OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

OSHA PROGRAM DIRECTIVE #100-70 (Revision #1

TO: REGIONAL ADMINISTRATORS/OSHA

THRU: DONALD E. MACKENZIE Field Coordinator

SUBJECT: 29 CFR 1910.401-1910.441, Subpart T--Commercial Diving Operations

1. Purpose

The purpose of this directive is to revise OSHA Program Directive #100-70 dated October 28, 1977. The revisions are indicated with a vertical black line in the left-hand column. This directive provides guidelines for the permanent occupational safety and health standard for commercial diving operations, 29 CFR 1910.401-1910.441.

2. Documentation Affected

This directive revises and cancels OSHA Program Directive #100-70 dated October 28, 1977.

3. Background

The permanent standard for commercial diving operations was printed in the Federal Register, July 22, 1977. The preamble, between pages 37650 and 37668, contains information and background on the purposes and intent of the standard. A study of this appended document should be made in conjunction with the review of this directive, Appendix A. Supplemental information and guidance will be provided to the field as required.

4. Action

a. CSHO Diving--CSHO's shall not perform any type of diving during the course of an investigation or inspection.

b. CSHO inspecting.

Only those CSHO's who have received the diver familiarization training, or are otherwise qualified by similar training or experience, shall make diving inspections. In emergencies, when these CSHO's are not available, a regular CSHO may be utilized until a diver-trained CSHO is available.

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

c. Oil and gas development maps.

Area Offices that have offshore activities shall obtain Oil and Gas Development Maps for each State having such operations. These maps are available from the United States Department of the Interior, Geological Survey.

d. Variance.

Normal variance procedures are in effect with respect to the diving standard. If an employer indicates that he has a variance request pending which has not yet been acted upon, a citation shall still be issued for any violation, although the employer should be informed that the variance will be taken into account in considering the proper abatement period or proposed penalty. Questions regarding variances shall be referred through channels to the OSHA National Office, Office of Variance Determination.

e. 29 CFR 1910.401 Scope and application.

(1) This standard applies (except as noted in the following paragraph (2)) to all commercial diving and related support operations under the jurisdiction of OSHA.

(2) Maritime jurisdiction.

In general, OSHA maritime jurisdiction is the same as OSHA jurisdiction over any other industry as expressed under Section 4(a) of the Act. Since OSHA covers all employment and places of employment within a State, the Act's requirements apply to both inland maritime operations and any other type of maritime employment within the 3-mile limit extending seaward from the coastal States and from other land masses listed in Section 4(a) of the Act, and in the case of the Great Lakes, to the international boundaries. Section 4(a) also covers maritime workplaces beyond the 3-mile limit that are engaged in employment operations in connection with the outer continental shelf lands and work related to these operations.

(3) Commercial diving operations performed in connection with the following standards:

29 CFR 1910.401-.441 - General Industry 29 CFR 1915.59 - Ship Repairing 29 CFR 1916.59 - Shipbuilding 29 CFR 1917.59 - Shipbreaking 29 CFR 1918.99 - Longshoring 29 CFR 1926.605 - Construction

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

shall be subject to Subpart T of 29 CFR 1910, Section 401-441 of this chapter.

NOTE: The amending of 29 CFR 1928.21(b) by substituting T for S in line 4 changes that paragraph to read "Except to the extent specified in paragraph (a) of this section, the standards contained in Subparts B through T and Subpart Z of Part 1910 of this title do not apply to agricultural operations." Agricultural operations include those industries listed in the Standard Industrial Classification Manual, 1972 edition, under Division A (except 091). This division includes establishments primarily engaged in agricultural production as follows:

SIC 01 - Crops SIC 02 - Livestock SIC 07 - Agricultural Services SIC 08 - Forestry

Therefore, any diving operations conducted by agricultural employees engaged in employments under these SIC codes are exempt from this diving standard. Contractors of agricultural employers who do not fall within these SIC codes are covered by 29 CFR 1910.401-.441.

(4) When a part of 29 CFR 1910.401-.441 differs or conflicts with any other OSHA standard, the requirements of this standard shall take precedence when applied to diving operations. The CSHO should review 29 CFR 1910.5 for guidance before issuing a citation for a violation of a general industry standard to a diving employer. Questions regarding this procedure shall be referred to the OSHA National Office of Compliance Programming.

(5) Citing standards.

(a) The proper standards to cite for violations shall be determined by the type of work for which the diving operation is required. For example:

o Repairs on vessels requiring a diver to examine damage to the hull. Violations would be cited under 29 CFR 1915.59, with specific reference to the section of 29 CFR 1910.401-.441 which was violated.

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

o Maintenance work requiring a diver to enter a sewer line to free debris from a strainer. Violations would be cited as appropriate, under 29 CFR 1910.401-441.

o A company is erecting an offshore oil rig that requires a diver to perform construction work (construction work includes the actual erection, alteration and maintenance of the rig). Violations would be cited under 29 CFR 1926.605(e), with specific reference to the section of 29 CFR 1910.401-441 which was violated.

o If the OSH is not sure which standard applies to the operation, the OSHA shall cite both standards.

(6) This standard does not apply to diving operations under the following conditions:

(a) Diving for instructional purposes by persons using only open-circuit compressed air SCUBA within the no-decompression limits. In addition, it should be noted that individuals engaged in recreational or sport diving (generally SCUBA) for their own personal enjoyment, and not otherwise related to their respective employments are not within the jurisdiction of this standard.

(b) Search, rescue and related public safety diving by or under the control of a governmental agency. Diving contractors who perform such emergency services not under the control of the governmental agency but as an independent contractor for private purposes do not come under this exclusion; however, they may be covered by the provisions concerning application of the standard in an emergency (29 CFR 1910.401 (b)).

(c) This diving standard does not apply to those specific working conditions of diving operations over which other Federal agencies exercise statutory authority to prescribe or enforce standards or regulations affecting occupational safety and health. (See section 4(b)(1) of the Act.) Questions of jurisdiction shall be referred to the OSHA National Office of Compliance Programming.

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

(d) This standard does not apply to diving operations when performed for research, development and related activities in which human subjects are involved which are covered by the standards contained in 45 CFR Part 46, Protection of Human Subjects, administered by the U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, or equivalent Federal standards. Questions of equivalence or applicability shall be referred to the OSHA National Office of Compliance Programming.

(7) Federal programs.

In addition, pursuant to Section 3(5) of the Act, employees of Federal agencies of the United States Government are excluded from the jurisdiction of the standard. Instead, such employees shall be protected in accordance with Section 19 of the Act under which it is the responsibility of each agency which engages in diving operations to establish and maintain an effective and comprehensive safety and health program which is consistent with this standard.

(8) Inspection priorities.

Diving operations which do not fall within one of the exemption categories and which involve an employer- employee relationship are covered by 29 CFR 1910.401-.441. Inspection priorities shall be followed as stated in the Field Operations Manual, Chapter IV, with respect to different kinds of diving operations.

(9) 29 CFR 1910.401(b) Application in emergencies.

(a) This exclusion has been included to permit the designated person-in-charge discretion to deviate from the requirements of the standard in situations where death, serious harm or major environmental damage is likely to occur, but only to the extent that such action is immediately necessary to prevent or minimize the harm. This applies only for the duration of the emergency. The employer is required to notify the OSHA Area Office within 48 hours of the onset of the situation requiring such deviation. The Area Director may request that the employer submit a written record of the notification explaining what deviations from the standard were made and what additional precautions were instituted to provide for the safety and health of

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

the employees during the emergency. Failure of the employer to notify the OSHA Area Office of the emergency situation within the specified time shall be considered a violation of this provision of the standard. These incidents shall be closely monitored to insure that this provision is not abused. A pattern of repeated deviations shall be cause for an inspection.

(b) This emergency provision does not apply to situations involving only economic or property damage.

(10) Federal/State jurisdiction.

(a) All States that have an approved plan have 6 months from the effective date of this standard (October 20, 1977) to either adopt the OSHA diving standard, pro- mulgate a diving standard as effective as the OSHA standard or modify their present State diving standard to be as effective as the OSHA standard. In the interim, OSHA shall enforce the diving standard wherever diving operations are being conducted under OSHA jurisdiction.

(b) As soon as a State with an approved plan has an approved diving standard, the State will enforce the standard under its jurisdiction.

(c) States with approved plans that have included the maritime issue and have adopted the OSHA diving standard, or have a State diving standard as effective as the OSHA diving standard, will have jurisdiction over diving operations conducted in conjunction with the maritime operations from an onshore site such as a pier, wharf, jetty, etc. The dive location (see 4.f. (4), this directive) determines the jurisdiction; however, the Federal OSHA retains jurisdiction for diving operations conducted on the navigable waters of the United States in these States, as well as the States that do not have an approved plan.

f. 29 CFR 1910.402 Definitions.

(1) "ASME Code or equivalent": "equivalent" refers to equipment that is designed, built and maintained to standards which will provide the employees the same protection as if the equipment met the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Unfired Pressure Vessel, Section VIII. The employer shall be responsible for demonstrating equivalency. Questions of equivalency should be referred to the OSHA National Office of Compliance Programming.

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

(2) "Bursting pressure": The pressure at which a pressure containment device such as a pipe, hose, cylinder, tank, etc. would fail structurally. 29 CFR 1910.430(c)(1)(ii) requires that breathing gas supply hoses shall have a bursting pressure at least 4 times the working pressure.

(3) "Decompression chamber": As used in this standard, this term refers to any pressure vessel for human occupancy used to decompress divers and to treat decompression sickness. A closed bell, if used as a decompression chamber, shall meet the design criteria as stated in 29 CFR 1910.430(f).

(4) "Dive location": This term refers to the location from which operations are conducted such as a vessel, barge, wharf, pier, river bank or offshore rig and does not mean the diver's work location under the water.

(5) "Dive location reserve breathing gas": This refers to a secondary breathing gas supply at the dive location connected and ready for use for each dive.

(6) "Dive team": This term includes all divers and support employees involved at the dive location in the diving operations, including the designated person-in-charge.

(7) "Inwater stage": This term means a platform sufficient to carry the weight of the diver and gear in and out of water.

(8) "No-decompression limits": This term applies to those depth/time combinations where no staged decompression of the diver is required. Dives to 35 fsw do not require decompression, regardless of bottom time. Dives deeper than 35 fsw may require decompression. The no- decompression tables from the U.S. Navy Manual are attached as Appendix B. The standard provides for use of either the U.S. Navy Tables or equivalent limits which the employer can demonstrate to be equally effective.

(9) "Standby diver": The requirement that the standby diver be at the dive location, which by definition is a location-

at the surface or on a vessel, eliminates the pos-

sibility that another diver in the water or at another dive location would be considered a standby diver. The standby diver does not necessarily have to be fully dressed but must be in that degree of readiness which will allow him to render the necessary assistance in a timely manner. A degree of readiness means to be clothed and equipped ready to enter the water at a moment's

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

notice. The temperature at some dive locations makes it extremely uncomfortable to a standby diver fully clothed in a wet or dry suit, so it may be necessary to wear more comfortable dress, yet adequate enough to provide protection when the standby diver enters the water. Such articles of gear as face masks, air cylinders and harness can be quickly donned and need not be worn on standby.

(10) "Working pressure": The term maximum working pressure is equivalent to rated working pressure or that pressure level up to which it is safe to operate as determined by construction and tests. By definition it must not exceed 1/4 of the bursting pressure.

g. 29 CFR 1910.410 Qualifications of dive team.

(1) The level of experience or training required by the standard depends upon the job the employees are required to do. Employee qualifications achieved through field experience or classroom training or both may be used to meet the requirements of the standard. For example:

(a) Most divers begin as tenders and advance to diving status after a period of field experience and/or classroom training. A diving tender trainee performing on-the-job training shall be utilized only under the supervision of a qualified diver.

(b) Tenders are those members of the dive team who provide surface support to divers at the site. A tender employed in shallow water air diving would be required to have a basic understanding of the breathing air system, the operating and emergency procedures and knowledge of the care and use of equipment.

(c) A mixed-gas (system) diver is a diver who conducts underwater work using mixed-gas techniques. A mixed-gas diver would be required to have an advanced understanding of diving, including a working knowledge of mixed-gas equipment such as a decompression chamber, bell and mixed-gas breathing supply system, the operations and emergency procedures associated with mixed-gas diving and the equipment used. In addition, he must have an understanding of the physics and physiology of mixed-gas diving.

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

(d) A chamber operator would be required to have experience or training in the carrying out of decompression procedures, knowledge of the physics and physiology of decompression, and the operation of the decompression equipment to which he is assigned.

(e) Each dive team member must be trained in cardio- pulmonary resuscitation and standard first aid. The American Red Cross standard course (14 hours) or equivalent training is specified. Employees completing this training are issued a card attesting they have successfully completed the course. Any first aid course acceptable to OSHA as meeting the requirement of 29 CFR 1910.151(b) and 1926.50(a) is deemed to meet the requirements of this standard. Some other first aid courses which have been accepted by OSHA are: American Petroleum Institute, U.S. Bureau of Mines and American College of Orthopedic Surgeons.

(2) The following methods may be used to check individual qualifications:

(a) Field experience-

o Employment records. o Written statements from previous employers. o Written statements from diving officers or commanding officers (military).

(b) Diving proficiency-

o Company field operations records. o Federal service operations records (military).

(c) Technical training-

o Federal service qualification certificates. o Diving school certificates of completion. o Company training program completion statements or equivalent proof of competency.

(3) The phrase "known to the employer" in 29 CFR 1910.410 (b)(3) of this part relates to the requirement that the designated person-in-charge inquire into the employee s health prior to the task assignment, a required aspect of pre-dive planning (29 CFR 1910.421 (f)(2)).

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

(4) The designated person-in-charge can be the employer or an employee chosen by the employer. The designated person-in-charge shall have experience in and knowledge of all phases of the particular diving operation for which he is responsible. The designated person-in-charge shall be at the dive location; therefore, this team member shall not be a diver in the water or a person at another dive location. In two-person operations, where the diver may be more qualified than the tender, the diver can be in charge of pre-dive and post-dive procedures and maintain overall responsibility for the operation, but during the dive the tender must be the person-in-charge. For instance, he must be the one authorized to terminate the dive in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.422(i) of the standard although, if the diver himself requested termination, there would be no discretion involved. The qualifications of the designated person-in-charge can be checked by the same methods suggested in the preceding paragraph (2).

h. 29 CFR 1910.411 Medical requirements.

(1) 29 CFR 1910.411(a)(1) - The employer is ultimately responsible for determining whether affected dive team members are medically fit to perform assigned tasks in a safe and healthful manner. However, the decision is to be based on the best available medical opinion. The standard does not set qualifications for physicians, although employers should be encouraged to engage examining physicians who are familiar with and experienced in the physical requirements and medical aspects of diving. In the absence of physicians with knowledge of hyperbaric medicine, examinations should be done by a physician qualified to understand the need and purpose for the examination and who has prior experience in examining individuals who will be exposed to strenuous work conditions and hazardous environments.

(2) 29 CFR 1910.411(a)(2) and (3) - The standard requires that any dive team member who is, or is likely to be, exposed to hyperbaric conditions shall be provided the medical examinations by the employer at no cost to the employee. Therefore, it applies to any dive team member who is expected to dive, enter a decompression chamber, or be otherwise exposed to increased pressure. In addition to divers, this requirement shall apply, for example, to dive team members such as tenders or designated persons-in-charge who might reasonably be expected to enter a decompression chamber to treat, or aid in the treatment of, a diver suffering from decompression sickness.

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

(3) 29 CFR 1910.411(b)(3) - The standard requires the employer to provide a medical examination after an employee has been hospitalized for 24 hours or more. The employer has the responsibility to inquire as to his employee's current state of physical fitness including any recent hospitalizations. If an employee conceals the fact of a hospitalization from the employer, and the employer has no knowledge or reason to know of the hospitalization, no citation shall be issued under this section.

(4) 29 CFR 1910.411(d)(1) - Information concerning an employee's diving-related work history and medical history is' to be gathered primarily during the examining physician's interview with the employee. Verification of such information, as necessary, is to be obtained by the physician through established medical channels.

(5) The tests indicated in Table I are intended to be mandatory minimum requirements. The standard does not preclude an employer from subjecting his employee to a more comprehensive examination but allows additional tests to be given at the discretion of the physician based in part on likely job duties, likely hyperbaric exposure and employee work and medical histories (29 CFR 1910.411(a)(1)(v)). For example, Table I requires that a standard 12-lead EKG be given once at age 35 or over. This is a minimum requirement and intended to provide a baseline tracing at a relatively early age. The standard does not preclude the physician from making the EKG a routine part of the diver's annual medical examination. Similarly, an examining physician who felt that an X-ray survey would assist in detection or evaluation of bone necrosis could have that test performed, and the findings could be used as part of the basis for a determination of medical fitness.

(6) 29 CFR 1910.411(e) - The written reports prepared by the examining physician are generally kept in the company office. The CSHO should make his onsite inspection before reviewing the medical records to avoid giving advance notice to the employer. The CSHO shall examine those records to determine that:

(a) Medical examinations have been given as required (.411(a) and (b)).

(b) A copy of the standard and a summary of the nature and extent of the hyperbaric conditions to which the dive team members will be exposed were provided to the physician (.411(c)).

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

(c) The employer has a physician's written report on each employee required to be examined (.411(e)).

(d) The employer has determined the extent and nature of the employee's fitness for the designated job (.411(f)(1)).

(e) The second has given the opportunity for second and third opinion, if appropriate (.411(f) (2) and (3)).

(7) 29 CFR 1910.411(f) is intended to apply to all employees who will be exposed. At this time there is a case pending in which the extent of the employer's obligations to pay for examinations (including new hires and free-lance divers) and to follow the procedures for a second and third opinion under 29 CFR 1910.411 Medical requirements, is being challenged. Until further notice is provided by OSHA, do not issue citations under this particular standard without first consulting with the National Office.

(8) Appendix A of the standard contains a list of examples of medical conditions which may restrict or limit employee exposure to hyperbaric conditions. This appendix is advisory, not mandatory to the physician. (Note: typo- graphical error in Federal Register where Appendix "B" was printed instead of "A".)

(9) In addition to Appendix A of the standard, the following conditions may be reasons for temporary disqualification from exposure to hyperbaric exposure (29 CFR 1910.410(b)(3)):

(a) Acute alcoholism and/or drug intoxication.

(b) Acute gastronintestinal syndrome.

(c) Acute infections, skin, respiratory, ear, etc.

(d) Recent incident of serious decompression sickness.

i. 29 CFR 1910.420 Safe practices manual.

(1) The employer may refer to the safe practices manual as the diving manual, employer's operational log or diving guide. The manual shall be at the dive location and available to all team members.

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

(2) The safe practices manual must provide a written operational procedure for each diving mode engaged in by the employer which contains the employer's implementation of the standard. The CSHO shall review the manual to ascertain if it contains safety procedures and checklists for diving operations, assignment and responsibilities of the dive team members, equipment procedures and checklists and emergency procedures.

j. 29 CFR 1910.421 Pre-dive procedures.

(1) The provisions of this section must be followed by the employer for all diving modes with the designated person- in-charge responsible for overall compliance and briefings.

(2) 29 CFR 1910.421(a) - The CSHO shall check to see that the emergency aid list is complete and available to all dive team members.

(3) 29 CFR 1910.421(b) - The CSHO shall check to see that there is a first aid kit at the dive location. If used in a decompression chamber or bell, the first aid supplies shall be suitable for use under hyperbaric conditions; e.g., they should not include bottles of liquids, mercury thermometers or ammonia ampules.

(4) 29 CFR 1910.421(d) - Planning and assessment is essentially a "dive plan" requirement for which the designated person-in-charge is responsible. Most of the information required by this subsection should be found in the safe practices manual (29 CFR 1910.420). Some information may not be found in written form because it cannot be ascertained until the team reaches the dive location. The CSHO shall question the team members to determine that the employer has complied with the requirements of this subsection.

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

(5) 29 CFR 1910.421(d)and (e) - Certain hazards encountered such as weather, water temperature, current and bottom conditions can be recognized and taken into account in the planning and execution of the operation. When other operations being conducted in the vicinity (dredging, marine traffic, etc.) are likely to interfere with the diving operation, the designated person-in-charge shall plan the operation after appropriate coordination with persons responsible for the other activities, so that any hazard to the dive team will be eliminated or minimized. Failure to plan for such recognizable conditions or to coordinate activities shall be a basis for a citation.

(6) 29 CFR 1910.421(f) - The employee briefing is usually conducted by the designated person-in-charge just prior to the divers entering the water. It is particularly important that the designated person-in-charge shall inquire into each dive team member's current state of physical fitness before making individual assignments. To determine compliance the CSHO can question dive team members and observe the operation, if one is ongoing.

(7) 29 CFR 1910.421(g) - As in the preceding subsections, compliance with the pre-dive inspection requirement can only be determined by observations and questioning employees. The standard makes no distinction between employer-provided equipment and employee-provided equipment with regard to the requirement of pre-dive inspection. While an employee can individually make such inspections, it is the employer who is responsible for assuring compliance with all equipment requirements of the standard.

(8) 29 CFR 1910.421(h) Warning signal.

(a) There are two distinctions in the requirements for displaying the warning signal:

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

(i) 29 CFR 1910.421(h) only requires the warning signal to be displayed when diving from surfaces other than vessels such as wharves, piers, pilings, jetties, fixed caissons, levees, dikes, dams, breakwater, artificial islands (secured to the continental shelf) etc., and then only when the dive location is capable of supporting marine traffic. Violations of this requirement shall be cited under this section.

(ii) The requirements for displaying the warning signal when the dive location is located on a vessel is covered by the U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Rules, International-Inland, contained in Department of Transportation, U.S. Coast Guard pamphlet CG-169, May 1, 1977, Rule 27, and is not enforceable by OSHA. (See Appendix C.) If the CSHO observes violations of the warning signal when the dive location is a vessel, no citation shall be issued. The CSHO shall nevertheless inform the employer of the violation and recommend abatement. The CSHO shall also note the incident on the OSHA-1 Form and notify the nearest U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Maritime Inspection, of all particulars of the violations.

(b) The warning signal is a rigid replica of the international code Flag "A", at least one meter in height (depicted below).

As long as the flag is displayed to achieve virtual all around visibility, the requirement for rigidity shall have been met.

k. 29 CFR 1910.422 Procedures during dive.

(1) This requirement covers the time the diver enters the water until the diver leaves the water.

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

(2) 29 CFR 1910.422(c) - The requirement for two-way voice communication shall be checked. Pull signals do not meet the requirements except in the SCUBA mode.

(3) 29 CFR 1910.422(d) - The CSHO shall check that the proper decompression and treatment tables are at the dive location.

(4) 29 CFR 1910.422(e) - The dive profile information may be recorded by whatever means and whatever form the employer wishes provided the information is maintained accurately and completely.

(5) 29 CFR 1910.422(f) - Hand-held power tools and equipment.

(a) The standard does not require a hand-held power tool to have a pressure sensitive manual control switch. However, when electrically powered hand-held tools are used underwater and the source of power is supplied from the dive location, bell or habitat, the hand-held power tool shall not be supplied with power from the dive location until requested by the diver.

(b) In addition to the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.422(f)(1) and (2), all hand-held electrical power tools and equipment must be acceptable within the meaning of the National Electrical Code Section 110-2 (adopted by 29 CFR 1910.309(b)).

NEC Section 110-2 states: The conductors and equipment required or permitted by this code shall be acceptable only when approved. (Approved means acceptable to the authority enforcing this code, NEC Section 100). Clarification of "approved" is given in 29 CFR 1910.308(d)(1) which states in part: "The authority enforcing the code under subpart S is the Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health." Further, "acceptable" is defined under 29 CFR 1910.308(d)(2) which states: An installation or equipment is acceptable to the Assistant Secretary. of Labor, and approved within the meaning of this subpart S:

o If it is accepted, or certified, or listed, or labeled, or otherwise determined to be a safe by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, such as, but not limited to, Underwriters Laboratory, Inc. and Factory Mutual Engineering Corp.; or

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

o With respect to an installation or equipment of a kind which no nationally recognized testing laboratory accepts, certifies, lists, labels, or determines to be safe, if it is inspected or tested by another Federal agency, or by a State, municipal, or other local authority responsible for enforcing occupational safety provisions of the National Electrical Code, and found in compliance with the provisions of the National Electrical Code as applied in 29 CFR 1910.309; or

o With respect to custom-made equipment or related installations which are designed, fabricated for, and intended for use by a particular customer, if it is determined to be safe for its intended use by its manufacturer on the basis of test data which the employer keeps and makes available for inspection to the Assistant Secretary and her authorized representatives.

(6) 29 CFR 1910.422(g) - Personnel designated to operate electric cutting and welding equipment used in diving operations shall have experience or training in the safe use of underwater cutting and welding equipment (29 CFR 1910.410(a)(2)(i)). There shall be a positive acting disconnect switch in the electrical circuit, located so that the tender on the intercommunication system can oversee and operate the switch at all times that the diver is in the water (29 CFR 1910.422(g)(1)(i)). The disconnect switch must be in the open position except when the diver is actually cutting or welding (29 CFR 1910.422(9) (1)(ii)). The employer must provide insulated gloves for the diver's protection (29 CFR 1910.422(g)(4)). The CSHO shall check to see that the welding machine's frame is properly grounded and that cables, electrode holders and connections are insulated (29 CFR 1910.422(g)(2) and (3)).

(7) This standard does not place any restriction on the use of AC current or rectified AC current arc welding.

(8) 29 CFR 1910.422(g)(5) - "Closed compartments" means any space which is enclosed by bulkheads and overheads (walls and ceilings) such as inside large diameter pipes, or any other space which by its size and closed nature can hold or contain a flammable gas or vapor. The compartments, structures and pipes shall be freed of all flammable gases and vapors prior to hot work by ventilating, flooding or purging with an inert gas. Venting alone is

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not sufficient unless it results in freeing the compartments, structures or pipes from flammable gases. Closed compartments, structures and pipes already under flow, as in hot tapping operations, by necessity meet the requirement for being flooded.

(9) 29 CFR 1910.422(h) - Explosive charges are used to perform some types of work underwater, including demolition, sheet cutting, cable cutting and the making of holes. Explosives suitable for underwater work include primacord, various gelatins, plastic blocks and some liquids. The requirements of this subsection are addressed to the need for proper handling, storage and use of explosives as covered by 29 CFR 1910.109 and 1926.912 and to the hazard of premature detonation while the diver is still in the water. The standard requires the diver to be out of the water when detonating the explosive or testing the electrical continuity of the explosive circuits. Only personnel who are properly trained or experienced shall handle explosives (29 CFR 1910.410(a)(1) and (2)(i)).

(10) 29 CFR 1910.422(i) - Termination of dive. This sub- section applies to all diving modes. The designated person-in-charge is responsible for determining when a dive shall be terminated. Termination means the ending of the working interval of a dive; it may still be necessary to complete the decompression procedures.

l. 29 CFR 1910.423 Post-dive procedures.

(1) 29 CFR 1910.423(c) Recompression capability.

(a) The 6-month delayed effective date as stated in 29 CFR 1910.441 has now expired. Therefore, whenever the standard requires the use of decompression chambers or bells, all employers shall be subject to meeting these requirements.

(b) Whenever the standard requires a decompression chamber, there must be a member of the dive team available at the dive site trained in its use (1910.423(c)(5)).

(c) 29 CFR 191".0423(c)(3)(i) - The expression "dual-lock" is meant to include multilock components, each of which is large enough to transfer personnel and supplies into and out of the main compartment while it is pressurized. A medical lock is a relatively small

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

dual-lock compartment that permits equipment be passed into and out of a decompression therefore would not meet the intent of 10.423(c)(3)(i).

(d) To be used as a recompression facility (i.e., in lieu of a chamber), a diving bell must meet all the criteria listed in 29 CFR 1910. 423(c)(3) and 1910.423(c)(1). Chambers used for dives in the depth range of 0-300 fsw shall have a pressure capability of at least 165 fsw (6 ATA). Chambers used for dives in the depth range of 300 fsw and deeper shall have a pressure capability equal to the maximum depth of the dive. (The CSHO shall check the dive plan and tables for maximum depth of the dive).

(2) 29 CFR 1910.423(d) - The standard does not require a standard form or that the dive records for each individual diver be kept on a separate sheet. Where there is more than one diver working, the information required may be kept for all divers on one record, although there should be separate entries for each different diver exposure or decompression table used.

(3) The information required shall also be recorded on the OSHA-200 Form (Log of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses). Each employer shall maintain in each establishment a log of recordable occupational injuries and illnesses. The key word is "recordable." The intent of this section is to request documentation of a recordable illness, including an incident of decompression sickness, when the initial symptoms were such manifestations as skin itch, slight joint cramps, and slight numbness of the extremities. Although seemingly innocuous, such symptoms or indications are recognized and suspect as mild forms of decompression chamber. Such occurrences and treatments shall be recorded similarly to any other case of injury or illness.

(4) 29 CFR 1910.423(e) - This section requires the employer to investigate and evaluate each incident of decompression sickness, to take appropriate corrective action, and to prepare a written evaluation assessing the incident within 45 days. The corrective action may include an adjustment of the dive procedures, reassessment of the decompression tables or a reexamination of the particular dive involved. A check of the dive records should reveal whether an incident took place requiring an investigation, corrective action and a written evaluation.

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

m. 29 CFR 1910.424-427 Specific diving operations.

(1) The requirements of sections 29 CFR 1910.424 through 1910.427 are in addition to any other applicable requirement in Subpart T.

(2) 29 CFR 1910.424(c)(3), 1910.425(c)(2) and 1910.426(c)(3) - There shall be a diver at the point of entry of an enclosed or physically confining space when there is a significant entanglement hazard. Depending on the situation, a point of entry may be under water or on the surface (e.g., a marine railway). An enclosed or physically confining space in this context includes any diving situation where there is a significant possibility of entrapment or line entanglement, or the diver is required to make one or more sharp turns around wrecks, pilings, or has to enter closed compartments, caves or pipes, etc.

n. 29 CFR 1910.424 SCUBA diving.

(1) The limits for SCUBA diving are more restrictive than for surface-supplied air diving or mixed-gas diving. (See chart on following page.)

(2) 29 CFR 1910.242(b)(3) - Three basic types of currents affect diving operations: river or major ocean currents; currents produced by the ebb and flow of the tides (which may add or subtract from any existing current); and underwater, or rip-current, caused by the rush of water returning from waves breaking along a shoreline. The CSHO shall determine that the employer has ascertained the strength of the local currents at the dive site from Tide and Current Tables, Coast and Geodetic Survey Charts, Coast Pilot Publications or other sources. A SCUBA diver is handicapped when swimming against a current greater than one knot and the standard prohibits such activity unless line-tended. A SCUBA diver may, however, swim downstream with a current if means are provided to pick him up.

(3) 29 CFR 1910.424(c)(1) - The standard requires a standby diver for all operations. He shall be available at the dive location equipped and ready to go to the assistance of the diver in the water. A buddy-diver in the water does not satisfy the requirement of a standby diver. A tender can be the standby diver if the diver is line-tended and visible from the surface.

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

__________________________________________________________________________

SYMBOLS: = less than knot=1 nautical mile fsw=feet of sea water

= greater than no-D=No decompression limits NA=Not applicable __________________________________________________________________________

REQUIREMENTS | SCUBA | SURFACE=SUPPLIED AIR | MIXED GAS _______________|_________________|_______________________|________________

LIMITS | 130 fsw | 190 fsw 1F | NA | 1 knot/no line | 30 minutes | | Enclosed no line| 220 fsw 1F | | | 30 minutes |

_______________|_________________|_______________________|________________

Tender |ed from surface |depths. | 1 diver in bell |or another diver |1-tender/diver when | as tender |in continual vis-| 100 fsw or no-D | |ual contact | |

_______________|_________________|_______________________|________________

Standby | yes | fsw no-D | yes | | |

_______________|_________________|_______________________|________________

Diver |Yes(manual re- | 100 fsw no-D | 100 fsw no-D carried |reserve or inde- | No direct ascent (ex- |no direct ascent Reserve |pendent reserve | cept heavy gear and |(except heavy |cylinder.) | no space.) |gear and no | | |space.)

_______________|_________________|_______________________|________________

Diver | NA | 100 fsw no-D | Yes Location | | |

_______________|_________________|_______________________|________________

 In Water      |   NA            |  Heavy Gear           | Heavy gear.
   Stage       |                 |                       |
100 fsw
no-D
               |                 |                       |(if no bell.)

_______________|_________________|_______________________|________________

Chamber | 100 fsw no-D | 100 fsw no-D | Yes

_______________|_________________|_______________________|________________

| |120 min. (except heavy |Open or Closed:

Bell | NA |gear and confined | 220fsw 120 min.

| |space.) |(except heavy | | |gear and | | |confined space). | | |Closed:

300 fsw

| | |(except confined | | |space).

_______________|_________________|_______________________|________________

Communications | Emergency |Emergency Assistance, |Emergency Asst. | Assistance |between diver and lo- |between diver & | |cation,diver and bell, |location,diver & | |bell and location |bell, and bell & | | |location.

_______________|_________________|_______________________|________________

Miscellaneous |Diver at point of|Diver at point of entry|Diver at point |entry. Require |Heavy gear,extra hose. |of entry. Heavy |person in charge.|Require person in |gear,extra hose. | |charge. |require person | | |in charge.

_______________|_________________|_______________________|________________

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

(4) In addition to any conditions listed in 29 CFR 1910. 422(i) for termination of the working interval of the dive, the standard requires termination of the dive in instances where the designated person-in-charge is also the standby diver and he is required to enter the water to assist a diver, thereby creating a situation where there would not be a designated Person-in-charge remaining at the dive location (29 CFR 1910.410(c)(11).

o. 29 CFR 1910.425 Surface-supplied air diving.

(1) When required (see chart), decompression chambers and bells when used as a recompression facility shall meet the criteria as stated in 29 CFR 1910. 423(c) and 29 CFR 1910.430(f) (decompression chamber only).

(2) In addition to any condition listed in 29 CFR 1910.422(i) for termination of the working interval of the dive, the standard requires termination of the dive whenever the required standby diver, entering the water to assist a diver, creates a situation where there would not be a designated person-in-charge (29 CFR 1910.410(c)(1)), or a tender remaining at the dive location (29 CFR 1910. 425(c)(1)). The standby diver can be either the person-in-charge or the tender or both for dives less than 100 fsw.

(3) Below 100 fsw or outside the no-decompression limits, each diver must have his own tender. In addition, a standby diver must be available at the dive location. The standard does not require a standby tender for the standby diver.

(4) 29 CFR 1910.425(c)(4)(iv) - The reserve breathing gas supply required at the dive location for dives deeper than 100 fsw or outside the no-decompression limits shall be "on line" ready for use and its source shall be independent of the primary breathing gas supply. The dive location breathing gas supply shall be of sufficient quantity, pressure and quality to allow each diver to complete the planned decompression interval.

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

p. 29 CFR 1910.426 Mixed-gas diving.

(1) When required (see chart), decompress1on chambers and bells when used as a recompression facility must meet the criteria as stated in 29 CFR 1910. 423(c) and 29 CFR 1910.430(f) (decompression chambers only).

(2) In addition to any condition listed in 29 CFR 1910. 422(i) for termination of the working interval of the dive, the standard requires termination of the dive whenever the required standby diver, entering the water to assist a diver, creates a situation where there would not be a designated person-in-charge (29 CFR 1910.410(c)(l)) or a tender remaining at the dive location (29 CFR 1910.426(c)(1)).

(3) 29 CFR 1910.426(c)(1) and (2) - Because a mixed-gas diver must have his own tender at all times, as well as a standby diver available to assist him in the water, the tender cannot be used as a standby diver unless there is someone qualified and available to take his place as the tender. The standard does not require a separate standby diver for each diver in the water.

(4) 29 CFR 1910.426(c)(5) - The reserve gas supply required at the dive location shall be "on line" ready for use and its source shall be independent of the primary breathing gas supply. The dive location reserve breathing gas supply shall be in sufficient quantity, Pressure and quality (mix) to allow each diver to complete the planned decompression interval.

q. 29 CFR 1910.427 Liveboating.

(1) Liveboating is conducted in either the surface-supplied air or mixed-gas mode, and is subject to the requirement of the particular mode used and to the applicable general requirements. In addition, it is also subject to those requirements which are specific to liveboating.

(2) 29 CFR 1910.427(d)(2)* - When inspecting a live-boating operation, the CSHO shall check to see that there is a device designed to minimize the possibility of the diver's hose becoming entangled in the vessel's propeller. Such a device may be a propeller shroud, or a weighted fairlead hose system

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

or an air tugger with a heavy weight. The use of a tender to prevent hose entanglement without some mechanical support is not sufficient to satisfy this requirement. If a floating hose is used, the hose shall be checked carefully to make sure that the requirements for breathing gas supply hoses are met (29 CFR 1910.430(c)).

(3) In addition to any condition listed under 29 CFR 1910.422(i) for termination of the working interval of a dive, the standard requires termination of the dive whenever the standby diver, entering the water to assist a diver, creates a situation where there would not be a designated person-in-charge (29 CFR 1910.410(c)(1)) or a tender remaining at the dive location (29 CFR 1910.425(c)(1) or 1910.426(c)(1)).

(4) 29 CFR 1910.427(d)(4)* - A standby diver is required for all liveboating operations.

*NOTE: Typographical error in Federal Register - 29 CFR 1910.427(c) was mistakenly printed as .427(d). The CSHO should nevertheless cite to 1910.427(d) until a correction is made in the Federal Register.

r. 29 CFR 1910.430 Equipment.

(1) 29 CFR 1910.430(a)(2) - The CSHO shall check to see that the employer has recorded the information required by this section. The information may reveal whether or not the equipment is in need of maintenance, testing or replacement, in that it does not currently meet the substantive requirements of 29 CFR 1910.430. These records (logs or tags) must be kept by the employer until replaced by a subsequent up-to-date record or until the equipment is withdrawn from service.

(2) 29 CFR 1910.430(b) - Air compressor systems shall be inspected to see that they have a volume tank, check valve, pressure gauge, relief valve, drain valve and an air intake which is located away from the exhaust or other contaminants.

(3) 29 CFR 1910.430(b)(4) - The employer is responsible for checking the output of the air compressor every 6 months to ensure that the respirable air of the diver does not contain contaminants in excess of the concentrations listed in 29 CFR 1910.430(b)(3) or a

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

noxious or pronounced odor. The CSHO shall interview appropriate employees and examine the records indicating results of such tests. The CSHO shall also check to see that the air sample was taken as near as possible to where the air enters the distribution system to the diver. If required, the CSHO or Industrial Hygienist should obtain a sample for later checking ashore or, when possible, test for contaminants onsite.

(4) 29 CFR 1910.430(c) - Breathing gas supply hoses.

(a) It is the intent of 29 CFR 1910.430(c)(1)(i) to require the hoses to meet the pressure level re- quirement of the part of the system to which it is connected. Therefore, a hose connected in the part of the system on the low pressure or downstream side of a regulating valve must meet only the pressure level of that part of the system. For instance, the hose does not need to have a working pressure equal to the pressure of the bottles of gas in the bank but only equal to that of the system downstream of the regula- tor. The working pressure rating will usually be found on each length on a decal with the manufacturer's name.

(b) 29 CFR 1910.430(c)(1)(ii) - See definition of bursting pressure, paragraph 4.f.(2) of this directive.

(c) 29 CFR 1910.430(c)(2)(i) - Installation of cadmium-plated or other corrosion resistant Plated fittings are acceptable and meets the requirements of "corrosion resistant" to the extent that the plating is intact during the diving operations. However, when the plating becomes badly worn and the parent metal becomes pitted, the fitting shall be replaced.

(5) 29 CFR 1910.430(c)(3)(ii) - This requirement for kink resistant hoses in umbilicals is applicable to the breathing gas hose, hot water hose or other control hoses that carry air or liquids. The breathing gas hose in the umbilical must also meet the applicable requirements of 29 CFR 1910.430(c).

(6) 29 CFR 1910.430(c)(3)(iii) - The maximum allowable working pressure of the breathing gas hose can be calculated by subtracting the maximum depth of the supply source (surface or bell in p.s.i.) from the

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

maximum depth of the dive for which it will be used (in p.s.i.) and adding 100 p.s.i.. The determining factor is the pressure differential between the supply source and the diver.

(7) 29 CFR 1910.430(f)(1) - The meaning of ASME or equiva- lent code is covered under 4.f. of this directive.

(8) 29 CFR 1910.430(f)(3)(i) - Appropriate means to maintain the oxygen level below 25 percent may include a ventilation system or an overboard dump system. An overboard dump system is a system designed to exhaust the expired gases from the 02 system (used for respiratory purposes inside a decompression chamber), to prevent a build-up of 02 inside the Decompression Chamber above 25 percent by volume of the ambient atmosphere.

(9) 29 CFR 1910.430(g)(4) - The requirement for a time- keeping device applies to all diving modes including SCUBA.

(10) 29 CFR 1910.430(h)(2) - The intent of this "helmet and mask" provision is to assure that air is supplied to the diver at a rate sufficient to meet the breathing requirements of the diver and to dilute or flush from the masks and helmets the diver's expelled air. The specifications are based on recommendations of the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the U.S. Coast Guard. This section is intended to guide the design and selection of masks and helmets, not to serve as a basis for routine operational tests or field verification. Although this section does not require the employer to perform any particular test on helmets and masks, it does require that the appropriate ventilation rate be maintained throughout operational use. Citations shall be issued under this section only after a check with the OSHA National Office of Compliance Programming.

(11) 29 CFR 1910.430(i)(2) - The intent of this section on "oxygen cleaning" is to make sure that certain equipment must be cleaned internally of flammable materials before initially being placed into oxygen service. Similarly, whenever new or replacement components are added, they shall also be cleaned before being connected into the system.

s. 29 CFR 1910.440 Recordkeeping requirements.

(1) 29 CFR 1910.440(a)(1) - The 48-hour time period for reporting fatality and hospitalization (five or more) cases is the maximum time allowed by 29 CFR 1904.8. Employers should be encouraged to report such cases as soon as possible after the occurrence.

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

(2) 29 CFR 1910.440(a)(2) - The CSHO shall examine the employer's record of diving-related injuries and illnesses which result in the hospitalization for 24 hours or more of any dive team member. These incidents do not have to be reported (unless five or more hospitalizations are involved) but the record must be made available to OSHA on request. Frequency of injuries and illnesses may be an indication of improper planning or dive procedures.

(3) 29 CFR 1910.440(b)(1) - This section gives the CSHO the authority to inspect and copy any record required by this standard.

(4) 29 CFR 1910.440(b)(2) - In order to protect employee Privacy, it is intended that authorized representatives of employees obtain the specific consent of employees involved prior to receiving individual medical records. OSHA's policy in regards to the medical records is to prevent any misuse of such information that may be available through any requirement of this recordkeeping standard.

(5) 29 CFR 1910.440(b)(4) - This requirement is to provide a mechanism for extended retention of certain records that are important for long-range epidemiological studies. The transfer of these records to NIOSH after the 5-year retention period is intended to relieve the employer of the burden of keeping the records beyond the 5-year period. However, if the employer has an adequate storage and retains the records beyond the 5-year period, no citation shall be issued, provided the records are available for inspection and copying by either OSHA or NIOSH. Such action by the employer shall be considered de minimis.

t. Relationship with the other Federal agencies/transportation to site.

(1) In general, OSHA Area Directors should coordinate inspection activities with local U.S. Coast Guard counterparts in a manner which seeks both to minimize the duplication of agency resources and maximize the protection of affected workers.

(2) Consistent with considerations of operational efficiency and the safety of agency personnel, transportation necessary to the conduct of off-shore inspections shall be secured in accordance with the following priority:

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-23.2 OCTOBER 30, 1978

(a) Appropriate Federal agency, on an "as available" basis.

(b) Private contractor.

(c) Employer supplied.

(3) Consistent with existing rules and regulations, accident investigation reports, statistical data, and other pertinent enforcement related information should be freely exchanged between other agencies at the local level.

5. Effective Date

This directive is effective immediately and will remain in effect until canceled or superseded.

Bruce Hillenbrand Acting Director, Federal Compliance and State Programs

Attachments

DISTRIBUTION: A-1 E-1 B-2 HEW-1 C-1 NIOSH Regional Program Directors-1 D-4 & 5 NACOSH-1 Training Institute-4

(Originator:OCCM)

-27-

Appendix A consists of the preamble to the Commercial Diving Operations Standard con- tained in the Federal Register dated Friday, July 22, 1977, Part 111, Vol. 42, No. 141 between pages 37650 and 37668.

FOR TABLE 1-11 NO DECOMPRESSION LIMITS AND REPETITIVE GROUP DESIGNATION TABLE FOR NO DECOMPRESSION AIR DIVES SEE PRINTED COPY.

FOR TABLE 1-11 NO-DECOMPRESSION LIMITS AND REPETITIVE GROUP DESIGNATION TABLE FOR NO-DECOMPRESSION AIR DIVES SEE PRINTED COPY.