8.1.1 The design and construction of the hyperbaric evacuation system should be
such that it is suitable for the environmental conditions envisaged, account being
taken of the dynamic, snatch, horizontal or vertical loads that may be imposed on
the system and its lifting points particularly during evacuation and recovery.
8.1.2 Facilities for saturation diving shall be equipped for adequate work-site
evacuation of all divers under pressure.
8.1.3 The pressure chamber of the hyperbaric evacuation system shall be so
designed that all the divers in the diving system can be rescued simultaneously at
maximum operating depth. At least one seat with safety harness is to be provided for
each diver. The seating or other arrangements provided should be designed to provide
an adequate degree of protection to the divers from impact collisions during launch,
while the unit is afloat and during recovery. Where the chamber is intended to be
occupied for more than 12 hours arrangements for the collection or discharge of
human waste should be provided. Where discharge arrangements are provided they shall
be fitted with suitable interlocks.
8.1.4 The arrangements and instructions should be provided externally to enable
the hyperbaric evacuation unit to be recovered safely. The instructions should be
located where they will be legible when the hyperbaric evacuation unit is
floating.
8.1.5 The pressure chamber is to be equipped with a supply lock.
8.1.6 The connection flange of the pressure chamber is to be so designed that
it is also able to mate to a different system.
8.1.7 The pressure chamber is to be fitted with viewports in such a way that,
wherever possible, all the occupants can be observed from outside.
8.1.8 The pressure chamber is to be provided with the necessary connections to
enable the internal pressure, temperature, gas composition and humidity to be
maintained.
8.1.9 The pressure chamber is to be adequately lit.
8.1.10 The hyperbaric evacuation system is to be so designed that its behaviour
in a seaway corresponds to that of an enclosed lifeboat.
8.1.11 The system must be self-propelled and capable of navigation or must be
provided with means (e.g. suitably equipped ancillary boat) enabling the hyperbaric
evacuation system to be towed away quickly after launching.
8.1.12 The hyperbaric evacuation system must be equipped with its own life
support system enabling the pressure, temperature, humidity and gas composition in
the pressure chamber to be maintained for at least 72 hours. The life support
systems are to be provided with connections for external supply and
surveillance.
8.1.13 The hyperbaric evacuation system must be equipped with the controls
needed to maintain a safe environment for the divers.
8.1.14 The hyperbaric evacuation system must be equipped with a communication
system for talking to the divers.
8.1.15 The hyperbaric evacuation system is to be equipped with its own power
supply capable of keeping the electrical installations in operation for at least 72
hours.
8.1.16 The hyperbaric evacuation system is to be provided with lifting
attachments enabling it to be hoisted by a standard ship's crane.
8.1.17 The hyperbaric evacuation unit should be capable of being recovered by a
single point lifting arrangement and means should be provided on the unit to permit
a surface swimmer or other person to hook on or connect the lifting arrangement.
8.1.18 The hyperbaric evacuation system must be constructed of materials
suitable for their intended use, which are at least flameretardant and must be
equipped with a water spray system for cooling the surface in the event of fire.
8.1.19 The mating system of the hyperbaric evacuation system must be designed to
permit rapid and safe connection and disconnection.
8.1.20 The design and testing of the handling system must confirm to Rules and
Regulations for life saving appliances, lifting appliances and, where applicable, to
the relevant national regulations.
8.1.21 The handling system must be capable of safely launching the hyperbaric
evacuation system and, where applicable, of effecting also the retrieval and mating
operations.
8.1.22 Hyperbaric evacuation systems should not be located in Zone 0 or Zone 1
hazardous areas and high fire risk areas should be avoided as far as is reasonably
practicable.
8.1.23 Components in the hyperbaric evacuation system should be so designed,
constructed and arranged as to permit easy inspection, maintenance, cleaning and,
where appropriate, disinfection.
8.1.24 In the design of pressure vessels including accessories such as doors,
hinges, door landings, closing mechanisms, penetrators and viewports, the effect of
rough handling should be considered in addition to design parameters such as
pressure, temperature, vibration, operation and environmental conditions. In
general, piping penetrations through the chamber should have isolating valves on
both sides.