DNV GL has released a new “Offshore Diving Guideline” to fill the guidance gap and help to make offshore diving work safer.
“ With offshore diving growing in importance in Germany, we needed to examine the existing regulations and guidelines to make sure that they addressed the specific circumstances of professional diving in the offshore sector. The aim of the guide is to provide greater transparency and to draw attention to the safety regulations. In addition, we want to ensure that divers are familiar with emergency and rescue plans and undertake regular training. Therefore training and instruction are an essential component of the offshore diving operation and must be documented, ” said Karsten Hagenah , DNV GL expert for underwater technology.
The guide contains administrative principles and the responsibilities of personnel involved in diving operations, technical requirements for the diving equipment used, through to the recommended outfitting for rescue operations.
The contents also cover the planning and execution of diving work, maintenance and testing procedures, and special requirements for diver pressure chambers. The guideline further includes practical material, for example checklists for medical findings, DNV GL explained.
“The aim of the guide is not only to ensure the safety and health of those involved in the diving work, but also to avoid environmental damage and protect equipment and underwater assets,” Hagenah concluded.