DIRECTIVE NUMBER: CPL 02-00-151 EFFECTIVE DATE ... - OSHA

kept for the divers on one record. However, if the divers have different dive
exposures or use different decompression tables, then separate entries must
be made for each diver.
b. 29 CFR 1910.423(d)(3). For each dive in which decompression sickness is
suspected or symptoms are evident, the following additional information
must be recorded and maintained: a description of decompression sickness
symptoms (including depth and time of onset); and a description of
treatment results. The information required also shall be recorded on the
OSHA 300 Log (“Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses”). Employers
shall maintain a log of recordable work-related injuries and illnesses. The
key word is “recordable.” The purpose of this requirement is to document
recordable illnesses, including incidents of decompression sickness, even
when the initial symptoms include such manifestations as skin itch, slight
joint cramps, and slight numbness of the extremities. Although seemingly
innocuous, these symptoms are recognized and suspected as mild forms of
decompression sickness. Symptoms and treatments must be recorded
similarly to any other injury or illness. Refer to Appendix G, of this
instruction, for additional reporting and recordkeeping guidance, including
the exemption for commercial diving operations.
4. 29 CFR 1910.423(e) Decompression procedure assessment. This paragraph
requires the employer, within 45 days of occurrence, to investigate and evaluate
each incident of decompression sickness, to take appropriate corrective action,
and to prepare a written evaluation assessing the incident. The corrective action
may include an adjustment of the dive procedures, reassessment of the
decompression tables, or a reexamination of the particular dive involved. A
check of the dive records should show whether an incident occurred that
required an investigation, corrective action, and a written evaluation.
H. 29 CFR 1910.424 – 1910.427 Specific Operations Procedures.
The requirements of 29 CFR 1910.424 through 1910.427 are in addition to any other
applicable requirements in 29 CFR Part 1910, Subpart T.
I. 29 CFR 1910.424 SCUBA diving. Because a SCUBA diver has a limited breathing
supply, does not usually have voice communication, and often is not monitored or
controlled by surface-support personnel, the limits on this mode of diving are more
stringent than for other diving modes.
1. 29 CFR 1910.424(b) Limits.
a. 29 CFR 1910.424(b)(1) and (b)(2). The limits for SCUBA diving are more
restrictive than for surface-supplied air diving or mixed-gas diving (see
Appendix H). The maximum depth for SCUBA diving is 130 fsw (see 29
CFR 1910.424(b)(1)). A decompression chamber is required (i.e., available
within 5 minutes from the dive location) when diving deeper than 100 fsw,
or when diving outside of the no-decompression limits (see 29 CFR
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