POL-U5315.24 Underwater Diving

The University recognizes the benefits of a policy that supports safe underwater diving practices. Diving activities under its auspices shall be conducted in a manner to promote safety and minimize accidental injury or illness.

Department heads shall be responsible for ensuring that all individuals involved in diving are informed of this policy and that departmental diving activities are conducted in compliance with this policy.

Industrial/commercial diving shall conform to applicable rules and regulations of the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries when the diving takes place within its jurisdiction. This includes related and supportive work activities having a direct effect on the safety of diving operations. See Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 296-37 – Commercial Diving Operations.

Scientific diving is defined as that involving research and instructional activities and all such activities are subject to this policy. Scientific diving that is specifically exempt from WAC 296-37 shall comply with minimum standards established by the American Academy of Underwater Scientists (AAUS). In keeping with the provisions of AAUS, the University has established a Diving Control Board and Diving Safety Officer to apply the provisions of its Diving Manual that will govern all scientific diving activities at the University.

The Provost has designated the Shannon Point Marine Center (SPMC) as the current manager of the University’s scientific diving program, subject to periodic review. The SPMC Diving Control Board and Diving Safety Officer are therefore designated to play that role for the University. The approved Diving Manual can be accessed at SPMC.

Recreational diving shall comply with the minimum standards established by PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors), NAUI (National Association of Underwater Instructors), NASDS (National Association of Scuba Diving Schools) or equivalent governing organization. “Recreational diving” is performed solely for recreational purposes and does not include diving that in any way supports the individual’s occupation, research or academic instruction or training.