Estimation of Underwater Workable Time Considering Tidal Currents: A Review of Diving Equipment

Kim, M.; Song, M.; Park, J.; Kim, S., and Lee, W.-D., 2023. Estimation of underwater workable time considering tidal currents: A review of diving equipment. In: Lee, J.L.; Lee, H.; Min, B.I.; Chang, J.-I.; Cho, G.T.; Yoon, J.-S., and Lee, J. (eds.), Multidisciplinary Approaches to Coastal and Marine Management. Journal of Coastal Research, Special Issue No. 116, pp. 433-437. Charlotte (North Carolina), ISSN 0749-0208. Tidal currents generated by celestial motions significantly affect the performance of diving equipment and the activity of underwater workers. In this study, seawater flows surrounding the Korean Peninsula were simulated using ADvanced CIRCulation (ADCIRC) model to calculate the underwater working time considering the effect of tidal currents. The time for which Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus (SCUBA) and Surface-Supplied Diving System (SSDS) can be used was calculated by estimating the tidal currents at the sinking site of the Sewol ferry based on the US Navy Diving Manual. The average usable time of SSDS in underwater operations was 1.6 times that of SCUBA, the minimum value was 1.28 times greater in the spring tide, and the maximum value was 1.93 times greater in the neap tide. Thus, a field supervisor with professional knowledge of the maritime environment is essential for planning, supervising, and conducting underwater operations safely and efficiently.