14.5.2 Sharks

During any dives in areas where sharks have been regularly sighted , divers should avoid snorkel diving and extended surface/mid-water exposures wherever possible. E.g. avoid doing safety stops, but decrease bottom time where this is required to maintain safety margins from ‘no-deco’ limits. Where a higher than normal risk of diver/shark interaction has been identified by a project risk assessment, divers involved in the project must be made aware of and agree to follow the procedures outlined below. In addition:

• The protocols outlined here do not detract from the responsibility for individual divers, Principal Dive Supervisors and Project Leaders to careful assess the risks of shark interaction before undertaking any dive operation.

• The use of individual electronic shark shields is strongly recommended for all JCU divers where there is a greater than normal risk of shark ‘interactions’, as detailed above.

• Emergency recall systems must be established for all marine diving operations undertaken by JCU, with detail provided on use of these by the Principal Dive Supervisor during their pre-dive briefings.

• In areas where a higher than normal risk of shark interaction has been identified, divers must operate in pairs to provide a better opportunity of detecting sharks at a distance before they become a threat.

• An injured or bleeding diver should leave the water immediately; other divers should also exit the water.

14.6 DECOMPRESSION DIVING Air dives requiring mandatory decompression are not permitted during any JCU diving operations unless in case of emergency, and will only be allowed in exceptional circumstances if prior written approval has been obtained from the UDO, and the dives are conducted as per the Australian Standard for Occupational diving, AS/NZS 2299.1:2007. Staged decompression diving using Nitrox and mixed gas is covered in Section ? of this manual.

14.7 DEHYDRATION Dehydration is a major predisposing factor for diving related illnesses. The real key to preventing dehydration is to stay ahead of the game. The recommended consumption of water is 200ml per hour; more if it's hot or if you're diving



multiple dives. The drinks should be spaced out over the course of the day rather than consumed in a short period of time and use of an electrolyte replacement supplement can be beneficial in achieving fluid volume requirements. Avoid caffeinated and carbonated beverages, and ensure an ample amount of fresh drinking water is available on the boat. This will ensure that you have sufficient fluid to drink between dives.

14.8 DEEP DIVES Dives planned for depths of greater than 18m must be obviously flagged as such on the Dive Permission request. Generally such dives will only be permitted where enriched air nitrox or rebreathers are being used. Dives to depths of >39m on air are prohibited, except where the AS/NZS 2299.1:2007 Dive Standard requirements are met (i.e. an on-site recompression chamber is available), and written UDO approval has been granted. Where such dives are conducted, they must generally be performed using an approved rebreather. 14.9 DIVE PROFILES Some dive profiles are acknowledged to be associated with higher risks of decompression sickness than others. A dive profile which attains maximum depth early in the dive and gradually ascends to shallower depths is recommended. Dives that incorporate "rectangular", "reverse" or “saw tooth" profiles are known to expose divers to a higher risks of decompression sickness and should be avoided. 14.10 DIVING WHILE THE DIVE BOAT IS UNDER WAY Where a dive boat is kept under way whilst divers are in the water is commonly known as ‘working live’. Although there are several advantages to working in this manner, depending on the situation, the main danger of the practice is the potential for injury to divers from the hull and/or propeller/s of the boat. Except in cases of emergency, this practice is not permitted during a JCU diving operation unless the Principal Dive Supervisor expressly receives approval from the UDO or delegate, and the following conditions are met:

• The Skipper must be suitably qualified to drive the boat being used, according to this manual, and must also have considerable experience in small vessel handling (as determined by the UDO);

• A separate Dive Attendant must always be present in situations where the Boat Operator may not be able to clearly see the location of the divers at all times from the boat’s control position;

• The vessel must be fitted with a propeller guard/s • A dive flag must be flown at all times; • All divers involved in the operation must agree to the use of this practice.

14.11 DRUGS/MEDICATION If at all possible, divers should avoid taking any drugs or medications whilst diving. At this time little or no change has been observed in the toxicity of most of the common drugs in use under hyperbaric conditions, however drugs can influence diving safety in other ways, such as by impairing judgement and concentration, or by affecting a diver’s susceptibility to narcosis and/or DCI. To that end, if any JCU Diver is required to take medication for either short or long term prescription, they should contact their diving doctor or the UDO for advice on any potential problems this may cause. In particular, divers should take care to check on potential complications with some seasickness medications, and some drugs used to assist people to stop smoking. 14.12 EXERCISE Divers should not participate in activities involving vigorous physical exertion before, during (if avoidable) or after diving, as exercise of this nature will predispose a diver to DCI. Where exercise is unavoidable before, during or after a dive (e.g. diving in strong currents, or walking in to a dive site), extra allowance must be made to take account of this factor when calculating permissible dive times. 14.13 FATIGUE Fatigue can be extremely dangerous during diving operations, and is also a potent predisposing factor for DCI. A tired diver should not be permitted to dive, and Principal Dive Supervisors should monitor this. During diving operations it is the responsibility of each diver to ensure they get adequate sleep to avoid becoming unduly fatigued.



14.14 PHYSICAL FITNESS It is generally believed, though not proven, that being physically fit may reduce the risk of DCI. Diving involves exercise and being fit means that the heart works more efficiently. Possibly the real advantage of being fit is the ability to better cope with the physical demands of diving and snorkelling. A rough guide to physical fitness would be: Low - if you exercise to a minimum of 70% of your maximum heart rate greater than three times a week for a total of 90 minutes Average – if you exercise to a minimum of 70% of your maximum heart rate greater than three times a week for a total of 90 to 180 minutes Good - if you exercise to a minimum of 70% of your maximum heart rate greater than three times a week for a total of > 180 minutes 14.15 FRESH WATER DIVING Diving in freshwater presents its own special risk considerations. Such as changes in buoyancy, increase in turbidity, underwater obstructions, and fine silt etc. Extra equipment like touches, reference lines etc may be required. Freshwater areas with direct access to the ocean should be suspected of having dangerous marine animals as visitors eg sharks, crocodiles, marine stingers, etc 14.16 HIGH RISK SHALLOW DIVES Shallow dives in areas of heavy boat traffic expose divers to risk of injury from such traffic. If diving in such an area, divers must fly a dive flag on a float immediately above their work site to indicate their position. Principal Dive Supervisors should also note that cases of DCI have been reported as a result of long shallow dives (in less than 6-7m depth), and should try to minimise the effect of other predisposing factors in the event that such a dive is approved. Where such a dive is planned, Table 2A at Appendix 5 of this Manual must be used to obtain maximum allowable dive times for the dive. 14.17 INJURY & ILLNESS Are also maladies that effect the circulatory systems which may alter gas perfusion. Tests have shown that even a corked mussel can influence bubble formation. Therefore divers major suffering illness, injury shall have medical clearance to return to diving. If suffering a minor illness, injury or lacking fitness, the diver should refrain from diving or if not debilitating dive very conservatively. 14.18 INEXPERIENCED DIVERS Divers with less than the required hours of underwater experience required by this procedures manual to qualify as a registered JCU diver can only dive with the express permission of the UDO, or during training. When granting inexperienced divers permission to dive, the UDO must consider the level of experience of the diver and their buddy/s, how recently the diver completed their dive training course, and the purpose of the dive. As a general guide, inexperienced divers may not perform any tasks underwater other than observations. As well as this, they may only dive if the following criteria are met:

• They are paired with a more experienced diver of greater than 50 hours underwater experience; • The inexperienced diver completed their training course within the past 6 months; and • Any task related factors to be completed by the experienced diver for the dive are low risk.

14.19 LACK OF LOCAL KNOWLEDGE Divers with little ‘local’ knowledge of a proposed dive site, or of the diving conditions to be encountered for the diving operation, shall not be permitted to dive unless accompanied by a JCU Principal Dive Supervisor familiar with the proposed dive environment. 14.20 LONG DIVE TIMES Excessive dive duration is a potent predisposing factor to decompression illness, particularly when coupled with multiple ascents and multi-day diving operations. For this reason, all JCU dive plans should keep the amount of time divers spend in the water on any given day to a minimum. Principal Dive Supervisors should plan all diving operations with this aim in mind.



Without prior approval from the UDO, no diver is to spend more than 6 hours total time in the water in any 24 hour period, whether the tables allow this or not. 14.21 MEDICAL ASSISTANCE It is the responsibility of the Principal Dive Supervisor for any dive or set of dives to determine the most efficient means of obtaining medical assistance in the event of an accident during the dive. The various appendices to this manual dealing with medical matters should be consulted when determining medical requirements for any diving operation. An appropriate first aid kit must always be carried during JCU diving operations. For any SCUBA dive conducted more than 5 minutes away from the University, a research station, or a mother ship, medical oxygen must be carried in the boat, along with a regulator capable of delivering such oxygen to a conscious or unconscious diver. Adequate supplies of medical oxygen must be carried in the boat and/or vehicle to keep at least two individuals on oxygen until such time as the patient can be ‘handed over’ to qualified assistance (i.e. ambulance officers), or until further supplies of oxygen can be accessed. For all JCU dives, approved resuscitation equipment must be carried in the boat and a person trained in the use of such equipment should be present as the Dive Attendant. 14.22 MULTI-DAY REPETITIVE DIVES Divers performing successive multi-day repetitive dives must use the DCIEM dive tables for calculating their no decompression limits on each dive. The effects of nitrogen build-up during this type of diving operation are well documented with regard to increased incidences of DCS, and the risk of this must be considered even when all dives are shallow (current information indicates that long shallow dives may have an elevated incidence of DCI). Divers performing repetitive dives over multiple days must have a 24 hr break from diving after every third day, except where using repetitive dive profiles involving less than three dives per day, in which case a 24 hr break must be taken on the fifth day. The guidelines listed at Section 6.5.5 of this procedures manual, for travel after diving must be followed. 14.23 MULTIPLE ASCENTS Research has shown that the more ascents performed during a day’s diving, the greater the DCS risk. Multiple ascents during a dive increase the DCS risk by increasing bubble formation during the extra ascents. Once bubbles have formed, rates of gas up-take and elimination are altered for all subsequent dives until there has been a long enough surface interval (SI) to allow complete off-gassing. This SI cannot be accurately determined through the use of dive tables, so dives must be planned carefully to ensure the number of ascents during a dive is kept to a minimum. All ascents from shallower than 30 m must be at a rate of slower than 9 metres/minute. 14.24 NIGHT DIVING For a night dive to be approved by the University Diving Officer, the following conditions must be met:

• The provision of a Boat Handler and 2 x Dive Attendants, or shore watch person and Dive Attendant (for shore dives) is mandatory;

• The Boat Handler/Dive Attendant must have a white light suitable for signalling passing boats; • Any boat used for night diving must have a working anchor light and; • After anchoring, a flashing strobe light must be attached to the anchor line at the optimum distance below the

surface that will allow divers to find the vessel without surfacing (where visibility permits this); • Exit lights must be set when diving from shore; • Each diver must have at least 2 torches and a cyalume stick or light, which is visible in a 360o arc; • Night dives to depths of greater than 18 m must have compelling justification. For these dives, special control

measures may need to be implemented, at the discretion of the UDO.

14.25 OBSTRUCTED ASCENTS See Section 12.4.

14.26 OVERSEAS DIVING JCU divers operating on JCU projects outside Australia must ensure they hold current evacuation cover and medical insurance such as the membership and insurance products offered by DAN (Divers Alert Network) Asia Pacific and that they have arranged a contingency emergency evacuation plan.



14.27 SATURATION DIVING If performing saturation diving operations of any format, all divers shall, as a minimum, comply with the standards set out in the NOAA Diving Manual (4th Edition), chapter 17. 14.28 STRONG WIND WARNINGS and ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS No diving is permitted away from a principal location eg. ship/station, except in emergencies while a strong wind warning is current. Diving around the Island Groups may be allowed, depending on the site. Dive operations during adverse weather conditions should only be undertaken after thorough consideration of the safety of the operation and consultation with Site Controlling Officer or UDO has taken place. Rainsquall for example can not only drop visibility to zero but it is not uncommon for them to produce wind gusts 50+ knots. 14.29 SURFACE ATTENDANT - DIVING WITHOUT ONE Diving without a Dive Attendant present at the surface is not recommended, but may be performed if special approval is granted from the UDO or Delegate. Such diving will not be permitted in cases where there will be more than two buddy groups in the water at one time (i.e. more than six divers). When making an assessment of whether or not to allow diving to take place without a Dive Attendant, the UDO must take into account all relevant factors, including but not limited to:

• Experience of the divers involved; • Depth of the proposed dive/s; • Nature of the dive site; • Weather conditions likely to be prevailing at the time; and • Task/s to be performed.

Other conditions that must be met before diving without a Dive Attendant may occur are listed at Section 14.32. 14.30 TIME SINCE LAST DIVE The UDO or any DC may require that a diver undergo an initial supervised dive or pool session if he/she has not dived during the previous 6 months (as per ‘New Diver Evaluation’ – at Appendix 1). This dive is to allow the diver to regain familiarity with equipment and the underwater environment in a supervised situation, and to allow the Diving Officer to ascertain the diver's level of competence. Additional supervised dives may be required until it is judged that the diver can dive safely and competently. The Diving Officer may conduct this supervised dive himself/herself if they are a qualified Divemaster, or they may delegate the task to another Divemaster. NB: A supervised dive for those who have not been diving for 6 months is not mandatory, particularly where the diver is highly experienced and his/her first dive is in sheltered conditions to depths not exceeding 12 m. 14.31 TASK RELATED FACTORS Diving tasks requiring use of winches with large cable, cranes and other heavy tools require divers to be trained to at least Australian Standard 2815.2, and to use voice communication between surface operators and divers. 14.32 TWO PERSON DIVING Normally associated with areas approved for two person diving and controlled by appropriate procedures i.e. designated areas close to Research Stations, <9m depth of water, low risk conditions, etc. ‘Two person diving’ could involve either two divers with no Dive Attendant at the surface, or one tethered diver with a Stand-by Diver/Attendant at the surface dressed ready to enter the water in an emergency. Either of these may be permitted at the discretion of the UDO, taking into account all relevant factors, including but not limited to access to external assistance, diver experience, depth of the proposed dive/s, weather conditions likely to be prevailing at the time of the dive/s, and task/s to be performed.


| INSURANCE COVER FOR SCUBA DIVING 58

15 INSURANCE COVER FOR SCUBA DIVING 15.1 AUSTRALIAN WATERS Emergency Evacuation: Due to the excellent emergency services available in Australia the University does not take out specific cover in respect of emergency evacuation for diving within Australian Waters. Medical Expenses: Staff are covered by WorkCover in respect of medical expenses arising from a work related incident including a diving accident/incident. International Postgraduate and Undergraduate students (other than those with reciprocal rights) are required to take cover with an approved Health Cover Provider whilst studying in Australia and this is considered to be adequate medical cover. Domestic Postgraduate and Undergraduate students have the full range of services provided by emergency response services and Medicare. (They may also have private Health Cover). The University does not have any specific cover in place for students who undertake diving activities within Australian waters as part of their course. The University has in place Liability insurance which will respond if a student suffers a loss due to the negligence of the University. It is not anticipated that undergraduate students would undertake University related diving activities in other than Australian Waters. 15.2 OTHER THAN AUSTRALIAN WATERS The University's Corporate Travel Insurance provides cover for staff members and students travelling overseas on Authorised Business Travel. However this cover specifically excludes cover in respect of nerve deafness, bends, air embolism or related injuries. All other injuries incurred while on overseas travel including those (other than the above exclusions) such as coral cuts, breaking legs on diving boats, etc are covered by this policy. Even if it was possible for the University to obtain cover in respect of nerve deafness, bends, air embolism or related injuries, the ability of the Insurer's "Emergency Response" to respond adequately to remote diving situations is deemed to be inadequate because of:

• Lack of understanding by some Emergency Doctors of bends related injuries; • Language problems; • Inability to respond in a timely manner, often critical in these situations.

The University believes the Divers Alert Network (DAN) has the necessary expertise to respond in a timely manner to ensure that the needs of our staff/postgraduate students, their health and safety, are paramount.

15.3 EMERGENCY EVACUATION DAN membership should be taken out for each University staff member or postgraduate student who will undertake diving activities overseas in respect of their study/research/teaching activities that relate to James Cook University. As previously stated, it is not anticipated that undergraduate students would undertake University related diving activities in other than Australian Waters. The costs of DAN membership and/or medical cover are considered to be a reimbursable expense (from the appropriate College budget). To be eligible for reimbursement the staff member/postgraduate student making the claim needs to substantiate that they are undertaking the diving activities as part of their University duties/studies/research and have the approval of the appropriate financial delegate. Faculties and Divisions have established approval procedures in respect of DAN membership and the level of medical cover. To ascertain the procedures for your particular University/Division contact your College Finance Officer initially. 15.4 DIVERS ALERT NETWORK COVERS DAN membership entitles the member to cover for emergency evacuation. In addition, further cover can be taken out to provide for medical expenses. There are various levels of cover available and which level would be most appropriate would be determined in part by the location to which a person would be evacuated in the event emergency evacuation becomes necessary. If it was most likely the person would be evacuated to Australia then most costs would be covered under emergency services and Medicare and therefore it may not be necessary to take out any medical cover or only a low level of cover. If however, the evacuation point would the United States of America, it would be necessary to consider a much higher level of cover. The University's Diving Officer is able to provide further information relating to DAN or visit the DAN South-east Asia Pacific website at http://www.danseap.org/


| 16 DEFINITION OF TERMS 59

16 DEFINITION OF TERMS Accident Any unplanned event that results in damage, loss or injury to personnel and/or equipment and machinery. Active Diver A JCU Diver who completes at least twelve dives annually, AND maintains currency of all required qualifications. Bailout system An independent air supply worn and activated by a diver to counter an out of air, low on air or contaminated air situation. Also referred to as an ‘emergency air supply’. BCD Buoyancy control device. Belt block Redundant breathing gas supply system with controls positioned at front of diver’s body on a belt or harness. Bottle bank Two or more high pressure breathing air cylinders yoked together and used in conjunction with a regulator to deliver air to a diver. Bottom time (BT) The total elapsed time from when a diver leaves the surface to the time (next whole minute) at which ascent is commenced, measured in minutes. Breathing hoses Hoses attached to a regulator that is designed to supply air to the diver, carry away expired air and operates at near ambient pressure. Buddy diver A member of a group of two or three divers. Buddy line A line used to connect two or more divers, allowing them to maintain contact. It should be approx. 2 - 3 m in length, and is usually only used in conditions of low in-water visibility. Combined dive The bottom times of more than one dive added together and treated as bottom time for a single dive for the purposes of determining decompression requirements. Competent person A person who has acquired, through training, qualifications or experience (or combination of these) the knowledge and skills to enable that person to safely perform a specified task. Compression (recompression) chamber A surface chamber in which persons may be subject to pressures equivalent to or greater than those experienced underwater, or which simulate those experienced on an actual dive. Current line Line deployed behind boat to facilitate recovery of divers from the water, particularly in conditions of strong current. Also called a ‘Mermaid Catcher’, “Jesus Line’. DAN Diver’s Alert Network. An organisation dedicated to improving diving safety. Diver’s Attendant (DA) or Surface Attendant (SA) The Diver’s Attendant is usually at the surface, however where approved by the UDO, and under good weather conditions only, divers may dive without a Dive Attendant. Decompression illness (DCI/DCS) A generic term for acute illness resulting when pathological consequences arise from decompression. The term covers the conditions known as decompression sickness (bends) and arterial gas embolism, but does not include barotraumas of ascent Decompression schedule A specific decompression procedure for a given combination of depth and bottom time as listed in a decompression table. Normally described in terms of maximum depth of seawater (msw) and bottom time (minutes). Decompression Stop The specified length of time which a diver must spend at a specified depth to allow for the elimination of sufficient inert gas from the body to allow safe ascent to the next decompression stop or the surface. DCIEM Was Canadian Defence and Civil Institute of Environmental Medicine? The organisation is now called DRDC (Defence Research and Development Canada). DCIEM Tables Decompression tables developed by DCIEM. To be used to manage all JCU air diving operations unless otherwise approved.



DCI/DCS Decompression illness. A generic term for acute illness resulting when pathological consequences arise from decompression. The term covers the conditions known as decompression sickness (bends) and arterial gas embolism, but does not include barotraumas of ascent. Delegate (of UDO) An individual appointed by the UDO in writing to perform nominated duties. Divemaster (DM) A Divemaster is an individual who has received training to a high level from one of the recreational diver training organisations (also called Dive Supervisor or Dive Controller). Principal Dive Supervisor (DC) The Principal Dive Supervisor is responsible for the overall conduct of the dive, including any necessary pre/post dive activities, and the actual dive. Dive Leader (DL) The ‘in-water’ leader of a dive team: May be either the Principal Dive Supervisor or another nominated Diver. Dive Permission Form A designated JCU, used to describe intended details of any proposed diving operation/s and record the University Diving Officer’s signed approval. Dive Plan An operational plan prepared by the Principal Dive Supervisor for a dive, or a series of dives. A dive plan must be prepared, submitted and approved by the UDO or their delegate before any JCU dive can take place. Dive Program One or more dives that are related by purpose place or time to form a series. Dive Record form A designated JCU form, used to record details of each dive for every diver on a diving operation. Diver Register A listing of all divers permitted to dive on JCU operations according to these procedures – maintained by the Boating & Diving Office Dive Team All personnel directly involved in a diving operation. Diving Officer (DO) See ‘UDO’ and SDO. Diving Operation Where personnel from James Cook University undertake a trip for the purpose of scientific or related underwater diving. The operation includes all time devoted to the trip, including preparation before departure, and the subsequent reporting phase on return. DRDC Defence Research and Development Canada. Formerly DCIEM. Effective bottom time (EBT): DCIEM Tables The product of a diver’s actual bottom time (ABT) for a dive, multiplied by their Repetitive Factor (RF) at the start of the dive (from any previous exposure to greater than ambient pressure). Effective bottom time (EBT): SSI EANx Tables The product of a diver’s actual bottom time (ABT) for a dive, added to their Residual Nitrogen Time (RNT) at the start of the dive (from any previous exposure to greater than ambient pressure). Effective depth For a dive at altitude, the depth of an equivalent dive at sea level. Emergency air supply See ‘bail-out system’. Enriched Air Nitrox (EANx) Air with a greater-than-normal concentration of oxygen (the x stands for the O2 concentration). Equivalent Air Depth (EAD) Equates a depth using a given concentration of Nitrox to an ‘Air’ depth, based on equivalent exposure to nitrogen. Exceptional exposure dive A dive on which maximum recommended dive time for a given depth (shown by the limiting line in the decompression tables being used) is exceeded by a diver at that depth Float line A line attached to a diver, with a highly visible float on the surface. Free-diving ‘Free swimming’ diving, where fins and a mask and snorkel are used and the diver has approval from the UDO (usually based on a diver assessment) to descend to any approved depth. Also see Snorkel Diving).



Free flow primary air supply A surface supplied breathing method in which air enters the helmet/mask in a continuous flow, and is not controlled by a demand regulator. Hazard A situation, activity or task with the potential to cause injury or damage. Incident Any unplanned event with potential for damage, loss or injury to personnel and/or equipment and machinery. Jesus Line See Current Line JCU Diver Any individual listed on the JCU Diver Register, who is undertaking a dive on behalf of the University. JCU Dive Plan An operational plan prepared by the Principal Dive Supervisor for a dive, or a series of dives. A dive plan must be prepared and submitted for every JCU dive. JCU BDSC James Cook University Boating and Diving Safety Committee. See details in this Manual. Lazy shot A rope running vertically from the surface (dive control position) to an attached weight, hanging free and positioned off the bottom or worksite. The rope is marked with depth graduations to facilitate decompression stops at the correct depth. See also ‘shot line’. Lifeline A line of not less than 8 mm diameter, attached to the diver at one end and tended from the surface at the other, which is capable of being used to haul the diver to the surface. Limiting line A line shown in some decompression tables, indicating time limits (bottom times) beyond which the decompression tables shown are less safe. Low visibility See ‘Visibility – Low’, and ‘Visibility – Zero’. Main air supply The main supply of any diver’s breathing air, including air delivery from SCUBA cylinders, low pressure compressors or ‘bottle banks’. Mermaid Catcher See Current Line. Mother Ship A vessel (generally large) used as a base in remote areas, from which smaller vessels are used to conduct field or diving operations. Night diving Any diving activity conducted in the hours of darkness, including 30 minutes hour prior to sunset and 30 minutes after sunrise. Nitrox Any breathing mixture composed of nitrogen and oxygen, most commonly produced by the addition of O2 or the removal of nitrogen from air. Post Dive Report A designated JCU form (may be web based), used to describe actual details of any diving operations. Project Leader (or Team Leader) The JCU staff member with overall responsibility for conduct of a field research team. The Project Leader has no authority over decisions made by a Principal Dive Supervisor during the conduct of any diving operation. Quick release Able to be immediately released from closed position by the single operation of one hand. Remote dive site Any area of diving operation greater than 30 minutes from medical assistance. Repetitive dive Any dive conducted after a surface interval from a previous dive of more than 15 min. and less than 18 hours, or that has a repetitive factor at the start of the dive of greater than 1.0 Repetitive factor (RF): DCIEM dive tables A figure determined by the repetitive dive group (RG), and the length of the surface interval after a dive, and used for repetitive diving. Repetitive group (RG) After a dive conducted using many dive tables, every diver will fall into a Repetitive Group category - determined by the depth and time of any dives they have completed in the previous 18 hrs. Gives an indication of nitrogen loading.



Reserve air supply The quantity of air that will enable a diver to return safely to the surface from the planned depth of the dive, completing all planned decompression stops. Residual nitrogen Extra Nitrogen that remains dissolved in a diver’s tissues after surfacing. Decreases over time on the surface. Risk Assessment A formal process of identifying and implementing mechanisms for dealing with the risks involved in a particular task. A Risk Assessment must have been completed and approved for every JCU diving operation. Safety Line Lifeline, Buddy Line, Float Line or Current Line. Safety Stop A precautionary decompression stop (i.e. not specified as mandatory by a decompression schedule) - usually completed for 3 to 5 minutes duration, at 3-5 metres depth. Saturation That condition where a person’s body tissues are totally saturated with the particular inert gas element of the breathing medium in use. Scientific diving In Australia: diving performed for professional scientific research, natural resource management, or scientific research as an educational activity. SCUBA Acronym for Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus. Equipment designed to deliver air to a diver, using an open or closed circuit system - independent of the surface. Serious personal injury An injury or disease caused in the course of work and for which the person requires one of:

• Emergency treatment by a registered medical practitioner • Treatment in a hospital as a casualty without admission • Admission to a hospital

Site Safety Officer (SSO) Research station managers, masters of vessels, workplace control officers Shot rope/shot line A rope running vertically from the surface (dive control position) and fixed to the worksite or bottom with a weight or attachment. The rope should be marked with depth graduations to facilitate decompression stops at the correct depth. See also ‘lazy shot’. SI/Surface Interval Surface interval. The time between surfacing from one dive and commencing another. Under DCIEM tables if the SI is less than 15 minutes the second ‘dive’ is deemed a continuation of the first dive. NB: This time varies with different decompression tables. Snorkel diving ‘Free swimming’ diving, where fins and a mask and snorkel are used and the diver is in shallow water and is limited to depths of no more than 3 metres depth. Also see ‘Free-diving’. SPUMS South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society. Australasian diving medicine medical professionals organisation. SSBA Surface Supplied Breathing Apparatus. Equipment delivering air to diver from the surface. Standby Diver A Diver who is fully dressed and equipped and ready to enter the water to render emergency assistance to a diver in the water. NB. For scientific diving operations (as per AS/NZS 2299.2:2002) the standby diver may be in the water, acting as a dive buddy. Surface Attendant (SA) A diver’s attendant, who does not enter the water (also see Diver’s Attendant). Team Leader (see Project Leader) Tethered mode (in relation to SCUBA diving) SCUBA diving when a diver is secured by a lifeline tended by a diver’s attendant, or secured to a tended float line. UDO University Diving Officer. See definition in this Manual. Visibility - Low A diving environment where a diver cannot see or distinguish objects outside their physical reach. Visibility - Zero A diving environment where a diver cannot see their gauges at the mask/water interface.



Visiting Diver A trained, certified visiting diver from another country who performs tasks relevant to scientific diving in his/her own country, who has a current diving medical certification and who is allowed to dive with the University by the UDO during his/her visit. Volunteer Diver A person not otherwise associated with JCU, who has volunteered to assist with JCU diving, and meets all requirements necessary to be listed on the Diver Register as a volunteer. Working ‘live’ Where a vessel being used in the conduct of a diving operation is under power whilst Divers are in the water. Not permitted for any diving operation unless specifically approved by the UDO, or an emergency.

Workplace - Means a place where work is or is to be performed by either employers, self-employed persons or employees. Zero visibility See ‘Visibility – Zero’, and ‘Visibility – Low’.

| APPENDIX 1 – SNORKELLING & SWIMMING HEALTH DECLARATION 64

17 APPENDIX 1 – SNORKELLING & SWIMMING HEALTH DECLARATION

Surname Preferred Title (Mr. Ms. Dr. etc)

First Name(s) Date of Birth

Department Staff/Student ID

Position at James Cook

Phone

What year did you start snorkelling?

Snorkelling experience in open waters:

□ Less than 10 hours □ 10-50 hours □ More than 50 hours

SWIMMING PROFICIENCY AND FITNESS

Are you able to swim or tread water for 10 minutes non-stop?

□ YES

□ NO

Are you able to swim 200m in less than 5 minutes?

□ YES

□ NO

Do you have more than 15 hours experience in breath-hold diving?

□ YES

□ NO

FITNESS (circle one) Low Average Good

Minutes of vigorous exercise per week:

0 – 30min total 30 – 180min total More than 180min

DO YOU HAVE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS? (circle)

Heart disease YES NO

High blood pressure YES NO

Low blood pressure YES NO

Shortness of breath (especially when exercising) YES NO

Asthma YES NO

Emphysema or other chronic lung disease YES NO

Epilepsy YES NO

Fits or faints YES NO

Recent head injury or concussion YES NO

Diabetes (type………………………) YES NO

Do you smoke cigarettes? YES NO

Are you pregnant? YES NO

Are you taking prescribed medication? YES NO

| APPENDIX 2 – COMPETENCY ASSESSMENT FOR SNORKELLING 65

18 APPENDIX 2 – COMPETENCY ASSESSMENT FOR SNORKELLING

COMPETENCY ASSESSMENT CRITERIA FOR SNORKELLING

Snorkelling Supervisor Acceptable qualifications may include;

• SIS30413 – Certificate III in Outdoor Recreation • SISOSNK201A – demonstrate snorkelling activities

• SISOSNK403A – Instruct snorkelling skills • SISOSNK302A – Guide snorkelling

• SCUBA Dive Leader, Dive Master, Dive Instructor

Theory (induction content)

Practical

Knowledge of operating procedures, emergency procedures, risk assessments for the site. Knowledge of site risks and control measures. Knowledge of recognising problems in snorkelers

• Can swim 200m in less than 5min • Can fin 400m in less than 10min • Use of communications equipment

Name: …………………………………………………………………… Date: ………………………………………….... Qualifications held: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Lookout

Acceptable qualifications may include; Not Applicable

• Knowledge of changes in site conditions and risks • Knowledge of recognising problems in snorkelers

• Use of communications equipment

Rescuer

Acceptable qualifications may include; • Recognised Rescue Diver Certification

• SISCAQU002 – perform basic water rescues • Bronze Medallion – Royal Life Saving

• Knowledge of operating and emergency

procedures for the site. • Knowledge of snorkelling related illness, injury and

treatment.

• Can swim 200m in less than 5min • Can fin 400m in less than 8min • Can tow a person (or proxy) 100m in less

than 4min

First Aid Provider Acceptable up-to-date qualifications must include;

HLTAID003 – Provide First Aid (or minimum equivalent) HLTAID001 – Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

HLTAID002 – Provide basic emergency life support HLTAID007 – Provide advanced resuscitation, or

VU21763 – Apply basic oxygen resuscitation therapy

• Knowledge of operating and emergency procedures for the site.

• Knowledge of snorkelling related illness, injury and treatment.

• Knowledge of first aid and emergency equipment at the site.

NA

Snorkelling Guide

Acceptable qualifications may include; • SISOSNK302A – Guide snorkelling

| APPENDIX 2 – COMPETENCY ASSESSMENT FOR SNORKELLING 66

• Knowledge of site risks and control measures. • Knowledge of recognising problems in snorkelers

• Can swim 200m in less than 5min • Can fin 400m in less than 8min • Can tow a person (or proxy) 100m in less

than 4min

Assessment of Snorkelers

Instructions for using the Snorkelling & Swimming Health Declaration and Competency Assessment

• The primary purpose of assessing snorkelers is to determine which persons may be ‘at risk’. • All snorkelers must complete the Snorkelling & Swimming Health Declaration form. • Direct observations which are also part of the assessment include;

o Is the person either very young or older o Are overweight o Appear in bad health o Exhibit stressed behaviour o Have mobility issues o Have difficulties understanding instructions

• If a person declares existing health / medical conditions, or the above-mentioned observations have

identified concerns, the Manager and Supervisor may, at their discretion; o Request the person to seek written advice from a medical practitioner, or o Allow the person to snorkel, but treat the person as ‘at risk’ and apply additional controls at the

site as required, or o Prohibit the person from snorkelling.

• If a person declares poor swimming ability, or zero snorkelling experience, the person should be treated

as ‘at risk’ until the Manager and Supervisor are satisfied they are not ‘at risk’. o It may be decided that a practical assessment of the person’s swimming / snorkelling ability can

be done before the person is allowed to snorkel in a group, or o A snorkelling guide may be appointed to have direct control of one or more ‘at risk’ persons.

| APPENDIX 3 – TAKE 5 RISK CHECKLIST 67

19 APPENDIX 3 – TAKE 5 RISK CHECKLIST

‘TAKE 5’ PRE-DIVE SCUBA & SNORKELLING RISK CHECKLIST

To be completed by the Dive / Snorkel Supervisor prior to in-water activities.

Is this activity in accordance with your Dive Plan and JCU Diving & Snorkelling Procedures?

Are all divers / snorkelers fit for work?

Have divers / snorkelers been informed of working within their ability?

Divers / snorkelers have been properly briefed about;

The tasks being performed

Dive profiles

The risk control measures being applied

Emergency procedures – lost buddy, injured diver, rescue, recall, first aid & evacuation

Review of communications

All SCUBA equipment is checked and functional

All emergency equipment is checked and functional

All communications equipment is checked and functional

Are there unforeseen risks present at the site?

Is there a risk from boat traffic at the site?

Have you considered the presence of sharks or crocodiles?

Do the current environmental conditions elevate risk?

Do you have adequate control of the dive site?

Y / N

Y / N

Y / N

Y / N

Y / N

Y / N

Y / N

Y / N

Y / N

Y / N

Y / N

Y / N

Y / N

Y / N

Y / N

Y / N

| APPENDIX 4 – DIVING INDUCTION AND EVALUATION 68

20 APPENDIX 4 – DIVING INDUCTION AND EVALUATION CONTENTS OF DIVING INDUCTION JCU Diving Procedures Induction

• Structure of Diving and Boating Management • Dive Register mandatory requirements • Classification of divers • Acceptable qualifications of divers • Roles and responsibilities within dive teams • Administrative procedures for diving field trips • Dive planning and supervision • Use of DCIEM tables • Personnel requirements for dive teams • Emergency planning and management • Risk management and Risk assessments • Diving equipment and ancillary equipment • Record keeping and dive logs • DCI risk mitigation • Injury and incident reporting • On-site document • Theory exam covering the above topics along with physics, physiology and equipment

Practical Assessment Fitness

• 400m swim (under 11min) • 800m snorkel (under 17min) • 100m snorkel with duck diving • 10min tread water, last 3min hands in air • 25m breath-hold underwater swim (no fins)

SCUBA skills

• Equipment set-up • Buddy checks • Water entry • Mask removal and replacement • Regulator • Weights • SCUBA unit • Fin pivot • Hover • Out of air & share air

Rescue skills

• Retrieve unconscious diver from depth • Establish buoyancy for unconscious diver • Signal for help • Tow unconscious diver 100m (under 4min) • Demonstrate removal of scuba unit while towing • Demonstrate removing unconscious diver from water without assistance

| APPENDIX 5 - DIVE BRIEFING 69

21 APPENDIX 5 - DIVE BRIEFING

The Dive Supervisor must ensure that all persons associated with the dive operation are thoroughly briefed prior to every dive. All persons in control of the dive site (for example masters of vessels associated with the diving, site managers, principal contractors, controllers of plant such as cranes or sluices) must be briefed about intended dive operations prior to each dive. This will include:

• the times of any dives;

• the location of the dive; • the tasks being undertaken; • the numbers of divers in the water; • any potential hazards noted in the risk assessment over which the person has control.

The Dive Supervisor must also advise the person in control when the dive has finished.

Divers:

The Dive Supervisor must brief every JCU Diver and Dive Leader before each dive. The Diving Risk Assessment, Dive Proposal. Dive Plan and completed JCU Dive Logs~ must all be used to assist in the briefing. For a series of dives in similar conditions conducting similar tasks, a single briefing may be given for the dive sequence dealing with issues pertinent to the whole sequence. However, a briefing must be given prior to every dive to reinforce key safety considerations.

Topics that must be covered in every briefing include:

a) objectives of the operation

b) responsibilities of dive team members

c) review of specific underwater tasks

d) maximum depths and bottom times for the dive

e) boundaries and features of the dive site

f) review of communications (hand / line signals)

g) the presence and location of emergency equipment

h) diver recall procedures

i) lost buddy contact procedures

j) procedures to be followed if conditions become unfavourable

k) any hazards at the dive site

l) any other safety issues identified in the risk assessment

Other topics that may need to be covered in the briefing:

a) safe methods of entry and exit into the water; b) use of emergency signalling equipment; c) use of special tools or equipment d) diver rescue procedures e) procedures for reducing the risk of developing decompression illness; f) any other features of the Diving Proposal

| APPENDIX 6 - RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH DIVING OPERATIONS 70

22 APPENDIX 6 - RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH DIVING OPERATIONS

Risk factor Lower risk Moderate risk Higher risk

Weather & sea calm, settled weather pattern calm, unsettled weather

pattern rough

Site exposure sheltered exposed

Time of day start and finish in full daylight finish near dusk night diving

Current at site nil to weak moderate strong

Depth at work site <20m 21-30m > 30 m

Site location near Research Station >30min form emergency

assistance outer reefs

No. of personnel 2 or 3 divers, 1 boat person 2 or 3 divers, no boat person

Diving experience >50 hrs 15-50 hrs <15 hrs

Duration of dive two groups less than no

deco-limit Near no deco-limit No deco-limit exceeded

Dive Profile “ideal” profile “square, reverse, saw tooth”

profile

Multiple Ascents one or two three or more

Local knowledge good meagre

Boat traffic/dive site Infrequent traffic, depth >5 m High traffic, depth < 5 m

Entrapment hazards ascent not obstructed ascent obstructed

Medical assistance < 30 minutes 0.5 - 2 hrs > 2 hrs

Repetitive diving < 3 dives/day 4 dives/day > 4 dives/day

Time since last dive < 3 months 3 - 6 months > 6 months

Marine life General observation Spearfishing Manipulation of venomous

animals

Task-related Use of slates, cameras,

lightweight frames Use of hand-held air

powered tools, small lift bags Use of heavy tools and

frames, large lift bags

Dehydration Well hydrated

Drinking 3 or 4+ litres of

water or juice per day

Poorly hydrated

Drinking <1.5litres of water

or juice per day

| APPENDIX 7 - SINGLE LIFE-LINE CODE. 71

23 APPENDIX 7 - SINGLE LIFE-LINE CODE. Signals comprise of either pulls or bells or a combination of both. A pull is a single heave on the line. A bell is a sharp quick tug as if striking a ships bell, usually given in pairs, e.g. five bells is given as: two quick tugs a pause then two quick tugs pause then one quick tug. It should be noted that one bell does not exist on its own.

ATTENDANT TO DIVER -General Signals

1 pull To call attention Are you OK ?

2 pulls Am sending down a rope's end (or as pre-arranged)

3 pulls You have come up too far Go down slowly till we stop you

4 pulls Come up 4 pulls + 2 bells Come up, hurry up, or Come up, surface decompression 4 pulls + 5 bells Come up on your safety float

ATTENDANT TO DIVER -Direction Signals

1 pull Search where you are 2 bells Go to the end of distance line or jackstay 3 bells Face shot then go right 4 bells Face shot then go left 5 bells Come into your shot, or turn back if on a jackstay

DIVER TO ATTENDANT -General Signals

1 pull To call attention Made Bottom Reached end of jackstay I am OK

2 pulls Send me down a rope's end (or as pre-arranged) 3 pulls I am going down 4 pulls. May I come up ? 4 pulls + 2 bells I want to come up / Assist me up 4 pulls + 5 bells May I come up on my safety float ? More than 4 pulls EMERGENCY SIGNAL / Pull me up IMMEDIATELY Succession of 2 bells Am foul & need the assistance of another diver Succession of 3 bells Am foul but can clear myself if left alone

DIVER TO ATTENDANT -Working Signals

1 pull Hold on or stop 2 bells Pull up- 3 bells Lower 4 bells Take up slack lifeline, or You are holding me too tight 5 bells Have found, started, or completed work Acknowledgements: All signals received by either diver or attendant must be acknowledged by repeating the signal, but not unless the signal was clearly and unambiguously received. If a signal is not acknowledged, or is repeated incorrectly, the signaller should repeat until proper acknowledgement is received.

| APPENDIX 8 - MODIFIED DCIEM AIR DIVING TABLES 72

24 APPENDIX 8 - MODIFIED DCIEM AIR DIVING TABLES

Introduction. These tables and procedures have been developed from the Canadian Defence and Civil Institute for Environmental Medicine's 1983 decompression model. This model is the result of over 20 years of decompression research, and the tables have been extensively tested. They were chosen for inclusion in this Standard as they are generally more conservative than previous commonly used tables, especially in the deeper depth or longer bottom time profiles. Application of DCIEM tables-General The DCIEM tables are applied as follows: (a) Depth (Columns 2-11 of Table A2) These columns have depth increments of 3m (10 ft), and the value to be used is the one immediately

exceeding the deepest depth to which the diver descended in the dive. (b) Bottom time (Column 1 of Table A2) The bottom time of the dive is the interval, in minutes, between the diver leaving the surface at the start

of the dive and leaving the bottom to commence the ascent. The value to be used is the one immediately exceeding the actual bottom time. (c) Rate of ascent The rate of ascent shall not exceed 18 m/min (60 ft/min). (d) Rate of descent The rate of descent shall not exceed 18 m/min (60 ft/min). (e) Hyperbaric chamber availability (level 1 and level 2) These shaded areas in Table A2 represent time limits for depth of dives with respect to

the availability of the nearest functional hyperbaric chamber. Access time to a chamber, is the time taken to transport a diver exiting the water to compression in the chamber.

(f) Repetitive dive Any dive conducted within 18 h of a previous dive or any dive that has a repetitive factor greater than 1.0. (g) Repetitive dive groups (RG) The repetitive dive group letter is directly related to the amount of residual nitrogen in a diver's body immediately

on surfacing from a dive. The repetitive dive groups shown are different from and incompatible with repetitive dive groups in other tables, eg. US Navy. Where bottom times appear without repetitive groups, repetitive diving is not recommended.

(h) Repetitive factor (RF) A figure determined by the repetitive dive group and the length of the surface interval after a dive and used for repetitive diving.

(i) Effective bottom time (EBT) For repetitive diving, the bottom time is calculated to take into consideration the residual nitrogen from previous dives.

(j) Effective depth For a dive at altitude, the depth of an equivalent dive at sea level. Table A3-Repetitive diving Procedures relevant to Table A3a and A3(b) are as follows: (a) Repetitive diving is permitted only in the normal air diving range. For surface intervals of less than 15 min, the 'combined dive' procedure is

used. The combined dive procedure can also be used as an alternative to the repetitive dive procedure outlined below. This will result in shorter bottom times for any second or subsequent dive and thus usually more conservative dives.

(b) The repetitive dive group letters (A-J) shown beside each dive profile in the normal air range of the DCIEM tables are used in conjunction with the repetitive factors table. These correction factors are based on the first dive and surface interval (to determine the 'residual' nitrogen) in conjunction with any possible depth (within the normal air diving range) for the second dive.

Table A3(a) is used with the repetitive group and the surface interval to find the repetitive factor and A3(b) for the maximum bottom for the next dive.

(c) To use Tables A3(a) & A3(b)- (i) take the repetitive dive group (RG) letter of the first dive and enter the repetitive factor table (Table A3(a));

(ii) find the repetitive factor (RF) corresponding to that letter and the applicable surface interval column; (iii) enter table A3(b) using the corresponding RF column cross reference with the appropriate depth row to obtain the maximum

bottom time allowed for the next dive. (iv) If a subsequent dive is planned, by multiplying the planned bottom time by the RF the EBT can be obtained. This calculation can

then be used to re-enter Table A2.

Important The RG for a repetitive dive must be higher than the RG of the preceding dive when they are undertaken within 6 hours of each other. Example: First dive 15 m (50 ft) for 60 min. RG = F (Table A2). The surface interval is 2 h, and the repetitive dive depth is 12 m (40 ft). From Table A3(a), the RF is 1.4 and from Table A3(b) the

maximum bottom time allowed is 71 min. The actual bottom time planned is only 60 min. Therefore, the EBT = 60 x 1.4 (RF after first dive) = 84 min, with an RG of G (Table

A2). SI before third dive I h 35 min. RF = 1.6. Third dive depth is 9 m (30 ft). Maximum bottom time Table A3(b) = 81 min If the actual bottom time of the third dive was 40 min then EBT = 40 min x 1.6 (RF) = 64min. re-enter Table A2 to find RG = C ??

The surface interval is not greater than 6 hours and this RG is not greater than the preceding RG therefore the correct answer is RG = H.

NOTE: For repetitive bottom times just exceeding the allowable no-decompression limits, a minimum 5 min decompression stop at 3 m (10 ft) is mandatory.

CARE MUST BE EXERCISED WHEN PLANNING MULTIPLE DIVES NOT TO EXCEED HYPERBARIC CHAMBER AVAILABILITY LIMITS. (d) The repetitive factors have been cut off arbitrarily, at 2.0. It is felt that after a strenuous first dive, the surface interval should be sufficient in

length to reduce the 'residual' nitrogen level of the diver to that degree. (This, in effect, defined the limits of the printed tables.) NOTE: If a second dive is required before 30 min or before the surface interval reduces the repetitive factor to 2.0, add the two bottom times to

obtain the effective bottom time and use the deeper depth of the two dives and the EBT for determining the decompression schedule (combined dive procedure). Alternatively, if the repetitive dive is to a different depth, enter the tables for the depth of the repetitive dive. Using the RG from the first dive, read back to the bottom time noted for that group. Add that bottom time to the intended bottom time to obtain the EBT for the repetitive dive.

| APPENDIX 8 - MODIFIED DCIEM AIR DIVING TABLES 73

TABLE A2 MODIFIED DCIEM NO-DECOMPRESSION LIMITS AND REPETITIVE DIVE GROUPS Depth (ft)

Time 6m (20) 9m (30) 12m (40) 15m (50) 18m (60) 21m (70) 24m (80) 27m (90) 30m (100) 5 A A A A A A A A A 8 A A A A A A A A B

10 A A A A A A A A B 15 A A A A B C C C D 20 A A A A B C D D 25 A A B C D D E 30 A A B C D D 35 B C D D E E 40 B C D D E 50 B C D E F 60 B C D F 70 C D G G 75 C D G G 90 C D G

100 D F G 110 D F H 120 D F H 130 E G I 150 E G J 175 F H 180 F H 240 G K 240 G K 300 H

Level 1 For dives not exceeding level 1, hyperbaric chamber access shall not exceed 6 hrs Level 2 Hyperbaric chamber access shall not exceed 2 hrs for dives equivalent to level 1 or between levels 1 and 2

TABLE A3a REPETITIVE FACTORS

S.I. in h:min R.G. 0:15-0:29 0:30-0:59 1:00-1:29 1:30-1:59 2:00-2:59 3:00-3:59 4:00-5:59 6:00-8:59 9:00-11:59 12:00-18:00

A 1.4 1.2 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1 1 B 1.5 1.3 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1 C 1.6 1.4 1.3 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.1 1.1 1.1 1 D 1.8 1.5 1.4 1.3 1.3 1.2 1.2 1.1 1.1 1 E 1.9 1.6 1.5 1.4 1.3 1.3 1.2 1.2 1.1 1.1 F 2 1.7 1.6 1.5 1.4 1.3 1.3 1.2 1.1 1.1 G 1.9 1.7 1.6 1.5 1.4 1.3 1.2 1.1 1.1 H 1.9 1.7 1.6 1.5 1.4 1.3 1.1 1.1 I 2 1.8 1.7 1.5 1.4 1.3 1.1 1.1 J 1.9 1.8 1.6 1.5 1.3 1.2 1.1

TABLE A3b LIMITS FOR REPETITIVE DIVES Maximum allowable bottom time in minutes - (Level 1 access to chamber)

R.F. Depth (ft) 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 1.9 2

6m (20) 215 200 184 171 160 150 141 133 126 120 9m (30) 115 105 100 92 86 81 76 72 68 65

12m (40) 60 55 52 50 46 43 41 38 36 35 15m (50) 54 50 46 42 40 37 35 33 31 30 18m (60) 35 30 30 28 26 24 23 22 21 20 21m (70) 20 20 19 17 16 15 14 13 13 12 24m (80) 13 12 11 10 10 9 8 8 7 7 27m (90) 10 9 8 7 7 6 6 5 5 5

30m (100) 7 6 6 5 5 5 4 4 4 4

Note: To find the new RG after repetitive dive, multiply BT x RF to get Effective Bottom Time and re-enter Table A2 using EBT and depth. The RG for a repetitive dive must be greater that the RG of the proceeding dive if the surface interval between the dives is less than 6 hours.

| APPENDIX 9 - FIRST AID EQUIPMENT FOR DIVING OPERATIONS 74

25 APPENDIX 9 - FIRST AID EQUIPMENT FOR DIVING OPERATIONS First aid provisions for diving operations shall allow for the treatment of specific conditions or injuries that can result from diving or exposure to the marine environment. General Equipment • A method of providing protection or shelter for the environment, eg blankets, towels, dry cloths, etc. • Drinking water available for the prevention dehydration and the management of decompression illness. • Vinegar for the treatment of chirodropid stings, 2 litres minimum. • Phone card or coins if required. • Note pad and pencil.

Oxygen Equipment At all dive locations there shall be access to adequate supplies of oxygen and suitable equipment for its administration. First Aid Kit Suggested contents of first aid kit. As the distance from medical assistance increases so may the contents of the kit need to increase. • adhesive strips (assorted sizes) • non-allergenic adhesive tape(eg 5m * 2.5cm) • eye pads (eg 5 single packs) • triangular bandage (eg 2) • hospital crepe or conforming bandages (various sizes) • heavy smooth crepe roller bandages (eg 6 * 7.5cm) • wound/combine dressings (assorted sizes) • non-adhesive dressings (assorted sizes) • safety pins • scissors • kidney dish • gauze squares(eg 2 packets) • forceps • disposable latex or vinyl gloves (eg 10) • sharps disposal container • sterile saline/water (eg 250ml bottle or 30ml single use ampoules) • resuscitation mask • antiseptic solution (eg savlon solution) • antibiotic ointment (eg Betadine swabs) • soft brush for cleaning wounds • first aid manual • diving first aid manual

Items which may be useful in the first aid kit • sunscreen • ear drops

Items which may be useful but not to be administered by the first aider • analgesics (paracetamol, aspirin, etc)

| APPENDIX 10 - RISK ASSESSMENTS FOR JCU DIVING OPERATIONS 75

26 APPENDIX 10 - RISK ASSESSMENTS FOR JCU DIVING OPERATIONS

JCU Health, Safety & Environment Policy INTENT James Cook University recognises its obligation, as far as reasonably practicable, to provide a healthy and safe environment for all individuals who are impacted by its activities and is committed to:

implementing a governance framework that delivers compliance with all health, safety and environment legislation, management systems, standards and other relevant regulatory requirements; defining and describing its health, safety and environment expectations, accountabilities, responsibilities, obligations and duties; establishing measurable objectives, targets and outcomes to ensure continued improvement aimed at the elimination and reduction of work-related hazards, risks, injury and illness; a positive culture of reporting hazards, incidents, injuries and providing early intervention; and providing a sustainable work environment free from injury and illness throughout its infrastructure and across all activities.

SCOPE Health, Safety and Environment applies to all:

individuals, which includes Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Officers, supervisors and managers, staff, students, volunteers, contractors, suppliers, occupants, visitors, community, the public and Controlled Entities as a minimum standard; and conduct, work, study, research, interaction or any other activities that are under the management, control, influence or participation with James Cook University and its stakeholders, both on and off-site.

POLICY James Cook University will engage with the University community by providing:

a Health, Safety and Environment Management System, that comprises of standards, procedures, processes and guidelines delivered via training, instruction and supervision designed to eliminate or minimize the risk of work related injury or illness; Health, Safety and Environment Officers with the knowledge and tools required to actively undertake positive steps towards demonstrating due diligence within their areas of influence and control; details of its health, safety and environment expectations within employee position descriptions and professional development plans; a Committee structure comprising of internal stakeholders and Health & Safety Representatives to facilitate the effective communication, consultation and co-ordination of health, safety and environment matters;

appropriate resources to allow individuals to carry out health, safety and environment functions; maintained facilities and environments in which individuals carry out James Cook University work, study or research; and a workplace rehabilitation system designed to encourage and assist ill and injured employees to safely remain at work providing they are able to undertake the inherent requirements of their position, or to provide suitable alternative opportunities to return to work while recovering from an injury or illness.


Identification of Risk and Assessment A risk assessment must be undertaken for all work conducted from a boat, including the operation of the boat itself.

Every foreseeable activity associated with the operation of The RV James Kirby should be subject to a risk assessment. Typically, the James Kirby Management is responsible for preparing a risk assessment for the general operation the vessel. Users of the vessel are then responsible for completing risk assessments of the specific activities that they undertake when on the vessel. Risk assessments for diving operations conducted in association with vessel operations should also be coordinated with the Boating and Diving Office.

It is not necessary to complete a new risk assessment every time an activity is performed. However, the risk assessment should be consulted to ensure that it addresses relevant hazards and participants are familiar with the potential risks and controls. Further, if a hazard is identified or the activity is modified the risk assessment should be reviewed and updated if necessary. If a new activity is to be undertaken, it should be added to the risk assessment.

If a person identifies a risk that is not covered by a risk assessment the field work leader should follow guidelines to assess the hazard and notify Master of the RV James Kirby and the Boating & Diving Officer of any changes. The Vessel Master and the Boating & Diving Officer will then confirm changes to the risk assessment if valid or notify of recommended improvements.


Marine – Risk Management Model

All groups are required to submit a Risk Management Plan when submitting operations requiring in-water activities.

The Officer in charge must ensure in-water activities are conducted safely at all times. A safe working environment must be achieved to maintain this safety level. Workplace health and safety must be assured by: -

• identifying hazards. • assessing risks which may result because of hazards. • deciding on control measures to prevent or minimise risk levels. • implementing control measures. • monitor and reviewing the effectiveness of the control measures. A simple model for risk management is: -

• identify the risk. • analyse the risk. • evaluate the risk. • treat the risk. • monitor and review. • communicate and consult. • implement training as required.

Com

mun

icat

e &

Con

sult

Identify Hazard

Identify risks

Analyse risks

Evaluate risks

Control / Treat risks

Mon

itor a

nd re

view

Training


The hierarchy of risk control The ways of controlling risks are ranked from the highest level of protection and reliability to the lowest as shown below. This ranking is known as the hierarchy of risk control. The WHS Regulations require duty holders to work through this hierarchy when managing risk under the WHS Regulations

Highest Most

Lev

el o

f hea

lth a

nd sa

fety

pro

tect

ion

Level 1

Eliminate the hazards

Reliability of control m

easures

Level 2

Substitute the hazard with something safer

Isolate the hazard from people

Reduce the risks through engineering controls

Level 3

Reduce exposure to the hazard using

administration actions

Use personal protective equipment

Lowest Least

You must always aim to eliminate a hazard, which is the most effective control. If this is not reasonably practicable, you must minimise the risk by working through the other alternatives in the hierarchy.

Level 1 control measures

The most effective control measure involves eliminating the hazard and associated risk. The best way to do this is by, firstly, not introducing the hazard into the workplace. For example, you can eliminate the risk of a fall from height by doing the work at ground level.

Eliminating hazards is often cheaper and more practical to achieve at the design or planning stage of a product, process or place used for work. In these early phases, there is greater scope to design out hazards or incorporate risk control measures that are compatible with the original design and functional requirements. For example, a noisy machine could be designed and built to produce as little noise as possible, which is more effective than providing workers with personal hearing protectors.

You can also eliminate risks by removing the hazard completely, for example, by removing trip hazards on the floor or disposing of unwanted chemicals.


It may not be possible to eliminate a hazard if doing so means that you cannot make the end product or deliver the service. If you cannot eliminate the hazard, then eliminate as many of the risks associated with the hazard as possible.


If it is not reasonably practicable to eliminate the hazards and associated risks, you should minimise the risks using one or more of the following approaches:

Substitute the hazard with something safer

For instance, replace solvent-based paints with water-based ones.

Isolate the hazard from people

This involves physically separating the source of harm from people by distance or using barriers. For instance, install guard rails around exposed edges and holes in floors; use remote control systems to operate machinery; store chemicals in a fume cabinet.

Use engineering controls

An engineering control is a control measure that is physical in nature, including a mechanical device or process. For instance, use mechanical devices such as trolleys or hoists to move heavy loads; place guards around moving parts of machinery; install residual current devices (electrical safety switches); set work rates on a production line to reduce fatigue.


These control measures do not control the hazard at the source. They rely on human behaviour and supervision, and used on their own, tend to be least effective in minimising risks. Two approaches to reduce risk in this way are:

Use administrative controls

Administrative controls are work methods or procedures that are designed to minimise exposure to a hazard. For instance, develop procedures on how to operate machinery safely, limit exposure time to a hazardous task, use signs to warn people of a hazard.

Use personal protective equipment (PPE)

Examples of PPE include ear muffs, respirators, face masks, hard hats, gloves, aprons and protective eyewear. PPE limits exposure to the harmful effects of a hazard but only if workers wear and use the PPE correctly.

Administrative controls and PPE should only be used: • when there are no other practical control measures available (as a last resort) • as an interim measure until a more effective way of controlling the risk can be used • to supplement higher level control measures (as a back-up).


Risk Matrix ... how to fill it in?

Consequence

Near hit, no injury. No $ lost or damage

First Aid treatment required for a minor injury Property damaged but can still operate

Medical treatment OR lost time injury. Property damaged but can be fixed immediately

Serious injury requiring admission to hospital OR permanent disabling injury. Notifiable to regulatory Authority. Equipment damaged

Fatality, maximum high level headline exposure and loss of credibility. Equipment damaged/destroyed

Likelihood Insignificant Minor Moderate Major Severe It is expected to occur in most circumstances e.g. Daily

Almost certain

Medium High Extreme Extreme Extreme

Will probably occur in most circumstances. e.g. weekly

Likely

Medium Medium High Extreme Extreme

Might occur at some time e.g. Annually

Possible

Low Medium Medium High Extreme

Probably won’t, but could occur at some time. e.g. once every 5 years

Unlikely Low Medium Medium Medium High

May occur in exceptional circumstances. e.g. Once every 10 years

Rare Low Low Low Medium Medium

WH&S risks can be placed in one of four risk rating categories: extreme, high, medium and low.

Extreme Dangerous level of risk which is required to be controlled immediately. Access and exposure to the hazard should be restricted until the risk can be lowered to an acceptable level.

High Unacceptable level of risk which must be controlled immediately. Control measures would involve designing out the source of the risk from the task or activity.

Medium An acceptable level of risk. Low cost control measures (such as provision of information and training) should be undertaken to control these types of risks. If these controls already exist and are deemed to be effective, no further investment is necessary.

Low These risks are considered acceptable. Accordingly, no further action is necessary. However, if there are controls which can be initiated that are easy and inexpensive they can still be administered.

CONSEQUENCE

What should you do?


1. Analyse your overall project and break it down into the individual steps that make up the overall experiment.

2. List in the following table the hazards you have identified that are associated with each particular step of your experimental activities.

3. Briefly describe in the table below the risks associated with each hazard that you have identified. 4. Using the Risk Matrix above, assess and record in the table below the risk presented by that hazard. 5. Address risks with the highest level first. 6. Develop and describe what Control Measures are to be used to minimize the risk and re-evaluate the

risk level. 7. Extreme and High risks ARE NOT acceptable.

CONTROL MEASURES

• ELIMINATE the hazard – e.g. removing trip hazards from the floor. • SUBSTITUTE something with a lesser risk – e.g. replace solvent based paints with water based ones.

• ISOLATE the hazard – e.g. install guard rails around exposed edges and holes in floors. • ENGINEERING CONTROLS – e.g. use of trolley or hoist. • ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROLS – e.g. use signs to warn people of a hazard. • PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) – e.g. ear muffs, respirators, face masks, hard hats,

gloves, aprons and protective eyewear. Sometimes a combination of controls will be necessary.

Examples of risk assessments are located in RiskWare.

Scientific scuba diving work risk assessment reference number: 4479

And

Snorkeling and freediving work risk assessment reference number: 4484

| APPENDIX 11 - Principal Dive Supervisor Responsibilities 82

27 APPENDIX 11 - Principal Dive Supervisor Responsibilities The overall and specific responsibilities of a Principal Dive Supervisor include at least the following:

On Appointment • Ensuring they have a working familiarity with the Queensland Diving Code of Practice, the Australian

Standard AS/NZS 2299.2:2002 for Scientific Diving, and any other relevant JCU policies and procedures; • Ensuring they have a comprehensive knowledge of the workings of the DCIEM decompression tables, and

any other decompression tables that may be approved for use from time to time; • Completing and forwarding a copy of a JCU Principal Dive Supervisor Induction Statement of

Understanding to the UDO.

Pre Dive • Ensuring that the diving operation, Risk Assessment, and all dive sites have been registered with and

approved by the UDO; • Ensuring suitable measures to control any identified risks have been determined, and ensuring that any

individual delegated as responsible for implementing these is capable of doing so, and does them; • Including in the Risk Assessment an Emergency Evacuation Plan, detailing intended procedures for

transporting divers to the nearest usable and available recompression facility, and including a realistic estimate of the time necessary for this in the event of an accident (such time is to be taken as the time from when the diver leaves the water to the commencement of his/her recompression in the chamber);

• Ensuring all divers on the dive team are listed as current on the JCU Diver Register • Communicating all identified issues from the Risk Assessment to all divers on the dive team; • Ensuring that a Dive Approval has been completed AND APPROVED by the UDO, for the diving operation,

prior to departure for the trip. A Dive Approval must be completed and approved for every diving trip. • Notifying a Nominated Contact of details of the diving operation and ensuring the Nominated Contact is

aware of their responsibilities in the event personnel from the trip do not report by the designated time; • Conducting a pre trip briefing with the Master of any mother ship being used for a JCU diving operation,

before the ship leaves port, detailing the diving activities to be undertaken; • Ensuring that all required diving and safety equipment is in good working order, has been packed (including

adequate oxygen supplies), and is transported to the dive site; • Determining whether or not travel after the dive will exceed an altitude threshold, and ensuring that the

correct delay before travelling after diving is observed taking into account the type of diving done, and risk factors that may require an extension to the delay period;

• Restricting or suspending any operation considered unsafe, whilst in the field, with particular attention to weather forecasts and prevailing conditions;

• Ensuring there are adequate means of communication at every dive site in case of emergency; • Conducting a pre-dive briefing (see Appendix2) in the presence of the entire Dive Team (including Diver’s

Attendants, Boat Handlers and Divers) and discussing all necessary control measures with the Dive Team, in particular where any dive operation contains one or more of the high risk factors listed in various sections and appendices of this Diving Procedures Manual;

• Ensuring every diver is fully aware of their particular tasks for the dive, including knowing which other divers that they are to act as a buddy for;

• Assessing the fitness of all team divers on site immediately before the dive, and vetoing any dive as required, where there is some uncertainty that a diver could safely complete it;

• Nominating a Dive Leader to control the underwater part of the diving operation for each dive team, where there are multiple teams or when the Principal Dive Supervisor is staying at the surface during the dive;

• Delegating full responsibility for monitoring the diving operation, including diver recall and diver safety, to the Diver’s Attendant, in the event that the Principal Dive Supervisor intends to dive;

• Ensuring all divers conduct a pre-dive equipment check of their own and other diver’s equipment, including, for any diver wearing ‘bailout’ equipment, performance of a ‘bailout’ contents check (with details to be recorded by Diver’s Attendant) & a bailout activation drill;

• Ensuring all required pre-dive information is accurately recorded on the Dive Record Form; • Ensuring all divers are aware of their current nitrogen loading status before entering the water, as well as

of the permitted maximum bottom time for the intended maximum dive depth as well as the next deepest depth group on the decompression tables;

• Ensuring that a properly qualified and capable Dive Leader is in charge of the ‘in water’ conduct of the dive, including dive termination in the event of unforseen circumstances that may reduce diver safety.

| APPENDIX 11 - Principal Dive Supervisor Responsibilities 83

During Dive • Ensuring a qualified and capable Diver’s Attendant is present at the surface during every dive, unless

otherwise approved; • Ensuring that the dive is conducted according to the Dive Plan, and within the no-decompression limits of

the decompression table approved for the dive; • Ensuring all dive details for dives conducted on the trip are recorded by a Diver’s Attendant on a JCU Dive

Record Form (see Form 8) DURING the dive, listing requested details of that dive;

Post Dive • Ensuring no divers have exceeded permissible bottom times, or experienced any risk factors during the

dive that could decrease the safety of their dive; • Ensuring all divers are well after the dive, and not suffering any signs or symptoms of illness; • Conducting a post-dive debrief with all divers to discuss issues arising before, during or after the dive,

including notifying every diver of their current nitrogen loading status; • Ensuring all equipment is cleaned/flushed with fresh water at the end of each working day; • Ensuring any defective equipment is tagged OUT OF SERVICE to prevent further use, and is reported to

the UDO or a SDO as soon as possible. Equipment known to be faulty in any way must not be used for any JCU diving operation, and shall be sent for repair immediately on return from the field trip;

• Ensuring all Dive Record Forms are fully and accurately completed, with regard to the dives listed thereon, including signing off on each form themselves and requiring each diver listed on each Dive Record Form to sign off on that form, attesting that the information is a true and accurate record of their dive/s;

• Checking in with the Nominated Contact by the designated time each day, as arranged; • Notifying the UDO as soon as possible of any injury that occurs to a member of the Dive Team (particularly

if diving-related), and fully completing a JCU Accident/Incident Report.

Post Trip • Ensuring the Nominated Contact is notified of the safe return of the dive team in a timely manner; • Ensuring on completion of the diving operation that all required Post Dive details, including all data from

each Dive Record Form fully completed and signed, are submitted to the UDO within 14 days or before their next trip whichever comes first;

• Ensuring defective equipment is sent for repair, and notifying the UDO of the problem; • Providing the UDO with a report of any incident resulting in accident or injury (or a near miss).

| APPENDIX 12 - DIVER RESPONSIBILITIES 84

28 APPENDIX 12 - DIVER RESPONSIBILITIES GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES All individuals seeking to participate in diving activities with JCU must:

• Apply to the University Diving Officer for listing on the JCU Diver Register, using the JCU Diver Registration Form;

• Undertake an induction with the UDO or delegate, including at least the items listed on the JCU Diver Register Assessment Form at Appendix 1;

• Comply with the directions of the UDO and any JCU Principal Dive Supervisors; • Read, understand and agree to comply with the most recent version of the JCU Diving Procedures Manual; • Submit certificates and up to date information as required, including new qualifications, dive medicals,

oxygen resuscitation and first aid certificates; • Submit current service records for diving equipment used for JCU diving operations; • Read, understand and comply with the requirements of any approved JCU dive plans, Risk Assessments

and Emergency Response Plans for all work they undertake, and introduce no deviation from those plans (NB. actions to ensure the wellbeing of the diver or others are exempted);

• Maintain an accurate and permanent record of all JCU dives in their Dive Logbook; • Be approved for the level of diving they wish to undertake; • Maintain a high level of knowledge and competence with regard to their responsibilities, the type/s of diving

they undertake, and the diving equipment in use; • Maintain a level of physical fitness commensurate with the type of diving operation/s in which they are likely

to be involved whilst working with JCU. As a MINIMUM, all JCU divers should ensure they are able to meet the requirements of the swim and practical tests at Appendix 1.

If the individual is a volunteer, the following must also be completed: • A Volunteer Acknowledgment of Induction; • A comprehensive diving induction with the JCU Diving Officer or their delegate.

SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES All JCU divers must:

• Be able to maintain their own safety and lend assistance to others within the limits of their training. Divers have a responsibility to be familiar with, and abide by, safe diving practices at all times, so as not to compromise their own safety or the safety of others;

• Ensure they are medically, mentally and physically fit for each dive; • Inform the UDO or their Principal Dive Supervisor if they feel they do not have the required level of training,

expertise or confidence to perform any diving operation; • Be present at all dive briefings relating to diving operations with which they are associated; • Only use equipment if they are qualified/competent and comfortable with its use; • Check all dive equipment prior to use, not dive with any faulty equipment and report all faults to the Principal

Dive Supervisor and/or UDO; • Take responsibility for proper handling, care and maintenance of equipment issued to them; • Adhere to the buddy system when diving, maintaining contact with assigned buddy/s, monitoring their own

air supply, and informing their buddy at regular intervals of air supply status; • Identify hazards and risks, and act to avoid these, or inform the Principal Dive Supervisor; • Surface from a dive with no less than 30 Bar of air remaining in their cylinder; and • Notify the Principal Dive Supervisor as soon as possible of any incident or accident that occurs to them or

a buddy.

| APPENDIX 13 - SAMPLE DIVE PROTOCOL 85

29 APPENDIX 13 - SAMPLE DIVE PROTOCOL Participation in any dive activity is at the discretion of the senior staff member and/or Dive Safety Officer. Non-compliance with any rule or instruction will automatically lead to the person(s) concerned being excluded from further diving activities. 1. No alcohol or other intoxicants is to be consumed less than 12 hours prior to diving. Excessive consumption at

any time will result in the person being withdrawn from all diving. 2. Students will only dive in the assigned teams. 3. Each scuba dive team will be marked by a buoy and all team members will remain in visual contact with all other

members at all times. If visual contact is lost then diver(s) must surface and the team reform. 4. Dives are restricted to a depth of less than 9 metres and a maximum time of 1 hour. 5. Normal assent rates are to be slow, less than 9metres per min is recommended. 6. There will be no diving or snorkelling at night. 7. Adverse weather or water conditions will be avoided and may result in the cancellation or termination of a dive. 8. No dive team will leave the assigned area or location during the course of the dive. Entering caves, tunnels or

crevasses is not permitted. 9. It is the responsibility of each diver to ensure that their “Time In”, “Time Out” and “Depth” is recorded. 10. Each diver or snorkeller is required to sign the Record of Dive Form immediately prior to their departure from

the dive site. 11. Diving is not obligatory. Any diver may withdraw from any or all diving activities due to sickness, injury etc. If a

diver needs to terminate a dive early, the entire team must return to the boat for re-allocation. 12. All divers/snorkellers are required to wear a wetsuit or other body covering so that arms, legs and body are

protected. In addition all divers are required to wear a buoyancy compensator, regulator, depth and contents gauges all in current service and also some form of underwater timing device.

13. Snorkelling from the beach in Pioneer Bay is permitted under the following conditions:

a. Snorkelling occurs in teams of at least two persons. b. All snorkellers remain to the south (left) of the water pipe. c. All members will sign in and out in a snorkelling book in the compressor shed. d. All team inform one of the compressor operators of snorkelling details prior to

entering the water. The compressor person becomes the shore person (third diver) for the duration of the snorkel.

e. All snorkellers will be out of the water one hour before sunset.

| APPENDIX 14 - DIVING MEDICAL AS PER AS2299 86

30 APPENDIX 14 - DIVING MEDICAL AS PER AS2299 Introduction

The AS/NZS 2299.1 Supplement 1:2015 Occupational diving operations, AS/NZS 2299 diving medical examination forms are directed to the examination of occupational divers and those intending to undertake training for occupational diving. The medical examination shall be conducted by a medical practitioner with appropriate training and experience in occupational underwater medicine. At the time of publication of Australian Standard AS2299, training provided by the basic and advanced course conducted by the Royal Australian Navy School of Underwater Medicine, the two week course conducted by the Royal Adelaide Hospital Hyperbaric Medicine Unit, or equivalent were considered the minimum training. Diving is a physically taxing activity often conducted at remote locations. Candidates must therefore be physically and mentally robust. Since diving involves work under increased pressure and in a non-respirable environment specific medical standards are required. The medical examination shall be carried out before a diver first uses compressed gas under water and subsequently at intervals not exceeding 12 months. The record of examination shall be retained by the medical practitioner. A certificate of fitness, unfitness or temporary unfitness pending further examination shall be entered in the diver's logbook. The diver's logbook and the diver's employer should hold a record of date, certification of fitness to dive, and the name and address of the doctor who performed that examination. The examining medical practitioner should be satisfied as to the identity of the diver presenting for examination. Diving restrictions

Although medical examination will usually result in a finding of fitness or unfitness for all diving activities - a) the examining medical practitioner may, for reasons of age or other factors revealed by the

medical examination, elect to impose limitations as to the duration and depth to which a diver may dive or the length of validity of the certificate of fitness to dive; and

b) any such limitation must be clearly identified on the certificate of fitness to dive in the diver's logbook.

See AS/NZS 2299.1 Supplement 1:2015 for complete tests and forms.

| APPENDIX 15 - AAUS STATISTICS COLLECTION CRITERIA AND DEFINITIONS 87

31 APPENDIX 15 - AAUS STATISTICS COLLECTION CRITERIA AND DEFINITIONS

COLLECTION CRITERIA:

The "Dive Time in Minutes", The Number of Dives Logged", and the "Number of Divers Logging Dives" will be collected for the following categories.

• Dive Classification • Breathing Gas • Diving Mode • Decompression Planning and Calculation Method • Depth Ranges • Specialized Environments • Incident Types

Dive Time in Minutes is defined as the surface to surface time including any safety or required decompression stops.

A Dive is defined as a descent into water, an underwater diving activity utilizing compressed gas, an ascent/return to the surface, and a surface interval of greater than 10 minutes.

Dives will not be differentiated as openwater or confined water dives. But openwater and confined water dives will be logged and submitted for AAUS statistics classified as either scientific or training/proficiency.

A "Diver Logging a Dive" is defined as a person who is diving under the auspices of your scientific diving organization. Dives logged by divers from another AAUS Organization will be reported with the diver’s home organization. Only a diver who has actually logged a dive during the reporting period is counted under this category.

Incident(s) occurring during the collection cycle. Only incidents occurring during, or resulting from, a dive where the diver is breathing a compressed gas will be submitted to AAUS.

DEFINITIONS:

Dive Classification:

• Scientific Dives: Dives that meet the scientific diving exemption as defined in 29 CFR 1910.402. Diving tasks traditionally associated with a specific scientific discipline are considered a scientific dive. Construction and trouble-shooting tasks traditionally associated with commercial diving are not considered a scientific dive.

• Training and Proficiency Dives: Dives performed as part of a scientific diver training program, or dives performed in maintenance of a scientific diving certification/authorization.

Breathing Gas:

• Air: Dives where the bottom gas used for the dive is air. • Nitrox: Dives where the bottom gas used for the dive is a combination of nitrogen and oxygen

other than air. • Mixed Gas: Dives where the bottom gas used for the dive is a combination of oxygen, nitrogen,

and helium (or other "exotic" gas), or any other breathing gas combination not classified as air or nitrox.

Diving Mode:

• Open Circuit Scuba: Dives where the breathing gas is inhaled from a self contained underwater breathing apparatus and all of the exhaled gas leaves the breathing loop.

• Surface Supplied: Dives where the breathing gas is supplied from the surface by means of a pressurized umbilical hose. The umbilical generally consists of a gas supply hose, strength member, pneumofathometer hose, and communication line. The umbilical supplies a helmet or full-face mask. The diver may rely on the tender at the surface to keep up with the divers’ depth, time and diving profile.

• Hookah: While similar to Surface Supplied in that the breathing gas is supplied from the surface by means of a pressurized hose, the supply hose does not require a strength member, pneumofathometer hose, or communication line. Hookah equipment may be as simple as a long hose attached to a standard scuba cylinder supplying a standard scuba second stage. The diver is responsible for the monitoring his/her own depth, time, and diving profile.

• Rebreathers: Dives where the breathing gas is repeatedly recycled in the breathing loop. The breathing loop may be fully closed or semi-closed. Note: A rebreather dive ending in an open circuit bailout is still logged as a rebreather dive.

Decompression Planning and Calculation Method:

• Dive Tables


• Dive Computer • PC Based Decompression Software

Depth Ranges:

Depth ranges for sorting logged dives are 0-30, 31-60, 61-100, 101-130, 131-150, 151-190, and 191->. Depths are in feet seawater. A dive is logged to the maximum depth reached during the dive. Note: Only "The Number of Dives Logged" and "The Number of Divers Logging Dives" will be collected for this category.

Specialized Environments:

• Required Decompression: Any dive where the diver exceeds the no-decompression limit of the decompression planning method being employed.

• Overhead Environments: Any dive where the diver does not have direct access to the surface due to a physical obstruction.

• Blue Water Diving: Openwater diving where the bottom is generally greater than 200 feet deep and requiring the use of multiple-tethered diving techniques.

• Ice and Polar Diving: Any dive conducted under ice or in polar conditions. Note: An Ice Dive would also be classified as an Overhead Environment dive.

• Saturation Diving: Excursion dives conducted as part of a saturation mission are to be logged by "classification", "mode", "gas", etc. The "surface" for these excursions is defined as leaving and surfacing within the Habitat. Time spent within the Habitat or chamber shall not be logged by AAUS.

• Aquarium: An aquarium is a shallow, confined body of water, which is operated by or under the control of an institution and is used for the purposes of specimen exhibit, education, husbandry, or research. (Not a swimming pool)

Incident Types:

• Hyperbaric: Decompression Sickness, AGE, or other barotrauma requiring recompression therapy.

• Barotrauma: Barotrauma requiring medical attention from a physician or medical facility, but not requiring recompression therapy.

• Injury: Any non-barotrauma injury occurring during a dive that requires medical attention from a physician or medical facility.

• Illness: Any illness requiring medical attention that can be attributed to diving. • Near Drowning/ Hypoxia: An incident where a person asphyxiates to the minimum point of

unconsciousness during a dive involving a compressed gas. But the person recovers. • Hyperoxic/Oxygen Toxicity: An incident that can be attributed to the diver being exposed to too

high a partial pressure of oxygen. • Hypercapnea: An incident that can be attributed to the diver being exposed to an excess of carbon

dioxide. • Fatality: Any death accruing during a dive or resulting from the diving exposure. • Other: An incident that does not fit one of the listed incident types

Incident Classification Rating Scale:

• Minor: Injuries that the OM considers being minor in nature. Examples of this classification of incident would include, but not be limited to: • Mask squeeze that produced discoloration of the eyes. • Lacerations requiring medical attention but not involving moderate or severe bleeding. • Other injuries that would not be expected to produce long term adverse effects on the

diver’s health or diving status. • Moderate: Injuries that the OM considers being moderate in nature. Examples of this classification

would include, but not be limited to: • DCS symptoms that resolved with the administration of oxygen, hyperbaric treatment

given as a precaution. • DCS symptoms resolved with the first hyperbaric treatment. • Broken bones. • Torn ligaments or cartilage. • Concussion. • Ear barotrauma requiring surgical repair.

• Serious: Injuries that the OM considers being serious in nature. Examples of this classification would include, but not be limited to:

• Arterial Gas Embolism. • DCS symptoms requiring multiple hyperbaric treatments. • Near drowning. • Oxygen Toxicity. • Hypercapnea. • Spinal injuries.


• Heart attack. • Fatality

.

| APPENDIX 16 – OIRS EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURE 90

32 APPENDIX 16 – OIRS EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURE

Introduction This procedure is to be followed for all emergency evacuations from the Orpheus Island Research Station (OIRS). This procedure has several options for evacuation, they are:

• Stay and treat the injured person • Evacuate to Lucinda by boat and transport to Ingham Hospital • Evacuate to Palm Island Hospital • Evacuate to Orpheus Island Resort by boat & transfer for Helicopter evacuation

Severity of the injury and tide height determine the evacuation process. This procedure will detail all relevant information and processes for each evacuation option.

Relevant Information OIRS Tidal Considerations

OIRS Vessel Minimum Tide Height for Access to OIRS Beach

Minimum Tide Height for Access to Lucinda

Challenger IV 2.3m 1.8m Inge 2.1m 1.8m Research Dinghy 1.8m N/A Southwind 1.8m 1.3m Pioneer I (Barge) 1.9m 1.3m

NOTE: Evacuation to access Lucinda public jetty and/or all-tide boat ramp is approximately 45 minutes of vessel travelling time from OIRS. Medical Contacts Royal Flying Doctors Service - Doctor 24 Hours (07) 4040 0500 Orpheus Island Resort (07) 4777 7377 Ingham Ambulance – non Urgent Calls (07) 4776 5133 Palm Island Ambulance – non Urgent Calls (07) 4770 1478 The Townsville General Hospital (07) 4796 1111 Ingham Hospital (07) 4776 2000 Palm Island Hospital (07) 4752 5100 Palm Island Police Station (07) 4770 1120 Halifax Police Station (07) 4777 7200 Ingham Police Station (07) 4776 5500 Diver Emergency Service (DAN) 1-800-088-200 Qld Rescue (07) 4775 7711


Emergency Evacuation Procedure Step 1: Non-Diving Injury Management

• Move casualty to OIRS first aid room in Manager’s House • Administer First Aid as required • Ascertain severity of the injury • Determine the mobility of the injured person • Contact emergency services for evacuation if necessary. • Begin filling out the R.F.D.S Medical Assistance Request Form.

Diving / Snorkelling Injury Management At the dive site;

• Conduct in-water rescue and retrieve person back to vessel (or shore if land-based). • Call by radio to Station and inform Staff of the situation. • Remove divers’ equipment and conduct primary assessment and administer first aid and

oxygen. • Transit back to Station (or communicate with Staff for alternative transit plan) • Maintain contact with Station for transfer of information, who will then contact emergency

services and relay advice, if the Master is administering first aid, allocate another person to stand by radio and pass on information.

Advise on suspected injury giving information on first aid administered and dive statistics e.g.

How did the accident happen Maximum dive time and depths How many dives for day and surface intervals Conditions, including weather, temperature, currents, water conditions Position

• Record details of all of above, and send copy with casualty • DO NOT DIS-ASSEMBLE DIVE GEAR - leave as is • Record all details of gear, how much air left, condition, dive profiles, history and personal

medical information. Step 2: Non-Diving Injury (including snorkelling) - Contact R.F.D.S (Royal Flying Doctor Service)

• Contact details for the R.F.D.S is (07) 40 400 500 (medical chest code - #Q1227) • Give all relevant information to the R.F.D.S, such as:

Time of injury Type of injury Severity of injury First Aid administered Allergies and current medication Mobility of casualty Secondary survey results and trends Obtain instruction from Doctor on Duty.

SCUBA Diving Injury - Contact D.A.N. (Divers Alert Network)

• Contact details for the D.A.N. is 1800 088 200 • Give all relevant information to D.A.N, such as:

Time of injury Type of injury Severity of injury First Aid and oxegyn administered Allergies and current medication Mobility of casualty


Recent diving history Secondary survey results and trends Obtain instruction from Doctor on Duty.

Note:

• Challenger IV carries 2 x D-size oxygen cylinders @ 1600 lts each (3200lts of oxygen at a rate of 15 l/min gives 213 minutes of delivery). Extra oxygen will need to be taken for the transfer of a casualty, taking into account the conditions, speed of travel, and number of casualties.

• If a medivac is to be carried out, Staff will have to liaise with the emergency team via radio to determine the method of evacuation - air lift at sea or meet them on land (beach / port / boat ramp). This will greatly depend on conditions, and the severity of injury.

• If sea evacuation required, for the ease and comfort of casualty, go to the best calm spot on the reef, (as close to the edge and in a lagoon), consider rear anchor to avoid yawing if possible, roll back canopy and drop all antennas and anything else that may hinder cable drops, casualty will have to be evacuated from the rear of the vessel.

Step 3 – Tides

• Ascertain tide levels NOTE: Appendix 2 contains a tidal chart for further information.

Step 4 – Options for Tide being ‘out’ Stay and Treat

• For minor (or less severe) injuries it is feasible that the casualty could be safely treated on the island and wait until tides are suitable for evacuation to Lucinda (or Palm Island hospital depending sea and tide conditions).

• Contact Ingham hospital to arrange transport once back on the mainland. • Proceed to Step 6 for further instruction

Helicopter Evacuation NOTE: From ‘low water’ to approximately 1.1m tidal height a rescue helicopter might be able to land on the northern end of the beach. Any tidal height over 1.1m - rescue will need to be via basket lift.

• Follow instructions given by R.F.D.S. • One OIRS Staff shall assemble all non-essential OIRS staff and visitors to the southern end of

the station away from expected activity in preparation of the arrival of the helicopter. • If necessary and if instructed to do so by the R.F.D.S. secure the casualty to spinal board. • Maintain contact with incoming helicopter operator for location to land on the beach along

with any other information they request, such as: Weather conditions Mobility of casualty Location of casualty Follow instructions given by operators of helicopter. Proceed to Step 6 for further instruction

Step 5 – Options for tide being ‘in’ Stay and Treat

• If the casualty’s injuries are such that it is not recommended to move the casualty, it is possible to treat the casualty at OIRS.

• Follow instructions given by R.F.D.S. • Proceed to Step 6 for further instruction.

Vessel Evacuation NOTE: Boat to boat transfer should only be considered as a last resort. Casualty transfer from boat to boat will only be done if the person in control of the evacuation deems it feasible taking into consideration casualty mobility, injury severity and weather conditions.


Evacuation site options: Lucinda (preferred option if tide is 1.3m or higher, use public jetty)

• Casualty transfers to Lucinda in Challenger IV, which is the most comfortable and fastest vessel, takes approximately 45 minutes travelling time from OIRS

• Notify emergency services to give them adequate time to get to Lucinda. • Follow instructions given by emergency services once at Lucinda. • Proceed to Step 6 for further instruction.

Orpheus Island Resort Additional Information for Orpheus Island Resort

• Contact: (07) 4777 7377 (also contactable on VHF Radio Channel 16) • Fully functional Heli-pad available • All tidal access for all vessels into resort • Jetty for vessel tie-up and casualty delivery • Approx. 5-10 minutes to carry casualty from resort jetty (OIRS transfer vessel) to helicopter

pad (pending on injury and treatment) • No on-site nurses/doctors at OIRS resort. All personnel trained in First Aid. • Proceed to Step 6 for further instruction.

Palm Island Hospital Additional Information for Orpheus Island

• Contact details for Palm Island: Palm Island Hospital (07) 4752 5100 Palm Island Ambulance – non urgent calls (07) 4770 1478 Palm Island Police Station (07) 4770 1120

• Palm Island Hospital has very limited medical facilities • Only capable of treating very minor injuries such as minor lacerations, broken bones, minor

illnesses • Very limited X-ray facilities – cannot do spinal scans – all suspected spinal injuries to go

straight to Townsville General Hospital (TGH) • All suspected SCUBA diving injuries to go straight to TGH (not able to do cat-scans etc. to

assess nitrogen bubbles in brain) • Basic ventilation facilities – can keep someone resuscitated until evacuation to TGH • Palm Island Hospital Staffing:

o 1 permanent Doctor on Staff, several nursing staff (number varies) • Full-time ambulance officer and ambulance available for ferrying from Palm Island Jetty to

Hospital. Note Hospital is located approximately 250m from Jetty. • Proceed to Step 6 for further instruction.

Step 6 – Post Evacuation Procedure

• Preservation of accident scene: o The accident scene, within reason, must be preserved so that an internal

investigation can take place. The preservation of the accident scene could also benefit external interests, eg. Police, Division of WH&S.

o Photograph the accident scene as fully as possible, vital if unable to preserve the scene.

• Documentation: o Complete OIRS accident report, including witness statements o Complete JCU online incident report (Riskware)

• Notification: o Immediate notification of OIRS Director – Andrew Krockenberger (0429699803) o Notification to the Division of WH&S may to need occur. Instruction will be given on

how to preserve the accident scene and any other additional documentation required.


o Preparations may need to be made to inform casualty’s Next of Kin and media control may also need to be arranged.

• Debrief and counselling in event of major incident: o When appropriate, organise debrief and counselling session for parties involved in

incident

| APPENDIX 17 – SNORKELLING STANDARD (LARGE GROUPS) 95

33 APPENDIX 17 – SNORKELLING STANDARD (LARGE

GROUPS) Scope

This document relates to authorised JCU snorkeling activities involving groups (refer to Scientific Diving Operations Manual for small research teams), and the supervision of those activities.

Snorkeling activities of this nature would typically include;

• JCU undergraduate and post-graduate classes on field trips (operating at OIRS or other locations)

• external organizations and secondary school groups based at OIRS • other special interest groups or functions based at OIRS

This standard applies to all snorkelling activities (ie. recreational, research, teaching), regardless of the purpose or time, conducted from JCU owned / hired / chartered boats or during an approved field trip, and must be authorised prior to commencement through the Riskware Field Trip Module and My Register.

Objectives

• To ensure compliance with Work Health & Safety Regulations and industry Codes of Practice.

• To apply current best practice to eliminate or minimise risk in the workplace. • To adopt a uniform approach across JCU sites and activities.

Policy

Fitness for Snorkelers Snorkelling in open waters can be physically demanding and require a reasonable degree of physical stamina, mental focus and skill, especially when environmental conditions are less than ideal.

• Fitness for snorkelling means that an individual is in a state (medically, physically and psychologically) to perform work tasks assigned to them competently and in a manner which does not compromise the safety or health of themselves or others.

• An individual's fitness for work may be impaired by a variety of factors including level of medical and physical fitness, fatigue, psychological factors or impairment due to alcohol and drugs (including prescription, non-prescription and illicit drugs).

• All persons engaged in field work shall be fit for work and ensure any illness, injury or impairment is reported to the Trip Leader and Snorkelling Supervisor before the commencement of any activity.

• All persons intending to snorkel must, as a minimum, complete the Snorkelling & Swimming Health Declaration. (Appendix 1)

• All snorkelers will be asked by the Snorkelling Supervisor to confirm if they are fully fit to snorkel pre-dive as part of the Pre-dive Risk Checklist. (Appendix 3)

Other All James Cook University Policies can be found at: https://www.jcu.edu.au/policy

Field Trip Review and Approval

https://www.jcu.edu.au/policy


For JCU research and teaching snorkelling activities

• The Field Trip Leader must lodge a field trip activity proposal through the Riskware Field Trip Module and My Register.

• The Field Trip Leader must demonstrate a thorough understanding of the risk assessments and/or procedures which have been developed to eliminate or minimise the risks associated with the trip.

• The Field Trip Leader must ensure that all participants intending to snorkel have completed the Snorkelling Health Declaration as part of the field trip proposal.

• Field trips must be reviewed and approved in the Riskware Field Trip Module and My Register by authorised persons prior to the commencement of the trip.

For external groups (non-JCU) based at OIRS

At the time of confirming a booking; • A field trip activity plan should be provided to the OIRS Manager. • Any procedures and/or risk assessments which the external organisation has developed

to manage risk for the activities should also be provided. • If possible, all participants intending to snorkel should completed the Snorkelling Health

Declaration in advance, and forward to the OIRS Manager (or otherwise this must be done before any in-water activity commences).

• Field trips must be reviewed and approved by the BDO and OIRS Manager in My Register prior to the commencement of the trip.

For detailed information, see Field Trip Procedure (HSE-PRO-007) at; https://www.jcu.edu.au/work-health-and-safety/index

https://www.jcu.edu.au/work-health-and-safety/index

https://www.jcu.edu.au/work-health-and-safety/index


Personnel

Roles and Responsibilities Boating & Diving Officer (BDO) The Boating & Diving Officer oversees boating, diving and snorkelling activities undertaken by staff, students and/or by individuals conducting such activities at JCU facilities or research stations. The BDO shall;

• Review and approve risk assessments, boating, diving and fieldwork plans in accordance with legislative requirements and JCU policies and procedures.

• Ensure all snorkelers and boat operators are appropriately trained, qualified and competent to perform the intended tasks.

• Ensure all record keeping and relevant information is entered and kept up to date in the JCU Register.

• Appoint an appropriately qualified and competent person as the Snorkelling Supervisor. • Ensure, through monitoring and oversight, that snorkelling activities are being conducted

in a safe and compliant manner. OIRS Manager The Manager is responsible for the day to day operations of OIRS, including liaising extensively with JCU staff and students, visitors and other stakeholders. The OIRS Manager shall;

• Develop and implement compliant WHS procedures for the station’s activities including boating, diving and snorkelling.

• Liaise with station users and provide information to facilitate and plan their visit. • Enable and support research and education activities on the station by ensuring the

provision of fit-for-purpose infrastructure and logistical support. • Appoint appropriately qualified and experienced persons as OIRS Boating & Diving

Officers. • Ensure risk assessments and operating and emergency procedures are developed,

documented and implemented for snorkelling and boating activities which are specific to OIRS operations.

• Develop and implement ongoing training and development for staff to ensure they are competent and equipped to perform their duties.


Snorkelling Supervisor The Snorkelling Supervisor is responsible for the safe conduct of snorkelling at the site and shall coordinate and direct the activities of all persons involved. The Snorkelling Supervisor shall;

• Ensure that all activities are conducted in accordance with JCU procedures, and all appropriate risk control measures are implemented at the site.

• Implement methods to ensure that no person is left behind at the site; o Use the Snorkelling Log (form 7) to count persons before departure to the site,

if anyone leaves the site, and before departing the site. • Before any in-water activity, and in consultation with the BDO, assess snorkelers to

determine if they may ‘at risk’ (Appendix 1 & 2). • Ensure buddy pairs have been assigned. • Ensure ‘at risk’ snorkelers can be easily identified in the water and extra attention can be

directed to them. • Ensure other staff members (lookouts, rescuers and first aid providers) have been

appointed and positioned appropriately at the site. • Ensure emergency management plans are well communicated to other supervisory staff,

and can be enacted quickly and effectively. • Ensure emergency equipment is immediately available at the site – communications, first

aid kit, oxygen resuscitation kit, sufficient oxygen supply, AED, floatation aids, rescue devices and rescue craft/vessel (if applicable).

o The condition and function of first aid equipment should be checked daily. • Ensure the snorkelling site is clearly marked with use of dive flags, buoys, floating lines or

other devices which make the boundaries of the site obvious to passing vessels. • Provide pre-activity briefings and instruction to snorkelers to enhance understanding and

increase the likelihood of directions being followed. • Act as Lookout (unless the role of Lookout has been delegated to other staff at the site) • Act as Rescuer (unless the role of Rescuer has been delegated to other staff at the site) • If required, provide first aid to a casualty, or direct a competent person to provide first aid,

and assist as necessary. • Provide help and advice to snorkelers about the use of equipment and as they enter and

exit the water. Competence of Snorkelling Supervisor

• Have a thorough working knowledge of the operating and emergency procedures and risk assessments which have been developed to safely manage the activities at the site.

• Have reasonable experience of the site, and/or has experience in supervising snorkelling / diving activities at similar locations.

• Be able to recognise hazards and risks in the marine environment. • Be able to recognise changes to risks due to snorkeler’s abilities and behaviour. • Be able to respond quickly to changes in risk and alter or abort activities as necessary. • Be a capable swimmer and experienced snorkeler.

• Be competent to carry out a rescue of a snorkeler (unless the role of rescuer has been

delegated to other persons at the site) (Appendix 2) • Be competent to provide first aid, oxygen resuscitation, and operation of an AED (unless

the role of first aid provider has been delegated to other persons at the site) (Appendix 2) • Be capable of directing a rescue and coordinating the emergency management plan.

Lookout At all times while snorkelers are in the water, one or more Lookouts shall be present at the surface of the site. The Lookout shall;


• Be positioned to achieve full and un-obstructed vision of the area where snorkelers are at all times.

• Continually scan and observe the whole area and snorkelers effectively. • Act appropriately to keep people within boundaries. • Observe and help persons with entry and egress. • If required, either rescues a person or directs a person to conduct a rescue. • If necessary, have access to binoculars and polarized sunglasses. • Wear a brightly colored shirt (or other) so is easily recognized by snorkelers. • Be part of an effective and pre-planned communication system for the transfer of

information between snorkelers, supervisors and other staff. • Be aware of breath-hold diving taking place and apply additional supervision.

Competence of lookout;

• Be able to recognize hazards or changes which may lead to problems, identifies problems that require adjustments on the operation (tides, currents, marine animals, behavior, fatigue etc.)

• Be able to detect when a snorkeler is in trouble or needs assistance. Rescuer At all times while snorkelers are in the water, one or more Rescuers shall be present at the surface of the site. A Rescuer shall;

• Be positioned so as to minimise the distance between themselves and the snorkelers. • Be in a state of readiness to immediately enter the water and rescue a snorkeler. • Have rescue devices and floatation aids readily accessible. • Be part of an effective and pre-planned communication system for the transfer of

information between snorkelers, supervisors and other staff.


Competence of a Rescuer

• Have a thorough working knowledge of the operating and emergency procedures which have been developed to safely manage the activities at the site.

• Be a strong swimmer, experienced snorkeler and have an acceptable level of fitness. • Possess qualifications and/or skills and/or experience for in-water rescue of a person, and

also knowledge in the management of snorkelling related injuries and illnesses (Appendix 2)

• Be qualified and competent to operate vessels and other rescue craft as necessary. Snorkelling Guide A Snorkelling Guide accompanies a snorkeler in the water and remains with them as both a buddy and in-water supervisor. The Snorkelling Guide shall;

• Be a capable swimmer and experienced snorkeler and be able to rescue a snorkeler (Appendix 2).

• Have a good understanding of the snorkeler’s abilities and potential problems that may occur.

• Stay with snorkelers at all times unless they are deemed competent to snorkel with another buddy.

• Be able to recognize relevant hazards and snorkelers in difficulty • Be able to respond quickly to changes in risk and alter or abort activities as

necessary. • Be aware of breath-hold diving and apply additional supervision • Be part of an effective and pre-planned communication system for the transfer of


First aid provider At all times while snorkelers are in the water, one or more First Aid Providers shall be present at the surface of the site. The First Aid Provider shall;

• Be in a state readiness to assist in the rescue of a person and provide first aid if required. • Have first aid equipment readily accessible. • Be part of an effective and pre-planned communication system for the transfer of


Competence of First Aid Provider

• Possess current qualifications in First Aid, CPR, and administration of oxygen (Advanced Resuscitation) and operation of an AED (Appendix 2).

• Be familiar with the type and use of the oxygen equipment and AED’s at the site.

Risks & Control Measures

Hazards and risks must be identified through the risk assessment process by experienced staff with knowledge of sites and conditions.

• Control measures will be determined and incorporated into coherent procedures which shall be applied at the site during activities.

• An on-site risk evaluation (TAKE 5) must be done by the Supervisor before activities commence (Appendix 3).

The Table is a summary of common risks and controls which are used to develop procedures.


Risk factors Control measures

(summary) Risk rating (post control)

At risk snorkelers Declaration and Assessment process

Medium

Marine stingers (jellyfish) Induction, PPE Low Venomous creatures Induction, PPE Low Sharks Induction, supervision and

EMP Low

Crocodiles Induction, supervision and EMP

Low

Coral cuts / abrasions Induction, PPE Low Barnacle / oyster cuts Induction, PPE Low Hydroids Induction, PPE Low Currents Induction, supervision and site

control Medium

Rough seas Induction, supervision and site control

Medium

Sun burn Induction, PPE Medium Hypothermia Induction, PPE Medium Drowning or near-drowning Supervision, site control and

EMP Medium

Medical emergency Induction, EMP Medium Dehydration Induction, EMP Low Shallow water blackout Induction, EMP Medium Ear / sinus injury Induction, EMP Medium Panic Induction, supervision and

EMP Low

Boat strike Supervision and site control, Engineering

Low

Entry / egress Induction, supervision, engineering

Medium

Missing person Induction, supervision, site control, EMP

Medium

Definitions; EMP – emergency management plans / procedures Induction – includes all briefings and instruction given to staff and snorkelers PPE – personal protective equipment includes wetsuits, boots, gloves and hoods.


Emergency Management Plans (EMP)

OIRS and Supervisors operating at remote sites shall develop emergency management plans for;

• Responding to a medical emergency • Responding to a missing person or vessel • Evacuation of persons • See Appendix 16 and section 9

Operating Procedures, Instruction and Planning

OIRS Sites (or Remote Sites where applicable)

Inductions, briefings and planning

• Before arrival at OIRS, visiting groups will be provided with sufficient information to plan their visit and activities.

• Upon arrival at OIRS, groups will receive operational and safety inductions to the OIRS site and specific activities.

o Special attention must be given to non-English speaking persons – The use of interpreters with instruction feedback is mandatory.

• BDO will conduct assessment of Supervisors and snorkelers. (Appendix 1 & 2) • Supervisors and support staff will receive an induction and operational briefing (refer to

Roles and Responsibilities, EMP’s and Risk Assessments). • Activities and schedules will be planned around tides, conditions, staffing and availability

of vessels and equipment. • The BDO will decide on the appropriate level of supervision for groups (ratios). As a

general rule; o A minimum of 2 supervisory staff shall be present at the snorkelling site when

the number of snorkelers in the water is between 2 and 10. o There shall be present at all times a minimum of one staff who is competent to

be Snorkelling Supervisor, Lookout, Rescuer and First Aid Provider. o One extra staff should be added when the number of snorkelers is between 10

and 20, and there should be at least 2 staff competent as Rescuers and First Aid Providers.

• When ‘at risk’ snorkelers are involved; o One extra staff should be added to above-mentioned ratios; o The extra staff can act either as a Snorkel Guide, or extra Lookout and

Rescuer, who provides extra attention to ‘at risk’ snorkelers.


Site setup, control and supervision

• The snorkelling site should be marked with boundaries if possible (typically using buoys and floating ropes).

• One or more Dive Flags must be raised centrally at the site (consider also using extra dive flag buoys at the site boundaries).

• If a mothership is present, a long mermaid line should be deployed. • The Supervisor shall arrange other staff into appropriate positions. • Emergency communications systems should be tested before the commencement of

activities. • A rescue vessel or craft should be positioned and ready for rapid deployment.

o Special attention should be given to the movement of currents which may sweep snorkelers out of the site.

• For shore-based snorkelling; o The Supervisor (or delegate) shall be positioned to count and record snorkelers

into and out of the water on the Snorkelling Log Sheet. (form 7) o The First Aid Kit, Oxygen Resuscitation Kit and AED should be positioned at the

egress point (unless the EMP provides for rapid communication and delivery of equipment from the central location).

• A site briefing should be given by the Supervisor to re-inforce; o Snorkelling techniques and equipment instruction o Forming buddy pairs and remaining in close visual contact o Site boundaries o Hazards present o Entry and egress method o Emergency assistance signals o Recall signal

• When ‘at risk’ snorkelers are involved; o Ensure floatation devices are provided and fitted correctly. o Ensure they can be easily identified by the Lookout when they are in the water

(if PFD’s are not used, then a coloured vest or hood is preferred) o Re-inforce the buddy system and signalling for help.

• Breath-hold diving; o Re-inforce risks of breath-hold diving and shallow water blackout

Freediving must not exceed depth greater than 4m o Ensure no snorkeler is negatively weighted o Ensure buddy pairs operate one up / one down

• All staff should scan and monitor the area and make continual counts of snorkelers during the activity.

Emergency response and aborting activities

• Consideration for aborting activities and recalling all snorkelers from the water should be considered if;

o A significant hazard becomes evident at the site.

o If one or more staff members need to leave the site. o If a medical emergency occurs. o If weather or environmental conditions deteriorate. o If it becomes impossible to constrain snorkelers in an area.

• Recalling snorkelers and aborting activities must occur if; o A crocodile or dangerous large shark is sighted in the immediate area. o A snorkeler goes missing. o Hazardous marine stingers are present

• Procedure for treating a drowning or diving incident is in Section 9 • Procedure for responding to a missing person is in Section 9 • Procedure for other emergencies at OIRS is in Appendix 16


Equipment The following is recommended equipment to be used, including types and specifications. (All Rescue, First Aid and Communications equipment must be at the site and immediately accessible for use if required). Standard snorkeler’s equipment should include;

• Appropriate exposure protection for cold, sun burn and stinger protection (wetsuit or lycra suit)

o Protection from stingers includes full length steamer, gloves, boots and hood. • Mask, snorkel and fins

Extra floatation devices; • Personal Floatation Devices (PFD) AS4758.1 Level 50 minimum • Pool noodles

Rescue devices and aids;

• Binoculars • Buoyant ropes • Throw lines • Mermaid lines • Life buoys • Kayak / rescue boards • Lifesaver buoys / tubes.

First Aid equipment and supplies;

• First Aid Kit – NSCV scale G minimum • Vinegar – 4 litres minimum • Oxygen resuscitation kit - DAN kit or Bag Valve Mask (BVM) capable of delivering ANAP

100% oxygen to a breathing or non-breathing person. • Oxygen supply cylinder(s);

o for OIRS - minimum of 1x E-size o for remote sites - within 2hrs of professional medical assistance: minimum 1 x C-

size, 2-6hrs: minimum 1 x D-size, >6hrs: minimum 2 x D-size. • Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

Communications and signalling devices;

• Dive flag (flag Alpha) – for dive site marking: minimum 50cm x 50cm, for dive floats: minimum 30cm x 30cm

• VHF and/or 2-way radio • Loudspeaker • Air horn • Mobile phone • Whistle / siren • Nautilus life-line

Records

All relevant records must be entered and maintained in My Register and Riskware, and also be retained in accordance with the retention and disposal schedules governed by the Queensland State Archives:

• General Retention and Disposal Schedule • University Sector Retention and Disposal Schedule

http://www.archives.qld.gov.au/Recordkeeping/GRKDownloads/Documents/GeneralDisposalSchedule.pdf

http://www.archives.qld.gov.au/Recordkeeping/GRKDownloads/Documents/Universities.pdf


Related Documents, Legislation and Other Resources Related Documents and Other Resources

Guideline

Procedure JCU Diving Operations Manual

Process Riskware My Register

Related Legislation, Codes of Practice and Standards Legislation QLD Safety in Recreational Water Activities 2011

Codes of Practice QLD Recreational Diving and Snorkelling 2018

Standards AS2299.2 Occupational Scientific Diving 2002

Administration NOTE: Printed copies of this procedure are uncontrolled, and currency can only be assured at the time of printing.

Approval Details <Doc #> Guideline Sponsor Divisional Executive Officer, Services & Resources

Approval Authority Divisional Executive Officer, Services & Resources Consultation Committee Boating & Diving Safety Committee Contact Unit [email protected]

Revision History [Use the table below to record information regarding changes to this Process. Version control should be applied. Major amendments (approved by the Approval Authority) should be numbered 2, 3 etc]

Version Date Amended Description of changes Author 1 dd/mm/yyyy Original version Glen Ewels, BDO


| FORM 1 – RECOMMENDED PHYSICIANS WITH EXPERTISE IN DIVING MEDICINE 106

34 FORM 1 – RECOMMENDED PHYSICIANS WITH EXPERTISE IN DIVING MEDICINE

Townsville Hyperbaric Unit Townsville Hospital Ph +61 7 4433 2080 ........... After Hours Ph +61 7 4433 1111

Other Physicians as per current occupational diving doctors listing on the South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society web page https://www.spums.org.au/diving-doctors-near-you

)

https://www.spums.org.au/diving-doctors-near-you

https://www.spums.org.au/diving-doctors-near-you

| FORM 2 - DIVER INJURY REPORT 107

35 FORM 2 - DIVER INJURY REPORT

If diver unconscious, extremely short of breath or severely injured then position in stable side position / horizontally, maintain airway and breathing and pulse, administer oxygen and contact DES immediately. If diver co-operative, position horizontally, complete questionnaire, administer oxygen and contact DES. Your Name: ............................................................................................ Position: ......................................................... Qualifications Held: .................................................................................................................................................................. Your Location: ........................................................................... Diver’s Location: ...................................................... Contact Telephone No:............................................................................................................................................................. BACKGROUND Information about the patient Name: ..................................................................................................... Age: ................... Sex: Male / Female

Certification Level: OWD / ADV / RESCUE / DM / INSTRUCTOR / OCCUPATIONAL/ SCIENTIFIC.

Approx. No of Dives: ................................................................................................................................................................ The total number of dives since certification

Recent Dive History: ................................................................................................................................................................. Has been diving for a week / First dive in 3 months, etc?

Medical Problems: .................................................................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................................................................... Past Medical History: ............................................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................................................................................... Include previous injuries / DCI / etc

Medications: .............................................................................................................................................................................. Did the diver suffer from or have: Seasickness Dehydration Cold Rapid Ascent Tiredness

Other (eg stress) ..................................................................................................... Dive Profile: Information sourced from a computer? YES / NO Dive Log YES / NO

Length of dive trip: ............................ days Number of dives: ............ Tables Used: ............................................ Type of Dive/s: Square profile / Reverse / Multi-level / Saw Tooth / High exertion / Repetitive / etc?

....................................................................................................................................................................................................

Victim’s dives for at least the 24 hour period prior to incident (note the dive on which the incident occurred) Date S I (hh:mm) RF Time In Time Out BT EBT Depth RG No of Ascents

Safety Stops? Depth: ...................... Duration:........................ Associated Problems: Equipment Problem / Malfunction / Heavy Surge / Current / Panic / etc

Details: ....................................................................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................................................................................


DESCRIPTION OF PROBLEM Was the diver completely well prior to diving? YES / NO

Time and description of 1st symptom? .................................................................................................................................. (eg on ascent / two hours later / on reaching altitude, numbness and tingling in left arm)

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS (Tick appropriate)

Dizziness Headache Blurred vision Nausea / Vomiting

Personality change Extreme fatigue Shock Slurred speech

Disorientation (see below) Limb weakness (see below) Visual changes (see below) Poor balance (see below)

Sensory change (see below) Poor co-ordination (see below) Unconsciousness Vertigo

Is the patient suffering from;

Pain in ?

Pins & needles in ?

Numbness where ?

Paralysis of ?

FIRST AID Lay the patient down horizontally. A patient who is nauseated, vomiting or not fully conscious should be placed in a stable position on the side. Monitor consciousness, airway, breathing and pulse and resuscitate if necessary. Medical / First Aid facilities available? ..................................................................................................................

Has the patient received Oxygen? YES / NO

Duration of Oxygen? ......................... hrs Flow rate? ........................... (litres/min)

Has the delivery of Oxygen made a difference? YES / NO Useful if patient is on oxygen for 15 - 20 mins. Before contacting DES

Have fluids been given? .......................................................................................................................................... (what and how much, see note)

Note: I.V. fluids are preferable. Oral fluids (eg water, isotonic/electrolyte fluids) are given if the patient is conscious, stable and not suffering from stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting. Record the amount and type of fluid given. Record urinary output and check for bladder distension.


Brief description of incident and final status of patient while in your care. ........................................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................................

A copy of this form when completed shall be submitted with (appended to) a completed James Cook University Accident, Incident and Injury Report

| FORM 3 - FIELD NEUROLOGICAL ASSESSMENT TEST 110

36 FORM 3 - FIELD NEUROLOGICAL ASSESSMENT TEST _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Five-Minute Neurological Exam Examination of an injured diver's central nervous system soon after an accident may provide valuable information to the physician responsible for treatment. The Five-Minute Neuro exam is easy to learn and can be performed by individuals with no medical experience. The examination can be done whilst reading from this manual. Perform the following steps in order, and record the time, and the results for each test 1.Orientation

• Does the diver know his/her • Does the diver know the • Does the diver know what name and age? present location? time, day, year it is?

Even though an individual may appear alert, answers to these questions can reveal confusion. Do not omit them. 2.Eyes: Have the diver count the number of fingers you display, using 2 or 3 different numbers of fingers. Check each eye separately and then together. Have the diver identify a distant object. Tell the diver to hold head still - or you gently hold it still - while placing your other hand approximately half meter in front of the face. Ask the diver to follow your hand. Now move your hand up and down, then side to side. Diver's eyes should follow your hand and should not jerk to one side and return (called nystagmus). Check that the pupils are equal in size. 3.Face: Ask the diver to whistle or purse their lips. Look carefully to ensure both sides of the face have the same expression whilst whistling. Ask them to grit their teeth & feel their jaw muscles to confirm they are contracted equally. Instruct the diver to close his/her eyes while you lightly touch your fingertips across their forehead and face. Confirm that sensation is present, and feels the same everywhere. 4.Hearing: Evaluate the diver’s hearing by holding your hand about 60cm from the individual’s ear and rubbing your thumb and finger together. Check both ears by moving your hand closer until the diver hears it. Check several times and compare with your own hearing. NB. If the surroundings are noisy, this test is difficult to evaluate. If necessary, ask any bystanders to be quiet and turn off unneeded machinery. 5.Swallowing Reflex: Instruct diver to swallow while you watch their “Adam’s apple”. Ensure it moves up/down. 6.Tongue: Instruct diver to stick out their tongue. It should come out straight in the middle of the mouth without deviating to either side. 7.Muscle Strength: Instruct the diver to shrug their shoulders while you bear down on them, to observe for equal muscle strength. Check diver's arms by bringing their elbows up level with their shoulders, hands level with the arms, and touching their chest. Instruct the diver to resist while you pull their arms away, push them back, and move them up and down. The strength should be approximately equal in both arms in each any direction. Check leg strength by having the diver lie flat and raise and lower their legs while you resist the movement. 8.Sensory Perception: Check on both sides by touching lightly as was done on the face. Start at the top of the body and compare sides while moving downwards to cover the entire body. The diver’s eyes should be closed during this procedure. The diver should confirm the sensation in each area before you move to another area. 9.Balance and Coordination:. Be prepared to protect the diver from injury when performing this test. Have diver stand up with feet together, close their eyes and stretch out their arms. The individual should be able to maintain balance if the platform is stable. Your arms should be around, but not touching the individual, in case they fall. Be prepared to catch the diver who starts to fall. Check coordination by having the diver move an index finger back and forth rapidly between their nose and your finger - held approximately half meter from their face. In another test of coordination, instruct the diver to slide the heel of one foot down the shin of the other leg while lying down. Conduct these tests on both right and left sides, and observe carefully for differences between the two sides. Tests 1,7, and 9 are the most important, and should be given priority if not all tests can be performed. The diver's condition may prevent the performance of one or more of these tests. Record any omitted test, and the reason. If any of the tests appear abnormal, injury to the central nervous system should be suspected. The tests should be repeated at frequent intervals while awaiting assistance, to determine if any change occurs. Report the results to the emergency medical personnel responding to the call.

Good diving safety habits would include practicing this examination on normal uninjured divers, to gain proficiency in use.

| FORM 3 - FIELD NEUROLOGICAL ASSESSMENT TEST 111

FIELD NEURO EXAM RECORD FORM Diver’s Name: .................................................................. Examiner’s Name: ....................................... Date: ......................

Initial Complaint: ................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................................

TIME : : : : : : : : : : YES NO YES NO YES NO YES NO YES NO Mental Status: Does he/she know 1. His/her name? 2. Where he/she is? 3. Time of day? 4. Most recent activity? 5.. Speech is clear/correct Sight: 1. Correctly counts fingers? 2. Vision clear? Eye movements: 1. Move in all four directions? 2. Nystagmus absent? Facial Movements: 1. Teeth clench OK? 2. Able to wrinkle forehead 3. Tongue moves in all directions 4. Smile is symmetrical? Head & Shoulder Movements: 1. Adam’s apple movement? 2. Shoulder shrug normal, equal? 3. Head movement normal, equal? Hearing: 1. Normal for that diver? 2. Equal in both ears? Sensations: Present, normal and symmetrical across:

1. Face 2. Chest 3. Abdomen 4. Arms (front) 5. Hands 6. Legs (front) 7. Feet 8. Back 9. Arms (back) 10. Buttocks 11. Legs (back) Muscle Tone: Present, normal and symmetrical for:

1. Arms 2. Legs 3. Hand grips 4. Feet Balance and Coordination: 1. Romberg OK? 2. Pulse 3. Respiration

Nystagmus – involuntary oscillation of the eyeball. Usually lateral, but sometimes rotary or vertical.

Romberg – Patient stands bare footed with feet heel to toe, arms crossed over chest, eyes closed and attempts to remain upright.

| FORM 4 - JCU BASIC SCUBA DIVING SKILLS STATEMENT OF ACHIEVEMENT 112

37 FORM 4 - JCU BASIC SCUBA DIVING SKILLS STATEMENT OF ACHIEVEMENT Following are listed the practical assessments results relating to Fitness, Scuba and Rescue skills for:

........................................................................................................................... (please enter name in full)

FITNESS

Element Achieved Minimum Requirement

400m swim 11min

800m snorkel 17min

10min tread water, last 3min hands air 10min tread water

25m breath-hold underwater swim

Demonstrate snorkel clearing

SCUBA SKILLS


Equipment set-up

Buddy checks

Water entry

Mask removal and replacement

Regulator R&R

Weights R&R

Scuba unit R&R

Fin Pivot

Hover

Out of air & share air

Surface swim alternating between reg & snorkel 50m

RESCUE SKILLS


Retrieve unconscious diver from depth

Establish buoyancy for unconscious diver

Signal for help

Tow unconscious diver 100m 4min

Demonstrate removal of scuba gear while towing

Demonstrate egress of unconscious diver from the water

Underpinning skills achieved satisfactory results.

Not satisfactory. Applicant signature: _______________________________________ Date: _________________

Assessor signature: ________________________________________ Date: _________________

| FORM 5 - AAUS REQUEST FOR DIVING RECIPROCITY 113

38 FORM 5 - AAUS REQUEST FOR DIVING RECIPROCITY VERIFICATION OF DIVER TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Diver : _________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ Dat e:

Th is let t er serves t o ver if y t hat t he ab ove list ed p erson has m et t he t rain ing an d p re-req uisit es as ind icat ed b elow , and has com p let ed all req uirem ent s necessary t o b e cer t if ied as a (Scientific Diver / Diver in Training) as est ab lished b y t he Jam es Cook Un iversit y ’s Divin g Saf et y Manual, an d has d em onst rat ed com p et ency in t he in d icat ed areas. Jam es Cook Un iversit y is an AAUS OM and m eet s o r exceed s all AAUS t rain ing req u irem ent s.

The following is a brief summary of this diver's personnel file regarding dive status at

Date of original diving authorization

Date of written scientific diving examination

Last diving medical examination date:

Medical examination expiration date:

Most recent checkout dive Scuba regulator/equipment service/test dates:

CPR training (Agency) CPR Exp date: Oxygen administration (Agency)

02 Exp

First aid certification (Agency)

F.A. Exp

Date of last dive: Depth: Number of dives completed within previous 12 months

Total number of career dives?

Depth Certification Any restrictions? (Y/N) if yes, attach explanation

Please indicate any pertinent specialty certifications or training:

Emergency Information

Name: Relationship

Telephone: (work) Telephone (home) Address

This is to verify that the above individual is currently a certified scientific diver at James Cook University

Diving Safety Officer Date

(Signature)

_

| FORM 6 - JAMES COOK UNIVERSITY – Record of dive 114

39 FORM 6 - JAMES COOK UNIVERSITY – Record of dive

Location: Scientist in Charge:

FTT# Dive Plan# (these ID numbers must be added to this sheet) DIVER’S NAME DATE SURFACE

INTERVAL RF DEPTH OF

DIVE (m) NDL LEFT

SURFACE BOTTOM

TIME ARRIVED SURFACE

EBT RG SIGN

: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : :

For use with DCIEM tables.

| FORM 7 - SNORKEL LOG 115

40 FORM 7 - SNORKEL LOG Snorkelling Log sheet Date: Group:

Location: Supervisor: person count before going to site: person count before leaving site:

Surname first name Gr Time In Time Out Initial Time In

Time Out Initial

1 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 10 10 11 11 12 12

Scientific Diving Operations Manual · 2020. 10. 22. · Diving Safety Committee, Work and Health...

Documents

Transcript of Scientific Diving Operations Manual · 2020. 10. 22. · Diving Safety Committee, Work and Health...