Dear Valued CDAS Members and the Commercial Diving Community,
I hope this message finds you well and that all operations continue to be conducted safely.
It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of a commercial diver today. On behalf of the Commercial Diving Association of Singapore (CDAS), I extend our sincere condolences to the diver’s family, loved ones, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
The safety and welfare of commercial divers remain CDAS’s highest priority. We continue to advocate for the highest standards of safety through industry engagement, education, dialogue, and the promotion of best practices. While every effort is made to prevent workplace incidents, accidents can unfortunately occur despite the collective commitment of all stakeholders. The circumstances surrounding this incident are currently a matter for the relevant authorities to investigate, and CDAS will fully respect and support that process.
We have been informed that the operator involved in this incident is DIVETECH MARINE SERVICES PTE. LTD., which is a current CDAS member. In accordance with CDAS’s governance and commitment to maintaining the integrity of our safety standards, the Association has decided to suspend the company’s membership with immediate effect, pending the outcome of the relevant authorities’ investigations.
Following the conclusion of the investigations and any necessary regulatory actions, the company will be required to undergo a comprehensive CDAS re-audit and assessment before any consideration is given to the reinstatement of its membership. This administrative action is taken in accordance with CDAS’s internal policies and should not be interpreted as a determination of fault, liability, or responsibility for the incident, which remains subject to the findings of the competent authorities.
I would like to take this opportunity to urge all commercial diving operators, whether CDAS members or otherwise, to remain vigilant in the planning and execution of every diving operation. Robust risk assessments, strict adherence to established safety procedures, proper supervision, equipment readiness, and the physical and mental fitness of every diver must remain paramount before and throughout every deployment. Safety is a shared responsibility. Every stakeholder has a role to play in fostering a culture where risks are proactively identified, effectively mitigated, and where every diver returns home safely after each operation.
CDAS remains committed to working closely with regulators, industry partners, employers, and divers to continually strengthen safety standards across Singapore’s commercial diving industry.
Thank you for your attention and continued commitment to safety.
Sincerely,
Dr. Shahril
Chairman
Commercial Diving Association of Singapore (CDAS)