수중 수색 및 구조에서 조류를 고려한 스쿠버 잠수의 일별 계획 및 관리: 세월호 참사 현장을 대상으로

Daily Planning and Management of SCUBA Diving for Underwater Search and Rescue Considering Tidal Currents: A Case Study of the Sewol Ferry Disaster Site

This study examines the planning and management of Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus (SCUBA) diving operations at the 2014 Sewol Ferry disaster site. A systematic daily diving schedule was developed based on current tidal predictions to determine available diving periods and establish detailed hull and seabed operations procedures. The results indicate that diving time was restricted to four daily periods, totaling 260 minutes during spring tides. Managing underwater search and rescue operations was challenging as only one dive with a diving group for hull diving could be conducted during slack water periods lasting 50~70 minutes. Conversely, during neap tides, diving availability increased to 1,180 minutes, with a maximum of 930 minutes available for up to 30 dives, requiring 54 professional divers. Thus, depending on tidal conditions, different diving schedules and personnel deployment strategies were necessary. Additionally, given the significant proportion of nighttime dives, the need for precise tidal current predictions was emphasized. This study followed no-decompression limits and implemented measures to reduce nitrogen narcosis and oxygen toxicity risks to enhance safety. A four-person dive team operating in pairs improved safety and efficiency, minimizing risks from repetitive diving and fatigue. Although SCUBA diving is generally unsuitable for seabed operations due to safety concerns, it may be conducted in urgent cases under strict supervision.