The State's marine safety authority has warned skippers and divers to take extra care following an increase in serious incidents on the water.

 

Department of Transport General Manager of Marine Safety David Harrod said despite the recent introduction of more comprehensive laws to provide greater protection of divers, over the last month there had been several reports of dangerous and potentially deadly interactions between vessels and divers in WA waters.

 

"There are concerns there will be tragic consequences if skippers and divers continue to fail to adhere to the rules and ignore recognised safe practices for diving," Mr Harrod said.

 

Amendments to the regulations governing the operation of vessels near divers require skippers who see a dive flag on a vessel or buoy to keep a proper lookout, proceed at a safe speed and where possible keep their vessel at least 50 metres clear.

 

Where it is not possible to keep 50 metres clear skippers must proceed at the slowest possible speed.

 

When in the vicinity of a diving signal, all vessels must proceed at a safe speed and with due caution until well clear. In all cases skippers should keep a good lookout for people in the water.

 

Diving laws in WA require vessels with divers operating from them to display a dive flag in keeping with the International Flag Code which is no less than 750 mm in length or 600 mm in width and is clearly visible (360 degrees).

n the vicinity of a diving signal, all vessels

Mr Harrod said divers should also exercise caution and highlighted there was not a 50 metre exclusion zone for boats around a dive flag.

 

"Additionally, while the regulations do not require snorkellers to display a dive flag, those snorkelling in areas of vessel traffic, in isolated areas or further offshore, it's recommended a dive flag be considered to alert skippers and enhance personal safety," Mr Harrod said.

 

Those wanting a copy Transport's safety publication Caution Diver Below or more information about safe boating are encouraged to visit the Department's website: www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine