Rescue of a saturation diver, unconscious due to an explosion underwater
Abstract
Evolution of “safe diving practices” introduced by the diving industry and regulatory authorities in the North Sea over the past 3 or 4 decades has improved the safety records of oilfield commercial diving considerably. However, accidents still occur. In an accident occurring underwater, the outcome is often fatal. For a diving doctor providing emergency medical advice to the industry, when a diving superintendent calls to say “I have a problem” indicates an emergency and a life and death situation for a diver in water. Making a quick decision after comprehending the situations is important to tackle the problem.
Keywords: saturation divingoxy-arc cuttingunderwater explosionhypothermia
References
- International Marine Contractor’s Association. 52, Grosvenor gardens, London SW1W 0AV. Safety Flashes SF 05/04.
- Porges SW. The polyvagal theory: new insights into adaptive reactions of the autonomic nervous system. Cleve Clin J Med. 2009; 76 Suppl 2: S86–S90.
- International Marine Contractor’s Association. 52, Grosvenor gardens, London SW1W 0AV. Oxy Arc Cutting D 003 Rev 1, 2001.
