Mick Bergh
Director Inshore
DCN had the honor of hosting Rijkswaterstaat during the knowledge-exchange day “The Future of Safe Diving.”
In 2022, Rijkswaterstaat incorporated the framework “Working Safely Underwater” into its operational procedures. This framework describes how Rijkswaterstaat fulfills its responsibilities as a client in the preparation and execution of underwater work by applying the Occupational Hygiene Strategy. The goal of the knowledge-exchange day “The Future of Safe Diving” was to bring clients and contractors together to discuss how underwater work can be carried out safely. Which tools are available? What is possible with the help of ROVs? And what are the key monitoring points during the preparation and execution phases? In other words: what can or must Rijkswaterstaat do as the client, and what can or must a diving company do as the contractor?
We kicked off with a detailed presentation on laws and regulations, examining the differences between national and international standards and emphasizing the importance of learning from incidents. This was followed by an insightful lecture from diving physician Dr. Grosfeld on diving medical safety and how cooperation between different parties— including the crucial role of Rijkswaterstaat—can contribute to improving safety throughout the operational chain.
We then had a unique experience at DCN’s Wet Test Centre, where a realistic scenario was reenacted. A VideoRay ROV was deployed to demonstrate how advanced technology can contribute to safer diving operations. The scenario included demonstrations of an underwater welding process, the simulation of the hazards of Delta P, the isolation process, and the rescue of an unconscious diver. All of this was carried out by a dive team meeting the minimum legal requirements, clearly highlighting the challenges and dynamics of such a situation. This led to a lively discussion and reflection on current practices and future possibilities within our industry—an impressive example of the value of technology and collaboration in the diving world.
As the event concluded, we took time to discuss the latest developments in diving equipment, ranging from inshore to offshore applications. We also had the pleasure of showcasing our “diverless” cleaning and removal techniques, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities of these innovative methods.
We would like to sincerely thank Rijkswaterstaat for the opportunity to host this important event, and VideoRay for their presence and for providing their latest ROV, the VideoRay Mission Specialist Defender. It was a memorable day filled with valuable insights and collaboration. Through initiatives like these, we hope to contribute to improving safety throughout the diving industry.
Director Inshore
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