Permit holders must safely use scuba diving equipment for aquatic plant management, and commercial diving operations have new requirements.

The bill mandates that permit holders managing aquatic plants must use scuba diving equipment safely. It establishes requirements for commercial diving operations, including the need for a valid open-water scuba diver certificate and the use of a buoyancy control device. Employers must ensure employees follow safety practices and complete a third-party on-site hazard survey annually. The commissioner is directed to develop an information sheet for employers using scuba diving equipment, which must be posted on the department's website and provided to businesses.

Permit holders must safely use scuba diving equipment for aquatic plant management, and commercial diving operations have new requirements.

The bill mandates that permit holders managing aquatic plants must use scuba diving equipment safely. It establishes requirements for commercial diving operations, including the need for a valid open-water scuba diver certificate and the use of a buoyancy control device. Employers must ensure employees follow safety practices and complete a third-party on-site hazard survey annually. The commissioner is directed to develop an information sheet for employers using scuba diving equipment, which must be posted on the department's website and provided to businesses.