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SEL Number: 01WA-05-BTES
Title: Boots or Booties, Diving, Contaminated Water, NFPA 1953


Last Updated: 7/20/2023 5:25:18 PM

Previous SEL Number: 01WA-05-BTES

Description: Protective boots or booties worn with ensemble for use in contaminated water diving operations (certified as compliant with NFPA
National Fire Protection Association
1953). Designed to be worn with swim fins.

ImportantFeatures: NFPA
National Fire Protection Association
1953 defines boots or booties that are worn with an ensemble that consists of dry suit, dry suit gloves or mittens, dry suit underwear, and swimming fins. The ensemble is designed to maintain integrity of the breathing air supply, protect against chemical/biological contaminants, insulate against cold water, and protect against physical hazards. Dry suit boots or booties should cover the wearer's feet and rise to above the ankles, integrate/interface with the dry suit, have slip resistant soles, and accommodate the use of swimming fins. Materials used in dry suit boots or booties are required to demonstrate resistance to physical hazards, barrier effectiveness against chemical and biological contaminants, and thermal insulation to the foot. After any exposure to a contaminated environment, the entire dry suit ensemble should be decontaminated and tested for integrity.

Operating Considerations: The principal hazard encountered during contaminated water diving is exposure to hazardous biological or chemical agents. While some contaminants may be so diluted that the associated risks are small, others such as PCBs may be immediately dangerous even at very low concentrations. Some materials may not dissolve in water; these chemicals could be encountered as pockets of highly concentrated material in bottom sediment or as slicks on the water's surface. Therefore, for maximum safety, the diver must be completely isolated from the water environment. Under certain conditions, when only a moderate biological hazard exists (such that only temporary illness could result), a lesser degree of protection may be sufficient. In general, because not all hazards may be apparent, the prudent decision is to use the equipment giving the highest level of protection.

Training Requirements: Core Training: Public Safety Diver with nationally-recognized dive certification. NFPA
National Fire Protection Association
1006, Chapter 13.
Initial Training: Extensive (> 2 days)
Sustainment Training: Extensive (> 2 days)

Mandatory Standards:


Applicable Standards and References:


MSSL:
  • Dive Team
  • Maritime
  • Preventive Rad/Nuc Detection