Annex B - Part 2 On Site Risk assessment

Emergency Management Plan

Emergency Management Plan for Arnewood Divers SCUBA Club (ADSAC)

Purpose:
This document outlines the procedures to follow in the event of an emergency during diving activities with Arnewood Divers. It is part of the Safety Management System (SMS), which all divers have read and acknowledged. As the Dive Marshal, you must be fully familiar with the SMS documentation. While this plan is specifically for use during dives from the "Cautious Flyer" dive platform, it should be adapted for all dive platforms, including shore-based diving.

1. Accident Management Plan

Emergency Communication:

• Boat-based Diving: In the event of an emergency, contact emergency services via VHF radio if diving from a boat platform.

• Shore-based Diving: If diving from shore, dial 999 for emergency services.

Marshal Duties – Risk Mitigation:

1. Preparation (Before Dive):

   • Complete the dive plan with all participants, ensuring they are aware of the SMS requirements.

   • Confirm the dive site conditions (weather, sea state, boat traffic) and ensure all divers are comfortable and have appropriate experience for the planned dive.

   • Identify the dive’s top to top time (expected duration).

   • Record key information:

     • Air in (including Nitrox, if applicable)

     • Air out

     • Any relevant equipment issues

2. Fitness to Dive:

   • Ensure that divers are physically fit to dive and that their equipment is appropriate and in line with the Safety Management System (SMS).

3. Equipment and Safety Checks:

   • Ensure all divers have a Delayed Surface Marker Buoy (DSMB) and know how to deploy it.

   • For dives deeper than 30 meters, encourage divers to have a pony (or secondary air supply).

   • Brief divers on the location and proper use of the oxygen kit. Ensure that the oxygen cylinder and mask are in their correct positions, and confirm divers know how to fit them.

   • Review the diver recall procedure: use the drop shackle or tug on the line (for SMB).

   • Explain boat/dive requirements, such as de-kitting in the water and diver recall procedures.

   • Confirm that the boat handler knows how to manage an emergency, including:

     • Picking up divers

     • Calling the coast guard

     • VHF radio operation

     • Use of additional safety equipment (throw ropes, flares)

4. Divers' Emergency Contact Information (ICE):

   • All divers must provide their In Case of Emergency (ICE) contact details to the Marshal. The Marshal should print and retain a copy for reference.

   • Know the nearest medical facility for the dive area. For local waters, the nearest diver recompression facility is Poole. Divers should familiarize themselves with the nearest recompression facility when diving outside local waters.

2. Evacuation Plan

Marshal Duties – Lost Diver Procedure:

1. Search for Diver: Begin by searching the area where divers are expected. If the diver is not located, expand the search area.

2. Contact the Coastguard: If the diver is still missing, use GPS to log the exact location (LAT/LON) and contact the coastguard immediately.

Rescuing a Diver Into the Boat:

• For a diver requiring assistance into the boat, the recommended method is:

  • Two people, each with a rope under the diver’s arms, should pull together. It may be easier to pull the diver face-first and bent forward into the boat.

  • Ropes for this task can be found under the boat hatch next to the door.

Airlift Procedure:

1. Prepare the Boat: Clear the boat of any unnecessary equipment and tie down any loose items.

2. Make Space: Ensure there is space for the casualty by moving the kit away, as the diver’s equipment may need to go with them (including the computer, cylinder, and any treatment logs).

3. Follow Coastguard Instructions: Follow the advice provided by the coastguard via VHF, and use an orange flare if instructed to do so.

Medical Attention:

• Record Keeping: Be familiar with conducting neuro checks and maintaining the Marshal sheet for medical record-keeping.

• Medical Information: Ensure that the diver's equipment and any relevant information (such as treatment given up until that point) are passed along to the medical team.

• Designate Roles: Nominate one person to maintain communication with the coastguard and another individual to document the medical treatment and changes in the casualty’s condition.

3. Procedures for Boat Hire (Charter Boats)

When using a charter boat, the Dive Marshal is responsible for the following:

• Pre-Dive Briefing with the Skipper:

  • Confirm the location of first aid equipment (including oxygen) and the life raft. This information is typically provided by the boat skipper but must be requested if not offered.

4. Shore Diving Considerations

For shore-based dives, additional precautions are necessary:

• Exit Procedures: Take extra care in planning your exit strategy. Ensure that all team members are aware of the planned exit point and potential recovery procedures for an unconscious diver.

• Rescue Coordination: If an emergency occurs, call for assistance from others on the shore, and be prepared to take on the role of rescue manager.

Conclusion

This Emergency Management Plan ensures that Arnewood Divers operates safely and efficiently in the event of an emergency. By following these guidelines, Dive Marshals and club members can confidently manage diving emergencies, maintain safety, and provide effective support to divers in need of assistance. Familiarity with all procedures is essential to ensure that all divers can enjoy their dives with the highest levels of safety and preparedness.

Document History

Initial document prepared by W.Holt 16NOV2013

Updated by W.Holt 27OCT2017

Updated by W.Holt 05JAN2025