Protection of divers in biologically polluted waters

Abstract

In studies reported herein, diving equipment was evaluated to assess its protective capabilities against microbiological hazards, and methodology was defined for decontamination of this equipment. Suits worn by the divers ranged from the nonprotective neoprene wet suits to the highly-protective variable volume dry suits, and water conditions ranged from warm (16\degC) to cold (0\degC). Using an indicator bacterium, Aeromonas hydrophila, which is routinely found in most polluted waters, the degree of bacterial contamination of divers and equipment in a variety of conditions was quantified. The studies showed that relatively simple, and easily performed techniques can be highly effective in protection of divers from microbiological hazards they face in polluted waters.