Explanatory note

These Regulations relate to the operation of manned submersible craft in United Kingdom waters, or elsewhere when the submersible craft is operated from, or comprises a United Kingdom ship.

The Regulations impose operational safety requirements and provide for the reporting of casualties and other accidents which may occur in the course of such operations.

The Regulations lay duties on the owner of the submersible craft relating to the provision of the necessary equipment and an Operations Manual detailing the procedures to be followed in submersible operations and on the master of the parent craft in ensuring that the operation is carried on from a safe place and in a safe manner.

They provide for the appointment of an Operations Controller to exercise immediate control of the submersible operations, for ensuring the maintenance of log books, and for ensuring that the submersible pilot is familiar with the operational and emergency procedures and is fully briefed as to the mission and on the anticipated environmental conditions during the mission. The Regulations require the submersible craft pilot to be competent to command that particular type of submersible craft and that all the crew hold a current medical certificate. Requirements are laid down as to matters which are to be included in the operations manual and log books.

They introduce requirements relating to casualties involving submersible craft and the powers conferred on the Secretary of State to direct an inspector to investigate such casualties.