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Dangers for Occupational Divers WORKPLACE SAFETY T1807-03 ©2008 Bongarde

WHAT’S AT STAKE At risk every time Harvesting seafood, repairing ships, retrieving golf balls Entangled in vegetation Run out of air Get caught in small spaces Get the bends No one is there to rescue them

WHAT’S THE DANGER Human error Careful planning Preparation Adherence to safety procedures Never underestimate the dangers

EXAMPLE: Worker drowned Routine underwater maintenance Below the surface for more than an hour Rescue line caught on a propeller

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF Supervisor and standby diver Properly trained for occupational diving Evaluate potential hazards: Weather conditions Water conditions Entanglement hazards

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF Maintain continuous contact with someone Leave the water when other divers do Watch for signs of decompression sickness: Skin rash Extreme fatigue Painful joints Paralysis

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF Check your equipment carefully Carry a knife and alternate air source Wear a rescue line All machines locked out and secure

Final Word Occupational diving is exacting work with absolutely no room for error. Careful planning and strict adherence to safety guidelines are essential for keeping dives from turning disastrous.