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Training Rats to Voluntarily Dive Underwater: Investigations of the Mammalian Diving Response
Published on: November 12, 2014
Fatal diving accidents in western Norway 1983-2007.
M P Ramnefjell1, I Morild, S J Mørk
1Section for Pathology, The Gade Institute, The University of Bergen and Department of Pathology, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021 Bergen, Norway.
Forensic Science International
|September 18, 2012
Summary
Fatal diving accidents, though reduced, still happen. Most fatal diving incidents could be prevented by adhering to established safety protocols and ensuring equipment integrity.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Diving Medicine
- Accident Investigation
Background:
- Fatal diving accidents continue to occur despite safety efforts.
- A comprehensive review of 40 fatal diving accidents in western Norway (1983-2007) was conducted.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the circumstances and post-mortem findings of fatal diving accidents.
- To identify contributing factors including equipment defects, diving conditions, and individual factors.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 40 fatal diving accidents.
- Review of diving experience, medical history, toxicology reports, and forensic examination of diving equipment.
- Analysis of environmental factors (wave height, currents) and diving practices (solo diving, buddy system).
Main Results:
- Defects in diving equipment were found in 27 cases, directly causing six fatalities.
- Drowning was the cause of death in 31 divers, with alcohol consumption noted in some.
- Environmental factors like wave height and currents played a role in some incidents; 12 divers were diving alone.
Conclusions:
- Most fatal diving accidents are preventable with strict adherence to safety procedures.
- Equipment integrity and proper diving practices, including buddy support, are crucial for preventing fatalities.
