Potable water diving

Potable water diving is a specialized type of commercial diving that takes place in drinking water or potable water systems such as water tanks, reservoirs, and water towers. This type of diving requires specific training, equipment, and procedures to ensure the safety of the divers and the integrity of the water supply.

History

Potable water diving has its roots in the broader field of commercial diving. As societies developed more complex water supply systems, the need for maintenance and inspection of these systems grew. This led to the development of potable water diving as a distinct discipline within the commercial diving industry.

Training and Certification

Potable water divers must undergo specialized training and certification. This training typically includes instruction in diving medicine, emergency procedures, and the use of specialized equipment. In addition, divers must learn specific procedures for maintaining the cleanliness of the water supply during diving operations.

Equipment

Potable water divers use a range of specialized equipment. This includes diving suits that are designed to prevent contamination of the water supply, as well as diving helmets and underwater communication systems that allow divers to communicate with the surface team. Divers also use a variety of tools and equipment to perform maintenance and inspection tasks.

Procedures

Before a potable water diving operation, the diving team must thoroughly clean and disinfect all equipment. During the dive, divers must follow strict procedures to prevent contamination of the water supply. This includes avoiding contact with the sides of the water tank or reservoir, and minimizing the disturbance of any sediment on the bottom.

Safety and Health Risks

Like all forms of commercial diving, potable water diving carries certain risks. These include the risk of decompression sickness, also known as the bends, as well as other diving-related injuries and illnesses. However, with proper training and procedures, these risks can be minimized.

See Also

• Commercial diving
• Underwater diving
• Scuba diving
• Diving medicine