17-16 Change A
U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 4
17-4.4.1
Employing a Single, Untended EOD Diver. Generally, it is safer for divers to
work in pairs rather than singly. However, to do so when diving on underwater
influence ordnance doubles the diver bottom time expended, increases the risk to
life from live ordnance detonation, and increases the risk of detonation caused by
the additional influence signature of the second diver. The EOD Diving Officer
may authorize the employment of a single, untended diver when it is deemed that
the ordnance hazard is greater than the hazard presented by diving alone. All
single, untended divers must use a full face mask (FFM). The EOD Diving Officer
or Diving Supervisor shall consider the following factors when deciding whether
to operate singly or in pairs:
Experience of the diver
Confidence of the team
Type and condition of ordnance suspected
Environmental conditions
Degree of operational urgency required
17-4.4.2
Simulated Training Scenarios. Simulated ordnance training scenarios do not
constitute a real threat, therefore single untended divers shall not be used in
training operations. The diver shall be surface tended or marked by attaching a
buoy to him.
17-4.4.3
EOD Standard Safety Procedures. The following standard safety procedures
shall be observed during EOD diving operations:
An EOD Diving Officer shall be on scene during all phases of an explosive
ordnance disposal diving operation involving a Render Safe Procedure (RSP).
When diving on unknown or influence ordnance, the standby diver’s equip-
ment shall be the same type as the diver neutralizing the ordnance.
17-4.4.4
Diving Methods. Diving methods include:
Single Marked Diving. Consists of a single diver with FFM marked with a light-
weight buoyant line attached to a surface float. Upon completion of a dive
requiring decompression, the diver will signal the diving supervisor that he is
ready to surface. The diving boat will then approach the surface float and
recover the diver.
Paired Marked Diving. Procedures for paired marked diving are identical to the
procedures for a single marked diver, but with the addition of the second diver
connected by a buddy/distance line.
