The Diving Code was last revised in 1995, but that revision was almost entirely editorial in nature so in essence the code is almost unchanged from its original form in 1983 – 37 years ago. IMCA recognises that there is a significant amount of work to be done in order to achieve the necessary updates and looks forward to working with IMCA Members and IMO Member states. This gives us a platform to be able to update legislation to protect the safety of divers right across the marine contracting sector.

To support the papers and increase awareness amongst Member States of the need to update the Diving Code, IMCA hosted a lunchtime presentation in a busy plenary session where three industry diving experts (IMCA Members, Tony Greenwood, ExxonMobil, Rob Rostron, DNVGL and Bryan McGlinchy of IMCA) explained the need to review the Code . IMCA also hosted an informative display, comprising a diving mannequin, video footage and graphic panels, which was exhibited throughout the week-long meeting. Margaret Fitzgerald, IMCA’s Head of Marine Policy & Regulatory Affairs chaired the lunchtime session and was instrumental in garnering support from IMO Member States and guiding the team through the process.

IMCA would like to thank:

• IMCA Members who are actively participating in the working groups
• Tony Greenwood and Rob Rostron for their support and time taken to attend and present at the IMO.   
• Subsea 7 for allowing us to use their diving mannequin

During an evening reception on the opening day of the SSE meeting, Mr Kitack Lim, Secretary-General of the IMO, visited the display and chatted with IMCA’s team and supporting Member States.

IMCA’s expertise in commercial diving dates back through its heritage to 1972. IMCA works tirelessly to address diver safety, promote safe working practices in the oil and gas industry, and support the interests of its members.

IMCA has held consultative status with IMO since 1999 and is actively involved in all areas of IMO’s work on behalf of its members.

The Correspondence Group is tasked to:

• Consider key areas to be addressed for revising the Code of Safety for Diving Systems (resolution A.831(19)), based on document SSE 7/14, in particular, paragraph 6 of the document;
• Develop a draft new Code in the Goal Based Standard (GBS format), by incorporating the relevant parts of the Guidelines and Specifications for Hyperbaric Evacuation Systems (resolution A.692(17)); and
• Submit a report to SSE 8 in March 2021. [The actual deadline for submission of the first draft of the revised IMO Diving Code will be by the end of November 2020].