IMCA Newsroom

Press Release 14/07

UPDATED GUIDANCE ON UNDERWATER AIR LIFT BAGS

Updated guidance on 'Underwater Air Lift Bags' has been published by the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA). It addresses the initial and periodic examination, testing, certification and maintenance of underwater type bags (cylindrical totally enclosed, closed and open parachute bags) used by divers to lift submerged objects. The new publication also focuses on the operational use of open parachute type lift bags and the safety precautions that should be taken during their use.

"The main feature of this revision of an existing guidance note is to provide examples of eight different types of lift by means of operational guidance notes, helpful descriptions and useful sketches," explains IMCA's technical director, Jane Bugler.

The document aims to provide clear lift bag guidance on fitness for purpose; examination and testing criteria; maintenance, which should be carried out to ensure the continuing integrity of each bag, as far as is possible, between its periodic tests; operational considerations; operational guidance; and safety precautions to be taken into consideration during their use. It does not apply to water-filled bags used as water weights for testing of other equipment.

Notes to Editors (common)

• IMCA is an international association with over 450 members in more than 50 countries, representing offshore, marine and underwater engineering companies. IMCA has four technical divisions, covering marine/specialist vessel operations, offshore diving, hydrographic survey and remote systems and ROVs, plus geographic sections for the Americas Deepwater, Asia-Pacific, Europe & Africa and Middle East & India regions, as well as a core focus on safety, the environment, competence and training. IMCA seeks to promote its members' common interests, to resolve industry-wide issues and to provide an authoritative voice for its members.
• IMCA publishes some 200 guidance notes and technical reports. These have been developed over the years and are widely distributed. They are a definition of what IMCA stands for, including widely recognised diving and ROV codes of practice, DP documentation, marine good practice guidance, the Common Marine Inspection Document, safety recommendation, outline training syllabi and the IMCA competence scheme guidance. In addition to the range of printed guidance documents, IMCA also produces safety promotional materials, circulates information notes and safety flashes.
• Judith Patten is here to help you if you want any additional information on IMCA; would like to discuss a feature article; want to organise interviews with key members of the IMCA team, etc.