PWS Appendix D.pdf

ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021 1

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY ER 385-1-86

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

441 G Street, NW CESO Washington, DC 20314-1000

Regulation No. 385-1-86 23 November 2021

Safety and Occupational Health: Dive Program

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS DIVE SAFETY PROGRAM

1. This regulation prescribes guidance for policies, program responsibilities, training, and qualification of personnel involved in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) dive safety program.

2. Applicability. This regulation applies to all Headquarters (HQ) USACE staff elements and USACE Divisions, Districts, Centers, and Field Operating Activities (FOA).

3. Distribution Statement. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

Digitally signed by

LLOYD.JOHN.PHILLIP.1021

ILLIP.102107059 070595

Date: 2021.12.01 12:24:23

-05'00'

JOHN P. LLOYD

COL, EN

Chief of Staff

LLOYD.JOHN.PH

2 ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021

Summary of Changes

ER 385-1-86

United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Dive Safety Program

This administrative revision, dated 23 November 2021 – o Provides additional references for the Robert Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Diving Medical Standards and Procedures Manual.

o Deletes the outdated Physician’s Guide to Diving Medicine (1984) as a reference.

o Delineates detailed program responsibilities for the District/Lab/FOA/Center Commander and their District Dive Coordinators (DDC), Alternate Dive Coordinator (ADC), Dive Safety Representative (DSR), Dive Safety Inspector (DSI), Dive Supervisor (DS), divers, Divers-In-Training (DIT), and tenders.

o Provides for the creation of a USACE Dive Control and Safety Council and their program responsibilities.

o Summarizes minimal training and proficiency requirements in a tabular format that is concise and addresses various scenarios within USACE. Accordingly, there is a table for the following: DDC; ADC; DSR; DSI; DS; and Divers.

o Changes the PROSPECT frequency training requirement from every 4 years to every 5 years for both Diving Refresher and Dive Safety Administration Course.

o Combines the PROSPECT Dive Safety Administration Course and the Dive Safety Administration Refresher Course into a single course (Dive Safety Administration) that will fulfill the training requirement.

o Provides direction and procedures for coordination and interoperability amongst district/fleet/lab/field operating activities (FOA)/center.

o Provides direction and procedures for the utilization from other USACE dive personnel across district/fleet/ lab/FOA/center.

o Provides information and USACE policy regarding scientific diving.

o Provides standardization of various forms and disallows local forms for the following: ENG Form 6227 (USACE Diver Medical Instruction and Authorization);

ENG Form 6235 (USACE Dive Operations Plan); ENG Form 4615 (USACE Dive Log); ENG Form 6226 (Diver Contractor Checklist); ENG Form (Dive Supervisor Qualification Checklist); and ENG Form 6228 (DIT and Tender-in-Training Checklist). All forms are depicted in their respective figures and internet links are also provided.

o Deletes appendix A (Diving Medical Requirements) and appendix B (Sample Dive Log) from previous ER 385-1-86. Those appendices are superseded by ENG Form 6227 and ENG Form 4615.

ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021 3

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY ER 385-1-86

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

441 G Street, NW CESO Washington, DC 20314-1000

Regulation No. 385-1-86 23 November 2021

Safety and Occupational Health: Dive Program

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS DIVE SAFETY PROGRAM

CONTENTS

Paragraph Page

1. Purpose

2. Applicability

3. Distribution Statement

4. References

5. Records Management (Record Keeping) Requirements

6. Policy

7. Program Responsibilities

8. Training and Proficiency

9. Medical Qualifications

10. Coordination and Interoperability

11. Utilization of USACE Dive Personnel across District/fleet/lab/FOA/center

12. Scientific Diving

13. Standardization

14. Waivers and Variances

*This regulation supersedes ER 385-1-86, dated 20 September 2010.

4 ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021

Contents – Continued

Table List

Table 1: DDC (Both In-House USACE Dive Operations and Contractor Operations) Training Matrix Table 2: DDC (Contractor Diving Operations Only) Training Matrix Table 3: ADC (Both In-House USACE Dive Operations and Contractor Operations) Training Matrix Table 4: ADC (Contractor Diving Operations Only) Training Matrix Table 5: DSR Training Matrix Table 6: DSI Training Matrix Table 7: DS Training Matrix Table 8: Diver Training & Proficiency Matrix

Figure List

Figure 1: ENG FORM 6227 (USACE Diver Medical Authorization Form) Figure 2: ENG FORM 6235 (USACE Dive Operations Plan Form) Figure 3: ENG FORM 4615 (USACE Dive Log Form) Figure 4: ENG FORM 6226 (USACE Dive Contractor Checklist Form) Figure 5: ENG FORM 6229 (Diver Supervisor Qualification Check Form) Figure 6: ENG FORM 6228 (Diver In Training & Tender In Training Checklist Form) . 38

ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021 5

1. Purpose. This regulation amplifies the requirements stated in Engineer Manual (EM) 385-1-

1. More specifically, this regulation prescribes the policies, program responsibilities, and training & qualifications of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) personnel for underwater diving operations performed by USACE employees and oversight of USACE contractor dive operations.

2. Applicability. Underwater diving operations are identified, by USACE, as hazardous work operations that require stringent and standardized program requirements and procedures in order to safeguard the health and safety of personnel involved (for example, both government and contractor operations). Accordingly, this regulation is applicable to Headquarters USACE

(HQUSACE), Major Subordinate Commands (MSC), Districts, Labs, Field Operating Activities

(FOA), and Centers.

3. Distribution Statement. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

4. References. Technical and regulatory requirements contained in below references will be adhered to, except those specific requirements governing military personnel and military

a. 29 CFR 1910, Occupational Safety & Health Standards

(https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/enforcement/directives/CPL_02-00-151.pdf ).

b. EM 385-1-1, USACE Safety and Health Requirements Manual

(https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/portals/76/publications/engineermanuals/em_385-1-

1.pdf ).

c. Naval Sea Systems Command SS521-AG-PRO-010, U.S. Navy Diving Manual

(https://www.navsea.navy.mil/Portals/103/Documents/SUPSALV/Diving/US%20DIVING%20

MANUAL_REV7.pdf?ver=2017-01-11-102354-393 ).

d. Federal Aviation Administration Directory for Aviation Medical Examiners

(https://www.faa.gov/pilots/amelocator/ ).

e. Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act

(https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-03/stafford-act_2019.pdf ) .

f. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Diving Medical Standards and

Procedures Manual

(https://www.omao.noaa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Diving%20Medical%20Standards%2

0and%20Procedures%20Manual%2C%202010.pdf ).

5. Records Management (Record Keeping) Requirements. Records management requirements for all record numbers, associated forms and reports required by this regulation are included in the Army's Records Retention Schedule. Detailed information for all record numbers, forms, and reports associated with this regulation are located in the Army's Records Retention Schedule

- Army at https://www.arims.army.mil/arims/default.aspx.

https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/enforcement/directives/CPL_02-00-151.pdf https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/portals/76/publications/engineermanuals/em_385-1-1.pdf https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/portals/76/publications/engineermanuals/em_385-1-1.pdf https://www.navsea.navy.mil/Portals/103/Documents/SUPSALV/Diving/US%20DIVING%20MANUAL_REV7.pdf?ver=2017-01-11-102354-393 https://www.navsea.navy.mil/Portals/103/Documents/SUPSALV/Diving/US%20DIVING%20MANUAL_REV7.pdf?ver=2017-01-11-102354-393 https://www.faa.gov/pilots/amelocator/ https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-03/stafford-act_2019.pdf https://www.omao.noaa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Diving%20Medical%20Standards%20and%20Procedures%20Manual%2C%202010.pdf https://www.omao.noaa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Diving%20Medical%20Standards%20and%20Procedures%20Manual%2C%202010.pdf http://www.arims.army.mil/arims/default.aspx

6 ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021

6. Policy. USACE underwater diving operations are intended and restricted to USACE facilities

& projects and to fulfill USACE Emergency Support Function responsibilities. In addition, at

USACE projects, work involving diving operations will only be performed by USACE divers and/or approved USACE contractor divers. However, law enforcement agency divers are permitted for forensic or crime-related investigations at USACE facilities and projects. In situations involving rescue operations, at USACE facilities and projects, the use of federal, state, and local government divers is permitted.

7. Program Responsibilities.

a. USACE Commanding General (CG). The CG, through the HQUSACE Safety and

Occupational Health Office (CESO), is responsible for establishing and resourcing diving safety policy for government diving activities conducted by USACE.

(1) The HQUSACE CESO Chief will designate a USACE National Dive Safety Program

Manager who will promulgate and provide program requirements and training guidance to all

USACE activities.

(2) USACE National Dive Safety Program Manager. This person will serve as USACE’s program manager for dive safety. Their duties include:

(a) Maintain and update this regulation and associated sections and appendices of EM 385-1-

1.

(b) Chair the USACE Diving Control and Safety Council.

(c) Provide program and training guidance to all USACE activities.

(d) Serve as the sole approval authority for all USACE in-house dive teams who request to use “Oxygen Enriched Air” (OEA) such as Nitrox breathing mixtures. Due to the infrequent use of OEA, the USACE National Dive Safety Program Manager will be required to consult with a government, commercial, or an accredited/licensed OEA expert, that is independent of the

USACE project or dive team, who can provide independent review and advice regarding OEA dive operations.

(e) Conduct and/or coordinate inspections of any USACE dive program.

(f) Serve as approval authority for variances and waivers to this regulation.

(g) Serves as the approval authority for the use of one-atmosphere suits (for example, Newt

Suits).

(h) Manage and select all members of the USACE Dive Control and Safety Council.

ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021 7

(i) Publish Dive Safety Advisories, as necessary, to keep the Dive Community of Practice abreast of various dive safety issues.

b. MSC/Division Commanders. The MSC commander is responsible for program management and quality assurance of all government and contractor diving activities conducted within their divisions. The Division Commander may appoint, in writing, a Division Dive

Coordinator to assure appropriate division oversight of the dive safety program. The Division

Dive Coordinator will:

(1) Provide any direction or advice to their District Dive Coordinators (DDC).

(2) Coordinate or resolve any diving issues within their division.

c. District/Lab/FOA/Center Commanders. These commanders are responsible for program implementation, management, and quality assurance for all government and contract diving activities conducted within their area of responsibility. Accordingly, the commander will:

(1) Appoint, in writing, a DDC to ensure appropriate implementation and oversight of their dive safety program. The term DDC is often referred to a Designated Dive Coordinator in EM

385-1-1.

(2) A USACE District/Lab/FOA/Center with limited or no expectation of diving operations may utilize the diving operations capabilities of another USACE District/Lab/FOA/Center activity in lieu of developing their own qualified personnel. These arrangements must be documented in writing and will define responsibilities and adequate resourcing.

d. DDC/Alternate Dive Coordinator (ADC). DDC/ADC exists at the

District/Fleet/Lab/FOA/Center echelons. DDC ensures the appropriate oversight of their dive safety program. The ADC performs the DDC’s duties when the DDC is absent or unavailable.

Each District/Fleet/Lab/FOA/Center Commander will designate, in writing, only one DDC.

Their duties include:

(1) Develop, implement and oversee local dive program policies and procedures to ensure compliance with this regulation and EM 385-1-1.

(2) The DDC will maintain a file of completed USACE Diver Medical Authorization forms for all of their respective USACE divers. The DDC will also receive and review physician’s certification for contractor divers. DDC will not accept or maintain any medical records. If there is a serious diving injury or illness, the DDC will ensure that a diver is re-examined by a licensed physician who completed a Diving Medical Officer course, hyperbaric fellowship, or a

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Aeromedical Examiner with diving medicine experience.

(3) Prior to performing their duties, the DDC must approve (in writing by the district commander) and maintain a listing of personnel assigned as an ADC, Dive Safety Representative

(DSR), Dive Safety Inspector (DSI), Dive Supervisor (DS), divers, Divers-In-Training (DIT), 8 ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021 and tenders. The DDC will verify that these personnel have the required certifications, qualifications, and proficiency.

(4) The DDC will appoint, generate and maintain a “letter of authorization” for ADC, DSR, DSI, DS, and each dive team member. This letter of authorization will outline the duties each individual is authorized to perform. Prior to commencement of dive operations, the DDC will ensure that the dive team members are on DDC’s approved listing of personnel.

(5) Review dive contractor submittals and provide acceptance/non-acceptance to the

Government Designated Authority.

(6) Review and approve the following documentation prior to any USACE in-house dive operation or documentation acceptance for contractor dive operation: safe practices manual;

dive operations plan(s); dive equipment certifications; activity hazard analysis (AHA) to cover all aspects of the job; emergency management plan; dive personnel qualifications; and additionally documentation affecting the dive operations (i.e., critical lift plans, underwater welding certificates, lockout/tagout plans, etc.).

(7) Prior to the initial work on each contract dive operation, a Pre-Dive Conference will be held with key personnel designated by the DDC to discuss the dive operations plan, AHA, critical lift plans, emergency management plan, and hazardous energy control program procedures. Any and all modifications to any of the above documents require the approval/acceptance of the DDC.

(8) The DDC will designate a DSI qualified person to attend the initial contractor pre-dive meeting. On every new dive contract and prior to commencement of the first contract dive, the

DDC will assign a DSI to conduct a complete inspection of contract operations. Results of the inspection will be recorded on the Contractor Diving Operations Quality Assurance Checklist.

Based on this inspection, job complexity, contractor performance and degree of hazards found in the dive plans and AHA, the DDC will determine whether the DSI will conduct continuous or intermittent monitoring of contract dive activity.

(9) If for any reason the dive mission is altered, the DDC will review and approve any revisions to the dive plan prior to continuing or commencing dive operations.

(10) To ensure compliance, the DDC and/or DSR will have a documented annual review their USACE dive team operations.

(11) Oversee USACE in-house dive operations in the field through on-site evaluations and/or reports from ADC’s, DSI’s, Safety Office representatives, DSR’s, or DS’s.

(12) Coordinate all dive program activities with the appropriate district Safety &

Occupational Health Office (SOHO).

(13) Cease any USACE and/or contractor dive operations when deemed unsafe.

ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021 9

(14) Review all USACE dive logs after the completion of dive operations.

(15) Review all snorkeler’s annual physician certifications, AHAs, and snorkeling plans for those operations involving scientific snorkeling.

(16) Serve as the approval authority for the use of OEA, by contractors, in their respective area of responsibility. The DDC will ensure that the contractor meets the EM 385-1-1 requirements prior to the commencement of OEA diving operations.

e. The DSR is assigned by the DDC and is normally the District Safety and Occupational

Health Office representative who is assigned the responsibility of dive safety, provides dive safety advice, actively participates in the review and comment process for diving plans and hazard analyses, and on-site monitoring of diving operations. Their duties include:

(1) Review and provide comment on dive program procedures to the DDC.

(2) The DSR will conduct annual inspections of USACE dive teams during dive operations.

Additionally, the DSR will perform on-site assessments and monitoring of diving operations to evaluate effectiveness of safety controls and procedures. The DSR will report all findings from inspections, on-site assessments, and monitoring to the DDC and the SOHO.

(3) Have the ability to serve as a reviewer and one-of-two approval/acceptance authorities for the dive planning documentation required by the EM 385-1-1 and this regulation.

(4) When directed by the DDC, review all snorkeler’s annual physician certifications, AHAs, and snorkeling plans for those operations involving scientific snorkeling. Determine if additional on-site personnel are required where scientific snorkeling operations occur.

f. The DSI is the on-site government representative of the DDC for contractor or USACE in-house diving operations. Accordingly, DSI duties will not be delegated or deferred to any non-government entity (to include contractors). The DSI will ensure dive team safety through coordination with the contractor and provide recommendations to correct deficiencies in the dive plan, AHA, or observed diving procedures. Their duties include:

(1) Attend and participate in the contractor on-site pre-dive meetings. The DSI will conduct a walk-through of dive operations to evaluate staging areas, equipment condition and setup.

(2) Review and confirm that Hazardous Energy Control Procedures are followed as required by EM 385-1-1, Engineer Regulation (ER) 385-1-31, and applicable site-specific policies. The

DSI will not have clearance responsibilities, as outlined in ER 385-1-31, unless they are a qualified and authorized clearance holder at the specific facility.

(3) Conduct quality assurance inspections and monitoring for contractor scientific snorkeling

10 ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021

(4) Use of qualified Rehired Annuitants (RA) to perform DSI duties is permitted. In order to qualify, these RA’s must provide verified proof that they served as a USACE in-house DS for a minimum period of 5 years. Because of their previous knowledge in USACE dive operations, training requirements for RA’s listed below are waived. Finally, the use of RA’s will not be substitute for developing in-house assets to fulfill DSI duties.

g. The DS is the primary authority on any USACE in-house dive team’s operation. DS’s are required to be an active or former USACE diver. Each USACE dive team will have a designated

DS to manage all aspects that affect the safety and health of dive team members. Their duties include:

(1) Verify dive team qualifications and training prior to any dive operation.

(2) Be involved in the development of the dive operations plan(s), dive site coordination, set-up of both the staging and equipment areas, pre-dive meeting/conferences, personnel duty assignments for each dive team, and selection & inspection of diving equipment. The DS will also provide and sign that day’s or work shift dive operations plan & equipment checklist and brief this plan to the assigned dive team prior to entering the water for that day or shift. The DS will use appropriate high altitude tables that compensate for the increased elevation.

(3) Identify and mitigate external hazards (for example, environmental, navigation, equipment operation, invasive species, etc.) at the dive location.

(4) Supervise the entire dive operation to include: safe & efficient diver rotation; job planning; execution of emergency response procedures; and demobilization of the dive site.

(5) Serve as the sole permission authority for the movement and/or operation of any facility equipment, cranes, vessels, etc. that may impact dive operations at the dive site. This sole permission authority will remain in effect for the entire duration of the active dive operation, as determined by the DS.

(6) Physically verify a project’s Hazardous Energy Control Plan (HECP) implementation when the operation of machinery or release of hazardous energy will or could affect the safety of the diver or dive team. This verification will include physical examination of each lock, tag, and controllers to ensure they are in the proper position. When diving at a facility with an existing

HECP, the DS will review the facility’s plan and establish positive control procedures with the facility responsible official.

(7) Continuously monitor dive team members’ physical & mental fitness and their ability to perform their assigned tasks. When in doubt, the DS will cease all operations. Operations will re-start only after the DDC/ADC and/or DS has determined that appropriate corrective action(s) have been accomplished.

(8) When dives will take place in an area or facility where potential or actual pressure differentials exist (locks, dams, spillways, powerhouses, etc.), the DS will develop specific plans

ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021 11 and procedures, in coordination with the facility operator, that meet the facility’s HECP to prevent diver exposure to pressure differentials.

(9) When water traffic, land-based traffic, industrial operations, heavy equipment operation, or other operations exists that present a hazard to the diver or dive team, the DS will coordinate with the controlling authorities to ensure the hazards are mitigated.

(10) Perform pre-dive checks (per EM 385-1-1) prior to the dive.

(11) Will remain topside, on-site, and in overall control of the diving operation. The DS will not assume duties of divers or standby diver during this period. The DS may rotate into a diver or standby diver status only when their supervisory duties have been clearly and completely transitioned to another qualified DS as outlined in the dive operations plan.

(12) Report all hazardous conditions/events, mishaps, incidents, accidents, injuries, and other lessons learned to the DDC, ADC, and SOHO.

(13) Conduct a dive team debriefing upon completion of each diving operation or at the conclusion of each day.

(14) Record and maintain a dive log for each diver. Ensure that completed dive logs and after-action reports (if applicable) are submitted to the DDC.

(15) When qualified by the DDC, DS are permitted to serve as a DSI. The DDC will issue a letter of authorization stating that the DS is qualified to serve as a DSI.

(16) In order to avoid any circumstances that would compromise any dive team’s safety and health, all USACE activities will establish policies and procedures to prevent operational supervisory pressure on the DS. Other than the DDC and/or ADC, the DS will have absolute control of the entire dive operation.

(17) There will be only one DS for any one dive site at any given time. In no instance will a

DS be permitted to serve as the same Dive Supervisor for multiple dive sites.

(18) Use of qualified RA to perform DS duties is permitted. In order to qualify, these RA’s must provide verified proof that they served as a USACE in-house dive supervisor for a minimum period of 5 years. Also, training requirements for RA’s listed below are waived.

Finally, the use of RA’s will not be substitute for developing in-house assets to fulfill DS duties.

h. USACE Divers and DIT responsibilities include:

(1) Submit to and receive a periodic diving physical and fitness for duty letter by a licensed physician who completed a Diving Medical Officer course, hyperbaric fellowship, or a FAA

Aeromedical Examiner with diving medicine experience. If any serious dive related injury or illness occurs, the diver(s) will submit to and receive an examination by a licensed physician

12 ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021 who completed a Diving Medical Officer course, hyperbaric fellowship, or a FAA Aeromedical

Examiner with diving medicine experience.

(2) Follow and demonstrate all prescribed safety procedures including the use of all equipment and/or tools necessary to safely perform their assigned tasks.

(3) Monitor their own personal physical and psychological health and report any known or suspected limitations or abnormalities or serious medical conditions (for example, pregnancy, surgery, etc.) to the DS.

(4) Avoid distractions, follow the dive operations plan and all directions of the DS.

(5) Will wait at least 12 hours before flying after any dive. This interval is extended to 24 hours following multiple days of repetitive dives.

i. USACE Tenders and other Dive Team Members. Their responsibilities include:

(1) Be trained, fully knowledgeable, follow, and demonstrate all prescribed safety procedures, including the use of all equipment and/or tools necessary to safely perform their assigned tasks.

(2) Monitor their own personal physical and psychological health and report any known or suspected limitations or abnormalities or serious medical conditions (for example, pregnancy, surgery, etc.) to the DS.

(3) Avoid distractions, follow the dive operations plan, and all directions of the DS.

j. USACE Dive Control and Safety Council. This council’s responsibilities include:

(1) Serve as voting members on all Board of Investigations (BOI) involving USACE in-house or contractor diving operations. A minimum of two USACE Dive Control and Safety

Council members will be assigned to any dive related BOI.

(2) Review diving mishaps and incidents to determine any corrective application.

(3) Reviews, revises, and develops policies, curriculum, and standards/requirements for the

USACE Dive Program.

(4) Perform and/or assist in any Headquarters directed dive audit, review, and/or assessment of any dive program.

(5) Perform and/or assist in the instruction and/or proponent oversight of any USACE

Learning Center PROSPECT dive course.

8. Training and Proficiency. Diving is a hazardous operation that requires specialized training.

Accordingly, it is essential that personnel are qualified to perform their assigned duties. The

ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021 13 following provides the minimal training and proficiency requirements necessary to achieve qualification for duties which they are assigned.

a. The following matrix applies to personnel assigned as the USACE DDC.

Table 1

DDC (Both In-House USACE Dive Operations and Contractor Diving Operations)

Training Matrix Requirement Frequency

3 years experience as an USACE Dive Supervisor Initial

Dive Safety Administration or Dive Refresher Course Initial and every 5 years

Working Diver Course Initial

Appointment by the Commander Initial and upon change of commander

Table 2

DDC (Contractor Diving Operations Only) Training Matrix Requirement Frequency

3 years experience as an USACE DS / USACE DSI / or

USACE DSR

Initial

Dive Safety Administration Course Initial and every 5 years

Appointment by the Commander Initial and upon change of commander

b. The following matrix applies to personnel assigned as the ADC.

Table 3

ADC (Both In-House USACE Dive Operations and Contractor Diving Operations) Training

Matrix Requirement Frequency

2 years experience as an USACE DS Initial

Dive Safety Administration or Diving Refresher Course Initial and every 5 years

Working Diver Initial

Authorized by the DDC Initial

Table 4

ADC (Contractor Diving Operations Only) Training Matrix Requirement Frequency

2 years experience as an USACE DS / USACE DSI / or

USACE DSR

Initial

Dive Safety Administrator Course Initial and every 5 years

Authorized by the DDC Initial

14 ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021

c. The following matrix applies to personnel assigned as a DSR.

Table 5

DSR Training Matrix Requirement Frequency

Dive Safety Administrator Course Initial and every 5 years

Authorized by the DDC Initial

d. The following matrix applies personnel assigned as a DSI.

Table 6

DSI Training Matrix Requirement Frequency

Dive Safety Administration or Working Diver or

Diving Refresher Course

Initial and every 5 years

Authorized by the DDC Initial

e. The following matrix applies to personnel assigned as a DS.

Table 7

DS Training Matrix Requirement Frequency

First Aid, CPR and AED Initial and every 2 years thereafter

Diver specific emergency oxygen administration Initial and every 2 years thereafter

Working Diver Course Initial

Plan, execute, and supervise 3 dive operations Annual

Authorized by the DDC Initial

USACE training standards for DS1 Initial and every 5 years after initial designation as a

DS

1DS will be trained by their respective DDC/ADC and will complete the “Dive Supervisor Qualification Check.” At any time, a DDC may revoke or suspend a DS’s qualifications.

However, if that DDC wishes to reinstate that individual’s DS qualifications, that individual will be required to repeat the “Dive Supervisor Qualification Check.” Additionally, every 5 years, the DDC/ADC will require each DS to maintain their qualification by repeating the “Dive Supervisor Qualification Check.”

ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021 15

f. The following matrix applies to personnel assigned as a USACE Diver:

Table 8

Diver Training & Proficiency Matrix Requirement Frequency

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Diver Medical

Authorization2

Initial and periodic thereafter

Accredited Diving certification3 Initial

First Aid and CPR Initial and every 2 years thereafter

Diver specific emergency oxygen administration Initial and every 2 years thereafter

Working Diver Course Initial

Diving Refresher Course Upon completion of Working Diver course, Diving Refresher course will be completed every 5 years thereafter

9 Working/training dives4 Annual

Authorized by the DDC Initial 2All Divers are required to meet diving medical qualifications. However, tender (who are no longer in a diving status) are not required to meet diving medical qualification.

3Accredited diving certification can be achieved by a U.S. military diving school, Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), National Association of Underwater Instructors

(NAUI), or other recognized sources.

4Divers who have not completed the mandatory 9 working/training dives per year will have USACE Diver certification suspended. They will be categorized as a Diver-in-Training and will be provided six months to complete the necessary number of working/training dives. Upon completion of the necessary working/training dives, the DDC may reinstate their certification as a

USACE Diver. If the required number of working/training dives are not completed in that additional six month period (total 18 month period), that Diver-in-Training will be required to take the Diving Refresher Course before they can be eligible to be certified as a USACE Diver.

g. A USACE DIT is a process to determine the suitability of an individual for eventual certification as a USACE Diver. Accordingly, all DDC will ensure that DIT’s will adhere to the following:

(1) All DIT’s must be certified as a self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) diver by a national recognized SCUBA certification organization (for example, military diving school, PADI, NAUI, etc.) prior to being placed in a USACE DIT status.

(2) Dives made by DIT’s are restricted to a maximum depth of 32 feet.

(3) After the initial equipment training, the DIT may perform underwater training as a second diver when accompanied by a qualified diver. This must be performed using the same equipment as the diver.

(4) The DIT will be in direct communication with the DS at all times. The qualified diver will enter the water first and exit only after the DIT is safely topside.

(5) The DIT will not be used to fulfill the minimum manning requirement for dive teams.

Instead the DIT will be considered an additionally member to the minimum manning requirements listed in EM 385-1-1.

(6) Successful completion of the Working Diver course is required before the Diver-in-

Training is eligible to be certified as a USACE Diver by the DDC. The respective DDC will be final approval authority for USACE Diver designation.

9. Medical Qualifications. All USACE will meet medical requirements outlined by the USACE

Command Surgeon. All waivers to these medical requirements will be submitted to the USACE

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Dive Medical Officer/Command Surgeon for adjudication. All medical waivers must be signed by the USACE Dive Medical Officer/Command Surgeon.

10. Coordination and Interoperability: To ensure coordination, any district/fleet/lab/FOA/center may work collaboratively with any district/fleet/lab/FOA/center where diving is being performed. There are two main scenarios where coordination and interoperability would take place. Accordingly, the following procedures will be adhered to:

a. When a DDC requests dive services from another DDC, the following procedures will be adhered to:

(1) The servicing DDC will submit all documents (similar to a contractor) to the requesting

DDC for validation.

(2) Both DDC’s are required to concur and sign all dive operations plans for approval.

b. There are also situations where diving is being performed in another DDC’s geographic area but not at the request of that geographic DDC. Most common reason include perform work associated with ordnance or bridge inspections for the Department of Defense. This work may involve a USACE in-house dive team or contractor/military dive team. Accordingly, the following procedures will be adhered to:

(1) The servicing DDC will notify the geographic DDC of the specifics of dive operation

(for example, who, what, when, how, and requesting customer (such as, garrison, etc.)).

(2) Approval and/or concurrence with the geographic DDC is not required. However, the geographic DDC may halt diving operations if the servicing DDC fails to provide notification prior to the commencement of the servicing DDC’s diving operations.

11. Utilization of USACE Dive Personnel across District/fleet/lab/FOA/center. There may be situations where additional divers are needed to supplement dive operations. Accordingly, the

DDC may reach out to other DDC’s for assistance. When these situations arise, the following procedures will be adhered to:

a. The requesting DDC will make their requests to an individual DDC.

b. The individual DDC will make a determination if they can fulfill the request while ensuring that their district/fleet/lab/FOA/center dive mission requirements are met.

c. If the individual DDC does provide divers to assist the requesting DDC, the individual

DDC will provide all diver documentation to the requesting DDC for validation. Meanwhile, the individual DDC will keep their chain of command informed.

d. Additionally, for those cases where long term use of divers are involved (for example, 3 times per year), the individual DDC will provide a memo of authorization to the requesting DDC stating that the individual diver may participate with the requesting DDC’s dive team. In

ER 385-1-86 • 23 November 2021 17 addition, the requesting DDC will ensure that the divers meet all requirements and issues a letter of authorization to be a member of their dive team.

e. In all cases, the requesting DDC is prohibited from contacting individual divers without the first contacting that diver’s DDC for any particular dive operation.

12. Scientific Diving. USACE may be involved with scientific diving utilizing contractor and/or

USACE in-house dive teams. Accordingly, the following provides a scientific dive definition and USACE policy involving USACE in-house dive teams:

a. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines scientific diving as:

(1) “Diving performed solely as a necessary part of a scientific, research, or educational activity by employees whose sole purpose for diving is to perform scientific research tasks.

Scientific diving does not include performing any tasks usually associated with commercial diving such as but not limited to: placing or removing heavy objects underwater; inspection of pipelines and similar objects; construction; demolition; cutting or welding; or the use of explosives.”

(2) Additionally, OSHA states, “Scientific divers, based on the nature of their activities, must use scientific expertise in studying the underwater environment and, therefore, are scientists or scientists in training.” In addition, “The tasks of a scientific diver are those of an observer and data gatherer.”

(3) Those non-USACE entities that met the above definition, and demonstrate other OSHA scientific diving requirements, can seek an exemption to OSHA.

b. Given the above OSHA requirements, minor work could be construed as that associated with commercial diving and would therefore not qualify for the OSHA scientific diving exemption. Although not an exhaustive list, this could include work involving rigging, placement and maintenance of instrumentation, and trouble-shooting. As a result, all USACE in-house divers, who may be involved in any form of scientific diving, are required to meet all

USACE diver requirements set forth in this regulation.

13. Standardization: In order to improve interoperability (especially during contingency operations), it is essential that USACE standardize certain functions. Accordingly, all USACE in-house dive teams will utilize the specific standardized forms listed below. All other local or district/fleet/lab/FOA/center forms are void and disallowed. Below is a listing of all standardized USACE dive program forms:

a. ENG Form 6227 - USACE Diver Medical Instruction and Authorization

(https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Users/182/86/2486/Eng_Form_6227_2021J un%20(002).pdf): This form will be utilized to as a diver’s fit to dive statement by the appropriate medical authority listed above (see Figure 1).

https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Users/182/86/2486/Eng_Form_6227_2021Jun%20(002).pdf https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Users/182/86/2486/Eng_Form_6227_2021Jun%20(002).pdf

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b. ENG Form 6235 – USACE Dive Operations Plan

(https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Eng_Form_6235_2021Mar.pdf?ver=XycjX mvNX40096cxPhCBcA%3d%3d): This form will be utilized for all diving performed by

USACE in-house dive teams. Additional and amplifying details may also be attached to this form (see Figure 2).

c. ENG Form 4615 - USACE Dive Log

(https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Publications/EngineerForms/Eng_Form_46

15_2021Feb.pdf?ver=-3Q2ulx4aLVHP8d6vBdurg%3d%3d): This form will be utilized for all diving performed by USACE in-house dive teams (see Figure 3).

d. ENG Form 6226 - Diver Contractor Checklist

(https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Eng_Form_6226_2021Feb.pdf?ver=CeWn nVx-rWDLRCUANvoguw%3d%3d): DDC’s, ADC’s, and DSI’s will utilize this form to inspect all new contract diving operations. Based on these results, complexity of the dive operations, etc., the DDC will determine how often contract dive operations are to be monitored/inspected

(see Figure 4).

e. ENG Form 6229 - Dive Supervisor Qualification Checklist

(https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Eng_Form_6229_2021Feb.pdf?ver=C-

MrEKrxGFvoTI7VHZCKBg%3d%3d): The DDC will utilize this form to qualify their Dive

Supervisors of their in-house dive teams (see Figure 5).

f. ENG Form 6228 - Diver-in-Training & Tender-in-Training Checklist

(https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Eng_Form_6228_2021Feb.pdf?ver=NFRY

AlGb19edWmhpSbNhLg%3d%3d): The DDC will utilize this form to qualify their Diver-in-

Training. This form will be required to be completed and submitted prior to attending the

USACE Working Diver Course.

14. Waivers and Variances: All requests for waivers and variances to this regulation must be submitted in the following manner. All requests will be on command letterhead. The requesting

DDC will state: the purpose of the request and the applicable paragraph regulating the issue;

background and necessity for the request; requested time period needed; local mitigation to be taken in the interim; any supporting documentation justifying the request; and date & signature of requesting DDC. All requests will be sent to the USACE National Dive Safety Program

Manager for adjudication.

https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Eng_Form_6235_2021Mar.pdf?ver=XycjXmvNX40096cxPhCBcA%3d%3d https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Eng_Form_6235_2021Mar.pdf?ver=XycjXmvNX40096cxPhCBcA%3d%3d https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Publications/EngineerForms/Eng_Form_4615_2021Feb.pdf?ver=-3Q2ulx4aLVHP8d6vBdurg%3d%3d https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Publications/EngineerForms/Eng_Form_4615_2021Feb.pdf?ver=-3Q2ulx4aLVHP8d6vBdurg%3d%3d https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Eng_Form_6226_2021Feb.pdf?ver=CeWnnVx-rWDLRCUANvoguw%3d%3d https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Eng_Form_6226_2021Feb.pdf?ver=CeWnnVx-rWDLRCUANvoguw%3d%3d https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Eng_Form_6229_2021Feb.pdf?ver=C-MrEKrxGFvoTI7VHZCKBg%3d%3d https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Eng_Form_6229_2021Feb.pdf?ver=C-MrEKrxGFvoTI7VHZCKBg%3d%3d https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Eng_Form_6228_2021Feb.pdf?ver=NFRYAlGb19edWmhpSbNhLg%3d%3d https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Eng_Form_6228_2021Feb.pdf?ver=NFRYAlGb19edWmhpSbNhLg%3d%3d

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Figure 1. ENG Form 6227 (USACE Diver Medical Instruction and Authorization)

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Figure 2. ENG Form 6235 (USACE Dive Operations Plan)

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Figure 3. ENG Form 4615 (USACE Dive Log)

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Figure 4. ENG Form 6226 (Diver Contractor Checklist)

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Figure 5. ENG Form 6229 (Dive Supervisor Qualification Checklist)

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Figure 6. ENG Form 6228 (Diver in Training & Tender in Training Checklist)