DiveAlert Emergency Signaling Devices Recalled by Ideations Due to Drowning Hazard

-----------NEWS from CPSC-----------
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Communications
4330 East West Highway, Bethesda, MD 20814, www.cpsc.gov
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DiveAlert Emergency Signaling Devices Recalled by Ideations Due to Drowning Hazard
http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2013/DiveAlert-Emergency-Signaling-Devices-Recalled-by-Ideations/

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Recall Date: June 5, 2013
Recall Number: 13-207

DiveAlert Emergency Signaling Devices Recalled by Ideations Due to Drowning Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Consumers should stop using this product unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Recall Summary

Name of Product: DiveAlert and DiveAlert PLUS signaling devices

Hazard: The signaling device can malfunction when used and restrict the diverÿÿ™s air flow, posing a drowning hazard.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled DiveAlert signaling devices and return them to an authorized DiveAlert dealer or to DiveAlert for a free repair. The repair consists of replacing the defective female coupling.

Consumer Contact:  DiveAlert, at (800) 275-4332 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, by email at info@divealert.com or online at www.divealert.com and click on Recall for more information

Recall Details

Units: About 2,500

Description:  This recall involves DiveAlert and DiveAlert PLUS scuba dive signaling devices with model numbers DA2, DP2 or DV2. The signaling device is attached to the divÿÿâÿ™s buoyancy compensator device (BCD) power inflator/alternate regulator system by a chrome-plated brass coupling and is used to activate a loud surface horn or an underwater percussion noise to alert others in the event of a diverÿÿ™s emergency. The devices are also used in non-emergencies to get the attention of the pickup boat or other divers. The DA2 is black with an orange button, the DP2 is black with a gray knob and red button and has DiveAlert PLUS printed on it, and the DV2 is black and red. They can be used with Aqualung AirSource, Oceanic Air XS, Aeris Air Link and Mares Air Control regulator/inflators. Only these signaling devices without any stamped writing on the couplinÿÿ€™s collar are included in this recall.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Sold at: Dive equipment stores nationwide from July 2009 through May 2013 for between $70 and $90.

Manufacturer: Ideations DiveAlert, of Seattle, Wash.
Manufactured in: United States

Photos are available at http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2013/DiveAlert-Emergency-Signaling-Devices-Recalled-by-Ideations/

Oceanic Issues a Quality Notice on the DVT Plunger found in Regulator First Stages

National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa Conducts Dive Safety Drill

Marine Patrol responds to divers in distress.

On May 23, 2013 a Dive Safety Drill was conducted in Pago Pago Harbor in American Samoa. Coordinated by the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa, this preparedness drill was designed to evaluate the response capabilities of area search and rescue and health care providers, in the event that an actual SCUBA diving emergency occurs. On the days prior to the drill, important skills for first responders, including first aid, CPR, and O2 administration, were reviewed and practiced. Over 50 participants from the local community participated in the training with instructors from the NOAA Dive Center, Cardinal Point Captains, the National Park of American Samoa, and EMS. The intent was to enhance awareness, safety, and communications of marine and emergency professionals through the planned exercise to meet three primary goals: 1) Demonstrate human and technological capabilities, integrating across programs for the common goal of protecting human life and coastal natural resources; 2)  Develop individual skills in program management, coordination, contingency planning, emergency response, health and safety; and 3)  Build relationships across the public and private sector that foster long-term collaboration to protect the environment.

Marine Patrol conducts initial assessment of diving injuries.

The drill was very successful and is the starting point for more safety drills in the future. All participants included: American Samoa Community College, American Samoa Department of Commerce, American Samoa Environmental Protection Agency,Cardinal Point Captains, Coral Reef Advisory Group, Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources, Department of Public Safety - Marine Patrol and Fire Department, Emergency Medical Service, Industrial Gases, LBJ Tropical Medical Center, National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa, National Park of American Samoa, NOAA Dive Center, NOAA Office of Law Enforcement, NOAA Pacific Islands Regional Office, Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, Office of Homeland security, Pago Marine Charters, and United States Coast Guard and Auxiliary. For more information, contact Michelle.A.Johnston@noaa.gov.

EMS transports divers.

  

Diver enters hyperbaric chamber at LBJ Tropical Medical Center.

Significance: This drill was a terrific learning experience for every participant and is a tremendous step forward in operational response cooperation for the territory.

A Reminder on Depth Limitations for Newly Certified NOAA Divers

Depth limitations for newly certified diver are outlined in section 3.3.1 of both the NOAA Working Diver Standards and Safety Manual and the NOAA Scientific Diver Standards and Safety Manual.  Essentially, all new divers are given letters certifying them to 130 fsw.  However, the language used in Section 3.3.1 of both manuals states: 

Initial Limitation.  Although the nominal depth to which NOAA divers are certified is 130 fsw, all newly certified NOAA divers shall be limited to a maximum depth of 60 fsw until approved to dive deeper by the UDS.   

The NOAA Diving Control and Safety Board want to make certain all UDSs and NOAA divers are aware of and are adhering to this restriction.  The newly certified divers experience in diving to such depths may be very limited and it is the responsibility of the UDSs to assure they are confident with the comfort level and ability of the diver at depths greater than 60 fsw prior to allowing the diver to conduct working or scientific dives at these depths.  The UDS will need to assess the experience and abilities of the diver to determine the appropriate course of action needed to attain this confidence.  An appropriate course of action may involve training dives deeper than 60 fsw where the UDS can improve and assess the diver's skill and comfort level at depth.  Again, each diver's needs will be different and we are relying on the UDS to make the assessment and take the appropriate actions.

Aqua Lung Recalls Buoyancy Compensators Due to Drowning Hazard

Aqua Lung Recalls Buoyancy Compensators Due to Drowning Hazard

Consumers should stop using this product unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Recall date: March 21, 2013

Recall number: 13-146

Name of product: Aqua Lung buoyancy compensators with SureLock II weight pocket handles

Hazard: The rubber handles can detach as divers are trying to remove the weight pockets to rise to the surface in an emergency. This poses a drowning hazard.

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled buoyancy compensators and return the two weight pockets to an authorized Aqua Lung dealer to receive a free inspection and free replacement for recalled weight pocket handles.

Consumer Contact: Aqua Lung; toll-free at (855) 355-7170 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday or online atwww.aqualung.com and click on Recall Notice for more information.

Units: About 110,000

Photos are available at: http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2013/Aqua-Lung-Recalls-Buoyancy-Compensators/

Description: This recall involves all Aqua Lung buoyancy compensators with SureLock II rubber handles attached to weight pockets, including the following models: Axiom, Axiom i3, Balance, Black Diamond, Dimension, Libra, Lotus, Pearl, Pearl i3, Pro LT, Pro QD, Pro QDi3 and Zuma buoyancy compensators. The SureLock II handles are gray rubber and measure about 2 inches tall by 4 inches wide.   The buoyancy compensator's model name is embroidered on the inside back pad or the weight pocket's right lobe. "SureLock" is molded into the back of the weight pocket.

Incidents/Injuries: Aqua Lung is aware of 236 reports of handles detaching from the weight pockets.  There are no reported injuries.

Sold at: Sporting goods and scuba diving stores nationwide from September 2008 through September 2012 for between $460 and $700 for the buoyancy compensator with the weight pockets.

Importer: Aqua Lung America, of Vista, Calif.

Manufactured in: China and MexicoAqua Lung Recalls Buoyancy Compensators Due to Drowning Hazard

Trident Diving Equipment Recalls High-Pressure Scuba Diving Air Hoses Due to Drowning Hazard

Recall Date: April 18, 2013
Recall Number: 13-174

Trident Diving Equipment Recalls High-Pressure Scuba Diving Air Hoses Due to Drowning Hazard

Name of product: High-Pressure Scuba Diving Air Hoses

Units: About 200

Hazard: The diving hose that connects the regulator to the tank's pressure gauge can leak, posing a drowning hazard to the user.

Description: The recalled air hoses are high-pressure scuba air hoses with a black, smooth rubber outer covering. They are about five millimeters in diameter and 32 or 36 inches long. These hoses connect the regulator to the tank pressure gauge. The phrase "Scuba Diving High Pressure hose I.D. 3/16 (4.76 mm) W.P. 5000 PSI Exceeds SAE 100RT braid with Kevlar fiber from Dupont" is printed in white lettering on the hose's outer covering. The hoses have metal fittings on each end - one female fitting and one male fitting. "CE EN 250 230" is stamped on the female fitting and one of the following production date codes is on the male hex head fitting: T1011, T1111 or T0312.

Incidents/Injuries: Trident has received one report of a hose leaking. No injuries have been reported.

Sold at: Scuba diving retailers nationwide from November 2011 through June 2012 for about $35.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the hoses and contact Trident Diving Equipment for a free replacement hose.

Consumer Contact: Trident Diving Equipment at (800) 234-3483, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or e-mailTridentDive@aol.com or online at www.TridentDive.com, then click on "Smooth High Pressure Hose Safety Recall" for more information.

Importer: Trident Diving Equipment, of Chatsworth, Calif.
Manufactured in: Taiwan

Photos are available at http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2013/Trident-Diving-Equipment-Recalls-High-Pressure-Scuba-Diving-Air-Hoses/
Trident Diving Equipment Recalls High-Pressure Scuba Diving Air Hoses

Earth Day Dive, 2013

The NOAA Diving Center celebrated Earth Day 2013 with its annual Lake Washington cleanup dive.  Seven NOAA divers from the NDC, the NOAA Ship Fairweather and the NOAA Small Boat Program teamed up to remove 500 lbs of garbage from the water around the Mount Baker Beach Park, which had been identified by the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department as a park that could use some TLC.  The garbage ranged from bottles and aluminum cans to pieces of clothing and fishing poles.   The NOAA divers were proud to to assist in this cleanup effort.

From left to right: LT Ryan Wattam, NOAA Diving Center; LT Sarah Duncan, NOAA Small Boat Program; ENS Kristen Golmon, NOAA Ship Fairweather; Katie Mahaffey, NOAA Diving Center; CDR Joel Dulaigh, NOAA Diving Center; ENS Scott Broo, NOAA Ship Fairweather and Nick Jeremiah, NOAA Diving Center.

"Y" Pier at Mount Baker Beach Park, Seattle, WA

NOAA Diver LT Josh Slater recieves a Gold Medal for Heroism

LT Josh Slater,  Office of Marine and Aviation Operations, was selected by the Acting Secretary of the Department of Commerce (DOC) for Gold Medal recognition. LT Slater is recognized for his heroic actions, which resulted in saving a young family from drowning. LT Joshua Slater was on TDY assignment in Honolulu, HI, helping teach an oil spill response class. One evening he came across a family struggling to stay afloat in a deep lagoon. Through LT Slater’s vigilance and immediate response, he was able to rescue the family of three — a mother, young son and daughter. After reaching the beach he performed CPR on the unconscious mother, saving her life and turning a potentially tragic event into one of heroism and courage.

LT Josh Slater (l) and Sarah Fangman (r) attaching new instrument that will be used to track tagged fish.(Photo: Jamie Park)

 

Safety diver LT Josh Slater during a safety stop seen carrying a spare oxygen tank and gear passed over by the technical divers.

Photo taken by Christine Buckel (NOS/NCCOS/CCFHR/AERRB)

 

Applications for 2013 WDHOF Scholarships & Training Grants are now being accepted

For more information -  http://www.wdhof.org/scholarships/scholarships.shtml

DAN reaches out in support of Aquarius Reef Base

Unique, one-of-a-kind facility in the Florida Keys needs help to survive

Released on: 8/21/2012

 http://www.divenewswire.com/NewsITems.aspx?newsID=12223

Continuing in its mission to further scuba diving research and safety, Divers Alert Network (DAN) has agreed to act as a fiscal sponsor for non-profit Aquarius Foundation as it serves as a conduit to raise funds for the continued operation of the Aquarius Reef Base.  

Discovering that government budget cuts were threatening to force the shutdown of the Aquarius Reef Base, several prominent members of the scuba diving community including DAN Board Member and National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Dr. Sylvia Earle, DAN President Dan Orr, DAN Holdings President and CEO Bill Ziefle, and Alert Diver Editor Stephen Frink liaised to discuss ways that DAN could help. As a result, DAN created a special website presence dedicated to the Aquarius Reef Base project. 100% of funds donated to DAN through this page will be earmarked for use by the Aquarius Foundation.  

According to Bill Ziefle, “Over the years, many important research studies have been conducted by diving researchers using the Aquarius Reef Base. DAN strongly supports these initiatives and wants to do everything possible on ensure that they continue. We encourage all DAN members and the diving community to take a look at the Aquarius site and help us save the historic and vital piece of diving history.”

 
The Aquarius Underwater Habitat serves as a base and laboratory for marine scientists who live underwater for days at a time as they study our changing coral reef ecosystems and learn to preserve and protect them. This underwater home has operated four miles offshore the Florida Keys and 60 feet underwater since 1992. The Aquarius Foundation supports the missions of Aquarius Reef Base including the one of a kind Aquarius Underwater Habitat.

Additional information about Aquarius Reef Base is available at http://aquarius.uncw.edu, and the Aquarius Foundation at www.aquariusreefbase.org. Donations can be made at dan.org.

NOAA/UHMS Physicians Training in Diving Medicine

The 2012 NOAA/UHMS Physicians Training in Diving Medicine Course has come to a conclusion. Twenty-eight physicians representing both clinical and research institutions worldwide attended this year’s course. Participants included physicians from Brazil, Mexico, Canada and the United States.

The goal of this program is to train physicians in recognizing and treating diving medical emergencies.  During the two week course, physicians received instruction in diving and clinical hyperbaric medicine from NDC staff as well as visiting lecturers actively involved in both the research and clinical application of hyperbaric medicine. Students also participated in comprehensive re-compression chamber operations during this course.

 

NDP Manager Retires

Dave Dinsmore announced his retirement last month after 15 years as head of the NOAA Diving Program.

Dave Dinsmore started diving in1967. He attended Morehead State University in Kentucky and received a B.A. in education and an officer’s commission in the United States Army. He served in the US Army from 1972 to 1976 in a variety of positions including Office-In-Charge of the US Army Salvage Diving School, Diving Officer at Ft. Eustis, VA (497th Engineer Port Construction Company), and Liaison Officer at the US Navy Diving School. 

In 1976, he left military service for a position at the Florida Institute of Technology (FIT), teaching commercial diving in their two year Associate Degree program in Undersea Technology.While at FIT, he obtained a M.Ed. Degree in Guidance and Counseling from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Florida. He also worked for Taylor Diving and Salvage in Belle Chase, Louisiana, during one summer break to gain commercial diving experience. 

Eight years later, he accepted a position with the NOAA National Undersea Research Center at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, supervising air and mixed-gas scuba and surface-supplied research diving operations. Later the position evolved from diving supervision to operational management with responsibility for all personnel, equipment & facilities, and activities utilizing scuba diving, ROV’s, submersibles, and the Aquarius seafloor habitat. In October, 1996, he was selected as the new Director of the NOAA Diving Program in Seattle, Washington. 

After assuming command of the NDP, he obtained his instructor ratings from NAUI and IANTD for training and NBDHMT for diving medical technician training.

 

During Dave’s 15 years as Director of the NOAA Diving Center and Manager of the NOAA Diving Program he brought passion and leadership to the NDP and was responsible for much notable advancement within the Program.

Among his many achievements was the development of the NOAA Scientific Diver certification and later a formal training and certification program standardizing the level of training and capabilities of NOAA Scientific divers. The Scientific diver program greatly expanded the role of the NDP in the scientific community resulting in reciprocity among other scientific agencies and allowing for cooperative efforts. 

Dave was instrumental in publishing two editions of the NOAA Diving Manual and facilitated the creation of Scientific and Working Dive Manuals.

He oversaw the construction of two containerized hyperbaric chamber systems which were capable of shipboard transport. This was a major breakthrough for NOAA in support of safe remote diving operations.  

The statistics under Dave’s leadership are extraordinary. He was responsible for the training and certification of 1,000+ NOAA Scientific and Working Divers who logged over 170,000+ dives in support of NOAA’s missions. All made possible by Dave’s exemplary leadership and dedication to safety.