Guide For Scientific Diving

GUIDE FOR SCIENTIFIC DIVING
MASTER
Forward
The guide for scientific diving at the University of West Florida (27 April 1993) was adapted
from Navy Diving Guide, NOAA Diving Guide and AAUS guide (dated 1 May 1984) has been revised
and updated to reflect current changes in diving policies throughout the diving field. This document has
been revised as a guide for Field Operations Directors, Diving Safety Officer (DSO), Lead Divers (Dive
Masters) and Scientific Divers to utilize in Safe Diving Practices.
In the event of a diving accident, DSO, Field Operations Directors, Lead Diver (Dive Master)
and the University of West Florida receive considerable protection if it can be shown that the University
is making serious efforts to promote safe diving and that the particular dive in question was conducted in
accordance with approved rules and guidelines. On the other hand, if it can be shown that the approved
rules were not followed, the existence of a guide such as ours can make an adverse judgment more likely
as a result of failure to observe the guidelines.
If a DSO, Field Operations Director and Lead Diver (Dive Master) permits a person to dive
without proper training (usually construed as a recognized formal course and adequate experience) or a
current physical examination, the DSO, Field Operations Director and Lead Diver (Dive Master) may be
assuming personal liability for his/her judgment in the event of an accident. Further, the DSO, Field
Operations Director and Lead Diver (Dive Master) is responsible to assure that all dive gear used by the
divers is functioning properly. Finally before each dive, the DSO, Field Operations Director and Lead
Diver (Dive Master) must ask if each diver feels able to carry out the particular dive. If the DSO, Field
Operations Director and Lead Diver (Diver Master) have personal reservations as to the health of the
diver, or the divers ability to carry out the dive, they must keep the diver on the surface. This does not
eliminate the responsibility of each diver to use good judgment and to dive safely.
The DSO, Field Operations Director, or Lead Diver (Dive Master) is expected to recognize
diving-related injuries and be able to render appropriate first aid, within the limitations of the available
facilities. This document was compiled under the direction of the University of West Florida Diving
Control Board.
April 2001.
The Diving Control Board members are: Shelley Trimm, Aquatics; Dr. Chris Pomory, Dr.
Wayne Bennett, Biology; Dr. Wade Jeffrey, and Dr. Dick Snyder, Biology/C.E.D.B; Dr. John Bratten
and Dr. Joe “Coz” Cozzi, Underwater Archaeology; Captain Keith Plaskett, Diving Safety Officer;
Administrative Assistants, Karen Mims and Joyce Boyce.
Guide for Scientific Diving - University of West Florida April 27, 1993
Revision History
Major Revision
April 2001
February 2003
Minor Revision
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CONTENTS
Section Page
1.0 GENERAL POLICY

1.10 Purpose………………………………………………………………… 7
1.11 The Scientific Diving Guide……………………………………………. 7
1.12 The UWF Scientific Diving Guide……………………………………… 7
1.13 Liability………………………………………………………………... 7
1.14 The UWF Departments Scientific Diving Procedures…………………. 7
1.15 Review of Guide………………………………………………………... 8
1.20 Control…………………………………………………………………. 8
1.21 Scientific Diving Defined……………………………………………… 8
1.22 Permission to Participate in Scientific Diving…………………………. 8
1.23 Equipment……………………………………………………………… 8
1.24 Sites……………………………………………………………………. 8
1.25 Waiver of Requirements………………………………………………. 8
1.30 UWF Departments engaged in Underwater Activities…………………. 8
1.31 The Diving Safety Officer…………………………………………. 8
1.32 The Diving Control Board……………………………………………… 9
1.40 Program Responsibility………………………………………………... 9
1.41 Ultimate Authority…………………………………………………….. 9
1.42 UWF Project Directors……..………………………………………….. 9
1.43 Policy Administration…………………………………………………. 10
1.50 Instructional Personnel………………………………………………… 10
1.51 Qualifications………………………………………………………….. 10
1.52 Selection……………………………………………………………….. 10
1.53 Type of Training……………………………………………………….. 10
1.60 Medical Examination…………………………………………………... 10
2.00 DIVING REGULATIONS…………………………………………………… 11

2.10 General Policy………………………………………………………….. 11
2.20 Diving Procedures……………………………………………………… 11
2.21 Solo Diving Prohibition………………………………………………… 11
2.22 Overhead Environment Diving………………………………………… 11
2.23 Limited Visibility Diving……………………………………………… 11
2.24 Altitude Diving………………………………………………………….. 12
2.25 Blue Water Diving……………………………………………………….. 13
2.26 Flying After Diving……………………………………………………… 13
2.27 Diving Vessels…………………………………………………………… 13
2.28 Divers Flag……………………………………………………………… 13
2.29 Floatation Devices……………………………………………………… 13
2.30 Timing Devices, Depth and Pressure Gauges, and Dive Computers…… 14
2.31 Dive Tables……………………………………………………………. 14
2.32 Depth Limits…………………………………………………………… 14
2.33 Ascent Procedures…………………………………………………….. 14
2.34 Refusal to Dive………………………………………………………… 14
2.35 Termination of the Dive……………………………………………….. 15
2.40 SCUBA Diver…………………………………………………………. 15
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2.41 Single Diver Tended…………………………………………………… 16
2.50 Surface Supplied Diving………………………………………………. 16
2.51 Hookah………………………………………………………………… 16
2.60 Enriched Air Nitrox (EAN)…………………………………………… 17
2.70 Closed and Semi-Closed Circuit SCUBA…………………………….. 17
2.80 Environmental Diving………………………………………………… 17
2.90 Diving Operations……………………………………………………. 19
2.91 Diving Safety Officer………………………………………………… 19
2.92 Dive Plans……………………………………………………………. 19
2.93 Pre-Dive Safety Checks……………………………………………… 20
2.94 Post-Dive Safety Checks……………………………………………... 21
2.95 Emergencies and Deviations from Regulations……………………… 21
2.96 Consequences of Violation of Regulations by UWF Departments….. 21
2.97 Consequences of Violation of Regulations by Scientific Divers…….. 21
3.00 RECORD KEEPING AND REQUIREMENTS.…………………………….. 21

3.10 Personal Diving Log…………………………………………………. 21
3.20 Record Maintenance…………………………………………………. 22
3.30 Required Accident Reporting………………………………………… 22
4.00 ENTRY-LEVEL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS…………………………. 23

4.10 Evaluation……………………………………………………………... 23
4.11 Medical Examination…………………………………………………. 23
4.12 SCUBA Training……………………………………………………… 24
4.22 CPR/First Aid Certification…………………………………………… 24
4.23 Open Water Evaluation……………………………………………….. 24
5.00 SCIENTIFIC DIVER REQUIREMENTS………………………………..… 24

5.10 General Policy…………………………………………………………. 25
5.20 Prerequisites…………………………………………………………… 25
5.21 Eligibility………………………………………………………………. 25
5.22 Medical Examination…………………………………………………… 25
5.23 Qualification……………………………………………………………. 25
5.30 Requirements for Scientific Diving…………………………………….. 25
5.31 Documents……………………………………………………………… 25
5.32 Training…………………………………………………………………. 25
5.33 Examinations…………………………………………………………… 25
5.34 Medical Examination…………………………………………………… 26
5.40 Revocation of Scientific Diver…………………………………………. 26
5.60 Visiting Professional affiliated with other scientific diving programs…. 26
5.70 Volunteer Project divers………………………………………………… 26
6.00 DIVING EQUIPMENT………………………………………………………. 27

6.10 General Policy………………………………………………………….. 27
6.11 Record Keeping…………………………………………………………. 27
6.12 Regulators………………………………………………………………. 27
6.13 Breathing Masks and Helmets………………………………………….. 27
6.14 SCUBA Cylinders………………………………………………………. 27
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6.15 Auxiliary Equipment……………………………………………………. 28
6.18 Dry Suit (Inflatable Thermal Protection Device)………………………… 28
6.20 Underwater Tools………………………………………………………… 29
7.00 BREATHING AIR…………………………………………………………… 31

7.10 Oxygen Safety………………………………………………………….. 31
7.50 Air Compressor Operations……………………………………………. 31
8.00 MEDICAL GUIDE………………………………………………………….. 33

8.10 Medical Requirements of Dive Team……………………………….. 33
8.11 General………………………………………………………………. 33
8.12 Frequency of Medical Evaluations………………………………….. 33
8.13 Content of Medical Examinations…………………………………... 33
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APPENDICES
1. Definition of Terms ……………………………………………………….. 34 - 36

2. Selected References in Diving Medicine………………………………….. 37
3. Medical forms……………………………………………………………… 38
Release of Medical Information Form……………………………….. 39
Diving Medical History Form ………………………………………..40-42
Medical Record and Examination Form ……………………………...43-44
Recommended Physicians with Expertise in Dive Medicine ……… 45
4. Operational check list and briefings….…………………………………… 46
Scientific Diving Operational Plan ………………………………… 47
Float Plan………………………………………………………….. …48
Project Dive Brief – SCUBA……………………………………….. 49
U.S. Navy Doppler NO-D Dive Tables…………………………… 50-51
DAN Dive First Aid Kit Supply List ………………………………. 52
Boat Load out list…………………………………………………... 53
Diver Hand Signals ………………………………………………... 54
Surface Supply/Hookah Line Pull Signals ………………………..... 55
Hookah Tender ……………………………………………………... 56
U.S. NAVY Dive Tables (Safety Stops for Decompression Dives).. 57-59
5. Release, Dive log and training Forms……………………………………... 60
Complete Liability Release for Snorkeling Operations ……………... 61
Complete Liability Release for Diving Operations ……………….... 62
Diving Team Profile Log ………………………………………… … 63
Scientific Diver Log ………………………………………………… 64
Volunteer Diver Log……………………………………………….… 65
Master University Dive Log ………………………………………… 66
Scientific Diver Training Log ……………………………….……… 67
Volunteer Diver Training Log ……………………………….……… 68
6. Emergency Procedures Forms…………………………………………… 69
Diving Accident Log ……………………………………………….. 70-71
Diving Accident Sequence of Events ………………………………. 72
Diving Accident and Transportation Procedures……………………. 73
First Responder Baseline History …………………………………... 74
Four Minute Neuro Exam Check list …………………...…………… 75
Diving Accident Emergency Notification List……………………….. 76
Witness Statement ………………………………………….……… 77-78
Volunteer Worker Agreement (Worker’s Compensation) ………….. 79
UWF Employee Report of Injury ……………………………………. 80
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1.0 GENERAL POLICY
1.10 PURPOSE
1.11 The Scientific Diving Guide
The purpose of this scientific diving guide is to ensure that all scientific diving under the auspices of the
University of West Florida (UWF) is conducted in a manner that will maximize the protection of
scientific divers from accidental injury and/or illness, and to set forth a guide for training. Fulfillment of
the purposes shall be consistent with the furtherance of research and safety.
1.12 The UWF Scientific Diving Guide
The purpose of this document is to set forth minimal guidelines for the establishment of UWF-
recognized scientific diving program, the organization for the conduct of the program, and the basic
regulations and procedures for safety in scientific diving operations.
1.13 Liability
In adopting the policies set forth in this guide, UWF assumes no liability not otherwise imposed by law.
Each diver is assumed under this policy to be voluntarily performing activities for which each diver
assumes all risks, consequences and potential liability. A Liability of Release Form will be signed and
witnessed prior to any snorkeling, scuba diving, surface supply air or mixed gas technical diving
activities.
1.14. UWF Departmental Scientific Diving Procedures
A UWF Department is defined as any group or department engaged in scientific diving under the
auspices of the University of West Florida. The purpose of the UWF scientific diving guide is to
provide for the development and implementation of policies and procedures that will enable each UWF
Department to meet requirements of local environments and conditions as well as to comply with the
UWF scientific diving guide. UWF scientific diving shall include, but not be limited to:
1. A copy of the UWF Scientific Diving guide on the dive station.

2. Documentation of the following topics for each diving mode utilized:
a. Safety procedures for the diving operation. (Diving operations briefing)
b. Responsibilities of the dive team members
c. Equipment use and maintenance procedures
d. Emergency procedures including Oxygen first aid
3. Emergency evacuation and medical treatment procedures: For each diving location, a
procedure shall be established to locate and transport a diver to an operational hyperbaric
chamber or appropriate medical facility.
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1.15 Review of Guide
An annual report and review of diving activities shall be prepared and submitted to the UWF Diving
Control Board (DCB) by the UWF Diving Safety Officer. An annual meeting of the DCB will be held.
1.20 CONTROL
1.21 Scientific Diving Defined
Scientific diving shall be defined as any diving performed by individuals necessary to and part of a
scientific research or educational activity, in conjunction with a project or study under the jurisdiction of
UWF.
1.22 Permission to Participate in Scientific Diving
The UWF DCB requires that no person shall engage in scientific diving unless that person has met the
Scientific Diver Certification requirements and has been approved for scientific diving by the Diving
Safety Officer.
1.23 Equipment
All diving equipment used by certified scientific divers and trainees, regardless of ownership, shall
conform to the guidelines set forth in this guide.
1.24 Sites
The regulations herein shall be observed at all locations where scientific diving is conducted.
1.25 Waiver of Requirements
The UWF Diving Safety Officer may grant a waiver of any specific requirements providing that the
UWF Departments informs the DSO in writing. Any certified diver granted a waiver shall sign the
appropriate liability release.
1.30 UWF DEPARTMENTS ENGAGED IN UNDERWATER ACTIVITIES
Each UWF Department, which engages in the UWF scientific diving program, shall have representation
on the Diving Control Board.
1.31 Diving Safety Officer (DSO)
The UWF Diving Safety Officer will oversee and train all scientific divers, diver volunteers,
and visiting diver professionals. In addition, the DSO:
1. Shall be appointed by the Department Directors or his/her designee, with the advice and
counsel of the diving control board.
2. Shall be a Diving Instructor, Oxygen Instructor.
3. Shall be responsible, through the DCB, to the responsible Department Directors or his/her
designee, for the conduct of the scientific diving program of the UWF Departments. The
operational authority for this program, including the conduct of training and certification,
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approval of dive plans, maintenance of diving records, and ensuring compliance with this
guide and all relevant regulations of the UWF Department, rests with the Diving Safety
Officer.
4. May permit portions of this program to be carried out by a qualified delegate (Lead
Diver, Dive Master), although the Diving Safety Officer may not delegate responsibility
for the safe conduct of the local diving program.
5. Shall be guided in the performance of the required duties by the advice of the DCB, but
operational responsibility for the conduct of the local diving program will be retained by
the Diving Safety Officer.
6. Shall suspend diving operations which he/she considers to be unsafe or unwise.
7. Shall be a current oxygen first aid administrator.
1.32 The Diving Control Board.
1. Voting members shall include the Dive Safety Officer and representation from each UWF
Department engaging in underwater activities and the Associate Director for Recreation and
Sports Services and may include other representatives of the diving program such as qualified
divers and members selected by procedures established by each UWF Department engaged in
underwater activities. A chairperson and a secretary may be chosen from the membership of the
Board according to local procedure.
2. Shall act as a board of appeal to consider diver-related problems.
3. Shall recommend changes in policy and amendments to the UWF Scientific Diving Guide as the
need arises.
4. Shall establish and/or approve training programs which the participants can satisfy the
requirements of the UWF Diving Safety Guide.
5. Shall establish criteria for equipment selection and use.
6. Shall recommend new equipment or techniques.
7. Shall recommend, establish and/or approve facilities for the inspection and maintenance of
diving and associated equipment.
8. Shall periodically review UWF Diving Safety Officer’s performance and program.
9. Shall sit as a board of investigation to inquire into the nature and cause of diving accidents or
violations of the UWF Scientific Diving Guide.
1.40 PROGRAM RESPONSIBILITY
1.41 Ultimate Authority
The Diving Control Board and UWF Diving Safety Officer is the ultimate authority for the Scientific
Diving Program and its related activities.
1.42 UWF Project Directors
1. Will inform the UWF Diving Safety Officer in writing via email or other accepted means,
of planned snorkeling and/or diving activities.
2. Shall be qualified in First Aid/CPR, Rescue diver, and oxygen first aid administrator.
3. Shall be responsible for all project related scientific training.
4. Shall have a copy of the UWF Scientific Diving Guide available at the project site.
5. Shall meet the requirements of local environments and conditions as well as to comply
with the UWF scientific diving guide.
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6. Provide documentation for each diving mode utilized
i. Safety Procedures for the diving operation (Dive procedures Briefing)
ii. Responsibilities of the dive team members
iii. Equipment use and maintenance procedures
iv. Emergency procedures including First aid Kit and Oxygen first aid
7. Emergency evacuation and medical treatment procedures: For each diving location, a
procedure shall be established to locate and transport a diver to an operational hyperbaric
chamber or appropriate medical facility.
8. Shall have an oxygen first aid kit with ample oxygen for transportation to designated
hyperbaric chamber or medical facility.
1.43 Policy Administration
The administration of the local diving program will reside with the UWF Diving Control Board.
1.50 INSTRUCTIONAL PERSONNEL
1.51 Qualifications
All personnel involved in scientific training under the auspices of the UWF Scientific Diving Program
shall be qualified for the type of training being given.
1.52 Selection
The responsible Project Director, or his/her designee will select instructional personnel.
1.53 Type of Training
The instructional personnel will train participants in the appropriate scientific techniques.
1.60 MEDICAL EXAMINATION
All certified divers shall pass a medical examination. After each illness or injury requiring
hospitalization of more than 24 hours, or after an episode of unconsciousness related to diving activity,
or after treatment in a hyperbaric chamber following a diving accident or other serious illness, divers
shall submit to a medical interview or examination appropriate to the nature and extent of the injury or
illness, as determined by the examining physician before resuming diving activities.
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2.0 DIVING REGULATIONS
2.10 General Policy
No person shall engage in scientific diving operations under the auspices of the UWF Scientific Diving
Program unless he/she holds a current SCUBA Diving Certificate (c-card) and meets the requirement of
the UWF Scientific Diving Guide.
Scientific diving shall not be conducted unless procedures have been established for emergency
evacuation of the diver (s) to a hyperbaric chamber or appropriate medical facility.
2.20 DIVING PROCEDURES
2.21 Solo Diving Prohibition
All diving conducted under the auspices of the UWF Scientific Diving Program shall be planned and
executed in such a manner as to ensure that every diver maintains constant, effective communication
with at least one other comparably equipped certified scientific diver in the water. This buddy system is
based upon mutual assistance, especially in the case of an emergency. Dives should be planned around
the competency of the least experienced diver. If loss of effective communication occurs within a buddy
team, all divers shall surface and reestablish contact (except as specified in sec. 2.50).
2.22 Overhead Environment Diving
1. Ice and Polar Diving
No diver shall plan or conduct ice or polar dives without prior approval of the DSO.
Divers planning to dive under ice or in polar conditions should use the following
“Guidelines for Conduct of Research Diving”, National Science Foundation, Division
of Polar Programs, 1990.
2. Enclosed or Confined Spaces
No diver shall plan or conduct dives within enclosed or confined spaces without prior
approval of the DSO. Where an enclosed or confined space is not large enough for
two divers, a diver shall be stationed at the underwater point of entry and an
orientation line shall be used.
3. Cave Diving
No diver shall plan or conduct technical cave diving without prior approval of the
DSO. Divers planning operations in caverns or caves must have specialized training
in the unique conditions and problems associated with cave diving.
2.23 Limited Visibility Diving

1. Night Diving
A Night checkout dive is required before any night dives are made. Night checkouts will
include:
11
a. An orientation lecture on night diving procedures given before a night checkout
dive is scheduled.
b. The checkout dive made only with the Diving Safety Officer or an appointed
representative.
c. Mask clearing and buddy-breathing as part of the night dive check out procedure.
d. Each member of the dive team must have a properly functioning light designed for
underwater use.
e. All night diving operations shall have a strobe attached to the diver descent line at
the 15’ stop. If point of entry was from shore, a strobe will be attached at that point.
f. All divers will have a light attached to the upper portion of their tank.
g. All dive lights will be turned on, on the surface, and left on throughout the dive.
h. Emergency signals with dive light “I’m OK” rotate the dive light in a 360-degree
circular motion on the surface. “I need help” move the dive light briskly back and
forth in an arc motion on the surface.
2. Zero Visibility Diving
a. In sea state conditions that do not allow easy visibility of divers air bubbles by the
Lead Diver/Dive Master, the lead diver (dive master) will attach a float line from
the diver to the surface.
b. No visibility situations-a 6’ buddy line may be attached to each diver.
c. Confined space environments will often contain heavy layers of silt and sediments.
Disturbing these sediments will often cause a total blackout or Zero Visibility
situation and complete loss of orientation often occurs. Divers should be aware of
that possibility and attach an orientation line.
2.24 Altitude Diving
Dives at altitudes greater than 300 meters requires prior approval of the DSO.
Persons diving at sites with elevations greater than 300 meters must have specialized
training in the unique conditions and problems associated with high altitude diving. This
training shall include at least:
1. Effects to the lower atmospheric pressure on equipment and human physiology.
2. Selection, modification, and use of appropriate decompression tables.
3. Dive planning, including acclimatization periods, altitude adjustments, table and
computer review and/or corrections, limitations, ascent rates and decompression
stops.
4. Buoyancy changes.
5. Hypothermia
6. Dehydration.
7. Causes, signs, symptoms, and first aid for decompression illness, gas embolism and
altitude sickness.
8. Emergency procedures, area EMS activation methods, location of and transport
method to nearest hospital hyperbaric chamber.
9. Ascending in elevation after diving.
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2.25 Blue Water Diving
No diver shall plan or conduct blue water dives without the prior approval of the DSO.
Blue water diving is defined as diving in open water where the bottom is generally >200
feet deep. It requires special training and the use of multiple-tethered diving techniques.
2.26 Flying after Diving
Divers should have a minimum surface interval of 12 hours before ascending to altitude.
Considerations should be given to extending this interval to a minimum of 24 hours
following repetitive or decompression diving during the last dive day.
2.27 Diving Vessels
A diving vessel is construed as any vessel of any size that conducts diving operations or
that acts as a diving platform.
1. The propellers of the vessel shall be stopped before the divers enter or exit the water.
2. All diving operations will cease upon the orders of the Master when in his opinion it
is unsafe to continue.
3. All diving operations will cease when there are thunderstorms and/or lightning within
a range of 6 miles or less. (Use the 30-30 rule where visibility is good and there is
nothing obstructing your view of the thunderstorm. When you see lightning, count
the time until you hear thunder. If that time is 30 seconds or less, the thunderstorm is
within 6 miles of you and is dangerous. Seek shelter immediately. The threat of
lightning continues for much longer period than most people realize. Wait at least 30
minutes after the last lightning flash before leaving shelter. Don’t be fooled by
sunshine or blue sky. If in a small boat, move to the center of the boat and crouch
down. Try to avoid metal surfaces. Do not use any electronics equipment unless it is
an absolute emergency. REF: National Weather Service, Office of Climate,
Weather, and Water Services.)
4. All diving operations will cease if there is a sea current of >2 knots.
5. All diving operations will cease in bays and inland waters in the event there is a sea
state greater than 5 (winds of 22-27 knots, wave height 6.4’)
6. All diving operations will cease in off shore and coastal waters in the event there is a
sea state greater than 4 (winds of 17-21 knots, wave height 5.0’)
2.28 Diver’s Flag
1. A diver’s flag (18’ minimum) shall be displayed prominently whenever diving is conducted.
2. International Code Alpha and/or Sport Divers Flags (18” minimum) are to be in plain view
at each dive station.
2.29 Floatation Devices
Each diver shall on every dive posses the capability of attaining and maintaining
positive buoyancy.
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2.30 Timing Devices, Depth and Pressure Gauges and Dive Computers
1. Both members of the diving pair must have an underwater time-keeping device, an
approved depth indicator, and a submersible tank pressure gauge.
2. Only those makes and models of diver computer specifically approved by the Diving
Control Board may be used.
3. Logged Practical training by UWF Diving Safety Officer must be completed before use of
a dive computer.
4. Each diver in the buddy set must have a dive computer, otherwise they dive standard air
tables. On any given dive, both divers in the buddy pair must follow the most conservative
dive computer.
5. If the dive computer fails at any time during the dive, the dive must be terminated and
appropriate surfacing procedures should be initiated immediately. Ascend as slow as
possible and make a 3 – 5 minute safety stop at 15 feet.
6. A diver should not dive within an 18-hour period before activating a dive computer to use
as a control for his diving.
7. Divers must read and adhere to all rules and recommendation in dive computer
manufacturers “Owner’s Guide”.
2.31 Dive Tables
A set of appropriate diving tables must be available at the dive location. These tables must be at least as
safe as the United States Navy Diving Tables.
2.32 Depth Limits
The maximum allowed depth for diving is 40 meters (130 ft.)
2.33 Assent Procedures
1. Below 60’, a stop at 15 feet for 5 minutes is recommended on every dive. Above 60’ a 3
minute stop at 15 feet is recommended.
2. Ascent rates should not exceed 30’ ft./min. If a dive computer is used, the ascent rates
recommended by the manufacturer shall be observed.
3. Dry suits should have a hands-free exhaust valve.
4. When using a dive computer or tables, non-emergency ascents are to be at the rate
specified for the system being used.
5. Each diver shall have instrumentation to monitor ascent rates.
6. Before certification, the diver is to demonstrate proper buoyancy, weighting and a
controlled ascent including “hovering” stop.
7. BC’s (Buoyancy Compensators) should have a reliable rapid exhaust valve which can be
operated in a horizontal swimming position.
2.34 Refusal to dive
1. The decision to dive is that of the diver. A diver may refuse to dive, without fear of
penalty, whenever the diver believes it is unsafe to dive (see Sec. 2.93-1b).
2. Safety – The ultimate responsibility for safety rests with the individual diver. It is the
diver’s responsibility and duty to refuse to dive if, in the diver’s judgment, conditions are
14
unsafe or unfavorable, or if the diver would be violating the training precepts or the
regulations in this guide.
2.35 TERMINATION OF THE DIVE
1. It is the responsibility of the diver to terminate the dive, without fear of penalty,
whenever the diver believes it is unsafe to continue to dive, unless it compromises the
safety of another diver already in the water (see Sec 2.93.1b).
2. It is the responsibility of the diver to terminate the dive while there is still sufficient tank
pressure to permit the diver to safely reach the surface, including safety stop time, or to
safely reach additional air source at the decompression station. The diver shall take the
following into consideration when determining tank pressure for the termination of the
dive:
a. Diver’s air consumption
b. Estimated time of Ascent
c. Any other conditions which may affect air supply.
2.40 SCUBA DIVER
1. All dives conducted under the UWF Scientific diving policies are to be conducted as NO-
Decompression Dives. Decompression dives may be conducted only with the express
consent and participation of the Diving Safety Officer.
2. The typical dive station setup whether on land or from a floating platform shall consist of:
a. Project director – Person overseeing safety and assigning work and diver rotations
b. Lead Diver (Dive Master) approved by UWF DSO – person responsible for dive safety
briefing and controlling diving underwater activity, keeping divers time/depth profiles
and responding to emergency situations.
c. Safety Diver – Standing by to respond to any emergency situation which the project
director, lead diver (master diver), commands, the safety diver will wear a safety line
positive non-quick release knot of adequate length to reach the distressed divers and will
tend at all times.
d. Buddy Diver Team – Responsible for individual and Buddy safety performing scientific
diving assignments.
3. Required equipment:
a. Scuba tank with sufficient air to perform dive and make a safety stop,
and have 500 psi in the tank upon reaching the surface.
b. Buoyancy control jacket (BC) with exhaust valve, oral and power inflation system
with and emergency air dump valve.
c. First and second stage regulator with Alternate air source (Octopus)
d. Time keeping device
e. Submersible pressure and depth gauge, underwater compass
f. Mask, Snorkel and fins
g. Weight system with quick release mechanism to jettison weight in the event of an
emergency
h. Full wet suit with hood for water temperatures below 70 degrees.
i. All equipment shall comply with 6.15-1.
4. Special Situations:
15
a. Deep Diving – More than 100’ Diver begin ascent when tank pressures reach a
minimum of 1000 psi.
b. Multiple Deep Dives – The use of a dive computer is advised, provided you
leave the bottom when there is a minimum of 10 minutes bottom time left on the
computer.
2.41 Single Diver Tended
1. A single diver may dive with tending line with a quick release bowline knot in SCUBA,
HOOKA, SURFACE SUPPY, in depths above 33 fsw (10msw).
2. Each single diver shall have one tender assigned who will communicate via diver
communications or line pull signals every few minutes.
3. Each diver shall have an independent air source and shall have a means of achieving
positive buoyancy.
4. Typical Single Diver dive station setup whether on land or from a floating platform shall
consist of:
a. Project director – Person overseeing safety and assigning work and diver rotations
b. Lead Diver (Dive Master) approved by UWF DSO – person responsible for dive safety
briefing and controlling diving underwater activity, keeping divers time/depth profiles
and responding to emergency situations.
c. Safety Diver – Standing by to respond to any emergency situation which the project
director, lead diver, (master diver) commands, the safety diver will wear a safety line of
adequate length to reach the distressed divers and will tend at all times.
d. Single Diver – Responsible for individual safety, communicating to tender on the dive
station of personal conditions (diver “OK”, or line is snagged etc.), perform scientific
diving assignments.
2.50 SURFACE SUPPLIED DIVING
Surface supplied divers shall comply with all SCUBA diving procedures in this guide (except Sect.
2.21). Surface supplied diving shall not be conducted at depths greater than 40 meters.
1. Divers using the surface supplied mode shall be equipped with a diver carried independent
reserve breathing gas supply.
2. Each surface supplied diver shall be hose tended by a separate dive team member while in
the water
3. Divers using the surface supplied mode shall maintain voice communication with the
surface tender.
4. The surface supplied breathing gas supply shall be sufficient to support all surface
supplied divers in the water for the duration of the planned dive, including decompression.
During surface supplied diving operations when only one diver is in the water, there must be a stand by
diver in attendance at the dive location.
2.51 HOOKAH Diver
1. Divers using HOOKAH mode shall be equipped with a diver-carried independent reserve
breathing gas supply if they are operating at a depth greater than 33 FSW (10 MSW).
2. Each HOOKAH diver shall be tended by a team member while in the water, if the depth
is 33 FSW or less, one tender may tend to more than one diver at a time.
16
3. The HOOKAH breathing gas supply shall be sufficient to support all HOOKAH divers in
the water for the duration of the planned dive, including decompression.
4. All Hookah divers served by the same air source will remain at approximately the same
depth during the dive and subsequent decompression.
5. If one HOOKAH diver aborts his/her dive, all other divers on the same air source shall
abort also.
6. All HOOKAH divers shall have a way of achieving positive buoyancy.
2.60 ENRICHED AIR NITROX (EAN)
Nitrox is defined for this guide as breathing mixtures composed predominantly of Nitrogen and Oxygen,
most commonly produced by the addition of oxygen or the removal of nitrogen from air.
1. Training. Scientific divers with certification in Nitrox may engage in Nitrox diving with
approval of the UWF Diving Safety officer.
2. Examinations: Each diver should demonstrate proficiency in skills and theory, in written,
oral and practical examinations covering:
a. Mixed Gas Theory
b. Oxygen Toxicity, Partial pressure determination
c. Gas Analysis, documentation procedures.
3. Open water check out dives will be conducted by the Diving Safety Officer.
4. All Nitrox Dives will utilize standard air tables on all Nitrox dives.
5. Oxygen exposure limits should not exceed depths of 130 fsw (40 msw) or 1.6 ATA Partial
Pressure of Oxygen whichever is less.
6. An oxygen analyzer is required which is capable of determining the oxygen content in the
diving cylinder. Two analyzers are recommended to reduce the likelihood of errors due to
a faulty analyzer. The analyzer shall be capable of reading a scale of 0 to 100% oxygen,
within (one) 1% accuracy.
7. The Diving Safety Officer will analyze oxygen percentage on all Nitrox tanks.
8. Mixtures of greater than 40% oxygen are prohibited.
2.70 CLOSED AND SEMI-CLOSED CIRCUIT SCUBA
Closed and Semi-closed circuit SCUBA (rebreathers) shall meet the following requirements:
1. Oxygen partial pressure in the breathing gas shall not exceed 1.5 atmospheres ppO2 at
depths greater than 25 fsw (7.6 msw).
2. Chemicals used for the absorption of carbon dioxide shall be kept in a cool, dry location
in a sealed container until required for use.
3. The designated person in charge shall determine that the carbon dioxide absorption
canister is used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Closed and semi-closed diving equipment will not be used at a depth greater than that
recommended by the manufacturer of the equipment.
2.80 ENVIRONMENTAL DIVING
Environmental diving in areas historically used as major industrial centers, oil refinery storage,
transshipment facilities, and chemical plants have a high probability for sediment
contamination and potentially poor water quality exists in these sites. Treated and untreated
sewage facilities also pose a likelihood of contaminated water quality. You may find
contaminants such as Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), High Molecular Weight Polynuclear
17
Aromatic Hydrocarbons (HPAHs), Heavy Metals, Pesticides, volatile organic compounds
(VOC’s), dioxins and pathogenic microorganisms that are associated with treated and untreated
sewage discharge.
Therefore to prevent exposure at known contaminated sites, all diving activities will be
conducted with surface supplied diving systems to eliminate exposure with the contaminated
sediment and contaminated waters. The ingestion and inhalation exposure pathways are
eliminated inherently during diving operations through the use of surface supplied air. Dermal
contact can occur depending upon the type of diving equipment used. Therefore to prevent
exposure to sediments, all diving activities will be with environmental suits. Decontamination
of personnel and equipment will also be necessary to mitigate dermal exposure.
Similar to the protection from sediments, as a result of the above described water
contamination and further degradation resulting from suspending contaminated sediment, the
highest level of protection is required to eliminate diver contact with the surrounding waters.
In addition, surface team personnel who may come into contact with contaminants in the water
(i.e. splashing or being transferred to the dive tender handling the air supply hose) will have
dermal protection.
1. Hazardous location requirements
a. A Site Specific; Health and Safety Analysis of water quality and sediments,
Health and Safety Dive Plan, and Health and Safety Risk Analysis will be
conducted prior to any diving activities.
b. A Health and Safety Plan (HASP) requiring use of qualified supervision, health
and safety training, medical surveillance, and use of personnel wearing personal
protective equipment is mandatory.
c. Site Specific Hazardous Materials personnel training and Medical Surveillance
requirements will be met prior to diving in hazardous locations.
d. When diving conducting excavation and artifact recovery, underwater mapping,
underwater photography, marine biology, marine sciences, or specimen
recovery, the dive team will consist of five individuals. A diving supervisor, a
diver, a standby diver, a tender, and a time-keeper/communications operator.
e. A medical surveillance program in accordance with 29CFR 1910.120 and a 40
hour Health and Safety Training for Hazardous Waste Operations course is
required. Any person supervising the health and safety operations is required
to also receive and 8-hour supervisory training certificate.
f. Personnel monitoring and Environmental Sampling techniques will not be
performed to downgrade the level of protection required. All equipment and
instrumentation used will be maintained and calibrated to ensure its proper
functioning.
g. Diving safety considerations will include: keeping diving to a minimum to
reduce the possibility of contamination; dredging will be limited to prevent re-
suspension of contaminated sediments. All diving operations will be
performed in accordance with the UWF Scientific Diving Guide.
h. Decontamination methods will include decontamination of all personnel,
clothing and equipment in the contaminated area of the site. All personal
protective equipment and contaminated rinse water to be discarded will be
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placed in a properly marked 55 gallon drum and stored in a secure place at the
site while awaiting final disposition.
i. An emergency response plan with pre emergency planning covering evacuation
routes and emergency facilities will be reviewed with all personnel prior to
conducting any diving activities and will remain on the site until completion of
the project. A daily safety briefing will be conducted.
2.90 DIVING OPERATIONS

2.91 Dive Safety Officer
The Dive Safety Officer shall be responsible for:

1. Coordination. Diving shall be coordinated with other known activities in the vicinity,
which are likely to interfere with diving operations.
2. Training and assigning Lead divers
3. Briefing. The dive team members shall be briefed on:
a. Dive objectives.
b. Unusual hazards or environmental conditions likely to affect the safety of the diving
operation.
c. Modifications to diving or emergency procedures necessitated by the specific
diving operation.
d. Reporting any physical problems or adverse physiological effects including
symptoms of pressure-related injuries.
4. Dive Planning.
Planning of a diving operation shall include considerations of the safety and health aspects
of the following:
a. Diving Mode
b. Surface and underwater conditions and hazards.
c. Breathing gas supply
d. Thermal protection
e. Diving equipment
f. Dive team assignments
g. Residual inert gas status of dive team members
h. Decompression schedules and altitude corrections
i. Emergency procedures, including available oxygen and a medical kit.
2.92 Dive Plans
Before conducting any diving operations under the auspices of the UWF Scientific Diving Program, a
completed Scientific Diving Operation Plan (appendix 4) will be submitted to the DSO. The DSO,
Project Directors, Lead divers (Dive Masters) for a proposed operation should consider the following
information:
1. Other divers qualifications and the type of certification held by each diver.
2. Name, Telephone number, and relationship of person to be contacted for each diver in the
event of an emergency.
3. Approximate number of proposed dives.
4. Location (s) of proposed dives.
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5. Estimated depth (s) and bottom time (s) anticipated.
6. Repetitive dives, if required.
7. Proposed work, equipment and boats to be employed.
8. Any hazardous conditions anticipated.
9. Location and availability of nearest Recompression Chamber.
10. Communications and method of Transportation.
11. Diver recall procedures.
2.93 Pre-Dive Safety Checks
1. Diver’s Responsibility:
a. Each scientific diver shall conduct a functional check of his/her diving equipment in the
presence of the diving buddy or tender.
b. It is the diver’s responsibility and duty to refuse to dive if, in his/her judgment, conditions
are unfavorable, or if he/she would be violating the precepts of his/her training, of the
UWF Scientific Diving Guide.
c. 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.
d. No dive team member shall be permitted to dive for the duration of any known condition
which is likely to adversely affect the safety and health of the diver or other dive
members.
e. The diver shall terminate the dive while there is still sufficient tank pressure to permit the
diver to safely reach the surface including decompression.
2. Equipment Evaluations
a. Each diver should perform a check of their BC, primary and alternant air source
submersible pressure gauge, timing device, and depth gauge.
b. Each diver shall have the capability of achieving and maintaining positive buoyancy.
c. If mixed gas is used as the breathing media, appropriate diving tables shall be used.
d. Closed and semi-closed circuit SCUBA (rebreathers) shall meet the requirements as
outlined in Sec. 2.70.
3. Diver’s Qualifications
Each scientific diver shall be currently certified and trained, by a nationally recognized
Certification SCUBA Agency. Each diver shall also be qualified for the diving mode being used, by the
appropriate UWF Scientific diving program training personnel. Each dive team member shall have
experience or training in the following:
a. The use of the instruments and equipment appropriate to the diving activity to be
conducted.
b. Dive planning and emergency procedures
c. Current certification in Cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
d. Safety Diver rescue techniques and diving-related first aid
e. Diving-related physics and physiology, recognition of pressure related injuries, and the
appropriate emergency treatments.
f. Instruction in the administration of Oxygen is strongly recommended, but not mandatory.
4. Lead divers (Master Divers)
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Each senior scientific diver that demonstrates leadership skills and mature attitudes with regard
to Diving safety may be trained by the Diving Safety Officer to perform Lead Diver authority in
controlling a Scuba, Hooka scientific dive.
Lead Diver training requirements:
a. Minimum of 25 logged Scientific dives
b. Complete Rescue Diver instruction
c. Complete First Aid /CPR /Oxygen first aid for Divers
d. Give five dive briefs; Boat, Deep, Overhead Environment, Limited
Visibility & Night Dives
e. Complete Diving equipment instruction
f. Complete emergency procedures instruction
Nationally Recognized Agency (NAUI, PADI, SSI, YMCA, est.) certified Dive Masters shall
receive testing and evaluation by the DSO before controlling a scientific dive
2.94 Post-Dive Safety Checks
1. After the completion of a dive, each diver shall report any physical problems, symptoms of
decompression sickness, or equipment malfunctions.
2. If no-decompression limits are accidentally violated, follow emergency procedures and monitor
diver for symptoms of decompression sickness. Wait at least 24 hours before diving.
2.95 Emergencies and Deviations from Regulations
Any diver may deviate from the requirements of this guide to the extent necessary to prevent or
minimize a situation which is likely to cause death, serious physical harm, or major environmental
damage. A written report of such actions must be submitted to the DCB, within 5 working days,
explaining the circumstances and justifications.
2.96 Consequences of Violation of Regulations by UWF Departments
Failure to comply with the regulations of this Guide may be cause for the revocation or restriction of
scientific diving privilege by the UWF DCB.
2.97 Consequences of Violation of Regulations by Scientific Divers
Failure to comply with the regulations of the UWF Departments diving guide may be cause for the
revocation or restriction of the diver’s scientific diving privilege by action of the UWF DCB.
3.00 RECORD KEEPING AND REQUIREMENTS
3.10 Personal Diving Log

1. Each certified scientific diver shall log every dive made under the auspices of the UWF Scientific
Diving Program, and is required to log all other dives. Standard forms will be provided by
appendix of this Guide. Log sheets shall be submitted to the Diving Safety Officer to be placed in
the diver’s permanent file. Details of the submission procedures are left to the discretion of the
Diving Safety Officer. The diving log shall be in a form specified by the DCB and shall include at
least the following:
a. Name of diver, buddy, and lead diver.
b. Date, time and location
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c. Diving modes used.
d. General nature of diving activities
e. Approximate surface and underwater conditions.
f. Maximum depths, bottom time, surface interval time, and mixed gas profiles, if used.
g. Diving tables used if other than U.S. Navy Standard Air Tables.
h. Detailed report of any accidents or potentially dangerous incidents
2. If pressure-related injuries are suspected, or if symptoms are evident, the following additional
information shall be recorded and retained by the DSO, with a record of the dive, for a period of
five years:
a. Complete Accident Report
b. Description of symptoms, including depth and time of onset.
c. Description and results of treatment.
d. Have all witnesses fill out a Witness Statement form.
3. The DSO shall investigate and document any incident of pressure-related injury and prepare a
report which is to be forwarded to the UWF DCB.
4. The injured diver (s) diving gear must be left connected and set aside for inspection by the DSO.
3.20 Record Maintenance
The Diving Safety Officer or his/her designee shall maintain permanent records for each individual
scientific diver certified. The file shall include evidence of certification, log sheets, results of current
physical examination, waiver, reports of disciplinary actions by the DSO or UWF DCB, or other
pertinent information deemed necessary.
1. Availability of Records:
a. Medical records shall be available to the attending physician of a diver or former
diver when released in writing by the diver.
b. Records and documents required by this standard shall be retained by the UWF
DSO for the following period:
i. Physician’s written reports of medical examinations for dive team. One
year, except 5 years where there has been an incident of pressure related
injury
ii. Guide for diving safety – current document only.
iii. Records of dive – 1 year, except 5 years where there has been an incident of
pressure related injury.
iv. Pressure-related injury assessment – 5 years.
v. Equipment inspections and testing records – current entry or tag, or until
equipment is withdrawn from service.
3.30 Required Accident Reporting
All diving accidents and near accidents shall be reported to the Diving Safety Officer, Project Director
and the UWF DCB. The UWF Departments’ regular procedures for accident reporting, including those
required by UWF, shall be followed. Additional information must meet the following reporting
requirements:
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1. The UWF Departments shall record and report occupational injuries and illnesses in
accordance with requirements of the Workman’s Compensation section 440.01-449.59.
F.S., and Section 6C-5.803, FAC.
a. It is the responsibility of employees to immediately report all work-related
injuries/illnesses to their supervisor. The employee should obtain an injury report
form from their department, fill it out and submit it to the supervisor. If the
supervisor is not available, the report should be given to the department head.
b. If the injury requires emergency treatment, the immediate supervisor should fill out
the report.
c. When medical attention is required, the employee should bring the completed injury
report form to the human resources office, where medical treatment will be
coordinated. Employees are not allowed to use personal physicians for work-
related injuries/illnesses. If personal physicians are used, payment for medical
treatment cannot be guaranteed under Worker’s Compensation, and because the
injury is work-related, the claim may be rejected by personal health insurance. (For
Worker’s Compensation purposes, the term “employees” includes A & P
employees, USPS employees, faculty, OPS employees, and student employees.)
d. Employees must obtain medical authorization and receive medical treatment if they
are unable to work as a result of a work-related injury/illness.
e. A return to work determination form must be submitted to the immediate supervisor
and human resources immediately after treatment, including each time the
employee returns for additional treatment.
f. Emergency/life-threatening situations: Call campus police at 2911. Immediate
medical assistance will be provided. If required, the police will summon an
ambulance or “Life Flight” helicopter transportation.
g. After-hours, holidays, weekend, and non-emergency injuries: Call campus police,
ext. 2415 to report an injury. Police will direct medical treatment. Follow up by
reporting the injury to your immediate supervisor, filling out report of injury form
and reporting to the human resources office for follow-up treatment arrangements
on the first workday after the injury.
2. The UWF Departments engaged in underwater activity shall record the occurrence of any
diving-related injury or illness which requires any dive team member to be hospitalized for
24 hours or more, or after an episode of unconsciousness related to diving activity, or after
treatment in a recompression chamber following a diving accident. The report will be
forwarded to the DSO and should specify the circumstances of the incident and the extent
of any injuries or illnesses.
4.00 ENTRY-LEVEL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
4.10 EVALUATION
4.11 Medical Examination
The applicant for scientific diving shall be certified by a licensed physician to be medically qualified for
Scientific Diving participation at UWF. The applicant must complete a Medical History Form. If any
questions are answered “yes”, the applicant may be required to obtain written permission to dive by a
licensed physician, preferably one with knowledge of diving medicine.
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4.12 SCUBA Training Evaluation
At the completion of training, the trainee must satisfy the Diving Safety Officer or the instructor of
his/her ability to perform the following, as a minimum, in a pool or sheltered water:
1. Enter water with full equipment.
2. Clear facemask.
3. Demonstrate buddy breathing as both donor and recipient, with and without a facemask,
demonstrate shared air techniques, and swim with buddy to the surface.
4. Demonstrate ability to alternate between snorkel and SCUBA while kicking.
5. Demonstrate understanding of in water and under water signs and signals.
6. Demonstrate in-water rescue breathing.
7. Rescue and transport, as a diver, a passive simulated victim of an accident.
8. Demonstrate ability to remove and replace equipment while on the surface.
9. Demonstrate ability to achieve and maintain neutral buoyancy while submerged.
4.22 CPR/First Aid Certification
The trainee must provide proof of current certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and First
aid training.
4.23 Open Water Evaluation
The trainee must satisfy an instructor, approved by the Diving Safety Officer, of his/her ability to
perform at least the following in open water:
1. Surface dive to a depth of 3 meters (10 feet) in open water without SCUBA.
2. Demonstrate proficiency in buddy breathing as both donor and receiver, or share air
situation.
3. Enter and leave open water or surf, or leave and board a diving vessel, while wearing
SCUBA gear.
4. Kick on the surface 300 meters while wearing SCUBA gear, but not breathing from the
SCUBA unit.
5. Demonstrate judgment adequate for safe diving.
6. Demonstrate, where appropriate, the ability to maneuver efficiently in the environment, at
and below the surface.
7. Complete a simulated emergency swimming ascent.
8. Demonstrate clearing of mask and regulator while submerged.
9. Demonstrate ability to remove and replace equipment while submerged
10. Demonstrate ability to achieve and maintain neutral buoyancy while submerged.
11. Demonstrate techniques of self-rescue and buddy rescue.
12. Navigate underwater.
13. Plan and execute a dive.
14. Successfully complete 2 open water dives for an minimum total time of 1 hour. No more
than 2 training dives shall be made in any one-day.
5.0 SCIENTIFIC DIVER REQUIREMENTS
5.10 GENERAL POLICY.
The following are considered minimal guide for participants in scientific diving.
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5.20 PREREQUISITES
5.21 Eligibility
Only a certified diver, with current diving injury insurance coverage, that subscribes to the practices of
the University of West Florida Scientific Diving Program is eligible to participate as a scientific diver.
Each scientific diver shall submit a statement from a licensed physician, based on an approved medical
examination, attesting to the applicant’s fitness to participate in underwater activities. (Appendix - 3 )
5.23 Qualifications
Certified diver with acceptable experience and proficiency. It is the responsibility of each diving
participant to obtain appropriate training and certification through a recognized Diving Certification
Agency such as NAUI, PADI, YMCA, etc.
5.30 REQUIREMENTS FOR SCIENTIFIC DIVING
Submission of documents and participation in aptitude examinations does not automatically result in
approval to engage in scientific diving. The individual must convince the Diving Safety Officer and/or
Project director that he/she is sufficiently skilled and proficient. This skill will be acknowledged by the
signature of the Diving Safety Officer and/or Project Director. Any applicant who does not posses the
necessary judgment, under diving conditions, for the safety of the diver and/or his/her partner, may be
denied UWF Departments scientific diving privileges. Minimum documentation and examinations
required are as follows:
5.31 Documents
1. Medical approval
2. Medical History Form.
3. SCUBA certification (card)
4. Current CPR certification/First Aid
5.32 Training
1. Theoretical aspects should include principles and activities appropriate to the intended area
of scientific study. Suggested topics include, but are not limited to data gathering techniques,
collecting, common biota, behavior, installation of scientific apparatus, use of chemicals,
site selection, site location and relocation, animal and plant identification, ecology, tagging,
photography scientific dive planning, coordination with other agencies, appropriate
governmental regulations, and small boat operation.
2. Practical training shall include additional dives in a variety of dive sites and diving
conditions. No more than 2 of these dives shall be made in one day.
3. Instruction in the administration of oxygen is strongly recommended but not mandatory.
5.33 Examinations
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1. Examination of equipment.
2. Confined water checkout examination including emergency ascent techniques as specified in
section 4.12.
3. Open water checkout dives to appropriate depths as specified in section 4.23.
All scientific divers shall pass a medical examination at the intervals specified in Section 7.12. After
each major illness or injury, a scientific diver shall submit to a medical interview or examination before
resuming diving activities.
5.40 REVOCATION OF SCIENTIFIC DIVING PRIVILEGE
Scientific diving privileges may be revoked or restricted for cause by the Diving Safety Officer, Project
Director, or the DCB. Violations of regulations set forth in this guide, or other governmental
subdivisions not in conflict with this guide, may be considered cause. The Diving Safety Officer shall
inform the diver in writing of the reason(s) for revocation. The diver will be given the opportunity to
present his/her case in writing for reconsideration. All such written statements and requests, as
identified in this section, are formal documents which will become part of the diver’s file.
5.60 VISITING PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATED WITH OTHER SCIENTIFIC DIVING

PROGRAMS
1. Shall be a certified diver with a nationally recognized organization, such as, PADI, NAUI,
NASDS, SSI, and YMCA.
2. Shall sign a release of liability form.
3. Fill out release of medical information form.
4. Fill out diver medical history form. If any block is checked yes, a diver physical exam must
be completed by a Diving Medical Physician.
5. Will conduct all dives with a senior UWF scientific diver assigned by the project director or
diving safety officer.
6. Shall be currently active in a scientific dive program in their location.
7. Shall complete an emergency data form.
8. Shall complete a workman’s comp form as specified in section 3.30.1.
5.70 VOLUNTEER PROJECT DIVERS
1. Shall be a certified diver with a nationally recognized organization such as, PADI, NAUI,
NASDS, SSI, and YMCA.
2. Shall sign a release of liability form.
3. Shall fill out a release of medical information.
4. Shall fill out a medical history form and have a current physical by a Diving Medical
Physician.
5. Shall complete a confined and open water scientific diver techniques session provided by the
Diving Safety Officer.
diving safety officer.
26
7. Shall complete a workman’s comp form and emergency data form as specified in section
3.30.1.
DSO.
6.00 DIVING EQUIPMENT
6.10 GENERAL POLICY
All equipment shall meet guide as determined by the Diving Safety Officer and DCB. Equipment that is
subjected to extreme usage under adverse conditions shall require more frequent testing and
maintenance.
6.11 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:
1. Regulators
2. Submersible pressure gauges
3. Depth gauges
4. SCUBA cylinders
5. Cylinder valves
6. Diving helmets
7. Submersible breathing masks
8. Compressors
9. Gas control panels
10. Air storage cylinders
11. Air filtration systems
12. Analytical instruments
13. Dry Suits
6.12 Regulators
1. Approval. Only those makes and models specifically approved by the Diving Safety Officer
and the DCB shall be used. Each scientific diver shall have an auxiliary 2nd stage (octopus).
2. Inspection and testing. SCUBA regulators shall be inspected and tested prior to first use and
every twelve months thereafter.
6.13 Breathing Masks and Helmets
Breathing masks and helmets shall have:

1. A non-return valve at the attachment point between helmet or mask hose, which shall close
readily and positively
2. An exhaust valve.
3. A minimum ventilation rate capable of maintaining the diver at the depth to which he/she is
diving.
6.14 SCUBA cylinders
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SCUBA cylinders shall be designed, constructed and maintained in accordance with the applicable
provisions of the Department of Transportation.
1. SCUBA cylinders must be hydrostatically tested in accordance with DOT guide.

2. SCUBA cylinders must have an internal inspection at intervals not to exceed twelve months.
3. SCUBA cylinder valves shall be functionally tested at intervals not to exceed twelve months.
6.15 Auxiliary Equipment
1. Approval. All auxiliary equipment shall be of a type approved by the Diving Safety Officer
and/or the DCB.
2. Backpacks and weight systems shall be regularly examined by the person using them.
3. Gauges. Only those makes and models of submersible pressure gauges and depth gauges
specifically approved by the Diving Safety Officer and the DCB shall be used. These gauges
shall be inspected and tested before first use and every twelve months thereafter. Inaccurate
gauges shall not be used. A record of inspections, tests, and repairs shall be maintained.
4. Quick release devices. All weight systems and SCUBA backpacks work by the diver shall be
equipped with quick release devised designed to permit jettisoning the entire gear. The quick
release devise must operate easily with a single motion from either hand.
5. Personal flotation systems, buoyancy compensators, dry suits, or other variable volume
buoyancy compensation devices shall be equipped with an exhaust valve. These devised
shall be functionally inspected and tested at intervals not to exceed twelve months.
6. A first aid kit shall be available at the dive location. Each UWF Department shall maintain a
first aid kit with all items deemed necessary by the Diving Safety Officer. The Diving Safety
Officer shall take into consideration those items in the DAN list in appendix 8. When used in
a hyperbaric chamber or bell, the first aid kit shall be suitable for use under hyperbaric
conditions. An oxygen first aid kit is to be on the diving station and kept away from oil
contamination
6.18 DRY SUIT (Inflatable Thermal Protection Device)
1. All divers diving with dry suits at UWF must demonstrate proficiency to the DSO
before diving in the ocean without supervision. “Proficiency” shall include, but not
limited to, satisfactorily performing the following skills and objectives
a. Properly don and remove a drysuit. The diver should be capable of
donning the suit and adjusting the seals so there is no leakage. The
diver should not damage the suit while dressing or removing gear.
b. Adjust weights for neutral buoyancy at 15’ at the end of the dive. The
diver should be capable of determining proper weight adjustment with
both the drysuit and buoyancy compensator completely vented of air at
the surface. Under these conditions, with a normal breath of air in the
lungs, the diver should not sink, but should sink slowly upon
exhalation.
c. State the correct procedures for dealing with: stuck inflator valve, lost
weight belt, uncontrolled ascent.
d. Configure his/her equipment, including regulator, BC, weights, and
other equipment for safe, effective drysuit diving.
e. Demonstrate the proper procedures for:
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1. Control of excess buoyancy from both the upright and inverted
position.
2. While ascending, control buoyancy, stop and hover at 10 feet.
3. Prevent suit squeeze while maintaining a minimum volume of air in
the suit.
4. Compensate for additional weight acquired from objects collected
during the course of a dive.
2. Buoyancy compensators must be worn with drysuits. All exceptions must first be
approved by the Diving Safety Officer/Diving Control Board.
6.20 UNDERWATER TOOLS
Underwater tools used for the purpose of Scientific Diving in the gathering of data often reduce
the amount of physical exertion needed. The performance of divers underwater is degraded by
several factors, including water resistance, diver buoyancy, currents, equipment bulk, time
limitations, visibility restrictions, and a divers inability to provide a proper amount of reaction
force without adequate staging, hand grips or bracing. A diver’s performance may decrease
significantly compared with his performance on land. Because diver safety is a primary
consideration in any underwater operation, hazards associated with the use of underwater tools
causes a potential for injury.
1. Pneumatic Tools
a. The use of Pneumatic tools shall be approved by the DSO prior to diving operations.
Most Pneumatic tools require 90 PSIG of air pressure to operate, these tools often
exhaust air bubbles that may disturb divers or impair their visibility underwater.
b. All petroleum preservatives must be removed from the tool prior to use underwater to
avoid polluting surrounding water.
c. Sections of the pneumatic hose where it attaches to the tool and air supply should be
properly secured to prevent lashing of the tool in the event of a hose failure.
2. Electric Tools
a. The use of Electric tools shall be approved by the DSO prior to diving
operations.
b. Electrical tools and equipment used underwater shall be specifically
approved for this purpose. Electrical tools and equipment supplied with
power from the surface shall be de-energized before being placed into or
retrieved from the water. Hand held power tools shall not be supplied with
power from the dive location until requested by the diver.
3. Lifting Methods
When working with heavy or overhead items with cables, lines, or chains under tension,
divers must develop a sixth sense for safety. Divers should avoid positioning themselves
or their umbilicals under heavy objects that might fall, or placing themselves above lines
that are under tension. Plan the lifting job thoroughly. This should include necessary air,
lines, hardware, weather forces, currents, towing and lifting procedures.
29
a. Dead Lift
1. The use of winches, cranes or davits and all rigging equipment shall be
approved by the DSO prior to diving operations.
2. When using a winch, crane or davit, always attach control lines prior
to the lift. Use approved Safety gear.
3. Divers should not place themselves under the object being lifted. If
the lift goes out of control, let the control line go and get away from
the hazard.
4. Do not attempt dead lifting operations in high winds and seas.
5. Inundated objects will create suction in the mud or sand. This causes
considerable strain on the lifting lines and lifting equipment. The lift
capacity of the crane may be exceeded and cause a malfunction.
6. Water trapped in an object can actually weigh more than the object its
self. Mud and debris may be engulfed or hanging off the object. Plan
for this additional weight when the object reaches the surface.
7. Clear Divers from below and down current of all lifted objects until
the object is secured on board the diving vessel.
b. Internal Buoyancy Lift
The use of Internal Buoyancy lifts shall be approved by the DSO prior to diving
operations.
1. Internal buoyancy lifts are done by pumping air into voids or
compartments of an object, displacing water with air to achieve positive
buoyancy. This technique can be complicated and dangerous.
2. Over pressurization of a compartment may rupture, resulting in a loss of
compartment integrity.
3. Always use a separate air source other than that used for breathing by the
diver to fill the compartments.
4. Stay clear of the water column above and below the lift.
5. Make sure the surface is clear over the object prior to the lift.
6. The air will expand as the objects raises from the bottom. Provide a
means of venting the container to prevent expanding air from rupturing it.
c. External Lift Bags
The use of External lift bags shall be approved by the DSO prior to diving
operations.
1. Lift bags are the most commonly used tool for raising submerged objects.
They are available in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. A bag weighing
26 pounds can raise a ton of weight from the ocean bottom.
2. Always use a separate air source other than that used for breathing by the
diver to fill the lift bag.
3. Do not over inflate a lift bag to break bottom suction. This may lead to an
uncontrolled ascent of the object.
4. Do not use buoyancy compensators or dry suits as lifting devices.
5. On soft or muddy bottoms, suction must be overcome between the mud
and the object. If the object is light, pull up firmly after each burst of air
to break the suction.
30
6. Stay clear of the water column above and below the lift.
7. Make sure the surface is clear over the object prior to the lift.
8. If the lift goes out of control, let it go and get away from it.
9. Always place bags where lift is best balanced and the best leverage is
attained.
10. Always attach control lines and tow lines prior to lift.
11. Do not ride an out of control lift bag to the surface. This could cause an
air embolism to the diver.
12. The air will expand as the objects raises from the bottom. Provide a
means of venting the lift bag to prevent expanding air from rupturing it.
4. Dredging equipment
The use of Dredging equipment shall be approved by the DSO prior to diving operations.
1. The use of dredge pumps and water jets are commonly employed by
archaeology divers to remove overburden sediments from an excavation
site. The water pump is a low volume, high-pressure pump used in
conjunction with a venturi suction system, which moves the sediments
from one area to another. The pumps, venturi dredge heads, and
associated hoses are heavy and require several divers to deploy and
recover.
2. Do not place your hands or other parts of your body at the intake of the
suction hose while the pump is running.
3. Deploying and moving the twenty-foot sections of the four and six inch
diameter hoses often fatigues the diver. Limit the diver’s bottom time
during these operations.
4. Divers be aware of overhead hazards while deploying venturi dredge
heads and associated hoses.
5. Stay clear of the water column above and below the equipment being
deployed.
7.0 BREATHING AIR
7.10 OXYGEN SAFETY
1. Equipment used with oxygen or mixtures containing over forty percent (40%) by volume
oxygen shall be designed and maintained for oxygen service.
2. Components (except umbilicals) exposed to oxygen or mixtures containing over forty percent
(40%) by volume oxygen shall be cleaned of flammable materials before being placed into
service.
3. Oxygen systems over 125 psi shall have slow-opening shut-off valves.
7.50 AIR COMPRESSOR OPERATIONS
1. Compressor system
a. The air intake shall be provided with a filter and shall be located to ensure a
supply of clean air, free from contamination by fumes, smoke, etc.
31
b.The discharged compressed air shall be passed to a compressed air holder
through frequently cleaned and recharged filters designed to remove carbon
monoxide, dust and droplets of oil and water, and to minimize other
contaminants.
c. Low pressure compressors used to supply air to the diver shall be equipped with
a volume tank with a check valve on the inlet side, a pressure gauge, a relief
valve, and a drain valve.
d. Oil lubricated compressor cylinders and coolers shall be well ventilated or
otherwise cooled, or the operation cycled to ensure against high temperatures at
which CO is formed from the oil.
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. The results of these tests shall be entered in a
formal log and be maintained.
b. A log shall be maintained showing operation, repair, overhaul, and filter maintenance.
3. Air Quality Standards
a. Breathing air for SCUBA shall meet the following specifications as set forth in
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134:
CGA Grade E
Component Maximum
Oxygen 20 – 22%/v
Carbon Monoxide 10 PPM/v
Carbon Dioxide 500 PPM/v
Condensed Hydrocarbons 5 mg/m3
Water Vapor NS
Objectionable Odors None
4. Sources of breathing gas
a. University Controlled Sources
A log shall be maintained showing operation, repair, overhaul, filter

maintenance, temperature adjustment and results of all gas analysis and air tests
for all University Controlled breathing air compressor apparatus. Records shall
be available for audit.
b. Non-University Controlled Sources
Breathing air from commercial sources approved by DSO shall be certified by

the supplier as suitable for breathing, according to specifications above in 3-a.
5. SCUBA cylinder filling
(WARNING) HIGH PRESSURE AIR CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURYS
32
a. Filling divers breathing air cylinders will take place only upon approval from the
DSO.
b. Only Trained personnel are authorized to fill SCUBA, NITROX breathing air
cylinders.
c. All filler lines (Charging Whips) will be secured with a lanyard or other means to
prevent injury in the event of a ruptured filling line.
d. Cylinder charging rate will not exceed 300 pounds per square inch (PSI) per minute.
e. Cylinders will not be over filled; every cylinder is stamped with the maximum fill
pressure. Continual over filling can cause lethal leak or rupture.
8.00 MEDICAL GUIDE
8.10 MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS OF DIVE TEAM
8.11 General
1. The UWF DCB shall determine that dive team members who are exposed to hyperbaric
conditions and have passed a current physical examination which was declared by the
examining physician to be fit to engage in scientific diving activities at UWF are fit to dive.
2. All medical evaluations required by this standard shall be performed by, or under the
direction of, a licensed physician of the applicant-diver’s choice, preferably one trained in
diving/undersea medicine.
3. The diver should be free of any chronic disabling disease and be free of any conditions
contained in the Diving Medical History Form. If any questions in the Medical Form are
answered “yes”, the diver may be required to get written permission to dive from a licensed
physician.
8.12 Frequency of Medical Evaluations
Medical evaluation shall be completed:

1. Before a diver may begin diving, unless an equivalent initial medical evaluation has been
given within the preceding 12 months, the UWF Departments has obtained the results of
that examination, and those results have been reviewed and found satisfactory by the UWF
Departments;
2. Thereafter, at three year intervals up to age 40 and every two years after age 40 from the
date of initial evaluation or last equivalent evaluation;
3. After any injury, illness, or surgery requiring hospital admission or debilitation;
4. After any episode of unconsciousness;
5. After a diving accident resulting in injury to the diver.
8.13 Content of Medical Examinations
Medical examinations conducted initially and at the intervals specified in section 8.12 shall consist of
the following:
1. Release agreement for medical information release to the Diving Safety Officer and the
DCB.
2. Diving medical history form.
3. Any additional tests the physician may consider necessary.
33
APPENDIX 1
DEFINITION OF TERMS
Bounce Dive – A dive of relatively short duration. Generally less than 10 minutes.
Bottom Time – The total elapsed time measured in minutes from the time when the diver leaves the
surface in descent to the time that the diver begins a direct ascent to the surface, unless otherwise
defined by Diving Tables.
Breath-Hold Diving – A diving mode in which the diver uses no self-contained or surface-supplied air or
oxygen supply.
Buddy Breathing – The sharing of a single air source between divers.
Buddy Diver – Second member of the dive team.
Buoyant Ascent – An ascent made using some form of positive buoyancy.
Burst Pressure – The pressure at which a pressure containment device would fail structurally.
Certified Diver – A diver who holds a recognized valid certificate from a UWF Department or
recognized certifying agency.
Controlled Ascent – Any one of several kinds of ascents including normal, swimming, and buddy
breathing ascents where the diver(s) maintain control so a pause or stop can be made during the ascent.
Cylinder – A pressure vessel for the storage of gases.
Decompression Chamber – A pressure vessel for human occupancy. Also called a hyperbaric chamber
or recompression chamber.
Decompression Sickness – A condition with a variety of symptoms which may result from gas and
bubbles in the tissues of divers after pressure reduction.
Decompression Table – A profile or set of profiles of depth-time relationships for ascent rates and
breathing mixtures to be followed after a specific dept-time exposure or exposures. (Also called dive
tables.)
Dive – A descent into the water, an underwater diving activity utilizing compressed gas, an ascent, and
return to the surface.
Dive Location – A surface or vessel from which a diving operation is conducted.
Dive Location Reserve Breathing Gas – A supply system of air or mixed gas (as appropriate) at the dive
location which is independent of the primary supply system and sufficient to support divers during any
planned decompression dive.
Dive site – The physical location of a diver during a dive.

34
Dive Team – divers and support individuals who are exposed to or control the exposure of others to
hyperbaric conditions.
Diver – An individual in the water who uses apparatus, including snorkels, which supplies breathing gas
at ambient pressure.
Diver-In-Training – A certified diver gaining experience and training in scientific diving activities under
the supervision of a dive team member experienced in those activities.
Diver-Carried Reserve Breathing Gas – A diver-carried independent supply of air or mixed gas (as
appropriate) sufficient under standard operating conditions to allow the diver to reach the surface, or
another source of breathing gas, or to be reached by another diver.
Diving Mode – A type of diving requiring specific equipment, procedures, and/or techniques (for
example, snorkel, SUCBA, surface supplied air, or mixed gas).
Diving Control Board – or DCB. The group of individuals who act as the official representative of the
UWF Departments in matters concerning the scientific diving program.
Diving Safety Officer – The individual responsible for the safe conduct of the scientific diving program
of the membership organization.
Emergency Ascent – An ascent made under emergency conditions where the diver exceeds the normal
ascent rate.
FSW – Feet of seawater, or equivalent static head.
Hookah Diving – A type of shallow water surface-supplied diving where there is no voice
communication with the surface.
Hyperbaric Chamber – See decompression chamber.
Hyperbaric Conditions – Pressure conditions in excess of normal atmospheric pressure at the dive
location.
Maximum Working Pressure – The maximum pressure to which a pressure vessel may be exposed under
standard operating conditions.
UWF Department – A UWF Department is defined as any group or organization engaging in scientific
SCUBA diving under the auspices of the University of West Florida.
Mixed-Gas Diving – A diving mode in which the diver is supplied in the water with a breathing gas
other than air.
MSW – Meters of seawater or equivalent static head.
No-Decompression limits – The depth-time limits of the “no-decompression limits and repetitive dive
group designations table for no-decompression air dives” of the U.S. Navy Diving Guide or equivalent
limits.
35
Normal Ascent – An ascent made with adequate air supply at a rate of 60 feet per minute or less.
Pressure-Related Injury – An injury resulting from pressure disequilibria within the body as the result of
hyperbaric exposure. Examples include: decompression sickness, pneumothorax, mediastinal
emphysema, air embolism, subcutaneous emphysema or ruptured eardrum.
Pressure Vessel – see cylinder.
Psi – pounds per square inch gauge.
Recompression Chamber – see decompression chamber.
Scientific Diving – all diving performed by individuals necessary to and part of a scientific, research, or
educational activity, in conjunction with a project or study under the jurisdiction of any public or private
research or educational institution or similarly recognized organization, department, or group.
SCUBA Diving – A diving mode independent of surface supply in which the diver uses open circuit
self-contained underwater breathing apparatus.
Standby Diver – A diver at the dive location capable of rendering assistance to a diver in the water.
Surface Supplied Diving – A diving mode in which the diver in the water is supplied form the dive
location with compressed gas for breathing.
Swimming Ascent – An ascent which can be done under normal or emergency conditions accomplished
by simply swimming to the surface.
Tender – Trained surface support personnel in charge of monitoring the delivering breathing air to a
surface supplied diver.
Treatment Table – A depth-time and breathing gas profile designed to treat decompression sickness or
air embolism.
Umbilical – The composite hose bundle between a dive location and a diver or bell, or between a diver
and a bell, which supplies the diver or bell with breathing gas, communications, power, or heat, as
appropriate, to the diving mode or conditions, and includes a safety line between the diver and the dive
location.
Volume Tank – A pressure vessel connected to the outlet of a compressor and used as an air reservoir.
Working Pressure – The normal pressure at which the system is designed to operate.
36
APPENDIX 2
SELECTED REFERENCES IN DIVING MEDICINE
DIVING AND SUBAQUATIC MEDICINE, C. Edmonds, C. Lowery and J. Pennefather. Diving

Medical Center, Mosman, M.S.W. Australia. (Available from Best Publishing Company, P.O. Box
30100, Flagstaff, AZ 96004)
MEDICAL EXAMINATION OF SPORT SCUBA DIVERS, Jefferson Davis, M.D., (ed.). Best
Publishing Company, P.O. Box 30100, Flagstaff, AZ 96004
NEW SCIENCE OF SKIN AND SCUBA DIVING. Associations Press, NY
NOAA DIVING GUIDE, NOAA. Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C.
SCUBA DIVING IN SAFETY AND HEALTH, C.W. Deuker. Madison Publishing Associates, Diving
Safety Digest, P.O. Box 2735, Menlo Park, CA 94026
THE PHYSICIAN’S GUIDE TO DIVING MEDICINE, C.W. Shilling, C.B. Carlston and R.A. Mathias.
Plenum Press, New York, NY (Available through the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Association,
Bethesda, MD)
U.S. NAVY DIVING GUIDE. Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. (Stock Number 008-046-00131-6)
THE DAN EMERGENCY HANDBOOK, A GUIDE TO THE IDENTIFICATION OF FIRST AID

FOR SCUBA (AIR) DIVING INJURIES, John Lippman and Stan Bugg. J.L. Publications, P.O. Box
381 Carnegie, Victoria, 3163, Australia
DAN Information (919) 684-2948
SCIENTIFIC DIVING, A GENERAL CODE OF PRACTICE, Best Publishing Company, ISBN 0-

941332-51-9.
37
APPENDIX 3
MEDICAL FORMS
Release of Medical Information Form
Diving Medical History Form
Medical Record and Examination Form
Recommended Physicians with Expertise in Dive Medicine
38
UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA
SCIENTIFIC DIVING PROGRAM
RELEASE OF MEDICAL INFORMATION FORM
I authorize the release of this information and all medical information subsequently
acquired in association with my diving to the University of West Florida Diving Safety
Officer and Diving Control Board or their designee at the University of West Florida on
_________________
(Date)
Signature
39
SCIENTIFIC DIVING PROGARM
DIVING MEDICAL HISTORY FORM
(To be completed by applicant/diver)
NAME:
________________________________________________________________
SEX : ______ AGE: _______ WEIGHT: _______ HEIGHT: _______
DATE: ________
TO THE SCIENTIFIC DIVER, VISITING PROFESSIONAL, VOLUNTEER

DIVER:
Scuba diving makes considerable demands on your physical and emotional

condition. Diving with particular defects is asking for trouble not only for yourself,
but for anyone coming to your aid if you get into difficulty in the water. Therefore,
it is prudent to meet certain medical and physical requirements before beginning a
diving or training program.
Your answers to the questions are more important, in many instances, in

determining your fitness than what the physician may see, hear or feel when you are
examined. Obviously, you should give accurate information or the medical
screening procedure becomes useless.
This form shall be kept confidential. If you believe any question amounts to
invasion of your privacy, you may elect to omit an answer, provided that you shall
subsequently discuss that matter with your own physician and he/she must then
indicate, in writing, that you have done so and that no health hazard exists.
Should your answers indicate a condition which might make diving hazardous, you
will be asked to review the matter with your physician. In such instances, his/her
written authorization will be required in order for further consideration to be given
to your application. If your physician concludes that diving would involve undue
risk for you, remember that he/she is concerned only with your well-being and
safety. Respect the advice and the intent of this medical history form.
40
PLEASE CHECK YES OR NO TO EACH QUESTION
1. Have you ever had epilepsy (seizures)? ……………………………………

2. Do you faint or have blackout spells?………………………………………
3. Have you ever been addicted to drugs?…………………………………….
4. Do you have Diabetes?……………………………………………………..
5. Are you prone to claustrophobia?…………………………………………..
6. Have you ever had a nervous breakdown?…………………………………
7. Are you pregnant?………………………………………………………….
8. Do you get anxiety spells or hyperventilation?…………………………...
9. Do you get frequent sour stomachs, nervous stomachs or
vomiting spells?…………………………………………………………….
10. Have you ever had a major operation?……………………………………..
11. Are you presently being treated by a physician?…………………………...
12. Are you taking medication regularly?……………………………………...
13. Have you ever been rejected or restricted form sports?……………………
14. Do you have frequent and severe headaches?……………………………..
15. Do you wear dental plates?………………………………………………..
16. Do you have any bleeding disorder?……………………………………….
17. Have you ever had any problems with alcoholism?………………………..
18. Have you ever had any problems related to diving?………………………..
19. Do you suffer from nervous tension or emotional problems?……………...
20. Do you sometimes take tranquilizers?……………………………………..
21. Have you ever had perforated ear drums?…………………………………
22. Do you get frequent earaches?…………………………………………….
23. Do you have drainage for the ears?………………………………………..
24. Have you ever had ear surgery?……………………………………………
25. Do you get frequent dizzy spells?………………………………………….
26. Do you have any hearing problems?……………………………………….
27. Do you have trouble equalizing pressure in your ears,
especially while diving?……………………………………………………
28. Have you ever had asthma?………………………………………………...
29. Have you ever had wheezing attacks?……………………………………..
30. Do you have a chronic or recurrent cough?………………………………..
31. Do you frequently raise sputum?…………………………………………..
32. Have you ever had pleurisy?……………………………………………….
33. Have you ever had a collapsed lung (Pneumothorax)?…………………….
34. Do you have lung cysts?……………………………………………………
35. Have you had pneumonia?………………………………………………….
36. Have you ever had tuberculosis?…………………………………………...
37. Do you get shorter of breath than most?……………………………………
38. Have you ever been told that you have a lung problem or abnormality?…..
39. Do you ever spit blood?……………………………………………………
40. Do you ever have breathing difficulty after eating particular foods,
after exposure to particular pollens or animals?……………………………
41
YES NO
41. Are you subject to bronchitis?……………………………………………
42. Have you ever had subcutaneous emphysema (air under the skin)?……
43. Have you ever had an air embolism after diving?………………………
44. Have you ever had rheumatic fever?……………………………………
45. Have you ever had scarlet fever?……………………………………….
46. Have you ever been told you have a murmur?…………………………...
47. Have you ever been told you have a large heart?………………………...
48. Have you ever had high blood pressure?………………………………...
49. Have you ever had angina (heart pains or pressure in the chest)?……….
50. Did you ever have a heart attack?………………………………………..
51. Do you ever have low blood pressure?………………………………….
52. Do you have recurrent or persistent swelling of the legs?……………….
53. Have you ever had pounding, rapid heartbeat or palpitations?………….
54. Have you ever had dizziness or fainting spells?…………………………
55. Do you get fatigued or short of breath easily?…………………………..
56. Have you been told you had an abnormal EKG?………………………..
57. Do you suffer from joint problems, dislocations or arthritis?……………
58. Have you ever had back trouble or back injuries?………………………..
59. Have you ever had a ruptured or slipped disk?………………………….
60. Do you have any limiting physical handicaps?…………………………..
61. Do you suffer from muscle cramps?……………………………………..
62. Do you have serious varicose veins?……………………………………..
63. Do you have any amputations?…………………………………………..
64. Have you ever had a head injury causing unconsciousness?…………….
65. Have you experienced any paralysis?……………………………………
66. Have you ever had an adverse reaction to medication?………………….
67. Do you smoke?…………………………………………………………..
68. Are you susceptible to anaphylaxis (allergic reaction to bee, wasp,
or jelly fish stings)?………………………………………………………
If the answer is yes to any of the above, please list or describe below:
_______________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________
42
MEDICAL RECORD AND EXAMINATION FORM
UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA, Scientific Diving Program
Before your medical examination by the physician please answer all questions on this side. Please print or type.
Name SSN ________________________________
Address City Zip
Department Phones: Work Home _______________________
Date of Birth Age Sex Height Weight ____________________
In Case of Emergency, Contact:

Name Relationship Phone Family Doctor _________
Phones: Work Home ______________________________
Insurance Company _________ ____Policy # ___ Phone ________________________________
Check appropriate items if you know or have reason to believe you suffer or have suffered from any of the following: Explain all items
checked under "Remarks," being sure to indicate the item number that you are discussing:
1. Sinus trouble. 14. Electrocardiogram abnormalities.

2. Trouble equalizing pressure. 15. Heart or vascular trouble.
3. Dizziness or fainting. 16. Allergies, drugs, asthma, hay fever.
4. Chest pain. 17. Ear trouble, including hearing.
5. Regular medication. 18. Recent operation, fracture or illness.
6. Hospitalized. 19. Frequent colds or sore throats.
7. Serious injury. 20. Respiratory problems (persistent cough, breathing difficulties).
8. Physical handicap. 21. Rejected from any activity for medical reasons.
9. Motion sickness. 22. Mental or emotional problems ("breakdowns").
10. Epilepsy. 23. Severe or frequent headaches.
11. Claustrophobia. 24. Smoke or drink excessively.
12. Tuberculosis. 25. Glasses or contact lenses.
13. Diabetes. 26. Any other serious medical problem.
(For women only) Are you pregnant, or do you think you might be?
Remarks: ______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Previous diving experience? Yes No Do you participate in active sports? Yes No
Below This Line for University Use

Reviewed by Date ________________________________
Note to Physician: The Divers Alert Network (DAN) physicians are available for consultation by phone
(919) 684-2948 during normal business hours.
43
This side to be filled out by physician.
Patient Name: ________________________________________________________________________________
Blood pressure Vision Uncorrected: R 20/ L 20/
Corrected: R 20/ L 20/
Ears Hearing _____________________________________
Nose Throat_______________________________________
Heart Lungs _______________________________________
Date of previous medical exam
Physician's Notes:
(Continue on separate sheet if needed)
EXAMINER'S IMPRESSION:
APPROVAL (I find no defects which I consider incompatible with diving.)

CONDITIONAL APPROVAL (I do not consider diving in this person's best interest, but find no defects which present
marked risk. I have discussed my impression with the patient.) Reason for conditional approval:
DISAPPROVAL (This applicant has defects which in my opinion clearly would constitute unacceptable hazards to this
person's health and safety in diving.)
Physician's Signature M.D. Date _______________________________
Address Phone ___________________________________
Below This Line for University Use
Reviewed by Date_____________________________________
44
RECOMMENDED PHYSICIANS WITH EXPERTISE IN DIVING MEDICINE
List of local Medical doctors that have training and expertise in diving or undersea
medicine:
1. Gregory L. Moore, M.D.

Immediate Care
West Florida
(850) 474-8572
2. Donald R. Mason, M.D.

Immediate Care Clinic
(850) 474-8572
3. Mickey Daum, M.D.

West Pensacola Family Medical
321 S. Fairfield Drive
(850) 474-8546
4. J. Ole Olsen, III, M.D.

Baptist Occupational Medicine
Nine Mile Road and University Parkway
(850) 208-6400
45
APPENDIX 4
OPERATIONAL CHECKLIST
Scientific Diving Operational Plan
Float Plan
Project Dive Brief – SCUBA
U.S. Navy Doppler NO-D Dive Tables
DAN Dive First Aid Kit Supply List
Boat Load out list
Diver Hand Signals
Surface Supply/Hookah Line Pull Signals
Hookah Tender
U.S. Navy Dive Tables (Safety stops for decompression dives)
46
University of West Florida
Scientific Diving Operational Plan
Project Name: ____________________________________________________

Location: ________________________________________________________
Dates of Dives: ________________
Dates at Sea (Research Vessel Name): ________________________________
Project Director: __________________________________________________
Telephone/Contact Numbers for Project Director: ______________________
Lead Diver: ______________________________________________________
Closest Recompression Chamber: ____________________________________
Telephone number: ________________________________________________
Divers Names/Depth Certification:
________________________________ _______________________________
________________________________ _______________________________
________________________________ _______________________________
________________________________ _______________________________
________________________________ _______________________________
________________________________ _______________________________
________________________________ _______________________________
________________________________ _______________________________
________________________________ _______________________________
________________________________ _______________________________
Max Depth of Dives: ___________________________
Work Conducted/Tools Equipment Used: (attach separate sheet if necessary)
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Anticipated Hazardous Conditions: __________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
All diving procedures will follow the University of West Florida Diving Safety Guide. A copy
of this guide will be present at all dive stations.
Appropriate Dive Flags, current lines, safety diver lines and a safety diver in full gear will be
on site while divers are in the water.
Emergency oxygen will be on the dive station and checked daily prior to conducting diving
operations.
All dives will be logged on the appropriate UWF Diver profile form.
Provide emergency contact information for all divers to include contact name, relationship, work
and home telephone numbers, email addresses and home address. (attach separate sheet)
NOTIFY DIVING SAFETY OFFICER OF ANY ACCIDENTS

DSO: Captain Keith Plaskett Office (850) 475-5438 Cell (850) 982-6637
47
Float Plan
For Scientific Diving Operations
Vessel Requested ______________________________________________

Describe purpose of trip and destination include Lat/Lon if known
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
Date and Time of Mobilization (MOB)_____________________________
Estimated Launch Time _________ Estimated Recovery Time __________
Vehicle Requested to Transport Vessel _____________________________
Date and Time of DeMOB _______________________________________
How long are you planning to be at sea? ____________________________
List of Names of personnel on board:
1. 7. 13.
2. 8. 14.
3. 9. 15.
4. 10. 16.
5. 11. 17.
6. 12. 18.
• Ensure all Safety equipment is on board (life jackets for each person,
flares, whistle, first aid kit VHF radio, Cell phone emergency
notification list, Water, sun screen)
• Boat equipment is on board (Registration, paddles, anchor and enough

line to anchor properly, Lights that are operational in case of a late
return, fuel tanks full, tool kit)
• When trailering check buddy bearings to insure properly greased,

check stop and turn lights, insure safety chains are connected and the
trailer ball is properly secured to vehicle, check the trailer tongue to
insure it is properly locked.
File with appropriate departments and the DSO kplaskett.uwf.edu

48
(Project)
DIVE BRIEF
SCUBA
BOAT/SHORE DIVING
Welcome aboard.
Introduce self and crew
All dives will be no decompression dives and non-penetration dives
Buddy Assignments
Is this anybody’s first salt water dive?
Ask divers if they feel able to carry out the dive
Area orientation
Facilities (location of emergency vehicle, first aid kit, oxygen kit and drinking water)
Dive site (shore, boat, platform, entry’s and exits, specific hazards)
Daily conditions (Weather, sea state, tides and currents, water temperature and visibility)
Requirements Project director, Lead diver, Safety Diver and buddy team
Equipment (Mask, snorkel, fins, Weight belt B.C., regulator with alternate air source, pressure gauge, time keeping device per team,
compass recommended)
Objectives
Length and max depth of dives
Dive Boat/Shore preparations
Schedule
Communications
Hand held VHF radio’s, cell phones
Diver recall – Primary – underwater horn Secondary – safety diver
Dive Rules
500 psi on the surface.
Hand signals (OK, distress or in trouble, out of air, share air, go up, go down, low on air, stop, let’s buddy breathe and danger)
Stay with your buddy
Do not leave the dive site unless you let the DSO, Project Directors and Lead Diver (Dive Master) know.
Buddy teams, plan your dive and dive your plan.
Check each other’s gear prior to entering the water; know the location of your buddy’s alternate air source (hoses properly connected,
air on, breath primary and alternate regulators)
If dive computers are used, both buddy team members must have a dive computer, if one team member’s computer malfunctions, the
buddy team must abort the dive.
Boat entry - back roll, side entry,
Boat exit – at dive ladder remove weight belt, remove fins, climb up ladder with regulator and mask in place.
Shore entry – equipment on, backward walking entry until submerged
Shore exit – remove fins when in knee-deep water, stand up, exit the water
Descent procedures (Boat)
Remain on descent line controlling descent to avoid squeezes to reach bottom
Reach bottom/check gauges/time/air pressure/depth
No visibility situations buddy line with float to the surface will be employed
Ascent Procedures (Boat)
Make a controlled ascent of 30 feet per minute above 60 feet make a three minute stop at 15 feet, five minute stop at 15 feet, greater
than 60 feet.
Descent procedures (Shore)
After shore entry, remain on bottom, swim into the current, or follow compass course.
Ascent Procedures (Shore)
Make controlled ascent of 30 feet per minute; follow compass course or bottom back to shore. Make a three-minute stop at 15 feet, five-
minute stop at 15 feet, greater than 60 feet.
Diver Emergency Procedures
Iiniate Emergency recall
If at any time during the dive, you feel uncomfortable or feel anxiety, discontinue the dive.
If problems are encountered STOP, BREATHE, THINK, AND ACT.
If you lose buddy, search the immediate area for 15 to 30 seconds, and surface.
Join each other on the surface, if ample time and air are remaining, continue dive.
If your buddy does not surface, notify Dive Leader immediately.
Any time you surface, inflate your B.C. as a positive floatation device, if distressed drop your weight belt and give the proper hand
signals.
If caught in heavy current, do a controlled ascent to the surface, give proper hand signals, and do not try to swim against the current. A
safety boat will pick you up.
Listen for boat traffic and do not surface if boat is overhead.
Remember the two most important factors are AIR and TIME.
If an accident Occurs the dive team not involved shall rendezvous and wait for further instructions
CLOSING COMMENTS
If you are asked to do something contrary to the way you have been trained, bring it to the attention of the DSO, Project Directors, and
Lead Diver (Dive Master.)
We will have a debrief at the end of the day’s activities.
ANY QUESTIONS??????
49
50
51
DAN DIVE FIRST AID KIT SUPPLY LIST:
Sunscreen, waterproof SPF 15 or greater

Sunglasses UV protection 100%
Hat
Lip balm with sunscreen
Water drinkable
Space Blanket
Dan Underwater Accident Guide
Pen or Pencil
Writing Pad
Tongue Depressors
Crash Scissors
Bandage Scissors
Sam Splint
Latex Gloves
Sterile 4 x 4’s and 2 x 2’s
Vaseline gauze
Hypoallergenic tape
Nylon Tape
Cotton Swabs
Sterile eye patches
Ace wrap 3” and 4”
Kling Wrap 2” and 3”
Kerlex
Betadine or Povidine solution
Alcohol swab (isopropyl 70%)
Sterile Eyewash
Large Bottle vinegar (acetic acid)
Band-aids
52
BOAT LOAD OUT LIST Scientific Diving Operations
____ RELEASE FORMS SIGNED
____ BOAT KEYS
____ EMERGENCY PROCEDURES LIST
____ LIFE JACKETS UNLOCKED & ENOUGH FOR ALL PASSENGERS
____ FLARES
____ EMERGENCY HORN
____ FIRST AID KITS
____ DAN 02 KIT
____ ELECTRONICS (VHF, Cell phone, DGPS)
____ CHARTS, MAPS & DIVE TABLES
____ ANCHOR, CHAIN & LINE
____ OIL (4- & 2-cycle)
____ SPARE FUEL FILTER
____ DOCK LINES (Minimum of four)
____ EXTRA LINE
____ 300’ rescue Line With Large Float
____ STAND BY DIVERS LINE 350’
____ BUOYS & DRIFT LINE
____ RESCUE PADDLE BOARD
____ TOWELS, PAPER TOWELS OR RAGS
____ BOAT HOOK
____ PADDLE
____ BINOCULARS
____ TOOL BOXES AND BUCKETS (DUCK TAPE)
____ FLAGS (ALPHA, DIVER DOWN, UWF)
____ DIVE GEAR (Mask, Fins, Snorkel, Weight belt, BC, Regulator, Depth gauge, SPG, computer, wetsuit)
____ DIVE TANKS
____ DIVE SPARE PARTS KIT (O-Rings, Spare mask and fin straps, dive master tool, Bottle gauge, pencil, paper)
____ AIR CYLINDER RACKS
____ BROWNIE COMPRESSOR & HOSES
____ EXCAVATION EQUIPMENT (Dredge pumps, heads, & hoses, Screens) Sampling Equipment (Pumps nets)
____ LEAD WEIGHTS
____ WORK GLOVES (Kevlar)
____ EAR WASH
____ JELLYFISH STING SPRAY BOTTLE (½ vinegar & ½ water)
____ RINSE BUCKET WITH FRESH WATER
____ PHOTO GEAR (Digital video, Digital still, Nikonos, land camera)
____ MAPPING EQUIPMENT (Tapes & rules, Slates, Mylar, Datums, Protractor, Plumb bobs, Stakes, Compass)
____ SPECIAL EQUIPMENT (Magnetometer, Sonar, etc.)
____ WATER COOLER
____ ICE CHEST
____ FOOD & WATER
53
54
55
HOOKAH TENDER
1. Ensure all hoses are kink-free and rolled properly.

2. Pay-out lines before divers enter water.
3. Check that all hose clops are secured properly.
4. Check that the air intake hose is upwind from, and well above, all exhaust
from all engines (Brownie, dredge pumps, etc.). Adjust position of air intake
hose if wind changes and exhaust is blowing towards the Hookah.
5. Check oil and fuel levels of engine. Start engine and listen for any unusual
noises. Have both the tender and divers purge the regulator and smell outflow
for any odd odors. Breathe through the regulators while still on the surface to
ensure no noxious fumes are flowing through it.
6. Clip hoses to safety belt. Divers should now enter the water. Tender should
double check to make sure all hoses are free from any obstacles (i.e., dredge
and pump hoses, anchor lines, barge fittings, etc.).
7. Remain close to the hookah compressor and tend hoses, pulling and giving
slack on the diver’s command.
8. Safety line pull signals:
1 pull, tender to diver = “Are you alright?”

1 pull, diver to tender = “I am alright.”
2 pulls, tender to diver = “Go down, or take slack.”
2 pulls, diver to tender = “Give me slack.”
3 pulls, tender to diver = “Standby to come up.”
3 pulls, diver to tender = “Take in my slack.”
4 pulls, tender to diver = “Come up.”
4 pulls, diver to tender = “Haul me up.”
4-4-4 PULLS = IMMEDIATE EMERGENCY ASCENSION
NOTES:
*DO NOT fuel the hookah while divers are breathing through the regulators.
*Keep constant check on the fuel and pulley belts, and bring divers up before
compressor quits.
*Observe pressure gauge on volume tank, if it drops below 50 psi; bring the
divers to the surface immediately.
56
57
58
59
APPENDIX 5
RELEASE, DIVE LOG, TRAINING FORMS
Complete Liability Release for Diving Operations
Complete Liability Release for Snorkeling Operations
Diving Team Profile Log
Scientific Diver Log
Volunteer Diver Log
Master University Dive Log
Scientific Diver Training Log
Volunteer Diver Training Log
60
COMPLETE LIABILITY RELEASE FOR SNORKELING OPERATIONS
1. I UNDERSTAND THE PURPOSE OF SIGNING THIS DOCUMENT IS TO EXEMPT AND RELEASE THE
UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA, AND ITS EMPLOYEES, AGENTS AND DIVE BOATS (WHETHER
OWNED, OPERATED, LEASED OR CHARTERED) AND TO HOLD THESE ENTITIES HARMLESS FROM
ANY AND ALL LIABILITIES ARISING AS A CONSEQUENCE OF THE FOLLOWING, OR ANY OTHER
ACTS OR OMISSIONS ON THEIR PART.
2. I UNDERSTAND THAT THERE ARE INHERENT RISKS INVOLVED WITH SNORKELING AND
BOATING, including but not limited to equipment failure, perils of the sea, acts of other participants, and
adverse sea and weather conditions, and I HEREBY ASSUME SUCH RISKS.
3. I UNDERSTAND THAT I HAVE A DUTY TO EXERCISE REASONABLE CARE FOR MY OWN

SAFETY AND I AGREE TO DO SO.
4. I assert that I am physically fit to snorkel and ride on a boat and I will not hold the University of West Florida
and its employees, agents and dive boats (whether owned, operated leased or chartered) responsible if I am
injured as a result of ANY problems (medical, accidental or otherwise) which occur while snorkeling, riding on
the boat or otherwise participating in the trip.
5. I agree to wear a snorkeling vest, which provides a means of emergency positive buoyancy, while engaged in
snorkeling activities.
6. I fully understand that the involved boat has no medical facilities and that in the event of illness or injury,
appropriate medical care must be summoned by radio and treatment will be delayed until I can be transported to
a proper medical care facility.
7. In the event I show signs of distress or call for aid, I would like assistance and will not hold the University of
West Florida, its employees, agents and dive boats (whether owned, operated leased or chartered) responsible
for their actions in attempting the performance of rescue or first aid.
8. I agree to release the University of West Florida and its employees, agents and dive boats (whether owned,
operated leased or chartered) from any and all responsibility or liability for any and all injuries or damages. I
agree NOT to make a claim against or sue any of the above parties for injuries or damages whether they arise or
result from any NEGLIGENCE or liability. I further specifically agree to indemnify and hold harmless the
release parties for any and all causes of action arising as a consequence of any incidents which might occur as a
consequence of my participation in the snorkeling activity.
I HAVE READ THIS AGREEMENT, UNDERSTAND IT, AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY IT.
SSN # ________________________
DATE: _______________ SIGNATURE: ____________________________________ WITNESS: __________________________________
TELEPHONE: ____________ PRINT NAME: ___________________________________ PRINT NAME: ______________________________
PERMANENT ADDRESS: _____________________________________________________________________________________
EMERGENCY CONTACT: __________________________________________
TELEPHONE: _____________________________
ADDRESS: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________
GUARDIAN: __________________________________________________________
ADDRESS: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________
61
COMPLETE LIABILITY RELEASE FOR DIVING OPERATIONS
1. I UNDERSTAND THE PURPOSE OF SIGNING THIS DOCUMENT IS TO EXEMPT AND RELEASE THE UNIVERSITY OF WEST
FLORIDA, AND ITS EMPLOYEES, AGENTS AND DIVE BOATS (WHETHER OWNED, OPERATED, LEASED OR CHARTERED) AND
TO HOLD THESE ENTITIES HARMLESS FROM ANY AND ALL LIABILITIES ARISING AS A CONSEQUENCE OF THE FOLLOWING,
OR ANY OTHER ACTS OR OMISSIONS ON THEIR PART.
2. I am a certified diver and have been taught and understand diving and associated underwater activities have inherent risks and dangers associated
herewith including, but not limited to, risk associated therewith equipment failure, perils of the sea, acts of fellow divers and I specifically assume
such risks.
3. I acknowledge that I am physically fit to engage in underwater diving and snorkeling and I will not hold any of the above named responsible if I am
injured as a result of heart problems, lung problems, or other illnesses or medical problems which occur while diving and or snorkeling.
4. I do not have in my possession any illegal drugs, nor am I taking, nor have I recently taken any drugs or medication that would contraindicate
diving.
5. Prior to leaving the dock, I will inspect all equipment to be used, personal or equipment belonging to the University of West Florida, and I will
notify the Diving Safety Officer, Project Director or Lead Diver (Dive Master) if any of my equipment is not functioning properly.
6. I will be present at and attentive to the safety briefing given on the dive station/boat and if there is anything that I do not understand or have been
taught differently, I will notify the Diving Safety Officer, Project Director or Lead Diver (Dive Master) immediately.
7. I understand I have a duty to plan and carry out my own dive and to be responsible for my own safety and the safety of my buddy. I will remain
with my buddy at all times.
8. I will start my ascent at the end of each dive with enough air to perform a proper ascent with a safety stop and guarantee being on the surface with a
minimum of 500 PSI remaining in the tank.
9. I will immediately stop my dive if:
[1] I feel uncomfortable with my diving abilities; and/or

[2] Diving conditions are worse than those for which I have been trained or for which I have experience.
10. I am aware of the dangers of holding my breath while diving and of the dangers associated with rapid ascents.
11. If I become distressed on the surface, I will immediately drop my weight belt and inflate my B.C. for permanent flotation assistance and if I want or
need assistance from the boat/dive platform or shore, I will give the proper “diver in trouble” signal.
12. I fully understand and am aware that the dive station/boat is equipped only with first aid supplies and that in the event of illness or injury appropriate
medical help must be summoned by radio and that treatment will be delayed until I can be transported to a proper medical care facility.
13. IT IS MY INTENTION BY THIS INSTRUMENT TO EXEMPT AND RELIEVE THE UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA, AND ITS
EMPLOYEES, AGENTS AND DIVE BOATS (WHETHER OWNED, OPERATED, LEASED OR CHARTERED) AND TO HOLD THESE
ENTITIES HARMLESS FROM ANY AND ALL LIABILITY FOR PERSONAL INJURY, PROPERTY DAMAGE OR WRONGFUL DEATH
OR GROSS NEGLIGENCE AND I ASSUME ALL RISK IN CONNECTION WITH SCUBA DIVING AND SNORKELING ACTIVITIES.
14. I HAVE READ THE FOREGOING IN ITS ENTIRETY AND AGREE TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS HEREIN ABOVE SET FORTH
ON BEHALF OF MYSELF, MY HEIRS, AND MY PERSONAL REPRESNETATIVES.
DIVER AGENCY AND CERTIFICATION #: _______________________________________ SSN # ________________________
DATE AND LOCATION OF LAST DIVE: ___________________________________________________________________________
DATE: _______________ SIGNATURE: ____________________________________ WITNESS: __________________________________
TELEPHONE: ____________ PRINT NAME: ___________________________________ PRINT NAME: ______________________________
PERMANENT ADDRESS: _____________________________________________________________________________________
EMERGENCY CONTACT: __________________________________________
TELEPHONE: _____________________________
ADDRESS: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________
62
Scientific Diving Program
DIVING TEAM PROFILE LOG
DATE Weather Current

Air Temp Water Temp Visibility
Type Bottom Environment: Platform
Diver Name Air - Time Air - Time Total Diver Type

psi in left psi out reached Time of Task Equip.
surface surface Dive
Copy to Mylar Sheet and use Pencil to record in wet locations. Transfer to Master log.
63
SCIENTIFIC DIVER LOG
Scientific Diver __________________________________________
PSI Time PSI Time TTD Diver Type Cond Vis Platform Buddy Depth Safety E Location
in LS out RS Task Equip. (FT) Stop N
V
Diver Task: Type Equipment: Conditions:

Marine Biology – 1 SCUBA – S Calm seas – 1
Under water Archaeology – 2 HOOKA – H Mod seas – 2
S/SUPPLY – SS Rough Seas - 3
NITROX – N Other – 4
RE-BREATHER – R/B
Environment:
Near shore – NS Open ocean – OO River – R Spring – S Pool –P Sub –SB Ice – I High
altitude – HA Chamber – C Night – N Artificial Reef – AR Living Reef – LR Shipwreck –
SW Other – O
Platform:
Shore – 1 Ship – 2 Small Boat – 3 Platform – 4 Other – 5
64
VOLUNTEER DIVER LOG
Volunteer Diver __________________________________________
PSI Time PSI Time TTD Diver Type Cond Vis Platform Buddy Depth Safety E Location
in LS out RS Task Equip. (FT) Stop N
V
Diver Task: Type Equipment: Conditions:

Marine Biology – 1 SCUBA – S Calm seas – 1
Under water Archaeology – 2 Mod seas – 2
Rough Seas - 3
Other – 4
Environment:
Near shore – NS Open ocean – OO River – R Spring – S Pool –P Sub –SB Ice – I High
altitude – HA Chamber – C Night – N Artificial Reef – AR Living Reef – LR Shipwreck –
SW Other – O
Platform:
Shore – 1 Ship – 2 Small Boat – 3 Platform – 4 Other – 5
65
Scientific Diver Date Location Buddy Time L/S Time R/S TTD (min) Depth Safety stop PSI in PSI out Diver Task Type equip Conditions Vis (FT) Platform
Diver Task: Marine Biology - 1, Underwater Archaeology - 2, Other - 3

Type Equipment: SCUBA - S, HOOKA - H, SURFACE SUPPLY - SS, NITROX - N, RE-BREATHER - RB
Conditions: Calm Seas - 1, Moderate Seas - 2, Rough Seas - 3, Other - 4
Environment: Near shore – NS Open ocean – OO River – R Spring – S Pool –P Sub –SB Ice – I High altitude – HA Chamber – C Night – N Art
AR Living Reef – LR Shipwreck – SW Other – O
Platform: Shore – 1 Ship – 2 Small Boat – 3 Platform – 4 Other – 5
66
Scientific Diver Training Log
Scientific Diver: _____________________________________________

Scuba Certification Agency # and Date: __________________
Diving Medical Exam Date: __________________
First aid/CPR Cert. Date: _________________
Oxygen administrator Cert. Date: ___________
Rescue Diver Cert. Date: ___________
Lead Diver ( Dive Master) Cert. Date: ____________
Depth of Training SCUBA ________________ Date Cert. ___________

Depth of Training HOOKA ________________ Date Cert. ___________
Depth of Training Surface Supply ___________ Date Cert. ____________
Depth of Training Nitrox ___________________ Date Cert. ___________
Depth of Training Re-breather _________________ Date Cert.__________
Remarks:
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
Confined Demonstrate Openwater Demonstrate Remarks:

water check Skills check out Skills
out date: (YES/NO) date: (YES/NO)
SCUBA
HOOKA
Surface
Supply
NITROX
Re-breather
Remarks:
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
DSO Signature: ____________ Date: ____ DSO Signature: ____________ Date: _____
67
Volunteer Diver Training Log
Volunteer Diver: _____________________________________________
Diving Medical Exam Date: _______________
Depth of Training SCUBA ________________ Date Cert. ___________
Remarks:
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
Confined Demonstrate Openwater Demonstrate Remarks:

water check Skills check out Skills
out date: (YES/NO) date: (YES/NO)
SCUBA
Remarks:
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
68
APPENDIX 6
DIVING ACCIDENT EMERGENCY PROCEDURE FORMS
Diving Accident Log
Diving Accident Sequence of Events
Diving Accident and Transportation Procedures
First Responder Baseline History
Four Minute Neuro Exam Check list
Diving Accident Emergency Notification List
Witness Statement
Volunteer Worker Agreement (Worker’s Compensation)
UWF Employee Report of Injury
69
Diving Accident Log
Date: __________ Location: ____________________________
Name of Victim (s): ____________________________________

_____________________________________________________
Name Field Director: __________________________________
Name Lead Diver: _____________________________________
This dive accident log will be completed and all significant events logged and
submitted to the DSO.
TIME EVENT
70
TIME EVENT
71
DIVING ACCIDENT SEQUENCE OF EVENTS
RECOVER INJURED DIVER

|
DIVING ACCIDENT AND TRANSPORTATION
PROCEDURES
|
FOUR MINUTE NEURO EXAM CHECKLIST
|
FIRST RESPONDER BASELINE HISTORY
|
DIVING ACCIDENT EMERGENCY
NOTIFICATION
|
WITNESS STATEMENTS
|
UWF EMPLOYEE REPORT OF INJURY
72
UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA SCIENTIFIC DIVING PROGRAM
DIVING ACCIDENT & TRANSPORTATION PROCEDURES
(ADMINISTER OXYGEN IMMEDIATELY)
1. PROVIDE CARE AND RECORD ACCIDENT (DIVE PROFILE, TIMES, SYMPTOMS)

2. NOTIFY USCG--CHANNEL 16/22A
3. REQUEST USCG AND EMS ASSISTANCE, IF NEEDED: GIVE POSITION AND DISTANCE FROM CLOSEST
LAND POINT TO MEET EMS PERSONEL
4. NOTIFY NAVY CHAMBER 234-4651 OR BAPTIST HOSPITAL CHAMBER 434-4497
5. GIVE DESTINATION FOR EMS: NAS PORT OPS BOAT BASIN, BATTERY WORTH, OR BAYOU GRANDE
MARINA
6. GIVE YOUR LOCATION AND ESTIMATED TIME OF ARRIVAL
7. OBTAIN VICTIMS VITAL SIGNS FOR EMS
8. MONITOR BREATHING/PERFORM CPR AND TREAT FOR SHOCK IF REQUIRED
9. HAVE VICTIM DRINK LOTS OF FLUIDS (WATER)
10. NOTIFY ARCHAEOLOGY INSTITUTE 474-3015- OR MARINE BOLOGY 4742748 -VIA CELL PHONE OR CH 26
MARINE OPERATOR
DURING TRANSPORTATION
APPOINT OTHER STAFF TO AID YOU (RECORD VITAL SIGNS/RELAY INFO TO EMS)
(CLEAR UNNECESSARY PEOPLE FROM AREA AND ADMINISTER FLUIDS/WATER)
(A) RECORD ALL INFORMATION
(B) SECURE GEAR FOR FURTHER INVESTIGATION (DO NOT DISASSEMBLE)
(C) MONITOR VICTIMS DIVE BUDDY TO OBTAIN PROFILE/CHECK BUDDY'S COMPUTER
(D) RECORD: 1. DIVE TIME
2. DIVE DEPTH
3. CYLINDER PSI
4. NUMBER OF DIVES WITHIN 12 HOURS/DEPTHS/TIMES/SURFACE INTERVALS
(E) OBTAIN ALL INFORMATION OF VICTIMS MEDICAL HISTORY
FIRST AID FOR DIVING VICTIM

|
STAY CALM
|
(CHECK AIRWAY/BREATHING/CIRCULATION/CONTROL SEVERE BLEEDING IMMEDIATELY)
|
---------------------------- NO-- ------- IS VICTIM CONSCIOUS ----------- YES
|| || ||
CONTACT DAN (919) 684-8111
||
ASSESS PROBLEMS
||
A. PAIN
B. BREATHING DIFFICULTY
C. PARALYSIS
D. DECREASED CONSCIOUSNESS
E. UNUSUAL WEAKNESS
F. VISION/SPEECH DIFFICULTY
G. NUMBNESS/TINGLING
LIE DOWN/ADMINISTER OXYGEN AND TRANSPORT AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE

CONTINUE TO MONITOR VITAL SIGNS AND NOTIFY MEDICAL PERSONNEL OF ANY CHANGES
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
U.S. COAST GUARD (850) 453-8282 FLORIDA MARINE PATROL (850) 595-8978
NAVY CHAMBER (850) 234-4651 ON CELL PHONE: *FMP
BAPTIST HOSPITAL (850) 434-4479 AFTER 5 P.M. 1-(800) 342-5367
MARINE OPERATOR CH. 26 BAYOU GRANDE MARINA 452-4152
COZ'S CELL PHONE (850) 501-0900 UWF BLDG 89 (850) 474-3015
DSO Capt Keith CELL 982-6637 MARINE BIO. 474-2748
73
Diving Emergency Procedures
First Responder Baseline History
Time________ Date________
Accident Victim’s Name _______________________________ Sex_____ Age ______

Type of Accident Diving ________________ or Non-diving ____________________
Victim’s Present Condition:
Bleeding __________
Conscious ___________ Unconscious _____________
Breathing ___________ Pulse? __________________
CPR Being administered? _______________
Does the Victim have any Allergies?
___________________________________________
Any other symptoms?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
What treatment has been administered?

________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Transport Buddy Diver for Medical Check out!!!
Approximate Time of Accident? _____________________________________________
Present Location of Accident? _______________________________________________
Approximate Transport Time? _______________________________________________
Diving Accident Profile:

Number of Dives in the Past 3 days? ________________________________
Bottom Time ____________________________________________________________
Max Depth ______________________________________________________________
Surface Intervals _________________________________________________________
Rescuer _________________________Victim Released to _______________________

Person Recording_____________________________
Witnesses _______________________________________________________________
Attention Emergency Medical Personnel
For Victim’s Involved in Diving accident
A Diving Medical Physician is standing by to help you Please Call: Divers Alert Network
(DAN) 919 684-8111
SEND THIS FORM WITH VICTIM
74
FOUR MINUTE NEURO EXAM – CHECK LIST
A. Head
1. Orientation to time, place, person. Ask if any numbness or tingling anywhere
in body.
2. Eyes – remember to check for peripheral vision, nystagmus, and pupil size.
3. Ears – hearing
4. Forehead
a. Sensation
b. Furrow brow
c. Shut eyes tight
B. Shoulders
1. Sensation
2. Strength – shrug
C. Arms
1. Sensation
2. Strength
a. Squeeze Fingers
b.Thumbs down, resist pushing arms together
c. Thumbs up, resist forcing arms apart.
D. Chest
1. Sensation (front and back)
E. Legs
1. Sensation
2. Strength
a. Extend or raise leg and try to force down
b.Bend leg and try to extend
c. Bend feet up and down with resistance.
3. Babinski Reflex. Normally, when the sole of the foot is tickled, the big
toe points downward. If the big toe points upward, this reflex indicates
probable Neurological damage.
Place a check ( ) in front of any test that was abnormal or questionable and write a
comment.
75
DIVING ACCIDENT EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION LIST
DAN (919) 684-8111
U.S. COAST GUARD VHF CH 16/22A
U.S.C.G. MOBILE GROUP (334) 441-6217
U.S.C.G. PENSACOLA (850) 453-8282
U.S.C.G. PANAMA CITY (850) 747-6950
RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS
*Mobile, Spring Hill Memorial (251) 460-5259
Panama City, Bay Hospital (850) 769-1511 ext 6000
U.S. Navy, Diving & Salvage School (850) 234-4651
Pensacola, Baptist Hospital (850) 434-4479
Naval Air Station Pensacola (850) 452-3409
POLICE
Area/Local Police 911 or *911
*Alabama Marine Police 1-888-903-2583
Florida Marine Patrol 1-800-342-5367 or *FMP
FMP Pensacola (850) 595-8978
FMP Panama City (850) 233-5150

Building 89, Archeology Inst (850) 474-3015
Building 13 (850) 474-2706
Dr. Judy Bense, Office (850) 474-2474
Cell (850) 712-7748
Dr. Elizabeth Benchley, Office (850) 857-6317
Cell (850) 712-7779
Dr. George Stewart, Office (850) 473-7226
Cell (334) 979-4140
Marine Biology, Admin. Office (850) 474-2748
DSO Capt Keith Plaskett (Cell) (850) 982-6637
Home (850) 995-1924
Field Director Dr. John Bratten (850) 995-4617
Field Director Dr. J. (COZ) Cozzi (850) 857-6321
Field Director Dr. Richard Snyder (850) 474-2806 (O)
(850) 934-8066 (H)
(850) 291-0570 (Cell)
Field Director Dr. Christopher Pomory (850) 857-6028 (O)
(850) 479-6028 (H)
Field Director Dr. Wayne Bennett (850) 474-3362 (O)
(850) 626-9304 (H)
Date of last update: 2 April 2003
76
WITNESS STATEMENT
DATE: ____________________
MY NAME IS: _____________________________________________

(Please Print)
I first became aware of the incident when……..

(What brought your attention to the incident?)
At the time of the incident, I was ……….

(What were you doing? Where were you?)
I observed the following:

Involved person’s condition and appearance: (alert? Unconscious? Responsive? Other?) Activities on
board the boat or in the water:
The Persons in charge took the following action:

(describe rescue efforts in detail)
I participated in the following activities:

(Rescue? Resuscitation? Other?)
77
I heard the victim say:
I would like to add the following comments:

(Please ask for additional paper if necessary)
I can be reached at:
Home Telephone number with area code: _____________________________________
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Street Address: __________________________________________________________
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DATE: ___________________________________
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Guide For Scientific Diving

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Guide For Scientific Diving

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GUIDE FOR SCIENTIFIC DIVING

1.0 GENERAL POLICY

2.00 DIVING REGULATIONS…………………………………………………… 11

3.00 RECORD KEEPING AND REQUIREMENTS.…………………………….. 21

4.00 ENTRY-LEVEL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS…………………………. 23

5.00 SCIENTIFIC DIVER REQUIREMENTS………………………………..… 24

6.00 DIVING EQUIPMENT………………………………………………………. 27

7.00 BREATHING AIR…………………………………………………………… 31

8.00 MEDICAL GUIDE………………………………………………………….. 33

1. Definition of Terms ……………………………………………………….. 34 - 36

1.11 The Scientific Diving Guide

1.12 The UWF Scientific Diving Guide

1.14. UWF Departmental Scientific Diving Procedures

1. A copy of the UWF Scientific Diving guide on the dive station.

1.21 Scientific Diving Defined

1.22 Permission to Participate in Scientific Diving

1.25 Waiver of Requirements

1.30 UWF DEPARTMENTS ENGAGED IN UNDERWATER ACTIVITIES

1.31 Diving Safety Officer (DSO)

1.32 The Diving Control Board.

1.40 PROGRAM RESPONSIBILITY

1.41 Ultimate Authority

1.42 UWF Project Directors

1.43 Policy Administration

1.50 INSTRUCTIONAL PERSONNEL

1.53 Type of Training

1.60 MEDICAL EXAMINATION

2.10 General Policy

2.20 DIVING PROCEDURES

2.21 Solo Diving Prohibition

2.22 Overhead Environment Diving

1. Ice and Polar Diving

2. Enclosed or Confined Spaces

2.23 Limited Visibility Diving

2.24 Altitude Diving

2.26 Flying after Diving

2.27 Diving Vessels

2.28 Diver’s Flag

2.29 Floatation Devices

2.31 Dive Tables

2.32 Depth Limits

The maximum allowed depth for diving is 40 meters (130 ft.)

2.33 Assent Procedures

2.34 Refusal to dive

2.35 TERMINATION OF THE DIVE

2.40 SCUBA DIVER

2.41 Single Diver Tended

2.50 SURFACE SUPPLIED DIVING

2.51 HOOKAH Diver

2.60 ENRICHED AIR NITROX (EAN)

2.70 CLOSED AND SEMI-CLOSED CIRCUIT SCUBA

2.80 ENVIRONMENTAL DIVING

1. Hazardous location requirements

2.90 DIVING OPERATIONS

The Dive Safety Officer shall be responsible for:

2.92 Dive Plans

2.93 Pre-Dive Safety Checks

2.94 Post-Dive Safety Checks

2.95 Emergencies and Deviations from Regulations

2.96 Consequences of Violation of Regulations by UWF Departments

2.97 Consequences of Violation of Regulations by Scientific Divers

3.00 RECORD KEEPING AND REQUIREMENTS

SEX : __ AGE: _ WEIGHT: _ HEIGHT: ___