Guidance on auditing of diving systems
- Recommended Practice
- Revision 3.1 - January 2026
This IMCA recommended practice:
- explains how Diving Equipment Systems Inspection Guidance Note (DESIGN) audits should be conducted
- details the roles of auditors, diving contractors, clients, and others
- outlines audit processes, and
- clarifies the requirements for documentation that supports safe diving operations.
Contents
- Introduction
- Glossary of Terms
- Roles and Responsibilities
- DESIGN Auditing
- Diving System Documentation Portfolio
- Bibliography/References
- Appendix 1 – Dive System Auditor (DESIGN)
Revision
-
Rev. 3.1 - January 2026Section 3.7.2 period of updating corrected
-
Rev. 3 - January 2026To better describe the role and responsibilities of auditors during DESIGN annual audits, as set out in IMCA Information Note 1720
-
Rev. 2.1 - April 2024Update of page 2, links & layout; no change to content
-
Rev. 2 - January 2017Updated with minor textual amendments and to include OPSR Job Category P01 as an appendix
-
Rev. 1 - December 2010Update to include comprehensive guidance for international use
-
Rev. - October 1997Initial publication