HDV R 14 1.1
Due to constant technological advancement, the manufacturer may modify the content of this manual without prior notice.
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16 Depth and operating environments
DO NOT EXCEED THE MAXIMUM OPERATING DEPTH!!!
The dive is already VERY DANGEROUS at that depth. INCORRECT USE OF THE HDV
IN SUCH ENVIRONMENTS INCREASE DIVING HAZARDS.
It is important to remember that maximum diving vehicle operating depth refers to the HDV
in prime conditions. Collisions, scratches or deformations significantly reduce this limit.
16.1
Obstructed environments
Dives in such environments are already VERY DANGEROUS.
INCORRECT USE OF THE HDV IN SUCH ENVIRONMENTS INCREASES THE DIVING
HAZARDS. For example: if the control valves are hit accidentally whilst travelling at high
speeds, these may break, with obvious consequences. DIVING IN SUCH
ENVIRONMENTS REQUIRES ADEQUATE TRAINING BY QUALIFIED AGENCIES. It is
hereby emphasized that the running time of both the HDV and the breathing gas must be
planned in such a manner that every team member has TWICE the necessary resources
available. It is also obligatory to carry another extra HDV.
16.2
Muddy or suspension-filled environments
These include those environments, obstructed or otherwise, in which visibility may
suddenly fall to zero due to the suspension that is created by moving the bed sediment.
Dives in these environments are already VERY DANGEROUS. INCORRECT USE OF
THE HDV IN SUCH ENVIRONMENTS INCREASES THE DIVING HAZARDS.
DIVING IN SUCH ENVIRONMENTS REQUIRES ADEQUATE TRAINING BY QUALIFIED
AGENCIES.
For example: the rotating propeller that faces downwards can lift a considerable amount of
suspension.
Accidental activation of an emergency HDV in tow may create highly critical
situations.
17 Positions and behaviours to be avoided when diving
The diver’s head or other body parts should never be beyond the
propeller conveyor (5) (see fig. 1) where flow is suctioned.
Do not direct the flow from the conveyor at you. This thwarts the
propulsion drive and could move your equipment away from you.
Do not ride the HDV.
Do not attach the HDV to your tanks or their supports in any way.
Do not attach the HDV to your body, legs, arms or other parts in any way.
Do not use more than one HDV simultaneously.
Do not start the HDV with body parts other than your right hand.
When using the HDV, always keep your left hand far from the propeller, better is resting
against your body, on your side, or on your right hand to more comfortably control the
HDV.
Do not direct propeller flow at the sea bottom to avoid raising sand or mud.
