Defibrillators for Dive & Snorkel Vessels in QLD

Defibrillators are now mandatory in 2018 QLD Diving and Snorkelling Code of Practice.

The Queensland Government has adjusted requirments to the code of practice to include:

Recreational Snorkelling
Recreational Diving
Recreational Technical Diving

Queensland businesses undertaking these activities outside of a swimming pool, are now required to risk assess and have access to a Defibrillator.

Section 2.5 of the code states – Automated external defibrillators
Providing an automated external defibrillator can reduce the risk of fatality from cardiac arrest. The person conducting the business or undertaking should ensure that an Automatic
External Defibrillator (AED) and trained operator is available on the vessel or readily accessible at the dive or snorkel site (for example, located on the primary vessel, on the dive pontoon, or for shore-based snorkelling, on the shore or in a close by location).
In circumstances where an operator determines it is not reasonably practicable to provide an AED (for example, a small vessel), a documented risk assessment should describe all the matters considered in making this determination.
The AED should be located in an area that is known to all staff, clearly visible and readily accessible. The device should be clearly signed and maintained according to the
manufacturer’s specifications.