OSHA revises commercial diving directive

Washington – OSHA recently issued a revised guidance document regarding the agency’s policies and procedures for commercial diving inspection programs.

The new directive (.pdf file) – which went into effect June 13 – updates the 2006 directive concerning the commercial diving operations standard (1910.401).

The changes include:

• A list of answers to commonly asked questions
• Clarifying requirements for, and duties of, workers who assist divers
• Adding electronic links to the directive

“Commercial divers who spend extended periods of time underwater are exposed to hazards such as drowning, circulatory and respiratory problems, and hypothermia,” OSHA administrator David Michaels said in a press release. “The guidance provided in this directive will help ensure consistent enforcement and compliance.”