Ensuring the safety of diving and snorkelling equipment is crucial for individuals conducting business or undertaking (PCBU). WorkCover Queensland emphasizes the necessity to carefully select, inspect, maintain, repair, test, and use all equipment associated with diving and snorkelling activities.
In the realm of high-risk diving work, adherence to AS/NZS 2299.1: 2015 Occupational diving operations – Standard operational practice is paramount. Similarly, for general diving work, the PCBU should follow appropriate standards such as AS/NZS 2299.1: 2015, AS/NZS 2299.2: 2002, or industry-specific codes like the Pearl Diving Industry Code of Practice.
To uphold equipment standards, the PCBU is advised to establish documented procedures for the inspection, cleaning, repair, and maintenance of diving gear by a competent person. The incorporation of checklists into dive plans can aid in ensuring that equipment, including emergency gear, is thoroughly inspected before each dive.
For emergency scenarios, such as a main air supply failure, the PCBU must guarantee that divers have immediate access to an emergency breathing gas supply. This supply should be sufficient for a safe ascent and decompression requirements. Weight systems worn by divers should feature a quick-release mechanism, enabling swift emergency release for positive buoyancy.
For recreational divers, WorkCover Queensland outlines the essential equipment for resort, entry-level certificate, and certificated divers. Each category builds upon the previous, encompassing additional gear and safety measures. Similarly, specific equipment requirements are detailed for recreational technical diving, EANx diving, mixed gas diving, and decompression diving.
In the context of compressors, storage, and filling, WorkCover Queensland emphasizes the need for careful consideration. Compressors should be designed for breathing air, tested for gas quality, and operated according to manufacturers' instructions. Additionally, precautions such as 'sniff' testing air samples in cylinders are advised to detect any objectionable or nauseous odors.
Safe cylinder filling procedures are detailed, emphasizing regular inspection, proper equipment usage, and personnel training. Special attention is given to the risks associated with high-pressure fill hoses, securing SCUBA cylinders, and the importance of operating procedures for filling cylinders.
For the blending, testing, storage, and use of EANx, the PCBU should ensure compliance with manufacturers' recommendations. Divers are encouraged to test oxygen content before use, and cylinders must be appropriately labeled. The potential hazards of EANx compressors or decanting oxygen-rich mixtures are highlighted, urging PCBUs to seek expert advice.
Similar precautions apply to the blending, testing, storage, and use of mixed gases. A competent person should handle gas blending, and equipment must align with manufacturers' recommendations. Cylinders storing mixed gases should be clearly marked, and oxygen content must be tested by divers before use.
To maintain breathing gas quality, especially in high-risk and general diving work, standards outlined in AS/NZS 2299.1: 2015 should be followed. Limits for carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and oil content in compressed gas are detailed, ensuring the safety of divers during their underwater activities.