8-32 Change A
U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 2
8-11.8
Bottom Checks. Bottom checks are conducted after returning to the stage or
descent line and prior to ascent. The checks are basically the same for each rig.
1.
Ensure all tools are ready for ascent.
2.
Check that all umbilicals and lines are clear for ascent.
3.
Assess and report your condition (level of fatigue, remaining strength,
physical aches or pains, etc.) and mental acuity.
8-11.9
Job Site Procedures. The range of diving jobs is wide and varied. Many jobs
follow detailed work procedures and require specific predive training to ensure
familiarity with the work. The Underwater Ship Husbandry Manual, S0600-AA-
PRO-010, presents guidance for most commonly encountered jobs, such as
replacement and repair of propellers, propeller blades, auxiliary propulsion
motors, and sonar domes.
8-11.9.1
Underwater Ship Husbandry Procedures. Due to the complexity of ships’ under-
water systems and the sophistication of newly developed repair techniques,
specific procedures were developed to provide guidance in the underwater repair
and maintenance of U.S. Navy ships. These procedures are located in individually
bound chapters of the Underwater Ship Husbandry Manual (S0600-AA-PRO-
010). Chapter 1 of the manual is the Index and User Guide, which provides infor-
mation on the subsequent chapters of the manual.
8-11.9.2
Working with Tools. Underwater work requires appropriate tools and materials,
such as cement, foam plastic, and patching compounds. Many of these are stan-
dard hand tools (preferably corrosion-resistant) and materials; others are specially
designed for underwater work. A qualified diver will become familiar with the
particular considerations involved in working with these various tools and mate-
rials in an underwater environment. Hands-on training experience is the only way
to get the necessary skills. Consult the appropriate operations and maintenance
manuals for the use techniques of specific underwater tools. In working with tools
the following basic rules always apply:
Never use a tool that is not in good repair. If a cutting tool becomes dulled,
return it to the surface for sharpening.
Do not overburden the worksite with unnecessary tools, but have all tools that
may be needed readily available.
Tools are secured to the diving stage by lanyard, carried in a tool bag looped
over the diver’s arm, or lowered on the descent line using a riding shackle and
a light line for lowering. Prior to ascent or descent, secure power to all tools.
Attach lanyards to all tools, connectors, shackles and shackle pins.
Using the diving stage as a worksite permits organization of tools while pro-
viding for security against loss. The stage also gives the diver leverage and
