Queensland updates diving and snorkelling safety rules
13 Aug 2024•BlueSafe Team•Source: WorkSafe QLD
The Queensland Government is updating its recreational water activities regulation and diving and snorkelling code of practice to maintain safety standards and implement coronial recommendations.
The changes cover the Safety in Recreational Water Activities Regulation and the Recreational Diving, Recreational Technical Diving and Snorkelling Code of Practice. They follow extensive consultation with dive operators, industry representatives, training organisations and medical experts.
More than one million people are estimated to take part in recreational diving and snorkelling in Queensland each year. The state has Australia’s largest industry for these activities and is the only Australian jurisdiction with a specific legislative framework covering them.
The reviews aim to put coronial recommendations into practice and reflect industry best practice. Reducing risks for participants also supports the continuing development of Queensland’s tourism industry.
The updated Code of Practice gives dive operators practical guidance on meeting the Regulation’s requirements. Key changes address coronial recommendations on risk assessments and diver supervision, alongside industry feedback and changes arising from the remade Regulation.
The Regulation is being restructured to make it simpler and reduce duplication. Definitions and terminology are also being updated to reflect modern practices.
Outdated medical requirements are being replaced with current, evidence-based medical information.
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