Prevention of occupational diseases of diving specialists while performing underwater works under low ambient temperatures: prospective study

OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of applying active thermal protection by diving specialists based on electric heating to ensure thermal comfort as a part of a series of measures to prevent occupational diseases while performing underwater works under low ambient temperature.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The test evaluated the time spent by divers in the water maintaining thermal comfort without active heating and using the system of electric heating. The diver’s thermal comfort was estimated according to subjective sensations. The test was held using the diving equipment SLVI-71, SSP-М, SN-21, GVS ХС1200, SVG-200, SVC «Amphora», SVU-5/1, SVU-3 with АВМ-12к, at depth from 2 m to120 m, at a water temperature from +1° С to +16° С.

RESULTS: The test determined the compatibility of the electric heating developed system for divers with components of special diving equipment of the above types; showed the necessity of applying the elements of hands and feet’s warming as a part of the heating system; proved the positive impact of the heating system on divers in the period of maintaining thermal comfort while performing diving works, including different levels of heating power.

DISCUSSION: Diver’s hypothermia predisposes to oxygen starvation, contributes to the emergence of decompression sickness, oxygen and carbon dioxide poisoning. The average time of providing divers thermal comfort by using FEC at a water temperature from +1° С to +4° С exceeds 3,5–4,6 times the period of the diver’s staying in the water without using active heating. Using elements of hands and feet’s warming in the electric heating suit provides decrease in appearance of primary hypothermia signs of the extremities, contributing to the maintenance of the diver’s optimum heat sensation for a long time. Applying electric heating system significantly reduces the risk of hypothermia while performing diving works under low ambient temperatures and helps to prevent occupational diseases, directly or indirectly related to the impact of low ambient temperatures on the body.

CONCLUSION: The application of electric heating system for divers significantly reduces the risk of hypothermia while performing diving works under low ambient temperatures, enables to increase allowable time in water in the diving suit 3,5–4,6 times and helps to prevent occupational diseases, directly or indirectly related to the impact of low ambient temperatures on the body.