SS521-AJ-PRO-010

0910-LP-119-0134 Revision 2

GUIDANCE FOR DIVING IN

CONTAMINATED WATERS

DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A: THIS DOCUMENT HAS BEEN APPROVED FOR PUBLIC

RELEASE; DISTRIBUTION IS UNLIMITED.

PUBLISHED BY DIRECTION OF COMMANDER, NAVAL SEA SYSTEMS COMMAND

04 October 2019
THIS TM SUPERSEDES SS521-AJ-PRO-010
REVISION 01 DATED 15 MARCH 2008
11/18/19
 Table of Contents
SAFETY SUMMARY ..................................................................................................... V
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION, SCOPE, AND PURPOSE .......................................1-1
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................1-1
SCOPE ...............................................................................................................1-1
CHAPTER 2: CONTAMINANTS AND HAZARDS .................................................... 2-1
2-1 GENERAL .......................................................................................................... 2-1
2-2 BIOLOGICAL CONTAMINANTS AND HAZARDS ............................................. 2-1
2-2.1 PATHOGENS. ........................................................................................... 2-1
2-2.1.1 BLOOD-BORNE PATHOGENS AND HUMAN REMAINS RECOVERY ... 2-2
2-2.2 TOXINS. ................................................................................................... 2-2
2-3 INDUSTRIAL TOXIC/CHEMICAL CONTAMINANTS AND HAZARDS ............... 2-3
2-3.1 HYDROCARBONS. .................................................................................. 2-3
2-3.2 HEAVY METALS. ..................................................................................... 2-3
2-3.3 POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (PCBs). .......................................... 2-4
2-4 CHEMICAL/BIOLOGICAL WARFARE AGENTS ................................................ 2-4
2-5 RADIOLOGICAL CONTAMINANTS AND HAZARDS......................................... 2-4
2-5.1 RADIATION/CONTAMINATION FROM NUCLEAR POWER. .................... 2-4
2-5.2 RADIATION/CONTAMINATION FROM NUCLEAR WEAPONS.. .............. 2-4
2-6 CATEGORIES OF CONTAMINATED WATER DIVING .................................... 2-4
CHAPTER 3: EQUIPMENT ......................................................................................... 3-1
3-1 GENERAL .......................................................................................................... 3-1
3-2 SCUBA EQUIPMENT ......................................................................................... 3-1
3-2.1 FULL-FACE MASK. .................................................................................... 3-1
3-2.2 CLOSED/SEMI-CLOSED CIRCUIT REBREATHERS.. ............................. 3-1
3-3 SURFACE SUPPLY DIVING SYSTEMS .......................................................... 3-2
3-4 DIVING DRESS................................................................................................ 3-2
3-4.1 WET SUITS. . ............................................................................................. 3-2
3-4.2 DRY SUITS.. .............................................................................................. 3-3
3-4.2.1 TESTING DRY SUITS. ............................................................................... 3-3
3-4.3 GLOVES. .................................................................................................... 3-3
3-4.4 OVERSUITS.. ............................................................................................. 3-3
3-5 COMPRESSORS............................................................................................. 3-3
CHAPTER 4: PRE-DIVE PLANNING ....................................................................... 4-1
4-1 GENERAL ......................................................................................................... 4-1
4-2 MEASUREMENT AND MONITORING ............................................................ 4-2
4-3 LEVELS OF PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT ....................................................... 4-2
4-3.1 CATEGORY 1............................................................................................. 4-2
4-3.2 CATEGORY 2............................................................................................. 4-3
4-3.3 CATEGORY 3. . ........................................................................................ 4-4
4-3.4 CATEGORY 4............................................................................................. 4-5
4-4 DETERMINING WATER QUALITY CATEGORIES .......................................... 4-5
4-5 SPECIFIC DIVING SCENARIOS ...................................................................... 4-5
4-5.1 AFTER RAINFALL.. .................................................................................... 4-5
4-5.2 WORKING IN SEDIMENT .......................................................................... 4-6
4-5.3 POINTS OF DISCHARGE. ......................................................................... 4-6
4-5.4 HUMAN REMAINS RECOVERY ................................................................ 4-6
4-6 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES ........................................................................ 4-6
4-7 SOURCES OF INFORMATION ....................................................................... 4-6
4-8 PERSONNEL QUALIFICATIONS / TRAINING ................................................. 4-7
CHAPTER 5: DIVE STATION DECONTAMINATION PROCEDURES ..................... 5-1
5-1 DECONTAMINATION ........................................................................................ 5-1
5-2 TOPSIDE PROTECTION................................................................................. 5-1
5-3 DECONTAMINATION STATION OVERVIEW .................................................. 5-2
5-3.1 INITIAL DECONTAMINATION. .................................................................. 5-2
5-3.2 INITIAL EQUIPMENT REMOVAL AND WASHDOWN. .............................. 5-3
5-3.3 UNDRESS. .................................................................................................. 5-5
5-3.4 TENDER DECONTAMINATION. ..................................................................... 5-5
5-4 MEDICAL SUPPORT ....................................................................................... 5-5
5-5 HAZARDOUS WASTE ..................................................................................... 5-6
5-5.1 MINIMIZATION. .......................................................................................... 5-6
5-5.2 DISPOSAL. ................................................................................................. 5-6
5-6 DOCUMENTATION............................................................................................ 5-6
5-6.1 DIVE LOGS. ............................................................................................... 5-6
5-6.2 MEDICAL RECORDS. . ............................................................................. 5-6
5-6.3 SAFETY DATA SHEETS (SDS) ................................................................. 5-6
5-6.4 HISTORICAL DATA COLLECTION. .......................................................... 5-7

APPENDIX A: REFERENCE MATERIALS AND INFORMATION SOURCES ........A-1

APPENDIX B: STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE..........................................B-1
APPENDIX C: NAVSEA CWD DECONTAMINATION EQUIPMENT.........................C-1
APPENDIX D: LIST OF ACRONYMS.......................................................................D-1
 List of Figures

5-1 DECONTAMINATION STATION OVERVIEW .................................................. 5-2

C-1 DECON STATION ASSEMBLED .....................................................................C-1
C-2 DIVERS STAGE BERM WITH DECON DECK GRATING ...............................C-1
C-3 CONTAMINATE BARREL AND DIVERS UMBILICAL .....................................C-2
C-4 WASH SHOWER WITH BERM AND DECK GRATING ...................................C-2
C-5 RINSE SHOWER WITH BERM AND DECK GRATING ...................................C-2
C-6 DIVER’S UNDRESS AREA ..............................................................................C-3
C-7 ELECTRIC SUBMERSIBLE PUMP ..................................................................C-3
C-8 ELECTRIC WATER SUPPLY PUMP ................................................................C-3
C-9 DECON TENT...................................................................................................C-4
C-10 COLD ZONE FINAL DRY/DRESS BERM ........................................................C-4
C-11 DECON TENT INFLATOR CONNECTION .......................................................C-4
C-12 DECON TENT DEWATERING PUMP ..............................................................C-4
C-13 DEWATERING TENT STRAINER ....................................................................C-5
C-14 EMERGENCY WASH TUB ...............................................................................C-5
C-15 NAVSEA DIVE SYSTEM TRAILER ..................................................................C-5

List of Tables

2-1 CONTAMINATED WATER CATEGORIES AND DEFINITIONS ....................... 2-5

5-1 EPA ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSE TEAM – DECONTAMINATION SOLUTION
EFFECTIVENESS/SAFETY ............................................................................... 5-4
C-1 CWD EQUIPMENT INVENTORY ......................................................................C-6
C-2 CWD INVENTORY (TOPSIDE) .........................................................................C-6
C-3 CWD DECONTAMINATION STATION EQUIPMENT .......................................C-7
C-4 CWD COLD ZONE CLOTHING AND SUPPORT EQUIPMENT........................C-8
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 Safety Summary

STANDARD MILITARY SYNTAX

This manual uses standard military syntax as pertains to permissive, advisory, and mandatory
language. Word usage and intended meaning in this manual is as follows:

a. Shall has been used only when application of a procedure is mandatory.

b. Should has been used only when application of a procedure is recommended.

c. May and need not have been used only when application of a procedure is
discretionary.

d. Will has been used only to indicate futurity; never to indicate any degree of requirement
for application of a procedure.

GENERAL SAFETY
This Safety Summary contains all specific WARNINGS and CAUTIONS appearing elsewhere in
this manual and are referenced by page number. Should situations arise that are not covered by
the general and specific safety precautions, the Commanding Officer or other authority will issue
orders, as deemed necessary, to cover the situation.
SAFETY GUIDELINES
Extensive guidance for safety can be found in the OPNAV 5100.19 AFLOAT and 5100.23
ASHORE series instruction, U.S. Navy Safety Precautions.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
The WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, and NOTES contained in this manual are defined as follows:
WARNING Identifies an operating or maintenance procedure, practice, condition, or
statement, which, if not strictly observed, could result in injury to or death
of personnel.
CAUTION Identifies an operating or maintenance procedure, practice, condition, or
statement, which, if not strictly observed, could result in damage to or
destruction of equipment or loss of mission effectiveness, or long-term
health hazard to personnel.
NOTE An essential operating or maintenance procedure, condition, or
statement, which must be highlighted.
The following WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, and NOTES appear in the text of this manual
and are repeated here for emphasis.
WARNING During surface decompression operations, incomplete decontamination
of divers may contaminate recompression chambers and present a fire
hazard. (Page 4-2)

Safety Summary VVII

 WARNING The KM 37 (NS) and KM 97 helmets is not suitable for use in CAT 1 diving.
Testing at NEDU confirms there is a risk of some water or vapor ingress
into the KM 37 (NS) and KM 97 helmets (Page 4-3).
WARNING A high pressure rinse is not to be used during CAT 1 decontamination due
to the increased risk of breaching the diver’s personal protective
equipment (Page 5-3).
WARNING Do not use in tandem, series or combine any bleach solution with any
ammonia solution. This will result in the creation of chlorine gas,
hydrochloric acid and liquid hydrazine. This is extremely hazardous and
can cause injury or death (Page 5-3).

CAUTION Any breach of personal protective equipment used to conduct a dive in

contaminated water should result in termination of the dive as soon as
possible to limit exposure to the hazards. (Page 4-5)
NOTE Both Chemical and Biological Contaminants tend to concentrate in
sediment rather than in the water column (Page 2-1).
NOTE Prior to conducting diving in CAT 1 contaminated water, diving
supervisors should contact NAVSEA 00C3 for support in obtaining
information on potential levels of contamination, specific procedures,
and local support agencies (Page 4-1).
NOTE Prior to any CAT 1 diving, commands should contact NAVSEA 00C3 for
advice on diving procedure and the supply of any necessary protective
equipment. NAVSEA 00C3 will detail any exposure time limits on a case
by case basis depending on the contaminant and based on the latest
research available (Page 4-2).
NOTE Until tests have been completed on various commercial off the shelf
decontamination solutions for CAT 1 CWD, NAVSEA 00C3 will provide
tailored decontamination guidance prior to any CAT 1 dive being conducted
(Page 5-1).

Safety Summary VIII

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Safety Summary IX
 SS521-AJ-PRO-010

CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION, SCOPE, AND PURPOSE

INTRODUCTION
Contaminated water is defined as water that contains any chemical, biological, or radioactive
substance that poses an acute or chronic health risk to exposed personnel. Some degree
of contamination and/or pollution is present in practically every body of water in the world.
The contamination may be naturally occurring or come from a variety of sources including
terrorist acts, leaking vessels, industrial discharges and/or sewer effluent. However, much
of the contamination that enters the water is not readily apparent. The biggest concern is
from relatively enclosed bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, or harbors that are within close
proximity to large populations and wrecks, where contamination can accumulate and/or
concentrate.
These contaminants could present a health risk to d ivers and may additionally impact
mission and operational readiness. The effects on personnel may become evident
immediately (acute) or may be delayed for many years (chronic) especially in the case of
exposures to carcinogenic (cancer-causing) substances. For most microbiological exposure,
illness may not develop for several hours after diving and could possibly be delayed for days.
With the exception of chemical/biological warfare agents, acute toxicity and/or incapacitation
is unexpected for most chemical exposures. However, chronic sub-toxic exposure to a
variety of chemical hazards may induce illnesses such as cancer, neurodegenerative
disorders, hormonal dysregulation and others.
SCOPE
The purpose of this manual is to provide general guidance and basic procedures for
diving in contaminated water. Because of the wide variability in contaminants, potential
exposure levels and other variables, only general guidance and recommended best practice
can be provided. It is recognized that this represents a capability gap, which warrants future
research and development efforts. Until then, supervisory personnel are encouraged to
contact local agencies to obtain information on local water contaminants and hazards. This
manual is intended to be a living document, and will be updated as more information about
diving equipment, water sampling, analysis, and exposure limits become available.

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CHAPTER 2
CONTAMINANTS AND HAZARDS
2-1 GENERAL
The four types of contaminants divers can expect to encounter are biological, industrial
toxic/chemical, c h e m i c a l / b i o l o g i c a l w a r f a r e a g e n t s and radiological. The potential
routes of exposure for divers are inhalation, ingestion, absorption, and penetration (forcing
of material into the body, such as through a wound). Unless the response is to a specific
incident, quantitative data on the contaminants present in any specific body of water is rarely
available or measurable. Real-time, or even near real-time, water analysis is not a current
U.S. Navy capability. If a specific contaminant is suspected, information from various sources
is available such as Safety Data Sheets (SDS), shipping manifests, or sampling and analysis.
Additionally, for water bodies where diving will occur recurrently, water and sediment sampling
and analysis can be coordinated to more completely inform divers regarding health hazards.

2-2 BIOLOGICAL CONTAMINANTS AND HAZARDS

Biological contaminants come from humans and animals, urban and industrial sewage, marine
and fresh water organisms, commercial ships, hazardous waste sites, marinas, and agricultural
runoff. The main source of biological contaminants in water is human sewage. The
environmental source of most pathogens in water is unknown. It is prudent to assume water
bodies contain the microbiological organisms of diseases present in a local population unless
confidence is high in the effectiveness of the local wastewater treatment facilities. Such
confidence is unjustified in underdeveloped areas and even in s ome areas of the United
States after an unusually heavy rainfall. Biological agents with the potential to adversely
affect diver health can be divided into two broad categories: pathogens and toxins.
NOTE Both Chemical and Biological Contaminants tend to concentrate in sediment rather
than in the water column.
2-2.1 PATHOGENS. Pathogens are infectious agents that cause disease in humans,
animals, or plants. These include bacteria, viruses, and parasites. While the vast
majority of microorganisms are harmless or even helpful, there are many naturally
occurring pathogens that are harmful to humans. Pathogens cause disease (e.g.,
infection) by entering the body through the lungs, digestive tract, skin, mucous
membranes of body openings, and open wounds. Once they enter the body, pathogens
multiply, overcome the body’s natural defenses and produce disease. Symptoms
commonly associated with pathogen infection involve the respiratory tract (flu or cold
like symptoms, pneumonia), the gastrointestinal tract (vomiting, diarrhea) and the skin
(rash, lesions). Some pathogens cause nervous system impacts such as headaches,
paralysis, convulsions, or comas.

Bacteria are living microorganisms which, unlike viruses, are capable of reproduction
outside living cells. If pathog eni c bacteria enter the body and if the victim is not
properly treated, the microorganism can multiply and incapacitate the host. Bacteria
can be found in almost any environment. Seawater is estimated to contain up to one
million bacteria per cubic centimeter. Bacteria sometimes concentrate in a thin layer
on the water surface or a thin layer on the top of sediment. Examples of diseases
caused by bacteria are cholera and anthrax. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is also a well-
known bacterium that has been associated with contamination of processed meat
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products. Some strains of E. coli are common inhabitants of the human intestine
and are used as an indicator of water contamination from human sewage.

Viruses are very small biological agents which are able to reproduce. They typically
consist of genetic material within a protein capsule. They cannot reproduce outside of
a host cell. They can be dangerous after entering the human body, because they hijack
cells to reproduce. Smallpox and influenza are examples of viruses. Viruses are
difficult to detect and most hospital laboratories are not equipped to do so routinely.
Viruses are difficult to treat after exposure since they are not susceptible to common
drugs. Some virus protection can be gained by immunizations (e.g., Hepatitis A), but
vaccines do not exist for most viruses.

Parasites are single or multi-celled organisms that live and feed on or in another
animal. Well-known examples of human parasites are malaria and tapeworms.
Most parasites are acquired by ingestion (e.g., such as eating raw meat), but some
can gain entry into t h e h u m a n b o d y by skin contact and through open wounds.
Most water dwelling parasites that can cause disease are found in tropical fresh water
as found in Central and South America and Southeast Asia. Salt water parasites rarely
cause more than a rash and itching. Nevertheless, when working in areas where
parasites are known to exist, contact can be prevented or minimized by wearing
protective clothing (e.g., wet suit or some form of coverall) and also by bathing soon
after exposure.

2-2.1.1 BLOOD-BORNE PATHOGENS AND HUMAN REMAINS RECOVERY. Though many

blood borne pathogens are viruses, they are addressed separately here since they are
generally passed from person to person through direct contact with an infected person’s
body fluids. Infectious blood-borne diseases (e.g., HIV and Hepatitis B) become a higher
risk for divers when they are involved in the recovery of human remains, particularly if
the diver has open wounds or broken skin. Divers may also be exposed through
inadvertent contact with potentially infected material, such as hypodermic needles.
Personnel should be trained in exposure control and safe handling of potentially infected
material, similar to the training recommended for healthcare workers (currently referred
to as Standard Precautions). This training can be obtained at any military medical
treatment facility and dive planners should direct appropriate precautions.

Most known infectious agents pose a minimal risk to divers since the agents are fragile
and do not survive long outside a host. The Hepatitis C virus is less fragile, but infectivity
in underwater recovery situations is estimated to be low. Divers should complete the
series of the standard immunizations required for healthcare workers, including those
for Hepatitis A and B virus as well as Tetanus. Besides the immediate medical concerns,
the fatigue and mental health issues associated with the recovery of human remains
should be considered as part of operational planning.

2-2.2 TOXINS. Toxins are poisonous substances produced by microorganisms, plants, or

some animals. Some toxins can be chemically synthesized or artificially produced with
genetic engineering techniques. Toxins exert their incapacitating or even lethal effects
by interfering with certain cell and tissue functions. Neurotoxins disrupt nerve impulses
while cytotoxins destroy cells by disrupting cell respiration or metabolism. Early
diagnosis for toxin exposure can be extremely difficult due to the vast range of
associated signs and symptoms.

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) produce toxins that are released into the water. The most
commonly known HAB is known as “Red Tide” but some are yellow, green and orange.

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Algal outbreaks of human concern are usually associated with large fish kills. Toxin
related to HABs can cause cognitive impairment as well as gastrointestinal, respiratory,
and dermal distress. Common symptoms from exposure to HAB toxins are coughing,
eye and skin irritation, runny nose, numbness around the mouth, and nausea.

2-3 INDUSTRIAL TOXIC/CHEMICAL CONTAMINANTS AND HAZARDS

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists more than 85,000 chemicals in its
inventory of substances subject to the Toxic Substances and Control Act (TSCA). These
chemicals vary widely in availability, solubility, toxicity, and permeability, and there is little to no
information available on the acute or chronic toxicity associated with in-water exposure. The
primary sources of industrial chemical contamination are industrial spills, urban and industrial
sewage, commercial ships, hazardous waste sites, and agricultural runoff. It is estimated that
every body of water in the world is contaminated to some degree.
If the presence of a specific chemical is confirmed, some information may be available to
assess the risk. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) publishes
the Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards (Ref: Appendix A). The Pocket Guide has been
designed to provide chemical-specific data to supplement general industrial hygiene knowledge
and includes recommended exposure limits (RELs) and permissible exposure limits (PELs) for
667 chemicals or substance groupings commonly found within the work environment. The
Department of Transportation (DOT) publishes the Emergency Response Guidebook which is
used by first responders during transportation incidents that involve dangerous goods or
hazardous materials. Additional resources recognized as providing relevant toxicological
information to assess the potential impacts from diver exposure to contaminated water and
sediment include: The U.S. EPA Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS), the U.S.
Department of Energy Risk Assessment Information System, and the State of California Acute
Exposure Limits for Chemical Contaminants. The following paragraphs are a general list of
chemicals that a diver can expect to encounter.

2-3.1 HYDROCARBONS. Hydrocarbons are chemicals composed principally of hydrogen and

carbon with a wide range of molecular weights, volatility, and water solubility.
Hydrocarbon mixtures can be comprised of gases, solvents, oils, fuels, and polycyclic
aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Several constituents of hydrocarbon mixtures (PAHs,
phenols, cresols, benzene, others) pose a risk to diver health and precautions should be
taken if their presence in a water body is known or suspected. Some, but not all, PAHs
are known carcinogens. PAHs are some of the heaviest hydrocarbons able to evaporate
and dissolve in water. Common hydrocarbons are complicated mixtures of chemicals and
will have different compositions in different locations at different times. MIL-SPEC diesel
fuel, hydraulic oil, and creosote are all complicated hydrocarbon mixtures that do not have
full chemical specifications but contain human toxic constituents (e.g., PAHs, phenols,
cresols). Coal tar creosote is a petroleum derivative that contains PAHs among other
human toxins, and has been determined by the U.S. EPA and the International Agency
for Research on Cancer (IARC) to be a probable human carcinogen. Coal tar creosote,
the most widely used wood preservative in the U.S., has very low water solubility. The
very small amount of creosote leaching from creosote-treated wood into adjacent water
will decrease with time. As a result, newer pilings, dock supports, etc., may pose a greater
health risk than those that have been in place for several years.

2-3.2 HEAVY METALS. In aquatic environments, metals can exist as dissolved ions, bound in
insoluble complexes, sorbed onto other solids (e.g., clay or sediment), or chemically
combined into an organic compound (e.g., methyl mercury). Many water quality criteria
for metals are based on the dissolved form of the metal since that form generally has the
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greatest toxicity to both aquatic organisms.

2-3.3 POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (PCBs). Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) are

materials that were used as paint additives and electrical equipment coolants. Some
PCBs have been demonstrated to play a role in carcinogenesis as well as having other
adverse health effects. In 1977, PCBs were banned from production and use in North
America due to concern over their potential toxicity and risk to public health. PCBs do not
readily decompose and have been discovered in aquatic sediment. OPNAV Instruction
5100.23 addresses U.S. Navy occupational exposure to PCBs. Although not readily
absorbed through the skin, prolonged dermal exposure to PCBs can pose a significant
health risk.

2-4 CHEMICAL/BIOLOGICAL WARFARE AGENTS

Chemical/Biological warfare agents may present an extreme hazard to a diver. Every attempt
should be made to identify the agent and mitigate the concentration/exposure prior to diving.
The U.S. Army Techniques Publication (ATP) 3-11.9, Potential Military Chemical/Biological
Agents and Compounds, has information on the chemical makeup and characteristics of
specific agents; ATP 3-11.9 should be used as the initial reference source if tasked to
respond to an incident involving a chemical or biological warfare agent. However, distribution
of ATP 3-11.9 is limited to military and government agencies and it does not contain specific
information on the environmental fate of these compounds in seawater. For information on
current ATP 3-11.9 and Field Manuals (FM) or for information on chemical and biological
warfare agents, refer to Appendix A.

2-5 RADIOLOGICAL CONTAMINANTS AND HAZARDS

2-5.1 Radiation/Contamination from Nuclear Power. When diving on any nuclear-powered
ship or submarine, radiological controls (RADCON) must be observed. All divers will be
briefed/trained according to NAVSEA S9213-33-MMA-000, Radiological Controls for
Ships. The ship’s RADCON team would normally provide support for this
briefing/training, issuance of a thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD), monitoring the
diver(s) during the dive and upon surfacing, any decontamination if required, and
providing the diver(s) with their exposure level recorded by the TLD or similar device.
Prior coordination of responsibilities should be discussed with the vessel’s RADCON
Officer prior to deploying to the site.

2-5.2 Radiation/Contamination from Weapons. Divers may be required to respond to a

location that has been contaminated by nuclear weapons (e.g., attack or accidental
detonation or dirty bombs) or to search for unexploded weapons. For these cases, the
type, source, and level of radiation/contamination must be determined. A
RADCON/DECON Team may already be deployed/assigned to the area; therefore,
divers should coordinate logistics with the local command in charge of the incident.
Ensure all personnel on site are provided adequate personnel protective equipment and
radiation monitoring devices. Use the Contaminated Water Diving (CWD) Standard
Operating Procedure (SOP) to develop a dive/DECON plan. SSP OD 69206, Nuclear
Weapons Radiological Controls Program, is the guiding directive for RADCON program
management and emergency response related to nuclear weapons.

2-6 CATEGORIES OF CONTAMINATED WATER DIVING

Categories (CAT) 1 through 4 are assigned to contaminated waters based upon the risk to the
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diver. Table 2-1 defines the level of contamination and risk, as well as recommendations for the
type of diving equipment that will provide the best protection to the diver.

TABLE 2-1. CONTAMINATED WATER CATEGORIES AND DEFINITIONS.

Contaminated Definitions
Water Categories
(CAT)
CAT 1 a. Grossly contaminated
b. Extreme Risk of Injury or even Death (Note 1)
c. Fully Encapsulated Diver with Surface Return Exhaust or Positive
Pressure Free-Flow Helmet (Note 2) (Note 3)

CAT 2 a. Heavily contaminated

b. High Risk of Injury (Note 4)
c. Fully encapsulated Diver (Note 2) (Note 3)

CAT 3 a. Moderately contaminated

b. Some risk of Injury especially if Ingested
c. Full Face Mask (FFM) and Skin Covered as necessary (Note 5)

CAT 4 a. Baseline contamination ( Note 6)

b. Low risk of Injury (Note 7)
c. Standard diving dress based on environmental conditions

Notes:

1. Diving is not recommended in CAT 1 environments and only properly qualified and equipped
diving teams should dive CAT 1. The diving task must be mission essential and the dive team
must have express approval from their Commanding Officer for the dive.

2. Fully encapsulated means a vulcanized rubber dry suit (or other CWD Authorized for Navy
Use [ANU] approved dry suit) with integrated boots mated to dry glove with ring system. In
addition, gloves must be taped and/or clamped to the suit. Equalization tubes between glove
and cuff must not be used.

3. In water exhaust must be at minimum a quadruple exhaust valve (e.g., KM 37 (NS) or the KM
97).

4. Injuries may be major or minor and could include serious illnesses like Hepatitis or minor injuries
like skin, eye or sinus irritation.

5. Positive Pressure whenever practicable.

6. Water considered “sufficient” or better under the EPA 2012 Recreational Water Quality Criteria
(and subsequent updates, revisions, and reviews).

7. Low risk refers only to risk from contaminants and does not relate to any other aspect of the
dive. A risk analysis is still required.

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CHAPTER 3
EQUIPMENT
3-1 GENERAL
There is no single equipment configuration or material that will protect the diver under all
conditions or from all contaminants. The level of protection needed will be determined by
the expected hazard, type of work, the urgency of the work, and the available equipment.
The diving life support system selection should address both respiratory and physical
protection. The standby diver must be equipped with a level of protection equal to or greater
than the working diver’s. The surface tenders and support personnel may experience as
great a hazard as the divers; therefore, respiratory and physical protection must also be
available for support personnel.
3-2 SCUBA EQUIPMENT
Diving with a standard Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus (SCUBA)
ensemble, including a half face mask and a mouthpiece regulator, provides very little
protection to a diver. The diver’s mouth is in constant contact with the water, exposing the
diver to contaminants that can enter around the mouthpiece or via water refluxed through
the exhaust valve. The mucous membranes are highly susceptible regions on the body
and, assuming intact skin, are some of the most vulnerable routes microorganisms have to
enter and infect the body. Inhalation of microscopic water droplets from the area of the
regulator mouthpiece and from its exhaust valve may allow contamination into the lungs and
bloodstream. Therefore, isolating these vital areas from the source of contamination is the
primary concern when diving in a biologically contaminated environment. SCUBA is not
recommended for diving in CAT 1, 2 or 3 contaminated water.
3-2.1 FULL-FACE MASK. If the primary hazard is microbial, a full-face mask (FFM) may
reasonably protect the mucous membranes of the diver’s eyes, nose, and mouth. An
advantage in using FFMs is the portability and relative ease of use as they can be
configured to operate in SCUBA or Surface Supplied mode. In a SCUBA
configuration, the diver is afforded unencumbered freedom of movement and
moderate protection but is limited on the gas supply. In the Surface Supply
configuration, the diver is afforded greater endurance in terms of gas supply, but
mobility will be more restricted compared to the SCUBA configuration (see Section
3-3).
A FFM which incorporates a positive-pressure regulator will help eliminate water
entering the mouth, but does not resolve the droplet inhalation concern. Additionally,
FFMs offer no protection for the Diver’s head, neck, or ears, all of which are potential
sites for exposure to waterborne hazards. Although FFMs are used by both the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) for contaminated water diving, an international diving
survey found no commercial diving operations using them.
3-2.2 CLOSED/SEMI-CLOSED CIRCUIT REBREATHERS. Using a FFM with a rebreather
(e.g., MK 16 or MK 25) mitigates exposure through exhaust valve reflux; however,
currently, there is no closed circuit rig available for full encapsulation. Also, the cost
and inability to efficiently decontaminate the equipment consequently eliminates this
equipment from use in CAT 1 or CAT 2 CWD. However, in some mission essential
scenarios, use of these apparatuses may be considered.

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3-3 SURFACE SUPPLY DIVING SYSTEMS

Diving with a surface supplied diving system, either with a FFM or diving helmet, provides
reasonable protection for the divers especially if the primary hazard is biological
contaminants. The divers’ mucous membranes are more protected from contaminants than
in SCUBA and when utilizing a diving helmet, the entire head is protected. Diving
is not recommended in CAT 1 contaminated waters without a surface supplied
system with a return surface exhaust system which can mitigate the risk of water
refluxed through the exhaust valve of the diving helmets.
3-3.1 MK 20 FULL-FACE MASK. The MK 20 FFM offers an added level of protection over
the standard SCUBA half-masks and mouthpiece regulators. Operating the MK 20
in the positive-pressure mode will lessen the likelihood of water leaking into the mask;
however, some water may enter under a poor-fitting face seal or as reflux through the
exhaust valve. Therefore, the MK 20 is not recommended for use in CAT 1 or 2
contaminated water.
3-3.2 KM 37 (NS) and KM 97 DIVING HELMETS. The KM 37 (NS) and KM 97 with quadruple
exhaust and mated to a vulcanized dry suit offers a good level of protection for divers in
CAT 2 (or cleaner) contaminated waters. Note that the KM 97 is the base helmet for use
with the regulated surface exhaust system currently under development for use in CAT 1
contaminated waters. It should be noted that the soft goods in the KM 37 (NS) and KM
97 helmet may be susceptible to degradation by petroleum products or other chemicals
that may be present in grossly or heavily contaminated waters. Depending on the
contaminants and in-water stay time, performance of additional maintenance (e.g.,
performing annual 24M level checks) may be required on a daily basis. Inspections should
be performed on equipment in between dives and at the end of each diving day; particular
attention should be paid to soft good replacements.
3-3.3 UMBILICALS. The gas supply hose of a standard diver umbilical is comprised of nitrile
with a neoprene outer shell which is reasonably resistant to many chemicals; however,
prolonged exposure to concentrated chemical contaminants (e.g., solvents) may lead
to degradation of the hose. Inspections should be performed on the breathing gas hoses
prior to and after diving in contaminated waters in accordance with PMS.
3-4 DIVING DRESS
The type of dress chosen should have strength, flexibility, ease of decontamination, and,
most importantly, chemical resistance. It should prevent any contact between the human
body and the contaminants. The type of diving dress selected will be based upon several
factors including but not limited to water temperature, level of contamination, and type of
contaminant. Some contaminants may cause such rapid deterioration of material or may
be so difficult to clean from the diving dress, that a new suit and other equipment may
be needed for each dive. Coated exterior fabric dry suits may be too difficult to
decontaminate. This increase in required equipment should be included in operational
planning.
Additional consideration should be given to protecting divers from scrapes, cuts, and
abrasions which could introduce a higher risk of infection. No suit can protect a diver
from all contaminants; however, a dry suit with attached gloves connected to a positive
surface supplied helmet is the best protection for a diver in contaminated waters.
3-4.1 WET SUITS. Wet suits offer little to no protection in contaminated waters as the skin
is directly exposed to the contaminants. Foam neoprene wetsuits can absorb large
amounts of contaminated water which can degrade the suit and make

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decontamination difficult. Wet suits are not recommended when diving in CAT 1 or
2 contaminated waters.
3-4.2 DRY SUITS. Dry suits, either variable or constant volume, are appropriate for
diving operations in contaminated water. Intact skin is susceptible to many
hazards including PAHs (in high concentrations in petroleum products), PCBs,
pesticides, creosote, and some heavy metals; therefore, isolating a diver in a
dry suit is highly recommended when these materials are present. Dry suits
utilized for contaminated water diving should have a neck dam that creates a
watertight seal when mated to a KM 37 (NS) or KM 97 and the number of
penetrations should be minimized; therefore, a one-piece dry suit is preferred.
Consideration should be made to ensure divers have properly fitted dry suits
as improperly sized suits may allow leakage of water at the seams. Vulcanized
dry suits offer substantial protection from all microbiological hazards and from
many chemical hazards for extended periods of time.
An ANU approved dry suit should be used for all diving in CAT 1 or 2
contaminated water. Dry suit manufacturers publish data for resistance of
their respective suits to a host of chemicals. When concentrations of known
contaminants are available, this information should be referenced for
maximum safe dwell times. The durability of other components of the diving
ensemble (e.g., helmet, gloves, umbilical etc.) should also be considered
when determining dwell times. Evidence of suit degradation from contaminant
exposure is swelling of the material, color changes, tackiness, stiffness when
dry, and exposure of underlying fabric. Suits demonstrating any of these
changes should not be reused.
3-4.2.1 TESTING DRY SUITS. Prior to using a dry suit in CAT 1 or CAT 2 contaminated
waters, the suit shall be tested for leaks. The test can be achieved by first sealing
off the neck and cuffs; the suit may be sealed off using suitably sized bottles, balls
or if available custom-built bungs; the cuffs should be sealed using the dry gloves
intended for use during the dive. The suit should then be inflated and checked for
leaks either with soapy water, a ‘snoop’ liquid or by submersing the suit in clean
water and looking for bubbles.
3-4.3 GLOVES. Chemically resistant waterproof gloves shall be used when diving in
contaminated water. Gloves should be positioned over cuff rings on the sleeves of
the dry suit. For extra security, gloves should be taped, or zip tied to the dry suit
sleeve above the cuff ring. Gloves should not be equalized with dry suits to minimize
the possibility of contamination entering the entire suit in the event of a tear.
Depending on the nature of the diving job, an over-glove may be used to protect
against chafing and punctures. Over-gloves should be a color other than black to
more easily identify contaminants. In cold water, thermal under-gloves may be
necessary.
3-4.4 OVERSUITS. If the diver is expected to encounter bulky, adherent contaminants
during a dive, a disposable oversuit (e.g., TYVEX®) may be used. Disposable
oversuits can be secured to a diver after he has been outfitted with the entire diving
rig. No effort to make the oversuit watertight should be attempted as it could create
air pockets which would further complicate the diving operation.
3-5 COMPRESSORS
Since compressors are often used on site to compress diver quality gas, volatilized
components (e.g., fuel oils, hydrocarbons, etc.) of waterborne hazards can potentially enter
the gas supply via the compressor intake. Diving Supervisors should be careful to position

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compressor intakes upwind of contamination although this might not always be feasible or
reliable; therefore, compressing gas off the site may be a prudent alternative to mitigate the
chances of contaminants entering diver gas supplies.

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CHAPTER 4
PRE-DIVE PLANNING
4-1 GENERAL
NOTE Prior to conducting diving in CAT 1 contaminated water, diving supervisors should
contact NAVSEA 00C3 for support in obtaining information on potential levels of
contamination, specific procedures, and local support agencies.

The majority of U.S. Navy diving will occur in water with few obvious signs of
contamination. In the dive planning stage, operational risk management (ORM)
techniques from OPNAVINST 3500.39 (Series) should be used to balance the risks of
an operation against the potential risks to personnel and equipment. The potential routes of
exposure for divers and topside personnel to chemical/biological contamination are
inhalation, ingestion, absorption, and penetration. A good risk assessment will identify the
expected route(s) of exposure, expected contaminant(s) and reasonable precautions
necessary to minimize the exposure to both the diver and topside personnel.
Most chemical hazards to which divers are exposed cause limited immediate effects. For
most microbiological exposures, illnesses will develop hours to days after exposure.
However, chronic exposure to chemical hazards may cause/effect the occurrence of other
illnesses such as cancer. Recognition and identification of substances is of paramount
importance if adequate and appropriate monitoring of exposed personnel is to be conducted
by medical authorities.
Diving in water heavily contaminated with pathogenic microbes may infect an otherwise
seemingly innocuous skin wound. For this reason, divers with preexisting, unhealed wounds
should be restricted from diving in contaminated water. Any injuries sustained during such
diving should require the diver to surface for immediate medical attention.

WARNING During surface decompression operations, incomplete decontamination of divers

may contaminate recompression chambers and present a fire hazard.

The expected decompression obligation and decontamination procedures to be

implemented should be thoroughly briefed to the dive team during the planning phase.
In order to limit the diver’s exposure to waterborne hazards, dives in CAT 1 or 2
contaminated water should be scheduled so that in-water decompression is not required.
Decontamination and diver undress procedures, within the five-minute time constraint,
should be demonstrated to the Diving Officer before attempting dives relying on surface
decompression. As described in the decontamination section, decontamination procedures
are tedious and may require a prolonged time. Every effort must be taken to ensure thorough
decontamination is achieved prior to recompressing divers because introducing
contaminants to recompression chambers may present significant health and safety
concerns.

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4-2 MEASUREMENT AND MONITORING

Real-time, on-scene analysis of water for chemical and microbiological substances is not a
current US Navy capability, however, testing and analysis techniques are available to
establish a profile of potential contamination for water bodies where recurrent exposures to
divers is expected to occur. Such analyses should be performed whenever possible. Simply
sending the water sample “to the lab” will not give a complete picture of the contaminants
present. Microbiological testing requires entirely different analytical methods than those
t h a t detect chemical contaminants. Furthermore, analysis of a water sample for the
potential tens of thousands of suspected chemical contaminants is impracticable. Most
laboratory techniques are not designed to scan for all possible contaminants at once, but
rather must be focused narrowly to provide optimum results. The scope of testing should
be limited by prior research of local conditions and concerns. There is also usually a 2 or
3- d a y lag between sampling and result reporting. There are available tests that can cover
more than one substance (e.g., 8 metals, or 11 PAHs, etc.) at once, and the Navy and
Marine Corps Public Health Center can be contacted for further information on testing.
Depending on the nature of a contaminant, it may float on the surface, suspend in the water
column, or accumulate on the bottom. An accurate analysis requires samples throughout
the entire water column and adjacent sediment. The validity of samples collected is also
likely to be dependent on several other variables that change over time including current,
tide, temperature, and weather. The variation in contamination across space and time is
simply unknown. For these reasons, real or near-real time water analysis is not currently
achievable.
Generally, only a qualitative water quality assessment is possible since a complete and
reliable analysis of the contaminants present in the water is difficult, if not impossible,
to obtain. Supervisors should obtain as much quantitative information as possible to aid in
their assessment. This information may be available from various sources, including local
water quality management offices, environmental regulation agencies, or environmental
studies. If a specific contaminant or hazard is suspected, sampling and analysis should
be completed prior to commencement of dive operations. In order to best protect personnel,
a risk assessment should be thorough in evaluating several factors such as the nature of
the contamination, urgency of the required operations, the natural environment, type of
body of water, and the diving and protective equipment available.

4-3 LEVELS OF PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Based upon the expected primary source of contamination, the chosen protective
equipment should minimize the potential exposure routes. With the exception of CAT
1, the following paragraphs outline the recommended protective equipment associated with
each category of contaminated water that is currently available and in accordance with the
U.S. Navy ANU Program.
4-3.1 CATEGORY 1. For grossly contaminated waters that pose an extreme risk of injury
or even death, divers must be fully encapsulated and dressed in accordance with
Table 2-1 as follows:
NOTE Prior to any CAT 1 diving, commands should contact NAVSEA 00C3 for advice on
diving procedure and the supply of any necessary protective equipment. NAVSEA
00C3 will detail any exposure time limits on a case by case basis depending on the
contaminant and based on the latest research available
a. ANU dry suits with attached boots and neck dam.
b. Dry gloves attached with cuff ring. Tape and/or outer locking rings should be
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used to ensure seal. Inner chemical protection gloves should also be worn. Outer
glove color should be in accordance with Section 3-4.3.

WARNING The KM 37 (NS) and KM 97 helmets is not suitable for use in CAT 1 diving. Testing
at NEDU confirms there is a risk of some water or vapor ingress into the
h elmet.

c. Diving helmets that utilize a surface return exhaust or a positive pressure free
flow helmet. NAVSEA 00C3 is working with industry to develop a surface return
exhaust system for the KM 37 (NS) and KM 97 which will greatly reduce the risk
of contamination entering the helmet. The system also includes modifications for
the dump valve on the dry suit which connects to the surface exhaust system thus
fully encapsulating the diver. If a requirement to dive in CAT 1 water occurs prior
to the introduction of this system, contact NAVSEA 00C3 for further guidance.

All CAT 1 diving equipment shall be tested for leaks and damage prior to diving
(see Section 3-4.2.1). Diving Commands should maintain logs for all diving life
support equipment exposed to CAT 1 contamination to include exposure times and
details of the contaminant to which it was exposed to enable calculations of exposure
times for future dives. With oil-based contamination, it is likely that silicone
components will be the first to fail (see Section 4-3.2). NAVSEA 00C3 is working to
provide replacement components that will last for hours rather than minutes in such
environments. Breakthrough times are available for ANU dry suits.

Topside Dress will need to be tailored to meet the specific risks of the dive. It may
also be possible to reduce topside dress protection to Level C as detailed by the
Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) Standard 29 Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR) 1910.120 Appendix B (See Appendix A). Level C is comparable
with current Mission Oriented Protective Posture (MOPP) 4 chemical warfare suits
and protective masks. Note that airborne substances must be known and
monitored, and that Level C will not protect against toxic industrial chemicals
(TIC). Normally for CAT 1 dives Level B protection will be required consisting of a
non-encapsulating, chemical-resistant suit (i.e. splash suit) and self-contained
breathing apparatus (SCBA) worn either inside or outside the suit. In some CAT 1
environments it may be necessary for topside personnel to adopt Level A (tender
is fully encapsulated) protection. Topside dress requirements will be decided by the
onsite commander in consultation with NAVSEA 00C3 until more permanent
procedures are issued.
When a diver is fully encapsulated, overheating can rapidly become a problem if
diving in warm water. A number of commercial systems are currently being
developed. Traditional cooling systems are unsuitable for use during CWD as they use
surface supplied water which introduces more potential points of failure to the suit
and also runs the risk of the surface supply becoming contaminated. One unit in
particular is a topside chiller unit connected via the divers umbilical to a closed loop,
tube suit worn under the diver’s dry suit. This would keep the divers, both working and
standby, comfortable. Current best practice is to provide gel pack cooling vests or ice
vests and to limit the duration of the dive. It is also vitally important that all divers and
tenders remain well hydrated.
4-3.2 CATEGORY 2. For heavily contaminated waters that pose a high risk of injury, divers
must be fully encapsulated and dressed in accordance with Table 2-1 as follows:
a. ANU dry suits with attached boots and neck dam.
b. Dry gloves attached with cuff ring. Tape and/or outer locking rings should
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be used to ensure seal. Inner chemical protection gloves should also be

worn. Outer glove color should be in accordance with Section 3-4.3.
c. The KM 37 (NS) and KM 97 helmet with quad exhaust.
Topside personnel will also require protection such as Tyvek suits or
similar, rubber gloves meeting OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.120
APPENDIX B requirements, and face protection from splash hazards (e.g.,
a Perspex/acrylic face shield or protective glasses at the bare minimum). It
is likely that tenders will not require the respiratory protection normally
associated with OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.120 APPENDX B Level C
dress; however, it may be necessary to wear an oral-nasal mask to protect
against strong vapor. As was done for CAT 1 protection, diver and tender
overheating must be considered.
Acceptable exposure times for CAT 2 diving will be dependent upon the local
conditions; however, if diving in particularly concentrated oil- b a s e d contamination
or other volatile chemical, dives longer than 22 minutes involve increased risk.
Testing has shown that Jet A fuel will cause a catastrophic failure of the silicone
diaphragm of KM 37 (NS) diving helmets within 22 minutes. Note that the testing to
determine the acceptable exposure time was conservative as it involved 100%
concentrations of Jet A fuel, which is highly unlikely outside of the laboratory.
Chemical distortion and weakening of diver-worn materials is considered a
cumulative process; therefore, equipment used in CWD must be inspected more
closely than other diving equipment. The following maintenance actions are to be
conducted daily on equipment used for CAT 2 CWD:
a. KM 37 (NS) MIP Control Number 5921/163 Periodicity Code 24M-2, R-1, R-2, R-
3, R-6, and R-7D, and if conditions warrant, complete 24M-1.
b. KM 97 (NS) MIP Control Number 5921/161 is pending release. Use U.S. Navy
KM 97 Technical Manual, S6560-AL-TMM-010 and manufacturer’s technical
manual as required.
c. Dry Suit (COTS) MIP Control Number 5921/173 Periodicity Code R-1, R-2. KM
37 MIP Control Number 5921/163 Periodicity Code R-1, R-2, R-3, and if conditions
warrant a complete A-1R. To prove the integrity of the diving equipment prior to
any CAT 2 dive, in addition to any routine inspection dry suits should undergo a
full leak test (see Section 3-4.1).
The diving supervisor may extend the duration of the dive for operational reasons if
satisfied that concentrations of contaminants are low enough to justify the extended
exposure. If required to dive in a tank or other similar small, contained body of
water with high concentrations of oil-based contaminants or another corrosive
material, the dive may be considered CAT 1 and NAVSEA 00C3 should be contacted
for further guidance.
4-3.3 CATEGORY 3. For moderately contaminated water with some risk of injury especially
if ingested, there are no additional procedures for diving in CAT 3 water over and
above those contained in the U.S. Navy Diving Manual AA521-AG-PRO-010.
Whether diving SCUBA, rebreathers or surface supply, a minimum of a FFM is
recommended in accordance with Table 2-1. If diving MK 20 or other approved FFM,
it is preferable to use it in the positive pressure mode which would increase the
protection of the diver.
The level of skin protection is not presently mandated for CAT 3 diving but ORM
principles must be followed in order to decide which level of diving dress is most
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appropriate. If diving on the hull of a vessel, then a number of risks exist from
abrasion hazards (e.g. barnacles) to the risk posed by special paints used on
some ship hulls. A long-sleeved wetsuit coupled with gloves and a neoprene
hood, or in some circumstances coveralls, should be considered if there is deemed
to be such a risk.
4-3.4 CATEGORY 4. For baseline contamination there are no additional procedures for
diving in CAT 4 water over and above those contained in Table 2-1 and the U.S. Navy
Diving Manual AA521-AG-PRO-010.

CAUTION Any breach of personal protective equipment used to conduct a dive in

contaminated water should result in termination of the dive as soon as
possible to limit exposure to the hazards.

4-4 DETERMINING WATER QUALITY CATEGORIES

CAT 1 diving is very uncommon and it is unlikely that many divers will ever encounter CAT
1 waters unless faced with a major incident or highly unusual and specialized diving task.
CAT 2 water is more common and can be encountered in industrial diving conditions or
following accidents that involve chemicals or oils. Most operational diving will fall under CAT
3 where there is some risk of biological contamination and precautions should be taken to
avoid ingesting the water.
The level of skin protection for CAT 3 dives will be dependent upon the dive location. If
there is a risk of skin abrasion or irritation, then some form of wetsuit or coverall may be
appropriate. It is permissible to dive without a wetsuit or coveralls in a CAT 3 environment
if the only risk is from ingestion of water. CAT 4 diving will relate to training diving in
fresh water and in water that:
a. Is used frequently (monthly or more often) and not known to pose a risk to divers;
note that any recent detrimental environmental events (see Section 4-5) should be
considered as increasing the risk of elevated levels of contamination.
b. Has undergone laboratory or field laboratory testing for water contaminants and is
free from harmful contaminants, or; can be declared free from contaminants by a
suitable local authority ( e.g. harbor master, EPA, Coast Guard, NOAA, etc.)
c. Is open water, at least 400 yards away from any river or pipeline outfall, harbor
mouth, or other inland waterway.
If in doubt or if diving in unfamiliar inland waterways or lakes for which there is no test data
or suitable local knowledge available, then it must be assumed that the water is not CAT
4 and a suitable level of protection adopted.
Until a suitable decision-making matrix or field evaluation test kit can be developed, the
decision on which C W D category is appropriate and the associated diving dress remains
at the discretion of the dive supervisor. Supervisors are reminded of the requirement to
contact 00C3 if CAT 1 contamination is suspected.

4-5 SPECIFIC DIVING SCENARIOS

Certain scenarios can increase the potential exposure to chemical/biological
contamination and extra protective measures should be adopted:
4-5.1 AFTER RAINFALL. After appreciable rainfall, land-based contaminants may be
washed into a watershed basin with the runoff. This phenomenon has been termed
“first flush.” Dives planned during, or in the days immediately following, a large
rainfall should anticipate exposure to a variety of chemical and microbiological

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hazards when diving in an area with a reasonable expectation of “first flush” effects.
4-5.2 WORKING IN SEDIMENT. Most persistent contaminants with a density greater than
water will accumulate in the sediment. Sediment routinely has significantly higher
levels of both chemical and microbiological contamination than the adjacent water
column. This contamination may include heavy metals and PCBs.

4-5.3 POINTS OF DISCHARGE. Water adjacent to points of discharge (e.g., drainage

pipes and runoff channels) can contain increased levels of contamination.

4-5.4 HUMAN REMAINS RECOVERY. For divers and body handlers in the water, every
effort should be made to protect personnel from injury and unnecessary exposure
to body fluids and tissue. If the recovery is to be made around wreckage where there
is a reasonable concern for injury, divers should wear reinforced gloves to minimize
their exposure to potentially infectious materials.

4-6 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

CWD operations require coordination of simultaneous tasks, methods of approach,
personnel, and equipment. The dive team should be thoroughly briefed, assigned
responsibilities, made aware of hazards and know the medical evacuation plan. The team
should also be working from Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) specific to
contaminated water diving. As part of the SOPs, Emergency Procedures (EPs) should
address or mitigate hazards identified during the ORM and Hazard Assessment process.
Below are examples of EPs that may need to be revised or developed IAW ORM:
 Loss of breathing gas/contaminated breathing gas
 Loss of communications
 Fouled or entrapped diver
 Injured diver in the water or during the surface interval
 Diver extraction
 Hypothermia
 Heat exhaustion/Heat stroke
 Medical evacuation

4-7 SOURCES OF INFORMATION

For sources of information, refer to Appendix A for website and contact information. Appendix
A is not a complete list and other organizations can be used to gather information as required.
 Refer to EPA sources for information on water quality, water quality criteria and for
sewage outlets.
 You may also contact National Center for Medical Intelligence (NCMI) for
information regarding local water quality. Such information may require a few weeks
to compile. Requests should be initiated accordingly.
 For CONUS and OCONUS water testing operations contact the U.S. Navy and
Marine Corps Public Health Center.
 When operating OCONUS, contact local authorities and the United States Defense
Attaché Officer (USDAO) for assistance in identifying local points of contact.
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4-8 PERSONNEL QUALIFICATIONS / TRAINING

A training program should thoroughly explain contaminants and their properties,

precautions, effects of exposure, methods of protection, and emergency procedures.
NAVSEA 00C3 has developed a U.S. Navy centric CWD familiarization training which is
available on the NAVSEA 00C3 secure website (https://secure.supsalv.org/00c3/). When
military training is unavailable, a commercial training course such as a Hazardous Waste
Operations, Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) 40-hour course for Hazardous Materials
Technician/Contaminated Water Diver is an option. Continuous refresher retraining is
imperative to ensure divers remain competent in the procedures and use of equipment.

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CHAPTER 5
DIVE STATION DECONTAMINATION
PROCEDURES

5-1 DECONTAMINATION
The aim of decontamination is to either rapidly and effectively render contamination harmless
or remove it. The decontamination and monitoring process is unique to each
accident/incident; therefore, the decontamination methods selected should be tailored to the
hazard, responders on scene, location, and equipment available. The tasks performed do
not change significantly between different types of contamination, but the procedures may
vary depending on the nature of the accident/incident and the available equipment.

The objective of systematic decontamination procedures, which may include physical and/or
chemical techniques, is to limit the spread of the contamination and reduce the levels of
contaminants to the greatest extent possible in order to best protect personnel and
equipment. Standard DoD decontamination procedures, as described in various manuals or
instructions (e.g., U.S. Army FM 3-5 NBC Decontamination) can be effectively modified to
work in diving scenarios. Familiarization and platform specific contaminated water diving
drills should be conducted routinely. Such drills should encompass all aspects of diving
in contaminated water including equipment selection, donning protective equipment, and
decontamination procedures.

NOTE Until tests have been completed on various commercial off the shelf
decontamination solutions for CAT 1 CWD, NAVSEA 00C3 will provide tailored
decontamination guidance prior to any CAT 1 dive being conducted.

5-2 TOPSIDE PROTECTION

Tenders and other topside personnel may require protection from hazards while supporting
CWD operations. A thorough hazard analysis will address the degree of protection required
for topside personnel as well as the divers. Every effort should be made to position the
“dive station” outside the contaminated area with a transition zone between the work
area and the “dive station.” Some degree of contamination of the deck and topside
equipment will occur and it is expected the umbilicals and line tenders will come into
contact with contaminated water. Depending on the nature of the hazard, topside protection
may involve the use of splash protection and face shields, impermeable rainsuits, cartridge
respirators, disposable hazardous materials suits or a combination of all of the above. In
warm weather, thermal stress can be a severe problem for personnel wearing protective
dress. Close monitoring and short rotations of duty may be necessary. Industrial hygiene
support from the local medical treatment facility (MTF), preventive medicine unit, or the
Navy Marine Corps Public Health Center (NMCPHC) should be consulted for guidance on the
necessity of respiratory protection for topside personnel.

For operations that involve the recovery of human remains, all body handlers should observe
universal medical precautions and avoid unnecessary contact with potentially infectious
material. All personnel should wear coveralls, thick disposable gloves, and protective
eyewear. The same immunization recommendations for divers apply to tenders.

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5-3 DECONTAMINATION STATION OVERVIEW

Even before CWD operations begin, the dive site should be divided into three zones for
proper sequestration of contamination throughout the operations (See Figure 5-1). The zone
immediately surrounding the point of water entry/exit should be considered an area of high
contamination and is referred to as the ‘hot zone’. The zone to which divers and gear progress
after completing their initial decontamination is considered to have less contamination and is
referred to as the ‘warm zone’. The third zone into which divers progress after they have been
decontaminated and had all their diving equipment removed is known as the ’clean zone’. If
feasible, the clean zone should be positioned upwind from the contaminated zones. Positioning
of topside personnel may need to be adjusted to keep from spreading contamination.

FIGURE 5 - 1 CONTAMINATED WATER DECONTAMINATION STATION

5-3.1 INITIAL DECONTAMINATION. During the initial decontamination phase, bulk

contaminants should be sprayed off the diver with a 40-70 psi clean, fresh water rinse.
Salt water may be used if fresh water is unavailable. The diver should not be initially
rinsed until he or she is within a water-impermeable capturing area which may include a
berm made of plastic sheeting or a child’s wading pool. In some circumstances, all fluid
used to rinse, wash, and re-rinse the diver and equipment needs to be captured for
appropriate disposal as hazardous material; for these instances, the decontamination

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procedure needs to be altered. After all decontamination procedures have been

completed, all rinse fluids should be pumped or poured out of this capturing area and into
appropriate storage and transport containers for proper disposal. If no effluent needs to
be captured, the diver should be sprayed as he or she initially exits the water to limit the
quantity of contaminants being transferred to the dive station. The diver should exit the
water on steady flow to maintain positive pressure in helmet.
WARNING A high pressure rinse is not to be used during CAT 1 decontamination due to
the increased risk of breaching the diver’s personal protective equipment.

Attending technicians should be careful to direct water flow away from potential
points of leakage (exhaust valves, seal junctions, etc.) in the diver’s rig: a high-
pressure jet of water directed at these potential breach points may inject
contaminants into the diver’s protective gear. Tenders should also exercise care to
ensure that overspray does not spread contamination.

5-3.2 INITIAL EQUIPMENT REMOVAL AND WASHDOWN. After the initial

decontamination, the diver’s oversuit (if applicable) should be cut away so that the
diving rig can be decontaminated. This may also be an appropriate time to remove
ancillary dive gear such as harnesses, weight belts, emergency gas supply tanks, etc.
for subsequent decontamination. After the diver has been initially rinsed and his
ancillary gear and any oversuit removed, he should inflate his dry suit to remove folds.
The tenders can then scrub the diver’s suit and equipment with a stiff-bristle synthetic
brush or scrubbing mitts and a cleaning solution. The composition of the cleaning
solution should be appropriate for the contaminant to be removed.

Bleach solutions are adequate for most situations and should not degrade equipment
when used for short periods of time and then rinsed away. Commercially available
household bleach (Sodium hypochlorite) is usually approximately 6% concentration.
A 5% solution of bleach (approximately six ounces mixed into a gallon of water) will
kill most bacteria, fungi, and viruses on a hard, non-porous surface after a five-minute
contact time. In order to overcome the consumption of free chlorine by organic matter
in the site water, a 10% solution of bleach (12 ounces mixed in a gallon of water)
should be used for diver decontamination with a 10 minute contact time.

Table 5-1 should be used when deciding on which decontamination solution is most
appropriate. Sometimes a combination of solutions must be used ( e.g. initial scrub
down with Simple Green for oily contamination followed by bleach followed by
potable water). For further advice on decontamination solutions, see the EPA Diving
Safety Manual, Appendix Q, Attachment 1.

WARNING Do not use in tandem, series or combine any bleach solution with any
Ammonia solution. This will result in the creation of chlorine gas,
hydrochloric acid and liquid hydrazine. This is extremely hazardous and can
cause injury or death.

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TABLE 5-1. DECONTAMINATION SOLUTION EFFECTIVENESS/SAFETY

Decontamination Use against Use against Safety for Dive Gear

Solution Biological Chemical Diver Skin Compatibility
Contaminants Contaminants Contact

Potable Water C C 1 1
Antimicrobial A C 1 1
Soap
Bleach A B 2 3
Betadine A C 2 2
Simple Green B B 1 1
Quaternary A B 3 2
Ammonium
(quats)
TSP B A 3 3
Alcohol A C 3 2
Easy DECON TM Df 200 A A 2 1
Effectiveness: Safety/Compatibility:
A = Very Effective 1 = Not Harmful

B = Effective 2 = Potentially Harmful

C = Somewhat Effective 3 = Harmful if other precautions are not

followed

Notes:

1. This list is not all-inclusive. Other suitable decontamination solutions may be used at the dive
supervisor’s discretion.

2. Effectiveness includes both contaminant removal and neutralization.

3. Safety includes both physical harm to the diver and degradation/staining of equipment.

4. Dive gear compatibility is generalized based on normal decontamination solution concentrations

and common dive gear materials. It is recommended that specific gear manufacturers be
contacted to determine compatibility.

5. Mention of trade names does not imply product endorsement.

6. Do not use in tandem, series or combine any bleach solution with any ammonia solution. This
will result in the creation of chlorine gas, hydrochloric acid and liquid hydrazine. This is extremely
hazardous and can cause injury or death.

7. Ensure that any cleaning agent used for decontamination does not contain quaternary ammonia,
if you are going to utilize it with any bleach solution (see note 6). The cleaning agent should have
a warning if it contains ammonia.

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5-3.3 UNDRESS. After the diver has been adequately decontaminated and moved into the
‘warm zone’, the dive gear should then be removed in a stepwise fashion. First, the
locking mechanism from helmet to dry suit should be disconnected and the helmet
removed. Second, the dry suit and gloves should be removed. Third, the dive gear
undergarments should be removed. If nothing indicates that the diving rig has been
breached during the dive, the diver may proceed to the clean zone and take a routine
post dive shower, which should include washing of the entire body with
soap/shampoo. The diver should use Domeboro Otic solution in each ear for a
minimum of 60 seconds per side. Additionally, the area under each fingernail and
toenail should be thoroughly scrubbed with soap and a nailbrush. The diver should
use antiseptic mouthwash to rinse his mouth.
If there are indications of possible dermal exposure to contaminants, then additional
decontamination steps will be required. These steps include scrubbing the bare skin
with a 0.5% bleach solution for approximately 10 minutes and then washing with
soap in a shower. The 0.5% solution can be prepared from a 1:9 dilution of the
equipment decontamination solution already prepared. Label solutions carefully as
applying 5% directly to a diver’s skin can be very irritating. Care should be taken not
to introduce decontamination solution into abdominal or central nervous system
wounds, if present.
In hot environments, a method of cooling the diver should be provided. Shade and
misting fans should be provided topside to prevent heat related injuries. In cold
environments, warm water must be provided for the final wash and rinse phase for the
undressed diver. If the water is too cold, the skin pores will close up and may trap
contaminants in the skin. If the water is too hot, the skin pores may dilate and may
allow residual contaminants easier entry into the body. A warm area should also be
provided for drying, dressing, and medical evaluation.
All the diver’s equipment must undergo secondary decontamination after it has
been removed. This secondary decontamination procedure entails first rinsing bulk
contamination from the equipment, then soaking it in a bleach-based solution for at
least thirty minutes before actively scrubbing the equipment with soft bristle brushes.
Drums or wading pools may be effective repositories for this process. After soaking
and scrubbing, equipment should be rinsed thoroughly until no foaming occurs. Due
to the possibility of cross-contamination, personnel assigned to accomplish the
secondary decontamination of diver’s equipment should not be the same as those
assigned to undress of the divers. In the case of contaminants difficult to remove or
highly toxic contaminants, assign a dedicated team to decontaminate equipment.
Soaking umbilicals in bleach-based solutions is not recommended. An alternative
solution such as TSP or soap such as Simple Green should be used to thoroughly
clean umbilicals. Impermeable Foreign Material Exclusion (FME) covers should be
applied to avoid introducing cleaning solutions into the interior of diving umbilicals and
other diving life support system breathing loops.
5-3.4 TENDER DECONTAMINATION. The tender decontamination procedure is the same as
that for divers. The last person out of the contaminated zone will have to self-
decontaminate.
5-4 MEDICAL SUPPORT
After completing a thorough decontamination, individuals should proceed to a medical
evaluation station, if appropriate to the hazard or if the diver has any symptoms or
complaints. The individual’s vital signs are taken, documented, and compared with
baseline information. Supervisory personnel may be required to h e l p d i s t i n g u i s h
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b e t w e e n diving- related disorders and symptoms related to contaminant exposure. These

symptoms may overlap, making diagnosis difficult. Any individual showing signs or
symptoms from exposure or injury should be transported to a medical facility for
appropriate treatment. Proper documentation on all individuals, methods of
decontamination, and any exposures or injuries should be included. The medical
treatment after exposure will be conducted in accordance with the specific medical
emergency procedures directed by a competent medical team. Depending on the type of
toxic substance encountered, it may be advisable to introduce short or long term biological
and medical surveillance of exposed personnel. Once the individuals leave the o n - s c e n e
medical evaluation area, the decontamination process is complete.

5-5 HAZARDOUS WASTE

5-5.1 MINIMIZATION. Federal, state, or local regulations may require that residue
collected in the decontamination process be collected and disposed of as hazardous
waste. This will require prior coordination with local officials to ensure compliance.
Every effort should be made to minimize the amount of waste generated consistent
with personnel safety.
5-5.2 DISPOSAL. When operating in the United States and its territories, dive operations
should comply with all federal, state, and local regulations. To ensure compliance,
disposal efforts should be coordinated with local agencies/officials.
Disposal of the HAZMAT generated and the decontamination effluent can be
accomplished through the nearest military facility HAZMAT disposal program or by
a commercial hazardous material disposal company. Submit all SDS’s for the
known or suspected contaminates along with decontamination solutions used with
the HAZMAT and effluent generated for disposal.
When operating in foreign countries, contact local authorities and the United States
Defense Attaché Officer (USDAO) for assistance in identifying local points of contact
and industry resources.

5-6 DOCUMENTATION

5-6.1 DIVE LOGS. When recording dive logs in the Risk Management Information – Dive
Jump Reporting System (RMI-DJRS) located on the U.S. Air Force’s Safety
Automated System, list the known contaminants and those that may be present as
based upon pre-planning information in the drop-down boxes provided. Develop a
standard response for the DJRS using standard terms and abbreviations found in
the NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No.
2005-149.
5-6.2 MEDICAL RECORDS. Document known contaminants that the dive team is
exposed to, exposure times, and the team member’s assignment (e.g., diver,
DECON team member); if the team member was assigned more than one job, list
all for the duration of the mission. If other contaminants are suspected but no testing
could be accomplished to confirm their presence, document the suspected
contaminate and reason for their possible presence (e.g., informed by local
authorities of chemical spill in past years). Medical personnel should evaluate dive
personnel exposures and enter appropriate data in each medical record.
5-6.3 SAFETY DATA SHEETS (SDS). Maintain a file of SDSs for all contaminants known
and/or suspected at the site.
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5-6.4 HISTORICAL DATA COLLECTION. For CAT 1 and 2 CWD, provide NAVSEA 00C3
with complete record of the following:
• Provide narrative of mission, including: purpose, safety precautions taken,
explanation of the dive and DECON process, and lessons learned.
• Specifically include data on known and suspected contaminants, including
SDS and resources/testing used to determine contaminants.
• ORM plan.
• Description of any equipment issues encountered during the dive or DECON
phase (if any); this may involve submitting a Failure Analysis Report (FAR) on
the NAVSEA 00C3 secure website (https://secure.supsalv.org/00c3/).
• Equipment exposure times and details of the contaminants (for CAT-1 CWD
only - to enable calculations of exposure times for future dives).
• Personnel issues encountered (if any); e.g., contamination, environmental
stress. Personally Identifiable Information (PII) shall not be included.
• Disposition of HAZMAT generated at site and resources used for disposal.

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APPENDIX A
REFERENCE MATERIALS AND INFORMATION SOURCES

Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)

29 CFR 1910-120 Occupational Safety and Health Standards - Hazardous Materials,
http://www.osha.gov.

29 CFR 1910 Subpart T Occupational Safety and Health Standards – Commercial Diving
Operations, http://www.osha.gov.

40 CFR Part 260 – 273 Regulations governing hazardous waste identification, classification,
generation, management and disposal. https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/

Civilian/Commercial
Diving in High-Risk Environments 4th Ed., Steven M. Barsky, Hammerhead Press Santa
Barbara, CA http://www.marinemkt.com.

Association of Diving Contractors International – http://www.adc-int.org/index.asp.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory – resource to identify
scientific research available on the effects of contaminants on human health.
http://www.epa.gov/nheerl/.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Lead contact information by region for the EPA
can be found at https://www.epa.gov/lead/epa-region-lead-contacts.

For EPA websites on water quality, access the Microbial (Pathogen)/Recreational Water
Quality Criteria at https://www.epa.gov/enforcement/national-enforcement-initiative-keeping-
raw-sewage-and-contaminated-stormwater-out-our.

Recreational Water Quality Criteria at https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015-

10/documents/rwqc2012.pdf

For the Watershed Assessment, Tracking and Environmental Results System (WATERS) at
https://www.epa.gov/waterdata/.

EPA Diving Safety Manual Appendix Q Attachment 1 Decontamination Solutions

https://www.navsea.navy.mil/Portals/103/Documents/SUPSALV/Diving/Appendix%20Q%20D
econ.pdf?ver=2019-08-26-093431-387

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards contains general industrial hygiene information
on several hundred chemicals/classes for workers, employers, and occupational health
professionals. http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg.

Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS®), Database of toxicological

information compiled, maintained, and updated by the NIOSH. http://grc.ntis.gov/rtecs.htm -
subscription fee required.

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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

NOAA Diving Manual, Chapter 16 – Polluted Water Diving available through Best Publication
company. http://www.bestpub.com/.

NOAA Hazardous Materials and Assessment Division – provides tools and information for
emergency responders and planners to understand and mitigate the effects of oil and
hazardous materials in U.S. waters. http://response.restoration.noaa.gov/.

NOAA Hazardous Materials and Assessment Division – provides tools and information for
emergency responders and planners to understand and mitigate the effects of oil and
hazardous materials in U.S. waters. http://response.restoration.noaa.gov/.

Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC)

Testing the Waters -Report Card on Coastal Conditions http://www.nrdc.org.

U.S. Army (USA)

Edgewood Chemical Biological Center Information on chemical and biological warfare agents
at https://www.ecbc.army.mil/ or (410) 436-7118.

U.S. Army Field Manual (FM) 3-11.9 Potential Military Chemical/Biological Chemical
Compounds available at http://www.apd.army.mil/epubs/DR_a/pdf/web/fm3_11x9.pdf.

National Center for Medical Intelligence (NCMI) Fort Dietrich MD.

https://www.ncmi.detrick.mil/.

For current information on current FMs or ATP updates, http://www.wood.army.mil/chmdsd.

For information on chemical and biological warfare agents, http://www.ecbc.army.mil or (410)

436-7118.

U.S. Coast Guard (USCG)

Coast Guard Chemical Hazards Group – maintains the Chemical Hazard Response
Information System (CHRIS) database. www.chrismanual.com.

U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)

Emergency Response Guidebook, http://www.ems.gov/pdf/preparadness/resources.

U.S. National Library of Medicine

Toxicology Data Network (TOXNET) is a resource for searching databases on toxicology,
hazardous chemicals, environmental health, and toxic releases. https://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/

For chemical releases and mapping use (TOXMAP®) https://toxmap.nlm.nih.gov/toxmap/app/

which is a Geographic Information System (GIS) from the Division of Specialized Information
Services of the US National Library of Medicine® (NLM) that uses maps of the United States
to help users visually explore environmental health data from the US Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA).

Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) https://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/newtoxnet/tri.htm which is a set of

publicly available databases containing information on releases of specific toxic chemicals
and their management as waste, as reported annually by U.S. industrial and federal facilities.

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U.S. Navy (USN)

Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center at
http://www.med.navy.mil/sites/nmcphc/Pages/Home.aspx. The Field Activities drop down tab will
help connect you with the activity covering your area.

OPNAVINST 5100.19 Navy Safety and Occupational Health Program Manual for Forces
Afloat.

OPNAVINST 5100.23 Navy Safety and +Occupational Health Program Manual.

Contaminated Water Diving Familiarization Training power point on the SUPSALV webpage
at https://secure.supsalv.org/00c3/Default.asp?SystemID=18

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APPENDIX B
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE

Guidelines for Risk Assessment, Pre-Dive Planning, Diving in Contaminated Water,

Post-Dive Decontamination, Medical Evaluation, and Record Keeping

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PARAGRAPH PAGE

B-1 PURPOSE………………………………………………………………………... B-2

B-2 APPLICABILITY………………………………………………………………….. B-2

B-3 RESPONSIBILITIES…………………………………………………………….. B-2

B-4 OBJECTIVES…………………………………………………………………….. B-2

B-5 REFERENCES……...………………………………………………………...…. B-3

B-6 PRE-DIVE PLANNING………………………………………………………...…B-3

B-7 CONDUCTING THE DIVE…………………………………………...…………. B-4

B-8 POST DIVE ACTIONS………………….………………………………….……. B-5

B-9 DOCUMENTATION………………………………………………….…………...B-5

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STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE (SOP)

B-1 PURPOSE. This SOP provides general guidance and basic procedures for diving in
contaminated water. Due to the broad spectrum and concentration of contaminants, potential
exposure levels can vary; therefore, only general guidance can be provided.
B-2 APPLICABILITY. This SOP applies to all Military personnel assigned to a dive team as a diver
and/or as support personnel.
B-3 RESPONSIBILITIES. The Commanding Officer (CO) is responsible to ensure all requirements
of Operational Risk Management (OPNAVINST 3500.39 series), Navy Safety and Occupational
Health (OPNAVINST 5100.23 series), and for Navy Safety and Occupational Health for Forces Afloat
(OPNAVINST 5100.19 series) are met. This SOP is intended to supplement those references and
provide further guidance for the safety of personnel. This SOP details the process of determining the
contaminants expected, the personnel protection best suited for the contaminate(s), and the
decontamination process.
This SOP establishes the minimum emergency procedures required and the minimum medical
monitoring/evacuation/follow up. This SOP does not address how to determine the contaminant in
the location of the dive or which contaminants for which to test. It is the Commanding Officer’s
responsibility to identify what contaminant is or may be present by contacting local, state, and federal
organizations that monitor environmental conditions. In foreign countries with little or no
environmental monitoring authorities, the best source may be local law enforcement, businesses, and
citizens.
B-4 OBJECTIVES. The objectives of the CWD Manual, PowerPoint and SOP are to:

a. Establish safe practices for diving in contaminated water.

b. Provide guidelines for determining the hazards of CWD.
c. Provide resource contact information to ensure the safety of personnel.
d. Promote safety and ensure all team members are aware of the hazards.
e. Provide guidelines to help reduce or prevent contamination of personnel.
f. Provide guidelines for the best practices for personnel and equipment decontamination.
g. Provide guidelines for medical evaluation of personnel exposed to contaminants.
h. Provide guidelines for record keeping of exposure to contaminants.

B-5 REFERENCES.

a. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2005-149
b. OPNAVINST 5100.19 (Series), Navy Safety and Occupational Health Program Manual for
Forces Afloat
c. Operational Risk Management, OPNAVINST 3500.39 (Series)
d. U.S. Navy Diving Manual, SS521-AG-PRO-010
e. Contaminated Water Diving PowerPoint (NAVSEA 00C)
f. Contaminated Water Diving Manual, SS521-AJ-PRO-010, Rev 2
g. OPNAVINST 5100.23 (Series), Navy Safety and Occupational Health Program Manual

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B-6 PRE-DIVE PLANNING.

a. Determine the contaminate that is expected at the dive site either by testing or from local
records/knowledge and obtain the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for those contaminants. For
known or expected contaminants, refer to reference (a) for exposure limits, personal
protection and sanitation, exposure routes, and First Aid.

b. Determine and obtain the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for divers and
topside support personnel in accordance with references (a) and (b).

c. Determine the diving platform and space available for the dive station/decontamination
station.

d. Establish a perimeter control plan (for non-participants/general population exclusion)

e. Develop Operational Risk Management (ORM) Plan in accordance with references (c)
and (d), including but not limited to:

 diving safety, including diver and equipment exposure time

 contamination prevention (personnel and spread of contamination)
 decontamination (personnel and equipment)
 on-site medical support
 emergency medical evacuation and treatment
 HAZMAT disposition

f. Build the team.

1) Consider using outside assistance from established and trained DECON teams,
especially for CAT 1 diving/decontamination.

2) Additional tenders may be required for umbilical handeling.

3) The team should consist of members trained in accordance with reference (f).

g. Train the team. Use references (e) and (f).

h. Develop a dive station/decontamination footprint.

There is no single equipment configuration or material that will protect the diver under all
conditions or from all contaminants.

The type of protection needed will be determined by the expected hazard, type of work,
the urgency of the work, and the available equipment.

Refer to reference (f), Appendix C inventory for available equipment and model your
decontamination station similar to the layouts shown. The layouts shown in Appendix C
are not mandatory – they are provided as a guide for effective decontamination station set
up.

Determine the DECON stations and equipment required and develop a detailed sketch of
how to lay out the entire station using the decontamination equipment available. Ensure
that the station provides for:

1) Wind direction (cold zone to hot zone)

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2) Safe diver up and over phase

a) Include container for harness, tools, and recovered items (if required)
3) Initial diver scrub and wash-down (dressed), with soap/DECON solutions (dry suit
inflated to remove folds in suit)

4) Initial diver rinse (dressed)

5) Secondary scrub and rinse (if necessary)
6) Diver undress station
a) station for helmet DECON
b) container for diving dress and clothing
7) Diver decontamination (undressed)
8) Diver rinse (undressed)
9) Diver dressing station and medical evaluation
10) Umbilical management. (extra tenders may be necessary)
11) Emergency decontamination and treatment of a stricken diver
12) Decontamination of topside personnel/DECON team
13) Site Logistics
a) Equipment and supplies
b) Medical support/evacuation
c) Management/disposition of contaminated waste water, material, and
equipment

NOTE Excessively cold water may trap any contaminants in skin pores. Excessively hot
water may open skin pores to residual contamination.
If diving in a cold environment, provide warm water for the undressed diver decontamination wash-
down and rinse stations.
If diving in a tropical environment, shade may be required for any supply-water holding tanks to
ensure it is not over heated by direct sunlight.

B-7 CONDUCTING THE DIVE.

a. Dive station and decontamination station set up.
 Ensure DECON station hoses/lines/cords do not interfere with the diver’s umbilical or
work lines.
 Set up the decontamination station and dive station according to your pre-dive
planning sketch and modify as required (with appropriate authorization) to ensure
safety and adequate decontamination of the divers and decontamination team.
 Conduct multiple training walk through of the completed plan prior to commencing
diving operations to ensure that all personnel are familiar with the procedures utilized.
b. Dive brief.
 Diving safety
 Maximum exposure times
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 Decontamination station routine and emergency procedures

 Stricken/unconscious diver procedures (DECON and medical)
c. Execute the dive.
 Conduct diving operations in accordance with reference (d)

B-8 POST-DIVE ACTIONS.

a. Decontamination of divers and support personnel.
b. Disposition of contaminated materials, clothing, equipment, and waste water.
c. Medical examination of all personnel directly exposed to contaminants.
 Medical/supervisory personnel should observe the decontamination process (from a
location that prevents contamination) and watch for signs of AGE, DCS, environmental
stress (heat/cold), and symptoms of exposure to contaminants.
 If exposure to contamination is suspected, the affected person should be examined by
Navy Occupational Health and Safety Services in accordance with references (b) and
(g).
B-9 DOCUMENTATION.
a. Dive logs. Dive Jump Reporting System (DJRS). In the drop-down boxes provided, list the
known contaminants and those that may be present based upon pre-planning information.
Develop a standard response for the DJRS using standard terms and abbreviations found
in reference (a).
b. Medical records. Document known contaminants that the dive team is exposed to and
exposure times. Document the team member’s assignment (e.g.; Diver, DECON team
member), if the team member was assigned more than one job, list all for the duration of
the mission. If other contaminants are possible, but no testing could be accomplished to
prove/disprove them, document the suspected contaminate and reason for their possible
presence (e.g., informed by local authorities of chemical spill in past years). Medical
personnel evaluate everyone exposed to contaminants and enter appropriate data in each
medical record.
c. Safety Data Sheets (SDS). Maintain a file of SDSs for all contaminants known and/or
suspected at the site along with decontamination solution used. All SDS’s must be
included with the HAZMAT that is being disposed of.
d. Historical Data Collection. For CAT 1 and 2 CWD, provide NAVSEA 00C3 with complete
record of the following:
• Provide narrative of mission, including: purpose, safety precautions taken,
explanation of the dive and DECON process, and lessons learned.
• Specifically include data on known and suspected contaminants, including SDS and
resources/testing used to determine contaminants.
• ORM plan.
• Description of any equipment issues encountered during the dive or DECON phase
(if any); this may involve submitting a Failure Analysis Report (FAR) on the NAVSEA
00C3 secure website (https://secure.supsalv.org/00c3/).
• Equipment exposure times and details of the contaminants (for CAT-1 CWD only
- to enable calculations of exposure times for future dives).
• Personnel issues encountered (if any); e.g., contamination, environmental stress.
Personally Identifiable Information shall not be included.
• Disposition of HAZMAT generated at site and resources used for disposal.

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APPENDIX C
NAVSEA CWD DECONTAMINATION EQUIPMENT

C-1 CWD DECON Station Assemblies/Components. The following shows the NAVSEA 00C3
CAT 1 Decontamination Station Equipment and Dive Station Van available to augment severe
U.S. Navy CWD operations. This equipment is intended to augment U.S. Navy Commands CWD
inventories as provided in their Table of Allowances (TOAs) per their Required Operational
Capabilities (ROC) and Projected Operational Environment (POE). This equipment is not
intended for use in all CWD that are standard, day-to-day operations (e.g., diving in U.S. Navy
Shipyards) but is for an initial response capability for a large-scale events (e.g., accident, spill,
humanitarian response, etc.). The images below show only one example of how to place and
configure the decontamination station. The configuration/foot-print of the DECON station may be
modified to meet the needs of each situation following the guidelines of Figure 5-1. Refer to
Section C-2 for an inventory list.

C-1.1 Equipment Weights and Shipping. The CONEX box that houses and is utilized to ship the
DECON Station Assemblies has a combined shipping weight of 16,000 pounds. The entire
assembly is requested to augment the requesting command’s TOA for the CWD operation. If
requesting the use of the NAVSEA FADS III Dive System and Trailer to augment the requesting
command’s dive capability for the CWD operation, the shipping weight is 14,000 lbs. Contact
NAVSEA 00C3 for information when requesting the NAVSEA dive system and trailer.

FIGURE C-1 DECON Station Assembled

FIGURE C-2 4’ X 9’ X 9” Diver’s Stage Berm with DECON Deck Grating

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FIGURE C-3 Yellow Containment Barrel and Diver’s Umbilical with Berm and DECON Deck
Grating

FIGURE C-4 Wash Shower with Yellow Berm and DECON Deck Grating

FIGURE C-5 Rinse Showers with Yellow Berm and DECON Deck Grating

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FIGURE C-6 Diver Undress Area. Table for Helmet DECON and Yellow Container for Dive Suit
and Clothing. Berm, Seats, and DECON Deck Grating (privacy curtain not shown)

FIGURE C-7 12V Electric Submersible Pump for dewatering berms, 50’ Grey Discharge Hose,
50’ Electrical Power cord with On/Off Switch

FIGURE C-8 110V Electric Water Supply Pump with manifold, shut-off valves, with suction
hose and red supply hoses to showers. White 50 gal clean water supply container

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FIGURE C-9 Zumro DECON Tent Skin Wash and Rinse (two separate showers)

FIGURE C-10 Cold Zone, Final Dry/Dressing Berm (privacy panels not shown)

FIGURE C-11 Zumro DECON Tent Inflator Connection

FIGURE C-12 Zumro DECON Tent Dewatering 110V Electric Pump and Hoses

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FIGURE C-13 Zumro DECON Tent Dewatering Strainer (inside)

FIGURE C-14 Emergency Wash Tub with Stokes Stretcher and Emergency Rinse Tub

FIGURE C-15 NAVSEA Dive System Trailer

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C-2 CWD Equipment Inventory. The following Tables list the CAT 1 Decontamination Station
Equipment and Dive Station Van as maintained by NAVSEA 00C3 via the Emergency Ship
Salvage Material (ESSM) Facility in Williamsburg, VA. The inventory is subject to change and is
not all inclusive for every CAT 1 contaminated diving scenario. This equipment is available to
augment fleet capabilities and provide commands additional deployable assets if needed.

Table C-1 CWD Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Inventory (Diver)

Description U/I Qty

KM-97 EA 5
Viking HAZTECH Contaminated Water Dry Suit, Size 00/SML (Note 1) EA 2
Viking HAZTECH Contaminated Water Dry Suit, Size 01/MED (Note 1) EA 3
Viking HAZTECH Contaminated Water Dry Suit, Size 02/LGE Wide (Note 1) EA 3
Viking HAZTECH Contaminated Water Dry Suit, Size 03/EXL Wide (Note 1) EA 2
Viking HAZTECH Contaminated Water Dry Suit, Size 04/XXL Wide (Note 1) EA 2

Notes:
With HAZMAT Exhaust Valve, Steel-Toed Boots, KM 37 (NS) or KM 97 Neck Ring Installed, Glove
Ring System, Good Grip Gloves, and HD Dry Gloves.

Table C-2 CWD PPE Inventory (Topside)

Description U/I Qty

Dupont TYCHEM 2000 Coverall, Size 4XL EA 10
Nitrile Gloves 15 Mil-10 EA 10
Nitrile Gloves 15 Mil-11 EA 10
Butyl Gloves 7 Mil – Size L EA 10
Butyl Gloves 7 Mil – Size XL EA 10
Safety Goggle, Non-Vented EA 50
OnGuard HAZMAX Knee Boots – Size 8 PR 4
OnGuard HAZMAX Knee Boots – Size 12 PR 6
OnGuard HAZMAX Knee Boots – Size 15 PR 6
Rain Gear Bottoms EA 11
Rain Gear Tops EA 7
Individual DECON Kits “DECON in a Bag” EA 2
HAZMAT Protection Kit 2XL/#XL EA 10
HAZMAT Protection Kit 4XL EA 10
Doff-It Personal Privacy Kit - Adult KIT 10

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Table C-3 CWD Decontamination Station Equipment

Description U/I Qty

Dual DECON Backpack EA 2
Chemical Payload EA 2
GCE Surfactant EA 12
Stage One DECON Shelter EA 1
Surround Rinse Hose for Stage One EA 1
Sump Pump Kit 110V with Case EA 1
Grey Water Bladder 500 Gal EA 1
8’ x 8’ Light Spill Berm EA 1
DECON Spill Berm 4’ x 9’ x 8 inch (2CPT) EA 4
4’ x 6’ Light Berm EA 3
DECON Grating 2’ x 4’ EA 36
Yellow Containment Barrels EA 8
Bristle Brushes EA 17
DECON Bucket with Lid EA 10
DECON Responder Brush 10 10
Chemical Resistant DECON Brush – Size 10” EA 10
DECON Brush Handle EA 10
Supersoft DECON Brush – Size 8” EA 10
Telescoping Flow-Thru DECON Brush Handle EA 5
Mascas Elevation Grid EA 10
Manual Water Pump EA 2
Overpack Container, 65 Gallon EA 8
Indestructo DECON Shower EA 1
Complete Rehab Solution Package EA 1
DECON Utility Stool EA 6
Storage Bin 34” x 24” x 20” EA 10
Diver Stool w/Bucket EA 6
DECON Sprayer, 2 Gallon EA 10
DECON Wand EA 4
Equipment Station System EA 4
Standard Decontamination Shower System with Aluminum Pool EA 2
Heavy Scrub Shower EA 1
Submersible Pump, 12V EA 1
Electric Water Pump, 110V EA 2
Wastewater Hose, Grey EA 10
Water Supply Hose, Red EA 10
Fire Hose Reducer Coupling with Hose, Blue EA 1
Elevation Grid EA 11

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Table C-4 CWD Cold Zone Clothing and Support Equipment

Description U/I Qty

Individual Cooling Towels EA 10
Cooling Towel Kits EA 10
Replacement Reservoir Bags EA 30
T-Shirt RH2006-XL EA 6
T-Shirt RH2006-XXXL EA 5
Portable Dry Toilet System EA 1
Waste Kits PR 50
Drying Towel, Disposable BX 1
Rubber Soled Slippers PR 6
Purell Wipes BX 1
No Rinse Bathing Wipes EA 24
Sweat Shirts XXXL EA 6
Sweat Shirts XL EA 6
Sweat Pants XXXL EA 6
Sweat Pants XXL EA 6
Jersey Gloves (pack of 6) PK 2
White Crew Socks (pack of 6) PK 2
Stocking Caps EA 6
Grey Blankets EA 12
Emergency Warming Blankets EA 25
Heater Stand 110VAC EA 1
18” Misting Fan and Cooler EA 1
Privacy Screen EA 2
Core Cooling Chairs EA 4
Army Cot EA 1
Sack-It Clean Up Dispenser EA 1
Folding Table EA 1
REHAB Tool Box EA 1
LED Work Lights EA 2
Relaxation Chair EA 4
Folding Stools EA 2
Extension Cords EA 2

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APPENDIX D
List of Acronyms
AGE Arterial Gas Embolism
ANU Authorized for Navy Use
ATP Army Technical Publication
CAT Category
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CO Commanding Officer
CONUS Continental United States
CWD Contaminated Water Diving
DECON Decontamination
DHHS Department of Health and Human Services
DJRS Dive Jump Reporting System
DoD Department of Defense
DOT Department of Transportation
E. Coli Escherichia Coli
EGS Emergency Gas Supply
EP Emergency Procedure
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
ESSM Emergency Ship Salvage Material
EU European Union
FAR Failure Analysis Report
FFM Full-Face Mask
FM Field Manual
FME Foreign Matter Exclusion
HAB Harmful Algal Bloom
HAZMAT Hazardous Material
HAZWOPER Hazardous Waste Operations
IAW In Accordance With
MIL-SPEC Military Specification
MOPP Mission Oriented Protective Posture
NAVSEA Naval Sea Systems Command
NBC Nuclear Biological Chemical
NCMI National Center for Medical Intelligence
NEDU Navy Experimental Diving Unit
NMCPHC Navy Marine Corps Public Health Center
NIOSH National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health
NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NS Navy Standard
OCONUS Outside Continental United States
OPNAV Office of the Chief of Naval Operations
OPNAVINST Office of the Chief of Naval Operations Instruction
OSHA Occupation Safety and Health Administration
ORM Operational Risk Management
PCB Polychlorinated Biphenyls
PHA Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons
PMS Planned Maintenance System
POE Projected Operational Environment
PPE Personal Protective Equipment
RADCON Radiological Controls
ROC Required Operational Capabilities
SCBA Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus
SCUBA Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus
SDS Safety Data Sheet (formally Material Safety Data Sheet)
SOP Standard Operating Procedure
TIC Toxic Industrial Chemicals
TLD Thermo-luminescent Dosimeter
TOA Table of Allowance
TSP Tri-Sodium Phosphate
USA United States Army
USCG United States Coast Guard
USDAO United States Defense Attaché Office
USN United States Navy

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D-2
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