It’s summer 2024 and its busy!!! Busy in a good way! All CADC members are indicating a hectic season. At the same time, they are also noting that the crazy period of last year with a shortage of divers is leveling itself out. Some infrastructure projects that fired up last year are continuing and crews and contracts are in place. So – it is also busy in a steady way! Indicators are that it is about to get busier yet!!

It’s the same here at the CADC office as we deal with various meetings on regulatory changes and initiatives – namely stressing to regulators to get up to speed on current best practices and change the regulations. As usual, we seem to run into the same red tape on change, elections coming up and as such, regulators seem to be focusing more on drifting along rather than moving around. If you detect frustration, you have it right!!!

The Canadian Association of Diving Contractors (CADC) – in our article “CADC Sets the Standard” – traces the CADC’s journey from its start, responding to the National Energy Board’s call for a unified voice, to its ongoing efforts in standards, regulations and industry representation within our industry.  It’s been a long journey, but we are significant strides in our efforts to contribute to the our occupational / commercial diving sector. We have a crucial role ensuring safety and competency nationally across the industry. An interview with our present and past presidents showcases their impression of our efforts. (Spoiler: We are getting it right!!)

The new CEO of the Diver Certification Board of Canada (DCBC) Tracy Childs shares her personal reflection on the DCBC journey and vision for the future. With extensive experience in the diving certification process in Canada, the new CEO emphasizes the continuity of DCBC’s mission to enhance safety and competency. The article offers a glimpse into the CEO’s visits to accredited schools and international collaborations, highlighting a strong commitment to supporting high standards. Tracy has got this!!

This is a heads up for the “owner” when hiring a diving contractor. Ontario Ministry of Labour’s Matthew Neundorf’s insightful piece, “Who’s Responsible When Things Go Wrong?”, delves into the Internal Responsibility System under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act. Neundorf, a Provincial Specialist, clarifies the shared responsibilities among divers, employers, and insurance companies. This article serves as a crucial reminder of the legal and ethical duties necessary to ensure safe diving practices by the owner as well as the contractor. If you are an owner – you bear responsibility for what happens on a dive site that includes diver safety!!

David Parkes, the former CEO of DCBC, takes us on a historical journey through the organization’s evolution in his feature, “DCBC: Where it All Began.” Parkes recounts the founding of DCBC following the National Energy Board’s announcement and details its establishment of national standards and international collaborations. His narrative provides a comprehensive overview of DCBC’s significant impact on the diving industry over the past two decades. (David was honoured this year by CADC for his significant contribution to the diver certification process in Canada – and promoting it internationally for recognition.

Our member spotlight this issue presents an inspiring story of Aquatech Diving & Marine Services Ltd. in Alberta. Founded by John Dickau and now owed by Steve Berube, Aquatech has evolved from humble beginnings into a leading provider of industrial hazmat, search and recovery, and potable water diving services. The article highlights Aquatech’s unwavering commitment to safety, innovation, and community service, emphasizing its growth and success in the competitive diving market.

In “ROVs: A Diver’s Best Friend,” Chad Gillen from Deep Trekker Inc. discusses the integration of Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) in diving operations. Gillen emphasizes the complementary roles of ROVs and divers, showing how technology can enhance safety, efficiency, and data acquisition in various underwater tasks. This article paints a compelling picture of the future of diving, where human ability and technological innovation work hand in hand.

These articles collectively reflect our ongoing commitment to safety, innovation, and excellence in the commercial diving industry. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead, I hope these stories inspire and inform your work. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to advancing our field. It’s a long journey to make our industry safe, efficient and professional. We are all part of it.

DIGITAL VIEWING:

1. ONLINE READING: https://flip.matrixgroupinc.net/cadb/2024/summer/#page=1
2. DOWNLOADABLE  VERION: https://magazines.matrixgroupinc.net/cadc/

Participate – it’s your industry.

Stay safe …

Doug Elsey
Executive Director, CADC