BSAC

The Combined Diving Associations

GUIDELINES FOR THE SAFE OPERATION OF MEMBER CLUB DIVE BOATS

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INTRODUCTION
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency's (MCA) Small Commercial Vessels (SCV) Code, often referred to as the 'Harmonised Code', for the operation of small vessels involved in diving operations, is the current guidance for commercial operators. The MCA suggested that member club boats should make every attempt to comply with this safety code or to guidelines provided by their diving association.

The Combined Diving Association (CDA)
The Combined Diving Association (CDA) group was formed to address this suggestion and to provide safety guidance to Member Clubs and individual divers in the safe operation of dive boats within the recreational sector.

The CDA members consist of the British Sub Aqua Club (BSAC), the Sub Aqua Association (SAA), the Scottish Sub Aqua Club (SSAC) and the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). The primary aim of the CDA is to provide safety guidance to Member Clubs and individual divers, in consultation with government agencies such as the MCA, HSE and other diving and sea safety organisations.

These guidelines provide the necessary guidance for those involved with Member Club diving, which primarily involves the use of Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs), but also similar craft and hard boats, for recreational diving.

MCA acceptance
The MCA accept this document as a suitable alternative to the harmonised code for member clubs operating on a non-commercial basis.

The booklet is to be used as a guide to the equipment that should be carried on all craft that are owned by 'non-commercial' operations, such as BSAC, SAA & SSAC branches, independent diving clubs and individual members providing their boats for member use.

Following the guidance outlined in this document is not 'compulsory' but these guidelines do represent appropriate guidance of current best practise in terms of safety. By following the guidance provided, you will be doing enough to comply with the minimum suggested safety aspects for 'club members' boats in the view of the MCA.

Technical Department
March 2004



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