Use of a diffuser
A diver has been found to be suffering from tinnitus and ear pain. It is thought that this has been caused by using the bell emergency blow down with no diffuser in place.
The contractor has issued the following instruction to its personnel:
- A diffuser should be installed on all pressurisation lines regardless of whether they are to be used for emergency blow down or not;
- The routine inspection of a diffuser should include a check that all exhaust valves are fitted with a fingerguard.
Safety Event
Published: 1 September 1998
Download: 
IMCA SF 04/98
IMCA Safety Flashes
Submit a Report
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of all. The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on Members sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Please consider adding [email protected] to your internal distribution list for safety alerts or manually submitting information on incidents you consider may be relevant. All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate.
IMCA’s store terms and conditions (https://www.imca-int.com/legal-notices/terms/) apply to all downloads from IMCA’s website, including this document.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data contained in the documents it publishes, but IMCA shall not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained. The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual’s or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.