Purpose of Compulsory Standard

The compulsory standard declared in paragraph 2 is intended primarily to– (a) protect the consumer or user against danger to health or safety; (b) ensure quality in goods produced for home use or for export; (c) prevent fraud or deception arising from misleading advertising or labelling; and 469 (d) require adequate information to be given to the consumer or user. 470 SCHEDULE (paragraph 2) BELIZE STANDARD BZS22: 2012: SPECIFICATION FOR INSPECTION, TESTING AND REQUALIFICATION OF PORTABLE CONTAINERS FOR LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GASES (LPG) 0 FOREWORD 0.1 This standard is the second in a series of standards for portable containers of liquefied petroleum gases (LPG). The primary objective of the requirements outlined in this standard for the periodic inspection, testing and re- qualification of containers, is to ensure that containers in service, as well as those being re-introduced into service, are in good condition and do not present a safety hazard or risk to consumers. 0.2 The inspection, testing and re-qualification of the containers should be carried out only by persons who are competent in the subject, to assure all concerned that the cylinders fit the permissible limits for continued safe use. 0.3 In drafting this standard, considerable assistance was derived from SLNS 44: 2006, Standard for Inspection, Testing and Requalification of Portable Containers for Liquefied Petroleum Gases (LPG), Saint Lucia Bureau of Standards. 0.4 In preparing this standard assistance has been derived from– (a) BNS 130: 1992 Specification for Inspection, Testing and Requalification of Portable Containers for Liquefied Petroleum Gases; Standards 471 (b) BS EN 1440: 1997 Transportable, refillable welded steel Cylinders for Liquefied Petroleum Gases (LPG) - Periodic requalification; (c) ISO 10297: Gas Cylinder Valves specification and Testing; and (d) ISO 10460: 1993 Welded Carbon Steel gas Cylinders - Period Inspecting and Testing. 1 SCOPE 1.1 This standard specifies the minimum requirements for the periodic inspection, testing and requalification of containers of liquefied petroleum gases to verify their integrity for further service. 1.2 It does not exclude the application of additional national requirements nor does it preclude the use of alternative methods where they provide equivalent methods of safety. 2 TERMS AND DEFINITIONS For the purpose of this standard the following terms and definitions shall apply2.1 competent person/body means a person who by a combination of training, experience and supervision is able to make objective judgments on the subject. 2.2 portable container means any container of a mass not greater than 45 kg of liquefied petroleum gas. 2.3 shell refers to storage tanks or other pressure vessels, the shell the metal wall of the main body of the tank as distinguished from the head or ends. 472 Standards 2.4 re-qualification refers to activities carried out at defined intervals such as examining, measuring, testing or gauging the characteristics of a cylinder and comparing these with specified requirements. 3 GENERAL PROCEDURES FOR INSPECTION, TESTING AND REQUALIFICATION 3.1 The following procedures form the basic requirements for periodic inspection, testing and re-qualification of containers for liquefied petroleum gases: 3.1.1 Containers due for periodic inspection and testing shall be identified primarily from either the date of manufacture stamped on the container or the last periodic test date stamped on the container 3.1.2 Inspection, testing and requalification of the container are to be made by a competent person. 3.1.3 Each portable container shall be subjected to an external and internal visual inspection, as described in 4.0 and 5.0 respectively and additionally one or more of the following supplementary tests as agreed with a competent person or body– (a) Hardness test; (b) Verification of cylinder mass or tare; (c) Inspection of cylinder neck/shoulder; (d) Hydraulic proof test; (e) Inspection of cylinder threads; (f) Pneumatic proof test and leak test; and Standards 473 (g) Pneumatic leak test where the actual burst test pressure exceeds– (i) 35 bar (525 psi) for commercial butane cylinders; and (ii) 70 bar (1050 psi) for commercial propane cylinders. 3.1.4 Newly manufactured containers shall be certified every ten years provided that the container has been used exclusively for liquefied petroleum gas and is free from corroding components and any other physical and material defects as described in Table 1. 3.1.5 Containers already in use shall be certified every five years. 3.1.6 Besides the periodic inspections and requalification specified above all containers shall be inspected prior to filling to determine whether the condition of the cylinder is safe for filling or warrants immediate examination and requalification. 3.1.7 The date of re-qualification shall be stamped on the container. 3.1.8 Any container that has not been inspected or tested after the specified period (within the year) shall not be filled. 3.1.9 When the condition of the container remains in doubt after the initial tests, supplementary tests shall be implemented as in 3.1.3. 3.1.10 Any container rejected by the competent person shall be segregated for reconditioning or scrapping. 474 Standards 4 EXTERNAL VISUAL INSPECTION 4.1 Preparation for external visual inspection 4.1.1 Before any work is carried out the container shall be identified and its contents emptied using a safe procedure and the release of pressure shall be controlled. The container shall be emptied at a properly equipped testing station by an operator trained to handle liquefied petroleum gases. 4.1.2 If required the cylinder shall be cleaned and have all loose coatings, rust, scale, caked paint or other foreign matter removed from that part of the exterior of the container so that the surface can be adequately observed. Cleaning may be achieved through steel wire brushing, shot blasting, water jet abrasive cleaning, and chemical cleaning or by other suitable methods. 4.1.3 Appropriate means shall be provided for inverting the container to facilitate inspection of the bottom. This is important because this is the part of the container most susceptible to corrosion. 4.1.4 If it is suspected that a container valve is obstructed, a check or checks shall be made to establish whether there is free passage through the valve or not. If it is established that there is no obstruction to gas flow in the container valve, the valve may be removed. When a container is found to have an obstructed gas passage in the valve or a damaged/inoperable valve, the container shall be set aside for special attention. 4.2 Inspection procedure The entire cleaned surface of the container shall be inspected for the following physical and material defectsStandards 475 (a) dents, cuts or gouges, bulges, cracks, laminations or punctures applying the Rejection Rules in 4.4; (b) corrosion, general distortion, leaks, fire damage or other visible that might indicate a weakness which would render the cylinder unfit for further service, applying the Rejection Rules as in 4.4; (c) other defects e.g. heat/fire damage, torch or electric arc burns and stamping, etc, applying the Rejection Rules in Table 3; (d) integrity of all permanent attachments. 4.3 Inspection equipment 4.3.1 Exterior corrosion, denting, bulging, gouges or digs are normally measured by simple direct measurement with scales or depth gauges. A rigid, straight edge of sufficient length may be placed over the defect and a scale used to measure the distance from the bottom of the straight edge to the bottom of the defect. 4.3.2 Commercial depth gauges are especially suitable for measuring the depth of small cuts or pits. It is important when measuring such defects to use a scale which spans the entire affected area. 4.4 Physical and material defects and rejection rules Gas container defects may be physical, material or due to corrosion as a result of environmental or service conditions to which the cylinder has been subjected. Rejection Rules for physical and material defects on the container are contained in Table 1, Table 2 and Table 3. 476 Standards 5 INTERNAL VISUAL INSPECTION 5.1 Preparation of containers (a) The containers shall be emptied of liquid and depressurized in a safe and controlled manner before proceeding; (b) Containers with inoperative or blocked valves shall be brought to a place for safe valve removal; (c) Valves shall be removed from cylinders for inspection and maintenance. 5.2 Procedure for inspection (a) After removing, where necessary, residual liquid, loose scale and any other foreign matter from the interior containers shall be inspected internally using an appropriate device (e.g. a lamp) to identify any of the defects similar to those listed in 4.2. Any internal lining or coating which may obstruct a thorough internal visual inspection shall be removed; (b) Containers showing signs of minor surface rust/corrosion shall be cleaned internally using an appropriate method (e.g. shot blasting under closely controlled conditions, water-jet abrasive, steam-jet cleaning, hot-water jet cleaning, chemical cleaning, etc.). During cleaning care shall be taken to avoid damaging the container walls. Containers shall be re- inspected after cleaning. Standards 477 TABLE 1 – PHYSICAL AND MATERIAL DEFECTS ON AN LPG CONTAINER & REJECTION RULE Defects Description Rejection Bulge Visible swelling of the container. Reject in all cases Dent A depression in the cylinder that has neither penetrated nor removed metal, and its width at any point is greater than 2% of the external cylinder diameter. When the depth of the dent exceeds 25% of its width at any point a. Cut or Gouge A sharp impression where metal; has been removed or redistributed. Where the original calculated wall thickness is known: where depth of cut or gouge is such that the undamaged (remaining) wall is less than the minimum calculated wall thickness. Intersecting cut or gouge The point of intersection of two or more cuts or gouges. Rejection in all cases. Dent containing cut or gouge A depression in the cylinder within which there is a cut or gouge When the size of the dent, cut or gouge exceeds the dimensions for rejection as an individual defect. Crack A split or rift in the cylinder shell. Rejection in all cases 478 Standards Defects Description Rejection Lamination Layering of the material within the cylinder wall appearing as a discontinuity, crack, lap or bulge at the surface. Rejection in all cases Leak A leak may originate from a number of sources, defects in a welded or bronzed seam, defects at the threaded opening, or from sharp dents, digs, gouges or pits. Any container with leakage, other than leakage at thread connections which may be corrected by tightening, shall be rejected. a Consideration of appearance and location also plays a part in the evaluation of dents. Standards 479 TABLE 2 CORROSION ON THE CYLINDER WALL Defect Description Rejection limit Isolated corrosion pits Pitting of metal occurring in isolated areas at a concentration not greater than 1 per 500mm2 of surface area. When the depth of discrete pits exceeds 0.6 mm (a greater depth can be accepted provided the depth of corrosion does not reduce the wall thickness below the minimum calculated wall thickness) Area corrosion Reduction in wall thickness over an area not exceeding 20% of the cylinder surface, including the ends (top and bottom) When the depth of penetration of any pit exceeds 0.4 mm (a greater depth can be accepted provided the depth of corrosion does not reduce the wall thickness below the minimum calculated wall thickness. General corrosion A reduction in wall thickness over an area exceeding 20% of the cylinder surface. When the depth of penetration of any pit exceeds 0.2 mm (a greater depth can be provided the depth of corrosion does not reduce the wall thickness below the minimum calculated wall thickness. 480 Standards Chain pitting or line or channels corrosion A series of pits or corroded cavities of limited width along the length or around the corrosion circumference. 1) When the total length of corrosion in any direction exceeds 50% of the circumference of the cylinder. 2) When the depth of penetration of any pit exceeds 0.4 mm (a greater depth of corrosion does not reduce the wall thickness below the minimum calculated wall thickness). 3) When the depth of corrosion cannot be measured Crevice corrosion Crevice corrosion occurs in When the depth of penetration exceeds 0.4 mm or when the depth of corrosion cannot be measured the area of the intersection of the foot ring or shroud with the cylinder Standards 481 TABLE 3 OTHER DEFECTS Defect Description Rejection limit Depressed bung Damage to the bung which has altered the profile of the cylinder Rejection in all cases or a limited level of depression/alignment deviation may be accepted as agreed with the competent body. Arc or torch burns Burning of the cylinder Rejection in all cases base metal, a hardened heat-affected zone, the addition of extraneous weld metal, or the removal of metal by scarfing or cratering Fire Damagea Excessive general or localized heating of a cylinder, usually indicated byRejection in all cases -charring or burning of paint -fire damage of the metal -distortion of the cylinder -melting of metallic valve parts -melting of any plastic components, e.g. date ring, plug or cap a If paint is only superficially charred, a cylinder may be accepted by a competent person 482 Standards TABLE 4 MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE DENT DEPTH CHART Average dent diameter (mm) Maximum allowable dent depth (mm) 5 0.5 165 16.5 10 1.0 170 17.0 15 1.5 175 17.5 20 2.0 180 18.0 25 2.5 185 18.5 30 3.0 190 19.0 35 3.5 195 19.5 40 4.0 200 20.0 45 4.5 205 20.5 50 5.0 210 21.0 55 5.5 215 21.5 60 6.0 220 22.0 65 6.5 225 22.5 70 7.0 230 23.0 75 7.5 235 23.5 80 8.0 240 24.0 85 8.5 245 24.5 90 9.0 250 25.0 95 9.5 255 25.5 100 10.0 260 26.0 105 10.5 265 26.5 110 11.0 270 27.0 115 11.5 275 27.5 120 12.0 280 28.0 125 12.5 285 28.5 130 13.0 290 29.0 135 13.5 295 29.5 140 14.0 300 30.0 145 14.5 305 30.5 150 15.0 310 31.0 155 15.5 315 31.5 160 16.0 320 32.0 Maximum allowable dent depth (mm) Average dent diameter (mm) Standards 483 TABLE 5 LPG C (mm) Head 0,889 0,660 0889 0660 2642 1575 1067 0737 1346 1676 1600 1753 1194 2286 (mm) Shell 0,889 0,660 0889 0660 1473 1295 1067 0737 1346 1676 1600 1753 1194 2108 Head (mm) 1,778 0,321 1778 1321 5283 3175 2108 1473 2718 3378 3226 3531 2388 4572 (mm) 1,778 1,321 Shell 1778 1321 2946 2616 2108 1473 2718 3378 3226 3531 2388 4267 Head (mm) 0,660 0,483 0660 0483 1981 1168 0787 0559 1016 1270 1194 1321 0889 1600 (mm) 0,660 Shell 0483 0660 0483 1092 0965 0787 0559 1016 1270 1194 1321 0889 1600 than 76 mm Head (mm) 1,321 0,991 1321 0991 3962 2362 1600 1118 2032 2540 2413 2642 1803 3429 in length (mm) 1,321 0,991 Shell 1321 0991 2210 1956 1600 1118 4089 2540 2413 2642 1803 3200 thickness length or general Head (mm) 2,667 1,981 than 76 mm in 2667 1981 7950 4750 3175 2210 4089 5080 4851 5283 3607 6375 corrosion thickness 10351 Shell (mm) 2,667 1,981 2667 1981 4445 3937 3175 2210 5080 4851 5283 3607 6375 Overall length 11367 11367 10287 12319 12192 15875 12351 (mm) 376,2 376,2 {9144 9779 9779 8894 8509 1016 diameter Inside {4572 {4969 {4318 (mm) 304,8 304,8 3048 3048 4064 4064 3583 3583 5583 6096 6096 7366 Capacity 1084 & Water 1225 1084 1080 1628 1393 2703 3243 3243 4536 (kg) 21,6 21,6 653 653 998 4BA-240 4BA-240 Or -300} Or -300} 4BA-240 26-150} 26-150} 4BA-20 4B-240 4B-240 4B-240 4B-240 4B-240 4B-240 4B-240 4B-240 ICC Code Cylinder M(205#) E(150#) E(128#) X(420#) P(300#) P(300#) Type 100# 100# 20# 20# 60# 60 C C 484 Standards TABLE 5 LPG C (Continued) Head (mm) 1448 Corrosion NOTE 2: For those cases where the original thickness is known to exceed the specification minimum the values in columns 1 through 4 may be area (mm) Shell 1448 NOTE 1: For any container not listed above, select one with the same diameter and ICC Coode from above table and use those limits. Head (mm) 2896 Column 4 general pits in (mm) Shell 2896 isolated pits Head (mm) 1092 Column 3 (mm) Shell 1092 than 76 mm Head (mm) Column 2 2184 gougers or digs more in length cuts Shell (mm) 2184 thickness gouges or digs less length or general Minium original (mm) Head corrosion cuts, than 76 mm in 4369 column 1 line corrosion thickness (mm) Shell 4369 Overall length 14097 (mm) increased by an amount equal to the excess thickness. diameter Inside (mm) 7366 Capacity Water 4536 (kg) 4ba-240 ICC Code Cylinder X(420#) Type Standards 485 6 ADDITIONAL TEST PROCEDURE 6.1 Hydraulic test The container shall be submitted to a hydraulic pressure test using a suitable fluid e.g. water or kerosene as the test medium. 6.1.1 Preparation of containers (a) The external surface of the container shall be cleaned as in 4.1.2; (b) The containers shall be emptied of liquid and depressurized in a safe and controlled manner before proceeding; (c) Containers with inoperative or blocked valves shall be brought to a place for safe valve removal; (d) Valves shall be removed from containers for inspection and maintenance. (e) If the cleaning method involves the wetting of the external surface, the external surface shall be completely dried before commencing the hydraulic test procedure. 6.1.2 Test equipment (a) All rigid pipe work, flexible tubing, valves, fittings and components forming the pressure system of the test equipment, shall be designed to withstand a pressure of 1.5 times the maximum test pressure of any container to be tested. Flexible tubing shall have characteristics to prevent kinking. 486 Standards (b) Pressure gauges that shall be used to read the cylinder test pressure shall be in accordance with EN 837-1 and EN 837-3 (class 1.6 or better). They shall be calibrated or checked for accuracy against a master gauge at regular intervals and in any case not less frequently than once a month. The master gauge shall be recalibrated in accordance with national requirements. The design and installation of the equipment and the cylinders connected to it shall ensure that no air is trapped in the system. (c) All joints within the system shall be leak tight. (d) A device shall be fitted to the test equipment to ensure that no cylinder is subjected to pressure in excess of its pressure by more than the tolerance given in 6.1.3 (d). 6.1.3 Procedure (a) The test pressure shall be established from the marking on the container. NOTE: More than one container may be tested at a time provided they all have the same test pressure. (b) Before applying pressure, the external surface of the cylinder shall be in such condition that any leak can be detected. The cylinder shall be positioned so that the welds are visible during the test. (c) The pressure shall be increased gradually in the cylinder until the test pressure is reached. Then the cylinder shall be isolated from the pumping system. Standards 487 (d) The test pressure shall not be exceeded by more than 10% or 2 bar (30 psi), whichever is the lesser. The test pressure shall be held for 30s to carry out the test. (e) If there is a leakage in the pressure system, it shall be corrected, and the cylinders retested. (f) Cylinders which do not leak or show any visible permanent distortion shall be deemed to have satisfied the requirements of the hydraulic test. (g) Any cylinders that fail the test shall be rejected. Rejected cylinders having a pinhole leak at the weld may be repaired, however. Cylinders that leak through pinholes at the weld should be rendered unserviceable or examined by a competent person to determine whether they can be repaired by welding. Any welding or repairing should be carried out in accordance with a written procedure approved by a competent body. (h) All repaired cylinders shall as a minimum be subjected to the procedures from (a) to (g) above. All repaired cylinders which fail a second time shall be rendered unserviceable. 6.2 Pneumatic leak test and proof test 6.2.1 Preparation of containers (a) The external surface of the container shall be cleaned as in 4.1.2. (b) The containers shall be emptied of liquid in a safe and controlled manner before proceeding. Containers with the inoperative or blocked 488 Standards valves shall be brought to a safe place for valve removal. (c) Consideration should be given to the need for repainting before commencing the pneumatic test, if full water immersion is to be used. 6.2.2 Procedure (a) The pneumatic proof test pressure for the cylinder shall be established prior to the test commencing and shall be the same as for an equivalent hydraulic test. Cylinders shall be charged with the pneumatic test medium to the test pressure and held at that pressure for 5s to 7s to carry out the test. Where a pressure relief valve is fitted, an adequate margin of safety shall be maintained between the pneumatic proof test pressure and the pressure setting of the pressure relief valve. If necessary the pressure relief valve shall be removed and the port plugged for testing. (b) The pressure may then be reduced to that required for the leakage test. The reduced pressure shall not be less than the pressure developed at the reference temperature as given in the design standard. If the pressure relief valve has been removed, it shall be reinstalled before leak testing. (c) The leakage test shall be for the entire cylinder and shall be by full water immersion or an equivalent method. (d) Any cylinder that fails that test shall be reconditioned or rendered unserviceable. Standards 489 (e) All reconditioned cylinders shall as a minimum be subjected to the procedures from (a) to (d) of this subclause. 6.3 Pneumatic leak test 6.3.1 Preparation of containers (a) The external surface of the containers shall be cleaned as in 4.1.2. (b) Containers with inoperative or blocked valves shall be brought to a safe place for valve removal. (c) Consideration can be given to the need for repainting before commencing the pneumatic test, if full water immersion is to be used. 6.3.2 Procedure (a) The containers shall be filled either with a pneumatic test medium, (e.g. natural gas, air, nitrogen), or with a small quantity of LPG in such a way that the internal pressures developed in the cylinder at the time it is checked for leakage shall be– (i) 7+20 bar (psi) for commercial butane cylinders; (ii) 180+20 (psi) for commercial propane cylinders. (b) Propane vapor may also be used as the test medium in which case the test pressure shall be limited to 5 bar (75 psi). Then the cylinder shall be isolated from the pressure source. 490 Standards (c) The gas tightness check shall be capable of detecting any leak from any part of the cylinder or its equipment. (d) The test can consist of full immersion of cylinder in water or an equivalent system. (e) Any cylinder which fails the test shall be reconditioned or rendered unserviceable. All reconditioned cylinders shall as a minimum be subjected to the procedures from (a) to (c) of the sub-clause 3.1.3. 6.4 Volumetric expansion test 6.4.1 General The cylinder shall be placed in a water jacket equipped to measure expansion and may be pressurized by water, kerosene or another suitable liquid. 6.4.2 Preparation of cylinders (a) The cylinders shall be emptied of any liquid and depressurized in a safe and controlled manner before proceeding. (b) Cylinders with inoperative or blocked valves shall be brought to a place for safe valve removal. (c) Valves shall be removed from cylinders for internal inspection. NOTE: The external surface of the cylinder may have to be subject to cleaning (see 6.3.1). 6.4.3 Test equipment Standards 491 (a) All rigid pipework, flexible tubing, valves, fittings, and other components forming the pressure system of the test equipment shall be designed to withstand a pressure of 1.5 times the maximum test pressure of any cylinders to be tested. Flexible tubing shall have characteristics that prevent kinking. (b) Pressure gauges that are used to read the cylinder test pressure shall be in accordance with EN 837-1 and EN 837-3 (class 1.6 or better). They shall be calibrated or checked for accuracy against a master gauge at regular intervals and in any case not less frequently than once a month. The master gauge shall be recalibrated in accordance with national requirements. The design and installation of the equipment and the cylinders connected to it shall ensure that no air is trapped in the system. (c) All joints within the system shall be leak proof. (d) A device shall be fitted to the test equipment to ensure that no cylinder is subjected to pressure in excess of its test pressure by more than the tolerance given in 6.1.3 (d). 6.4.4 Procedure (a) The pressure of the test shall be established from the test pressure marking on the cylinder. (b) The pressure shall be increased gradually in the cylinder until the test pressure is reached. Then the cylinder shall be isolated from the pumping system. 492 Standards (c) The test pressure shall be held for at least 30s to carry out the test. (d) If there is a leakage in the pressure system, it shall be corrected and the cylinders retested. (e) The cylinder shall not exhibit a permanent expansion greater than 10% of the maximum expansion. 7 INSPECTION OF CYLINDER THREADS 7.1 General If the valve (or any other fitting) is removed during periodic inspection, the cylinder’s threads shall be inspected in accordance with 4.2 to 4.4. 7.2 Internal threads The internal threads of the cylinder shall be visually examined to ensure that they are of adequate form and are clean. They shall be checked for burrs, cracks and other thread damage. 7.3 External threads External neck threads which are required for operational reasons shall be examined for integrity and for thread damage. 7.4 Damaged threads Where necessary and where the design permits, damaged threads may be repaired by a competent person. 8 FINAL OPERATIONS 8.1 Drying Standards 493 After hydraulic testing, effective precautions shall be taken to prevent internal corrosion. 8.2 Purging Air should be removed from the cylinder, e.g. by evacuation or by displacement with LPG. Cylinders should not be left open without valves or plugs for any period other than that required for essential maintenance. 8.3 Tare mass The tare mass of the cylinder shall be re-established if any modification or re-valving has been made on the cylinder (see ISO 4706 and ISO 22991) 8.4 Valving A valve suitable for the intended use shall be fitted to the cylinder using a sealing material/system (see ISO 13341 for details) and the optimum torque necessary to ensure a seal between the valve and the cylinder. The torque applied shall take into consideration the size, form and taper of the threads, the material of the valve and the type of sealing material/system used. 8.5 Marking After successful completion of the periodic inspection, each cylinder shall be legibly and durably marked, on the shroud, with the following information– (a) The identification of the test station or inspection body which carried out the periodic inspection; (b) The date of the inspection, which shall be in accordance with International Standard ISO 8601 : 2004 Data elements and interchange 494 Standards formats - Information interchange Representation of dates and times (year/month/date). (c) The height of the markings shall be at least 4 mm. 8.6 Reference to next periodic inspection date The next periodic inspection date shall be identified on the cylinder in accordance with the relevant regulations. 8.7 Identification of contents The cylinder contents shall be identified in accordance with the relevant regulations, e.g. commercial propane. 9 RENDERING CYLINDERS UNSERVICEABLE 9.1 The decision to reject a cylinder may be taken at any stage during the inspection and test procedure. Before rendering any cylinder unserviceable, the agreement of the owner shall be obtained so that the cylinder cannot be reissued into service as a pressure vessel. 9.2 Prior to taking any of the following actions ensure that the cylinder is empty and degassed. The following methods may be employed to render a cylinder unserviceable– (a) by crushing the cylinder using mechanical means; (b) by burning an irregular hole in the top dome equivalent in area to approximately 10% of the area of the top dome, or in the case of a thin- welded cylinder, by piercing in at least three places; Standards 495 (c) by irregular cutting of the neck; (d) by irregular cutting of the cylinder in two or more pieces; (e) by bursting (in a controlled and safe manner). 9.3 All cylinders rendered unserviceable shall be disposed of at an approved landfill. 10 RECORDS 10.1 The competent body shall maintain records including quality system, inspection reports and test data, calibration data and reports concerning the qualification or approvals of the competent persons. 10.2 Inspection reports and test data for cylinders shall be kept and maintained by the competent body at least until the retest date plus 2 years. 10.3 An inspection report or test data can cover one or more cylinders. 10.4 Where reports are issued for individual cylinders at least the following information shall be available– (a) serial number; (b) cylinder mass or tare, where applicable; (c) test pressure where applicable; (d) type and result of test (pass or fail); (e) retest date; (f) identification of the competent person; 496 Standards (g) details of any major repairs made to the cylinder by the retester; (h) cylinder manufacturing specification; (i) water capacity/size. MADE by the Minister responsible for the Bureau of Standards this 30th day of October, 2012. HON. ERWIN CONTRERAS Minister responsible for the Bureau of Standards Standards 497 CHAPTER 295 STANDARDS (BELIZE STANDARD BZS23:2012: SPECIFICATION FOR FILLING, HANDLING, STORAGE, TRANSPORTATION AND LOCATION OF PORTABLE CYLINDERS FOR LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS) (DECLARATION OF COMPULSORY STANDARD) ORDER ARRANGEMENT OF PARAGRAPHS 1. Citation. 2. Declaration of Compulsory Standard. 3. Purpose of Compulsory Standard. SCHEDULE 498 Standards CHAPTER 295 CAP. 295. R.E. 2020. 92 of 2012. STANDARDS (BELIZE STANDARD BZS23: 2012: SPECIFICATION FOR FILLING, HANDLING, STORAGE, TRANSPORTATION AND LOCATION OF PORTABLE CYLINDERS FOR LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS) (DECLARATION OF COMPULSORY STANDARD) ORDER (Section 9(2)) [Gazetted 3rd November, 2012] 1. This Order may be cited as theSTANDARDS (BELIZE STANDARD BZS23:2012: SPECIFICATION FOR FILLING, HANDLING, STORAGE, TRANSPORTATION AND LOCATION OF PORTABLE CYLINDERS FOR LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS) (DECLARATION OF COMPULSORY STANDARD) ORDER. Declaration of Compulsory Standard. Schedule. 2. The Belize Standard BZS23: 2012: Specification for Filling, Handling, Storage, Transportation and Location of Portable Cylinders for Liquefied Petroleum Gas) (LPG), which is set out in the Schedule, is hereby declared to be a compulsory standard with effect from November 1, 2012. Purpose of Compulsory Standard. 3. The compulsory standard declared in paragraph 2 is intended primarily to – (a) protect the consumer or user against danger to health or safety; (b) ensure quality in goods produced for home use for export; Standards 499 (c) prevent fraud or deception arising from misleading advertising or labelling; and (d) require adequate information to be given to the consumer or user. 500 Standards SCHEDULE (paragraph 2) BELIZE STANDARD: BZS23: 2012: SPECIFICATION FOR FILLING, HANDLING, STORAGE, TRANSPORTATION AND LOCATION OF PORTABLE, CYLINDERS FOR LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GASES (LPG) 0 FOREWORD 0.1 This Standard is the first in a series of standards that will specify basic safety and other requirements for portable containers of liquefied petroleum gases, (LPG). 0.2 Liquefied Petroleum Gases have now become the main source of fuel used in Belize for domestic, commercial or industrial heating purposes. Liquefied petroleum gases, however, present considerable risks and hazards to human health and safety. The fuel is extremely volatile and LPG fires burn twice as hot as gasoline fires. LPG vapour is slightly anaesthetic, can lead to suffocation (at sufficiently high concentrations) and causes severe frost burns if brought into contact with the skin. Vapour/air mixtures of LPG are flammable and potentially explosive. The hazards are accentuated when the vapour/air mixtures occur indoors. 0.3 These risks and hazards can be significantly reduced if adequate precautions are observed. This standard, therefore, was prepared as a means of ensuring and enhancing safety in the filling, handling, storage, transportation, location and installation of portable cylinders of LPG intended for domestic, commercial and industrial purposes. 0.4 This standard takes cognizance of the fact that reference to National Metrology Act Chapter 23 of the Laws of Belize the Imperial System of Weights and Measures is still widely used in Belize although it is the process of transition to the Standards 501 International System of Units, (SI). Therefore, the appropriate units of both systems are accommodated where necessary within this standard. 0.5 In drafting this standard, considerable assistance was derived from SLNS 43: 2006, Specification for Filling, Handling, Storage, Transportation and Location of Portable Cylinders of Liquefied Petroleum Gases (LPG), Saint Lucia Bureau of Standards. 0.6 In preparing this standard assistance was derived fromBNS 126 (Part 4): 1980 Specification for the Filling, Handling, Storage, Transportation and Location of Portable Containers for Liquefied Petroleum Gases; ISO 10463: 1993 Cylinders for permanent gases – Inspection at time of filling; ISO 11625: 1998 Gas cylinders – Safe handling; ISO 10691: 2004 Gas cylinders – Refillable welded steel cylinders for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Procedures for checking before, during and after filling; and IFC 2009 International Fire Code 2009 Edition Chapter 38. 502 Standards 1 SCOPE 1.1 This standard covers basic safety requirements for the filling, handling and storage of portable cylinders of Liquefied Petroleum Gases (LPG) at the cylinder filling plants and the positioning of cylinders at the premises of the consumers. Where the word “cylinder” is used, the reference is to “portable cylinders”. 1.2 This standard does not cover safety installation requirements beyond the first stage regulator except for the use of flexible hose. 1.3 The requirements of this standard are not intended to preclude the use of alternative materials, designs and methods where these provide equivalent and approved standards of safety. 1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate health and safety practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 2 DEFINITIONS For the purpose of this standard the following definitions apply. 2.1 Portable Cylinders means any cylinder of a mass not greater than 45.0 kg (99.0 lb.) of liquefied petroleum gas. 2.2 Flexible hose means a short (not exceeding 91 cm [39 in.] overall length) component of piping system fabricated of flexible material such as a hose and equipped with suitable connections on both ends. LPG resistant rubber and fabric, or metal, or a combination of them, may be used. Standards 503 2.3 First Stage Regulator means the regulator that restricts or allows the flow of gas after the supply tank valve. 2.4 Second Stage Regulator means the regulator located between the first stage regulator and the appliance. It also restricts and controls the flow of gas by further decreasing the pressure of the gas that flows directly into the appliance. 2.5 A Safe Place means an area that does not pose a threat to causing an accident. 2.6 Liquefied petroleum gas means a by-product from the processing of natural gas or petroleum gas or from petroleum refining, consisting of a mixture of low-boiling hydrocarbons that exists in a liquid state at ambient temperature and includes commercial butane, commercial propane, commercial butane - propane mixtures and special duty propane blends. 2.7 Filling by ratio means the ratio of the mass of gas in introduced into a container to the mass of water at 15 C that would fill the same container fitted ready for use. 3 GENERAL 3.1 Facilities and operations associated with cylinder filling plants such as bulk storage, piping, pumps, compressors, etc. should be in accordance with the recommendations of the Belize Bureau of Standards as appropriate, with the following additions3.1.1 provisions should be made for mobile equipment or fixed, automatic water spray systems giving suitable and effective fire protection for cylinder filling and cylinder storage areas. 3.1.2 readily ignitable material, such as weeds, long grass, or any combustible material shall not be permitted to remain within 6m (20 ft) of the container filling or container storage areas. 504 Standards 3.1.3 the owner of the facility shall, in addition to the above, maintain a means of escape in case of fire and other measures to protect the safety of persons employed in such facilities in accordance with the relevant provisions and regulations including those of the National Fire Service. 3.1.4 the owner of the facility shall comply with all other laws and regulations relating to the Occupational Health and Safety of persons employed in such a facility. 4 ELECTRICAL Public Utilities Commission (PUC) regulations and standards shall be followed with particular attention given to the recommendations on portable container filling. 5 CONTAINER FILLING 5.1 Filling Location 5.1.1 Cylinders shall be filled with LPG, only in buildings designed for that purpose or in the open air. Cylinders shall not be filled in cellars or upper storeys of buildings. 5.1.2 Floors may be near ground level or raised to vehicle platform height. If the floor is raised, the space underneath shall be filled-in, or if it is left open, it shall be unobstructed and without depressions, to ensure ventilation. The open space beneath the floor shall not be used for any storage purpose and shall be kept clean and free from any combustible material. 5.1.3 As far as possible, the floor of these buildings or areas shall be without channels, pits, or other depressions which could accumulate gas. Where channels or pits in buildings are necessary for conveyors or other equipment, they shall be adequately ventilated by ducts to the outside of the building. Standards 505 5.1.4 Filling buildings shall be open-sided, but where climatic or other conditions require a closed building, adequate ventilation shall be provided below or at ground level. 5.1.5 If the filling is not carried out within a fenced area, a fence at least 3m (6½ ft) in height shall be provided to enclose the filling and storage areas. A building or fenced area shall have at least two means of exit. Doors or gates shall open outwards; shall not be self-locking, and shall be capable of being opened readily from the inside. 5.1.6 No duct, drain, or blow-off line shall be directed into or discharged near sewer systems or drains, unless designed for such purposes. 5.1.7 Water drains from the filling building or areas, where they pass to an outside drainage system, shall be provided with effective seals. 5.1.8 Piping, where it passes through a concrete or brick wall, shall be protected by a casing within which it is free to move. 5.1.9 Access shall be provided for fire-fighting equipment in the manner recommended by the National Fire Service. 5.1.10 Adequate lighting shall be provided to illuminate the working and storage areas with approved vapor proof electrical switches, glands, etc. 5.1.11 Filled containers shall not be stored in the immediate container filling area. 5.1.12 All new cylinders shall be purged prior to filling and placing in service to eliminate undesirable contaminants i.e. air, methanol and water from the cylinder. 506 Standards 5.2 Safety Distances The cylinder filling building or filling area in the open shall be located in relation to bulk storage cylinders in accordance with Table 1, and shall be at least 8m (26ft) from the boundary of the plant. 5.3 Filling Limits 5.3.1 Proper filling procedures shall be in place to ensure that no overfilling can occur. 5.3.2 The safe filling quantity for containers is a function of temperature conditions. The maximum quantity of LPG filled into a portable container shall be such that the expansion during transit or service will not cause the contents to occupy more than 85% liquid volume and at highest temperature the volume of the liquid must not exceed 95% of the total capacity of the container. 5.3.3 For cylinders used only in a specific climatic area, the competent authority(ies) may specify a maximum filling ratio for each mixture for national use. 5.4 Safe filling mixture composition Cylinders shall be filled with the appropriate mixture and composition of LPG. Special care shall be taken to ensure that contaminants that could cause corrosion are not present. 5.5 Accuracy of weighing equipment Filling and check-weigh scales shall have been checked for accuracy at least once a day and verified by the Belize Bureau of Standards periodically. 5.6 Inspection Prior to filling 5.6.1 Cylinders suitable for filling Standards 507 5.6.1.1 Cylinders shall be deemed suitable for filling if the following conditions apply– (a) the design code/specification is identifiable; (b) the tare mass or tare indication and water capacity marked; (c) the product mass and product identification (LPG) are indicated when required; (d) the cylinder is within the test date as determined from the marked manufacturer’s or periodic inspection dates; (e) the symbol of the periodic inspection test station or inspection body is indicated; (f) a visual inspection of visible areas shows that the cylinder (including foot ring) and valve are free of defects; and (g) the cylinder is not leaking; 5.6.1.2 The visual inspection shall also include an examination of the cylinder valve to ensure it is in a satisfactory condition, i.e. - is free from contaminants; - is easy to operate; - exhibits undamaged outlet threads and body; - exhibits undamaged pressure relief device, if required; - its handwheel, or key-operated spindle, is essentially undamaged and properly fixed; and 508 Standards - attaches itself correctly to the filling connector as well as a check on whether the container is due for periodic test. 5.6.1.3 Any unsafe container shall be rejected in accordance with BZS22: 2012: Specification for Inspection, Testing and Requalification of Portable Containers for Liquefied Petroleum Gases. 5.7 Filling System 5.7.1 Cylinders shall be filled accurately (as per 5.3 above) and checks made to ensure that overfilling or underfilling does not take place. 5.7.2 The system shall be designed in such a way that there is minimum leakage when the connection to the cylinder valve is released. 5.7.3 Conveniently accessible stop valves shall be fitted to the end of each branch filling line from the header immediately before the filling unit. A means of stopping the supply of LPG shall be provided on the incoming supply line outside the building. 5.7.4 Relief valves shall be fitted in pipelines where liquid may be trapped between closed valves. 5.8 Venting of Overfilled and Leaking Cylinders Where the content of an overfilled cylinder is adjusted by venting, a suitable vent shall be used to carry the vented gas from the filling building for dispersal in a safe place. Alternatively, cylinders may be vented in a safe place in the open air. 5.9 Inspection after Filling Standards 509 5.9.1 Each cylinder shall be checked to ensure that the maximum mass has not been exceeded, either by check- weighing within the tolerances as determined by the relevant authority or by determination of the ullage space remaining. Where accepted by the competent authority, other systems of checking, such as sample weighing or statistical-data application, may be used when the control of the filling mass is controlled automatically. 5.9.2 Cylinders shall be checked prior to dispatch or storage for the correct fitting of valve sealing caps or plugs and valve protection caps/guards. 5.9.3 Each container valve and container after filling shall be inspected and tested to ensure that it is free from leaks and satisfactory for service. 6 PORTABLE CONTAINERS 6.1 Design and Construction Portable cylinders shall be designed, constructed, and tested in accordance with Department of Transport (DOT) and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) or equivalent standards. 6.2 Marking Cylinders shall be clearly marked to indicate the nature of their contents, the year of manufactur, and date of the last test. 6.3 Container Valves 6.3.1 The design, materials and manufacture of valves shall be adequate for the grade of LPG which they are to handle and for the service conditions under which they are to operate. 510 Standards 6.3.2 When valve outlet plugs are provided these shall be in place before containers are dispatched to storage or for transport. 6.4 Safety Devices Fusible plugs and bursting discs shall not be fitted. Instead, a pressure relief valve shall be used. 6.5 Testing All containers shall be tested in accordance with BZS22: 2012: Specification for Inspection, Testing and Requalification of Portable Containers for Liquefied Petroleum Gases. 6.6 Handling and Transportation of Containers 6.6.1 When LPG cylinders of a capacity greater than 1 Kg (2.2.lbs) are being transported in vehicles, the following requirements shall apply6.6.1.1 They shall be handled carefully and not allowed to fall on each other or to be otherwise subjected to undue shock. 6.6.1.2 They shall be placed in a vertical manner and properly secured to prevent movement or physical damage. 6.6.1.3 They shall be so placed that the safety relief device is always in contact with the vapor space. 6.6.1.4 They shall not be transported in unventilated vehicles or components or in vehicles without guardrails. 6.6.1.5 No Public transport vehicles shall be used to transport LPG. 6.6.1.6 Cylinders of a capacity greater than 1 Kg (2.2.lbs.) shall not be carried in passenger compartments. Standards 511 6.6.1.7 At least one 10Kg (22lbs) dry chemical ABC fire extinguisher or Carbon Dioxide fire extinguisher shall be carried in a readily accessible position on any vehicle designated for transporting LPG. 6.7 Storage of Containers not in use 6.7.1 General Requirements – Used cylinders shall be located where they will not be subjected to physical damage or a rise in temperature higher than the ambient temperature. They may be stored in the open exposed to solar heat, or in an isolated structure with adequate ventilation at the top and bottom. For storage purposes, the distances specified in Table 1 shall be observed, along with the following6.7.1.1 Cylinders shall be at least 1 m (3ft) horizontally away from any opening into a building, which is not used solely for the storage of gas containers. 6.7.1.2 The minimum distance between cylinders and above ground LPG bulk storage cylinders, flammable liquid or fuel oil storages which exceed 250 litres (56 gal) water capacity shall be 3 m (10ft) or the figure shown in column 3 of Table 1, whichever is greater. Where a compound wall encloses flammable liquid, the distance shall be measured from the centreline of the wall. 6.7.1.3 Cylinders may be adjacent to other fuel gas containers, but if in a mixed cylinder shed, they shall be separated from oxygen cylinders by a metal or masonry partition. 6.7.1.4 Cylinders shall not be placed within the bounded area of flammable or combustible liquid storage. 6.7.1.5 Cylinders shall be so placed that the safety relief device is always in direct communication with the vapour space. 6.7.1.6 Cylinders, either empty or full, shall be stored in the same manner, and their valves shall be closed. 512 Standards 6.7.1.7 Cylinders awaiting dispatch may be kept on a filling platform complying with 6.8.1. 6.7.1.8 Cylinders stored in the open or in a structure as in 6.7.1 or 6.7.1.7 shall be located at the distance set out in Table 1. TABLE 1 LOCATION AND SPACING FOR CONTAINERS FOR INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL AND DOMESTIC BULK STORAGE (Imperial Units) LP – GAS CONTAINER CAPACITY (Water MINIMUM SEPARATION BETWEEN MINIMUM SEPARATION BETWEEN LP LP – GAS CONTAINERS AND BUILDINGS, PUBLIC WAYS OR LOT Gallons) LINES OF ADJOINING PROPERTY – GAS CONTAINERS THAT CAN BE BUILT UPON: (feet) Mounded or underground LP – gas containers Above – ground LP- gas containers (feet) (feet) Less than 125 10 5 None 125 to 250 10 10 None 251 to 500 10 10 3 501 to 2,000 10 25 3 2,001 to 30,000 50 50 5 30,001 to 70,000 50 75 (0.25 of sum of diameters of adjacent LP gas containers) 70,001 to 90,000 50 100 90,001 to 120,000 50 125 Standards 513 6.8 Location and Spacing 6.8.1 Storage cylinders, above ground or underground shall be installed away from the building and shall be located in relation to the nearest important building and the line of adjoining property, whether built on or not, and shall be spaced in accordance with Table 1. 6.8.2 The distances given are minimum requirements and refer to the horizontal distance in plan between the nearest point on the storage cylinder and a specified feature such as an adjacent storage cylinder, building or property line. 7 LOCATION OF CONTAINERS IN USE 7.1 General Requirements 7.1.1 Cylinders in use, with the exceptions provided in clauses 7.2 to 7.6 inclusive, shall be located in accordance with the distance set out in Table 1. Cylinders in use shall be located outside and at least 1m (3ft) horizontally away from any opening into a building which is below the level of the relief valve. 7.1.2 Cylinders may be installed below a window only if there is a minimum distance of 3m (10ft) between the top of the cylinder valve and the bottom of the window opening. Cylinders shall be located at a distance of at least 5m (16ft) from other forms of flammable or combustible liquid storage. 7.1.3 No more than two banks of cylinders, each containing 450Kg (990 lbs.) of LPG shall be permitted in a group, and such groups shall be separated by a minimum distance of 8m (26 ft). 7.2 Industrial Building 7.2.1 Cylinders in industrial buildings and used for industrial purposes shall not exceed a total of 150 kg (330) LPG capacity. This limit does not apply to cylinders which are manifolded 514 Standards together in banks not exceeding 200kg (440 lbs) LPG capacity and where such banks are separated by a distance of at least 15m (49ft), nor to single cylinders where the total quantity of LPG including manifold cylinders does not exceed 200kg (440 lbs) in every 200 m2 (2153ft2) of floor space. 7.2.2 For large steel fabricating works and similar applications, the authority having jurisdiction may allow variations of these quantities of LPG. 7.3 Building Construction Where LPG is to be used in the construction, repair or improvement of buildings or structures or their fixtures, and portability of equipment is required, cylinders may be used, provided that the action is taken close to the valve and the hose is disconnected when not in use. 7.4 Demonstration of Display Cylinders used for demonstration or display purposes within a building shall be limited to a total of 10 kg (22 lbs) LPG capacity. When an authorized person is in constant attendance the LPG capacity may be increased to 20 kg, (44 lbs). Where 20 kg (44 lbs) LPG capacity is insufficient for industrial demonstration, the authority having jurisdiction may approve a larger capacity. 7.5 Education 7.5.1 Cylinders used for educational purposes within a building such as a school, technical college or university shall be limited to a total capacity of 13.5 kg (30 lbs) provided however, that this capacity may be increased at the discretion of the authority having jurisdiction. 7.5.2 Cylinders shall be kept well ventilated, and if located in a cupboard there shall be adequate ventilation openings at the top or bottom. Standards 515 7.6 Domestic and Commercial/Institution Buildings Containers in domestic and non-industrial buildings shall be limited to a total capacity of 45 kg (100 lbs). Where a regulator is fitted for low- pressure supply to an appliance, the following conditions shall be observed– (a) the pressure regulator shall be securely and rigidly fitted; and (b) the low-pressure system shall not incorporate a relief valve. 8 INSTALLATION OF LPG CONTAINER SYSTEMS 8.1 General – the following general requirements shall apply to the installation of cylinder systems. 8.1.1 Every cylinder installation shall comply with the requirements of this standard and only authorized persons shall make, repair, alter, or open connections in any LPG cylinder installation, except for the actual connection or disconnection of containers. 8.1.2 Cylinders shall not be installed below ground level except in a compartment or recess, which is used for no other purpose. Cylinders and regulating equipment shall not be in contact with the ground and the compartment or recess shall be drained and ventilated, in a horizontal direction, to the outside air from its lowest level. Such an outlet shall be at least 1m (3ft) away from any opening into a building, which is below the level of such an outlet. 8.1.3 Cylinders shall be installed on a firm foundation of a material not inferior to concrete, protected from direct contact with the soil and shall be secured to prevent accidental dislodgment of the cylinder. 516 Standards 8.1.4 In all cases cylinders shall be installed so that the discharge from the relief valve shall not impinge on cylinders or on adjacent combustible buildings or structures. 8.1.5 An approved flexible connection shall be provided. 8.2 Regulators 8.2.1 Regulators shall be installed in accordance with the following requirements: 8.2.1.1 Regulators and their pressure - relief devices shall be rigidly attached to the cylinder valves, cylinders, supporting stands or the building walls or shall be otherwise rigidly secured. 8.2.1.2 Where multi - stage regulation is used, the second and/or subsequent regulators may be located inside a building, provided that relief valve(s) and the space above the regulator diaphragm(s) is vented to the outside air. The outlet from such vent(s) shall be at least 1m (3ft) horizontally away from any opening into a building, which is less than 2m (6 ½ft) below level of such a discharge outlet. 8.2.1.3 Where practicable, all regulators should be outside the building. 8.2.1.4 A single – stage regulator or the first stage of multi-stage regulator assembly shall be located at a distance not greater than 600 mm (2ft) from the nearest container. 8.2.1.5 All final stage low pressure regulators, except as in 7.6.1 (b), shall be fitted with a safety pressure relief valve set to discharge at not less than 2, nor more than 3 times, the outlet pressure setting of the regulator. Standards 517 9 FLEXIBLE HOSE 9.1 General 9.1.1 Design flexible hose and hose connections on the outlet side of the regulator or reducing valve shall be designed for a bursting pressure of not less than; (a) 850 kPa (123psi) where operating pressures do not exceed 7kPa (1 psi); and (b) 8750 kPa (1269.2 psi) where operating pressures exceed 7 kPa (1psi). 9.1.2 All hoses shall be designed specifically for use with LPG. 9.2 Use on Outlet Side of Regulators 9.2.1 Hoses may be used on the outlet side of regulators for connections to gas appliances under the following conditions9.2.1.1 Appliances which are portable or which require a vibration joint may be connected by a flexible hose. On such installations a positive means of shutting off the gas supply to the inlet of the hose shall be provided. 9.2.1.2 Hoses shall be securely attached at each end by threaded or other metal connection. The use of unclamped push - on connections shall be limited to laboratory fittings, operating at no more than 3.5 kPa (0.5 psi) pressure. 9.2.1.3 Where a flexible hose is used to connect a gas appliance to a cylinder not fitted with a manual shut-off valve, such a valve shall be incorporated, integral with the fitting on the cylinder end of the hose. 518 Standards 9.2.1.4 A wall outlet to which an appliance is to be connected with flexible hose shall be so placed as to reduce to a minimum the passing of persons across the hose. Where flexible hose is used it shall be of the minimum length practicable. The extending of the hose from one room to another shall not be permitted. Hoses shall not be run in concealed places such as cupboards. 9.2.1.5 Flexible hose shall not be used where it is likely to be subjected to temperatures above 52°C (125.6°F) 9.2.1.6 No flexible hose, other than those used for industrial purposes, shall be longer than 3m (10ft). 10 TESTING AND INSTALLATION 10.1 All piping installations shall be subjected to a pressure test in accordance with accepted practices before introducing LPG into– (a) a new installation. (b) an installation having undergone addition, maintenance or repair. 11 FIRE PROTECTION OF CONTAINERS 11.1 Storage in Excess of 500kg (1100 lbs) up to 5000kg (11,000 lbs) LPG. 11.1.1 For fire protection purposes in areas used for the storage of, or which comprise an installation of, LPG, a garden hose of adequate length, permanently connected to the water supply, and ready for immediate use, shall be provided where the water pressure is adequate, and one approved 10kg (22 lbs.) dry chemical ABC fire extinguisher shall be installed in a conspicuous and readily accessible location. Standards 519 11.1.2 Fire extinguishers shall be inspected and maintained in accordance with the advice of the National Fire Service. 11.2 Storage of Aggregate Capacity exceeding 5,000 Kg (11,000 lbs). 11.2.1 For fire protection purposes, container storage of aggregate capacity exceeding 5,000Kg (11,000lbs) shall be provided with at least a sprinkler system connected to the water supply and ready for immediate use, and one approved dry chemical ABC fire extinguisher shall be installed in a conspicuous and readily accessible location. An approved system of fire hydrants and hoses shall be installed so that the storage will be covered under any conditions of fire and wind. 11.2.2 Hydrants and hose systems shall be equipped with a sufficient quantity of approved hose and fittings, which shall be housed in weather - proof boxes. All hydrants and hoses shall be provided with an adjustable combination fog nozzle. Water supplies shall be provided, where practicable, by the Belize Water Services (BWS). Alternatively, a static water supply and booster pump shall be provided on the premises for fire - fighting purposes. 11.2.3 Hydrants and hose systems shall be maintained in accordance with the requirements of the National Fire Service. MADE by the Minister responsible for the Bureau of Standards this 30th day of October, 2012. HON. ERWIN CONTRERAS Minister responsible for the bureau of standards 520 Standards CHAPTER 295 STANDARDS (BELIZE STANDARDS BZS26: 2014: STANDARDS FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESERVES AND PARKS) (DECLARATION OF COMPULSORY STANDARD) ORDER ARRANGEMENT OF PARAGRAPHS 1. Citation. 2. Declaration of Compulsory Standard. 3. Purpose of compulsory Standard. SCHEDULE Standards 521 CHAPTER 295 CAP 295. R.E. 2020. 41 of 2014. STANDARDS (BELIZE STANDARDS BZS26: 2014: STANDARDS FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESERVES AND PARKS) (DECLARATION OF COMPULSORY STANDARD) ORDER (Section 9(2)) [Gazetted 31st May, 2014] Citation. 1. This Order may be cited as theSTANDARDS (BELIZE STANDARDS BZS26: 2014: STANDARDS FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESERVES AND PARKS) (DECLARATION OF COMPULSORY STANDARD) ORDER. Declaration of Compulsory Standard. Schedule. 2. The Belize Standard BZS26: 2014: Standard for Health and Safety of Archaeological Reserves and Parks, which is set out in the Schedule, is hereby declared to be a compulsory standard with effect from April 29, 2014. Purpose of Compulsory Standard. 3. The compulsory standard declared in paragraph 2 is intended primarily to– (a) protect the consumer or user against danger to health or safety; and (b) to require adequate information to be given to the consumer. 522 Standards SCHEDULE (Paragraph 2) BELIZE STANDARDS BZS26: 2014: STANDARDS FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESERVES AND PARKS 0. FOREWORD 0.1 This specification was developed to address Health and Safety requirements for Archaeological Reserves and Parks in Belize in an effort to ensure that visitor experience to these sites will be enhanced through the implementation of these standards. It is expected that future infrastructural and maintenance enhancements, as well as the services being provided within these sites, will be guided by these standards. 0.2 In preparing this standard, information was derived from the following publications: United States Department of the Interior (1988). National Park Service – Sign Manual. Washington, DC: United States Department of the Interior; United States Department of the Interior (1988). National Park Service Trails Management Handbook. Washington, DC: United States Department of the Interior; Leicester City Council (2000). Vehicle Parking Standards: Citywide Guidance. Leicester, United Kingdom: Leiscester City Council; Park Standards and Policy Guidelines for Archaeological Reserves – Institute of Archaeology, Belize National Institute of Culture and History (October, 2012); Belize Building Standards – The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Belize City, Belize (2003). Standards 523 Nohoch Che’en and Actun Tunichil Muknal Archaeological Reserves Tourism Operational Manual – Institute of Archaeology, National Institute of Culture and History (October, 2012); Tourism Standards Draft Guidelines for Sites and Attractions – Discover Dominica Authority (2009); CARICOM Regional Code of Practice: Tour Guides Caribbean Regional Organization for Standards and Quality (2010); CARICOM Regional Standard: Specification for Tourist Accommodations - Caribbean Regional Organization for Standards and Quality (2010); and CARICOM Regional Code of Practice for Inbound Tour Operators – Caribbean Regional Organization for Standards and Quality (2010). 0.3 All specifications for building and construction are in reference to the Belize Building Act (Belize Building Act Chapter 131, Revised Edition 2003). 1. SCOPE This standard provides the minimum requirements for Health and Safety at Archaeological Reserves and Parks, which includes terrestrial and cave sites. It provides Health and Safety guidelines to individuals and enterprises, including community - based and tourism organisations, when visiting archaeological parks and reserves in Belize. 2. TERMS AND DEFINITIONS For the purpose of this standard the following terms and definitions apply: 524 Standards 2.1 “approved” means the process of officially agreeing or confirming to codes and ordinances, standards and regulations. 2.2 “archaeological reserves” means a legally declared area by the Minister responsible for the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH). These areas may include but are not limited to cultural and natural resources including archaeological sites, archaeological parks, and caves. 2.3 “capacity management” means the process of ensuring that acceptable visitor load at any one time is in conformity with carrying capacity to ensure sustainability and preservation of the site. 2.4 “carrying capacity” means the maximum number of people at any given time that can use the site without causing an unacceptable deterioration in the environment and without an unacceptable decline in the quality of the visitor’s experience. 2.5 “caves” means archaeological cave sites utilized for rituals and ceremonies by the ancient Maya and/or used as campsites by earlier Paleo- Indian and Archaic human populations. 2.6 “caving activities” means specialized adventure and recreational activities undertaken in cave sites situated within archaeological reserves and parks including guided tours, kayaking and cave tubing. 2.7 “competent authority” means any agency or organization that is legally responsible for one or more of the following– (a) water supply and waste water disposal; (b) sewage and garbage disposal; (c) environment; Standards 525 (d) emergency preparedness plans; (e) public utilities; (f) waste disposal; or (g) sanitation 2.8 “culture and heritage” in this context means all Mayan and historical sites. 2.9 “diverse abilities” in this context refers to persons with physical disabilities. 2.10 “gradient” means the ratio of the rise over the run. In other words, an elevation gain of 0.61m (2 feet) in 20 horizontal feet represents a 10% gradient. 2.11 “management” means the responsibility of the daily operation and protection of the archaeological parks and reserves by the Institute of Archaeology, National Institute of Culture and History and the Ministry of Tourism and Culture. 2.12 “manmade” means all modern facilities which have been built or developed to enhance the visitors’ experience. 2.13 “natural resources” means the environment that includes flora and fauna of a destination and other natural phenomena, and related geographical features such as caves, waterfalls and rivers. 2.14 “park manager” means the employee of the Institute of Archaeology who has day to day operational authority over the management of an Archaeological Reserve. 2.15 “park ranger” means the employee of the Institute of Archaeology who assists the Park Manager with the day to day operations of the archaeological reserves and parks. 526 Standards 2.16 “sanitary facilities” means toilets, urinals, privies, lavatories, showers, utility and sinks, that ensures safe and proper disposal of waste. 2.17 “service building” means a structure that is used to support the daily operations of a facility or business. 2.18 “switchback” means any place where the alignment of a trail traverses a slope in one direction and then abruptly “switches back” toward the opposite direction. Switchbacks are often used to run a trail up a steep slope in a constrained location. 2.19 “tourism destination” means an area or site officially designated as travel destination and equipped as such. 3 REQUIREMENTS 3.1 Policy Requirement It is a policy of the Institute of Archaeology (IA), National Institute of Culture and History (NICH), Ministry of Tourism and Culture (MoTC) that all Archaeological Reserves and Parks shall comply fully with the standards set out in this document. Failure to comply with any of the standards may result in disciplinary or legal action. 3.2 Liability The very nature of Archaeological Reserves and Parks and related caving activities carry potential health and safety risks. Activities at these sites may involve climbing, swimming, cave tubing, kayaking etc. In order to mitigate risks - the following shall be observed: 3.2.1 All parties conducting tours at Archaeological Reserves and Parks shall be in possession of all appropriate licenses, permits and insurance, as required by relevant regulations. Standards 527 3.2.2 Signage at the entrance of the Archaeological Reserves and Parks shall state in a prominent place that the Institute of Archaeology is not liable for injuries or accidents that may occur due to any activity undertaken at the Reserves and Parks. 3.3 Accommodations for People with Diverse Abilities Where an Archaeological Reserve and Park advertises services to accommodate people with diverse abilities, details shall be prominently displayed via signage of the particular facilities that are in place or available, including the provision made for private parking, access, pathways, water points, toilets, washing points and showers. This shall also be highlighted in any online or print advertising associated with the Reserve. 4. SITE AREA 4.1 Site Boundaries Where applicable and for security purposes, the boundaries of the archaeological reserve shall be clearly demarcated with proper signage, for example by fences, hedges, or any other suitable material. 4.2 Building Construction To ensure the protection of culture and natural resources, no permanent or semi-permanent commercial structures, such as cabins sheds or habitable buildings, shall be erected on any Archaeological Reserves and Parks without permission from the Director of the Institute of Archaeology on clearance from all other relevant Competent Authorities. 4.3 Accumulation of Refuse All areas shall be kept free from accumulation of refuse. The parking areas and grounds shall be well maintained and kept free from debris and overgrown vegetation. 528 Standards 4.4 Security Lighting Security lighting shall be provided in public areas of the Reserves and Parks and areas used for maintenance. 5 ENTRANCE AND BUILDINGS 5.1 Names and Dates of Operations The name of the Archaeological Reserves and Parks, dates and hours of operation, both opening and closing, and “last admission times” (where they apply), shall be legibly and conspicuously displayed by signage at the entrance of the Archaeological Reserves and Parks. 5.2 Parking 5.2.1 There shall be adequate parking areas for visitors and staff. The standard is that there shall be one parking space for every 10 employees and one parking space for every 50 visitors. Notices pertaining to the liability of the Reserves and Parks in relation to parking of vehicles shall be properly and clearly exhibited in the parking areas via signage. 5.2.2 All parking lots shall have at least one space designated with the proper international signage for persons with diverse abilities. Such parking spaces could include spaces for different types of vehicles such as coach buses, small minibuses, private vehicles etc. Such designated parking spaces shall not be less than 4.27 m (14 feet) wide by 5.79 m (19 feet long). 5.3 Oil, Noise and Air Pollution All efforts shall be undertaken to reduce oil, noise and air pollution on the parking lots. Standards 529 5.4 Visitor Centre All visitor centres shall be constructed in accordance with the Belize Building Act of 2003 including relevant facilities for people with diverse abilities (such as a handicap entrance and toilet facilities). Visitor centres shall be fully equipped with print and other forms of interesting and relevant information for visitors, including information for people with disabilities and education, health and safety information for the Reserves and Parks. 5.5 Accessibility for Persons with Diverse Abilities (a) at every entrance there should be, where permitted, a 0.91 m (3 feet) by 1.22 m (4 feet) space placed to afford opening and closing of door; (b) minimum width of sidewalks or walkways shall be five feet; (c) longitudinal gradient shall not be more than five percent; (d) transverse slopes shall not be greater than two percent; (e) doorway shall be a minimum of 91.44 cm (36 inches) wide; and (f) a clear space of 1.52 m (5 feet) by 1.52 m (5 feet) shall be provided for wheelchair to pivot 180 degrees. 5.6 Food Service Activities All food service activities at Archaeological Reserves and Parks require the relevant food handler’s permits, licenses and certificates of inspection. 530 Standards 6 PATHS, TRAILS, STAIRS AND RAILS 6.1 Dimensions Trails shall be of a width in relation to the level of visitation to the site but shall not be less than 1.22 m (4 feet) wide, with a minimum of 0.61 m (2 feet) on either side to allow for maintenance of encroaching vegetation. The minimum does not apply where obstruction prevents the application of this standard. The following trail widths shall apply where practical– (a) 0 - 250 visitors per day - 1.22 m (5 feet) minimum (single file in both direction); (b) 250 - 500 visitors per day - 1.83 m (6 feet) minimum (double file in one direction, single in the opposite direction); (c) 500 - 1000 visitors per day - 2.44 m (8 feet) minimum (double file in both directions); (d) > 1,000 visitors per day - 3.05 m (10 feet) minimum (double file in one direction, triple file in opposite direction); and (e) minimum height of 3.05 m (10 feet) to avoid crossing branches or other foliage. 6.2 Construction Materials The material used in the construction of paths and trails shall conform to the surrounding environment, be environmentally friendly and safe to walk upon. 6.3 Design of Trails 6.3.1 Gradient The linear gradient of a trail shall not be more than 10%. Standards 531 The figure below shows two proposed trail routes to the top of a hill. Although Trail A stays within a gradient of 10%, it is the poorer route because it travels perpendicular to the contours. When a trail runs perpendicular to the contours, water runs down the middle of the trail, causing trenching, even at a 10% gradient. The only way to get water off the trail is for the route to traverse the natural slope (Trail B), because then there is always a lower side of the trail. When there is a lower side of the trail, it becomes a simple matter to redirect water across and off the trail, rather than allowing it to cut a channel down the trail’s centre line. 532 Standards 6.3.2 Outslope A well-designed trail shall be constructed to have a 3% to 4% cross-slope to get the water off the trail efficiently and effectively. It will always be easiest to construct an out-sloped trail if the original trail alignment traverses the natural slope as in Trail B, above. 6.3.3 Switchbacks Although switchbacks are often the only solution to the problems of rock outcrops and steep slopes, they should be avoided where possible. 6.4 Trail Signage 6.4.1 There shall be adequate and appropriate signage to ensure safety of users and provision of information. Signage shall include directional, informational and warning/hazards signs. Signs shall be comprehensive, directional and informative. To be effective, signs must– (a) command the attention and respect of the user; Standards 533 (b) convey a simple and clear message; and (c) give adequate time for proper response. 6.4.2 Signs shall be placed at trailheads and junctions of trails. Signs at trailheads and junctions shall identify the trail by name and the distance to major points along the trail. If the trail is wheelchair accessible, the proper international symbol shall be incorporated on the sign. 6.4.3 Interpretative and Informational signs can also be placed along the trail. They can be used to point out interesting flora and fauna along the trail. Such signs shall be made of routed pine and with orange lettering on a brown background. 6.4.4 Warning signs shall be placed along the trail when the need arises to advise visitors about dangerous areas along the trail. Such signs shall be made of routed pine and with orange lettering on a brown background. 6.5 Walkways and Foot Bridges 6.5.1 Walkways, foot bridges or other safe means of passage shall be provided in common use service areas. For designing bridges and elevated walkways with a span less than 6.1 m (20 feet), use the maximum loading anticipated during normal use plus a safety factor of one and a half times its maximum weight 6.5.2 Use control and the safety of the users shall be incorporated into the design of every trail, walkways or foot bridges. Where it is appropriate because of the site and intended use, adequate directional and warning signs, handrails, gates, fencing and other safety devices shall be incorporated. Where needed, protection should be provided from slides and falling rocks. 534 Standards 6.6 Paths and Trails Maintenance/Safety Paths and trails shall be checked monthly (and after inclement weather) to ensure that there are no dangerous holes, dips or other obstruction that are not easily seen. Where applicable, guard rails shall be provided on paths and trails to ensure the safety of users. 6.7 Hand/Guard Rails 6.7.1 If there is a slope or gradient of more than 30%, a guard rail shall be installed. 6.7.2 Hand rails are designed to prevent a person or groups of persons from injury or death if the height of the structure is such that this may occur. It shall be made of a suitable material that provides structural safety to function for what it is intended. Hand rails shall be provided to stairs, trails, ramps, and walkways where appropriate. 6.7.3 A minimum height of 91.44 cm (36 inches) and maximum of 101.6 cm (40 inches) measured from the walking surface at the front edge of the thread to the top of the hand rail or in lined with the riser where this applies shall be used for the construction of hand rails. They shall be more than 1.83 m (6 feet) wide and contain a 10% longitudinal gradient. 6.7.4 Hand rails shall be fitted with intermediate parallel rail or horizontal balustrades spaced not more than 15.24 cm (6 inches) apart if the rail is located where– (a) the cross slope on the immediate sides is greater than 5 degrees; (b) it is greater than 30.48 cm (12 inches) above the nearest surface on which it rest. Standards 535 6.7.5 Hand rails shall be adequately anchored to ensure that it is safe to hold onto without detachment but should be able to withstand a minimum of 50 lb-ft (75 kg-m). 7 WATER SUPPLY AND WASTE WATER DISPOSAL 7.1 Potable Water Supply There shall be an adequate supply of safe potable water provided in accordance with regulations and recommendations from the relevant Competent Authority. The volume supply standard is 151.42 litres (40 gallons) per person per day. If the water is being supplied by a well, the construction of the well must be preapproved by the relevant Competent Authority. All plumbing shall be installed in accordance with Belize’s Building Codes. 7.2 Waste and Non-Potable Water Waste water shall be managed in accordance with the National Prescribed Standards under the Environmental Protection (Effluent Limitations) Regulations and the Pollution Regulations. As much as possible, treated waste water should be recycled. Non-potable water sources should be separate from drinking water points, and should be clearly marked ‘NOT DRINKING WATER.’ (Water and Sewerage Act, Chapter 222, Revised Edition 2000) 8 SANITARY FACILITIES 8.1 Toilets 8.1.1 Sufficient male and female toilets to meet peak demand shall be provided with signs indicating separate male and female facilities. The standard established by the relevant Competent Authority is indicated in the table below. Toilets with external walls shall have an external opening comprising not less than 25% of the floor area, or, if internal, appropriate mechanical 536 Standards extract ventilation. Toilets shall be kept clean, with seat covers and lids firmly in place. Public Sanitary Facilities Appliance For Male Customers For Female Customers Water Closet or Toilet 1 for up to 150 males plus one for every additional 150 males or part thereof 1 for up to 12 females plus one for every 13 to 30 females plus 1 for every additional 25 females. Urinal 2 for up to 75 males plus one for every additional 75 males or part thereof nil 8.1.2 There shall be at least one toilet specially constructed for use by persons with diverse abilities. Such toilet compartments shall carry on the door to the compartment the international sign indicating that such a compartment has been specially constructed for use by persons with diverse abilities. 8.1.3 Toilet fixtures for persons with diverse abilities should be placed so as to facilitate the turning of a wheelchair. 8.1.4 Hand rails of not less than 2.54 cm (1 inch) and no more than 3.81 cm (1½ inches) in diameter shall be provided on both sides of the water closet in toilets for persons with diverse abilities and mounted 86.36 cm (34 inches) above and parallel to the floor. 8.1.5 Toilet seats for persons with diverse abilities shall be 45.72 cm (18 inches) to 60.96 cm (24 inches) off the floor. They should be equipped with– (a) hand operated flushing controls that can be reached by persons in a wheel chair; and Standards 537 (b) back support. 8.1.6 Doors to toilet facilities for people with diverse abilities shall always open outwards and be equipped with self-closing hinges or door closers. 8.1.7 Vertical and horizontal grip rails shall be installed and be readily accessible from toilet equipped for persons with diverse abilities. 8.2 Wash Basins 8.2.1 Depending upon the level and pattern of visitation, there shall be a minimum of two wash basins for male toilets and two for female toilets, situated within close range of the toilets, and provided with potable water. 8.2.2 Wash basins designated for persons with diverse abilities should be placed at a maximum of 86.36 cm (2’10”) with a clear space of at least 68.58 cm (2’3”) by 91.44 cm (3’0”) under the basin. The wash basin should be equipped with faucet handles of the lever type without spring handles. 8.2.3 The bottom edge of a mirror should be not more than 91.44 cm (3’0") above the floor for wash basins for people with diverse abilities. 8.3 Maintenance of Sanitary Facility 8.3.1 Where possible, industrial-type toilets should be installed. Toilets shall be kept clean, with seat covers and lids firmly in place. Each sanitary facility shall be provided with– (a) locks and fitted hooks on all toilet doors; (b) urinals, as well as cubicles, for male convenience; (c) toilet paper holders, with toilet paper; 538 Standards (d) a soap dispenser, or soap bar, paper towel holders or hand dryers; and (e) waste paper baskets. 8.3.2 A record of regular inspection by management shall be available at each sanitary facility. The sanitary facilities shall be maintained so as to minimize any offensive odours or health hazards such as pest infestation. Satisfactory provision shall be made for grey water drainage, either by discharging to a public sewer, private sewer or sewage treatment works or to a septic tank, in a manner approved by the relevant Competent Authority. 8.4 Employees Washroom Facility Where possible, an employees’ washroom facility should be available and provided with– (a) clean and functional toilets; (b) wash basins, with potable water; (c) lockers in good working condition; (d) an adequate supply of toiletries; and (e) a waste bin/disposal unit. 9 WASTE DISPOSAL 9.1 Sewage Disposal All sewage shall be disposed of via sewage treatment system approved by the Department of Environment and all other relevant Competent Authority. Standards 539 9.2 Other domestic liquid wastes shall not be discharged or otherwise disposed of on the surface of the ground or beach or into any well, cave, open ditch, river, stream, lake or reservoir, but is to have its separate treatment system installed. 9.3 Garbage Disposal It shall be the responsibility of all tour operators, tour guides and visitors to remove any garbage that they generate such as empty water bottles, food packaging, etc. or to properly dispose of the garbage. All waste shall be treated and disposed of in a manner to prevent the occurrence of nuisance from odour, pests, flies and vermin and to discourage breeding of such pests. 10 REQUIREMENTS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY 10.1 First Aid and Communication Link Emergency and safety measures shall be in place at all times, including an approved first aid box (equipped for outdoor high risk activities) and working, effective communication links (radios and telephones) with the relevant authorities. All Park Managers and Rangers shall be trained in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid. A yearly re- certification course is mandatory. 10.2 Electrical Wiring and Equipment All electrical wiring and equipment shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the provisions of the relevant Competent Authority. Solar panels and portable generators that are used at all sites shall be inspected regularly. 10.3 Cylinders for Liquefied Petroleum Gases 10.3.1 The handling, filling, storage and location of cylinders containing Liquefied Petroleum Gases (LPG) on the site shall 540 Standards be in accordance with BZS23: 2012 - Belize Standard Specification for Filling, Handling, Storage, Transportation and Location of Portable Cylinders for Liquefied Petroleum Gas. 10.3.2 Cylinders shall be inspected, tested and re-qualified in accordance with BZS22: 2012 - Belize National Standard Specification for Inspection, Testing and Requalification of Portable Containers for Liquefied Petroleum Gas. 10.4 Warning Signs Warning Signs shall be posted to draw attention to any steep paths, cliffs, overhanging rocks or trees, poisonous plants, dangerous animals or any other hazard to users to the park. Warning signs shall also be placed on any damaged property, especially rails or steps, if they cannot be repaired immediately or if repairs are being undertaken. 10.5 Security Services Where possible, security service must be provided at the major sites during opening hours to ensure that visitors are protected from harm, harassment or molestation. All Park Managers and Rangers shall be trained as special constables. 11 REQUIREMENTS FOR EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS 11.1 Emergency Preparedness Plan Each site shall develop an Emergency Management Plan according to prevailing hazards that are identified. A completed copy of this plan shall be submitted to the relevant Competent Authority. This plan shall be disseminated to each park manager and ranger and shall be trained in its implementation. 11.2 Evacuation Procedures Standards 541 Evacuation procedures shall be in place for both natural, medical and security emergencies as part of the Archaeological Reserve’s and Park’s Emergency Management Plan. If guests are not evacuated and they remain on the Archaeological Reserve, special arrangements shall be made to ensure the guests’ safety. All reserves and parks shall relay their damage assessment (physical and human) to the Director of Archaeology, for further dissemination to NEMO or other relevant authorities after a disaster or emergency has occurred. 12 CAPACITY MANAGEMENT The carrying capacity of the following sites shall be as follows– (a) Altun Ha – 2,000 daily visitors; (b) Xunantunich – 1,500 daily visitors; (c) Nohoch Che’en – 2,500 daily visitors; (d) Lamanai – 2,000 daily visitors; (e) ATM – 125 daily visitors; (f) Lubanntun – 1,500 daily visitors; (g) Nim Li Punit – 1,500 daily visitors; (h) Blue Creek – 125 daily visitors; and (i) Barton Creek – 300 daily visitors. 13 SITE MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE 13.1 Management Plan The Institute of Archaeology/NICH Management shall ensure each Archaeological Reserve and Parks develops and 542 Standards implements a management plan based on the management plans’ standards and criteria outlined by the Forestry Department of Belize for Protected Areas, the Environmental Compliance Plans of the Department of Environment and other relevant Management Plans, such as the National Protected Areas System Plan, the NICH Site Management Plans, etc. 13.2 Important Elements of the Plan The Management Plan shall incorporate a Monitoring and Maintenance component which shall include, but be not limited to, repair and general upkeep of– (a) general aesthetic appearance; (b) entrance gates, gate-houses and fences; (c) paths and trails; (d) steps, benches and rails; (e) concrete and metal constructions, and any other appropriate materials; (f) sewage Waste Treatment Systems and Facilities which include toilets, septic tanks, water catchments, gutters, storm water drainage and other collection systems; (g) electrical maintenance, including an annual check by a qualified electrician; and (h) roofs, floors (including wooden floors, vinyl and ceramic tiles, carpets), painting of interior and exterior walls, and interior and exterior signage; (i) solid waste management and disposal. Standards 543 13.3 Management Plan Training Archaeological Reserve and Parks Managers and Rangers and all other staff shall be trained to properly implement the management plan once the plans have been developed and accepted by the Institute of Archaeology/NICH. 14 REQUIREMENTS FOR MANAGEMENT AND STAFF 14.1 Staff Presence All Archaeological Reserves and Parks, when open for business, shall have at least two staff members present to whom visitors can be referred for the purposes of obtaining information, registering any complaints and who are authorized to give instructions to all visitors to the Reserve and Park. 14.2 Staff Facilities Separate washrooms, changing facilities and appropriate dining areas shall be provided for staff, the size of which should be adequate to the number of employees. The reserve and park shall be staffed by at least one manager and an assistant manager, and these individuals will be adequately trained to maintain the appropriate standards of service to visitors. Staff should be suitably attired, well groomed and readily identifiable with name tags. 15 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR CAVES The Institute of Archaeology is responsible for the monitoring and management of cave tourism in Belize; hence all health and safety measures and standards must be in place to protect and enhance visitors’ experiences. 15.1 Tour Guide Licensing and Special Training 544 Standards The Institute of Archaeology requires that all tour guides and tour operators involved in cave tourism will, in addition to the standard tour guide license obtained from the BTB, receive additional specialized training in order to be licensed and registered to conduct tours relating to any or all types of caves. Cave tourism is a unique and specialized adventure and recreational activity. In order to maintain international safety standards, specialized training and certification in swift water rescue must be completed for those cave sites that involve traversing water to ensure that Belize is adhering to internationally accepted safety criteria. 15.2 Equipment All tour operators shall industry standard equipment required for their guests when conducting cave tours at Archaeological Reserves and Parks. Regular inspection of equipment shall be done periodically based on the need to ensure that all equipment remains in good working condition. 15.2.1 Type of Equipment Equipment required to carry out any cave tour must include– (a) Life Jackets (US Coast Guard Type I, II or III for all caves with water such as ATM, Barton Creek, Blue Creek and Noh Mul Archaeological Reserve (Cave’s Branch); (b) Tubes (for cave tours at ATM, Barton Creek, Blue Creek and Cave’s Branch); (c) Flash Lights; (d) Extra Batteries; (e) Ropes; (f) First Aid Kits; and Standards 545 (g) Caving Helmets Batteries must be replaced immediately if flashlights are dull, dimmed or do not provide adequate light. Batteries shall be disposed of in proper garbage containers and shall completely removed from the cave site. 15.2.2 Demonstration of Equipment Prior to entering the cave, tour guides shall demonstrate to visitors the proper use of all equipment that will be used while touring the cave. All safety and liability policies shall also be explained to visitors before entering the cave. 15.2.3 Minimum Requirements for Equipment The following are the minimum requirements for cave tubing equipment to be used at relevant Archaeological Reserves– (a) Certified Caving Helmets (technical specifications)– (i) Ergonomic dome shape; (ii) Adjustable suspension system; (iii) Headlamp clips; (iv) Fiberglass or hardened plastic with interior insulation. (b) tubes (technical specifications)– (i) Heavy duty gauge 30 PVC; (ii) Double welded to avoid blow-outs; (iii) Preferable with safety chamber; 546 Standards (iv) Tube size for adults: 104.14 – 111.76 cm (41–44 inches); (v) Tube size for children: 78.74 – 83.82 cm (31-33 inches); (vi) Rubber in the tubes; (c) Headlamp (technical specifications)– (i) Four LED; (ii) Must be waterproof with adequate lighting; (iii) Extended battery life; (iv) Extra batteries; (v) Adjustable strap. (d) Life Jackets (technical specifications)– (i) Wrap around lockable straps; (ii) Vertical adjustment; (iii) Sleeveless; (iv) US Coast Guard Type I, II or III. (e) Ropes (Diameter: 10.1 mm; Lengths: 60 & 70 m; Type: single rope; Weight: 66 g/m; UIAA falls: 7; Impact force: 8.2 kN; Elongation: - dynamic: 33.6 %, - static: 6.7 %; % sheath by weight: 42 %); (f) Adequate communication equipment Hand held radios; Standards 547 (g) First Aid Kits for high risk activities – This should include– (i) First Aid Guidance Notes; (ii) First Aid Scissors; (iii) 20ml Eye Wash Pod; (iv) 1,25 Micropore Tape; (v) 5 x 5cm Non Adherent Dressings x 2; (vi) Size E Tubular Support Bandage x 1 (Leg & Knee); (vii) 7.5cm Conforming Bandage; (viii) No. 7 Finger Bandage; (ix) No. 8 Medium Bandage; (x) No. 16 Eye Bandage; (xi) Triangular Bandage; (xii) Latex Finger Cots x 2; (xiii) Resusciade; (xiv) 30GM Cetrimide Antiseptic Cream; (xv) Safety Pins x 11; (xvi) Alcohol Free Wipes x 6; (xvii) Yellow Clinical Waste Bag; (xviii) Fabric Plasters x 10; 548 Standards (xix) Waterproof Plasters x 10; (xx) Blister Plasters x 6; (xxi) Splinter Forceps/Tweezers; (xxii) Pair of Medium Vinyl Gloves x 1 (Size can be changed if required); (xxiii) Emergency Whistle; (xxiv) Emergency Penlight; (xxv) Emergency Foil Blanket; and (xxvi) 6” Emergency 12 Hour Lightstick. 15.3 Safety Guidelines for Cave Tours (a) all tour guides shall have a backup source of light and batteries for their guests in accordance with the Tour Group Ratios (see 15.6.1); (b) no one shall be allowed to explore cave passages by themselves or deviate from the prescribed cave routes; (c) proper clothing and footwear shall be worn in caves in order to avoid cuts, slips, trips and falls; (d) everyone venturing into any cave system shall be debriefed about the dangerous nature of caves and how to properly conduct themselves inside caves for their own safety; (e) all tour guides and tour operators shall ensure that they inform their guests about the physical Standards 549 nature of this activity and should stress that their guests must be in good physical condition to reduce chances of accidents; (f) all persons participating in adventure cave tubing shall wear a life jacket at all times during the cave tour. Children must be under their parents/guardian’s supervision at all times, provided they meet the requirements to do cave tubing.; (g) tour guides shall have the responsibility to properly supervise and control guests during caving activities; (h) tour guides shall use the linked technique to float their guests through the cave. Free floating is not allowed; (i) everyone entering any cave system shall wear a caving helmet in order to prevent head injuries; (j) safety ropes shall be brought along in the event that anyone gets injured or needs assistance; (k) every cave expedition shall include an emergency bag containing medical supplies, blanket, extra batteries, candles, matches, lights, snacks, water and dry clothes; (l) prior to leaving for a cave expedition, a time shall be established for the return of the group with an officer of NICH at the point of entry; (m) all tour operators and guests shall take every precaution not to damage the integrity or in any way deliberately alter the natural environment of the Cave Systems; 550 Standards (n) no smoking is allowed within the caves; and (o) your guides shall ensure that their guests are in close proximity and are not wondering around. Tour guides must always be in control of their tour group. 15.4 Food and Alcoholic Beverages 15.4.1 Food Consumption In order to reduce the amount of waste being generated as well as to maintain the aesthetic value of our caves and park trails, the Institute of Archaeology encourages tour guides to limit food consumption in the caves and on trails and to remove all plastic water bottles taken on the cave tours and trail hikes. 15.4.2 Alcoholic Beverages The Institute of Archaeology does not accept responsibility for any accident on the site due to the consumption of alcoholic beverages by any visitors. 15.5 Ratios and Intervals 15.5.1 Tour Group Ratios Cave tour groups shall be limited to a maximum of 8 persons per tour guide for safety purposes and will also be guided by the BTB Tour Operators Regulations as it relates to cave sites. 15.5.2 Tour Group Intervals Tour guides and tour operators shall take the responsibility to maintain appropriate time intervals between groups (at least 15 minutes between tours) in caves involving water so as to prevent overcrowding and conflicts when entering the water and during the tour. Standards 551 15.6 Noise Levels Tour guides shall be responsible and have consideration for other visitors at the site. Tour guides must strictly discourage loud noise (i.e. shouting) during the trail hike or during the cave tours. Loud noise usually causes wildlife to abandon the park, thus reducing the overall visitor’s experience. Loud noise can also cause confusion among tour guides and visitors. 15.7 Site Closure and Water Level 15.7.1 Archaeological Sites may be declared “closed” under the below conditions: 15.7.1.1 For Caves: erosion, security threat, major accident(s), natural hazards, water quality, contamination; 15.7.1.2 For Maya temples: erosion, security threat, accident, natural hazards. 15.7.2 The unpredictable nature of Belize’s rivers makes it almost impossible to give any tour operator a 24-hour lead-time as to what the river condition will be. Hence, the Institute of Archaeology will continuously monitor river level gauges, weather reports and contacts upriver to keep the cave site open and operational as long as possible within an acceptable safety margin. 15.7.3 In the event of any excessive rains that can produce flash flooding, caves will be closed and will remain closed until the Park Manager declares the “ALL CLEAR TO RESUME ACTIVITIES”. 15.7.4 Once the site has been declared closed, the Park Manager shall immediately notify all ticketing centres about the status of the river, and visitors will have to be diverted to other destinations. Tour Operators and Guides may call the Cahal Pech Archaeological Reserve at 802-4206 from 6:00 am every 552 Standards morning to 6:00 pm to check on river conditions and to determine whether caves are open. 15.7.5 The Institute of Archaeology shall install additional signage/signs at the site to inform visitors of the park rules and regulations and current water conditions and warnings. 15.7.6 The Institute of Archaeology shall put in place a mechanism where tour operators and tour guides can get daily updates on the status of the sites to check on the condition of the river and to determine whether caves are open. All archaeological sites designated for tourism activities shall be fully equipped with radios and telephones where cellular service is available. MADE by the Minister responsible for the Bureau of Standards this 27th day of May, 2014. (HON. ERWIN CONTRERAS) Minister responsible for the Bureau of Standards Standards 553 CHAPTER 295 STANDARDS (BELIZE NATIONAL CODE OF HYGIENIC PRACTICE FOR PACKAGED WATER) (BZ CP 4: 2007) (DECLARATION AS A COMPULSORY STANDARD) ORDER. ARRANGEMENT OF PARAGRAPHS 1. Short title. 2. Declaration of Compulsory Code of Practice. 3. Purpose of Compulsory Code of Practice. 4. Commencement. SCHEDULE 554 Standards CHAPTER 295 CAP 295. R.E. 2020. 96 of 2007. STANDARDS (BELIZE NATIONAL CODE OF HYGIENIC PRACTICE FOR PACKAGED WATER (BZ CP 4: 2007) (DECLARATION AS A COMPULSORY STANDARD) ORDER. (Section 9(3)) [Gazetted 25th August, 2007.] WHEREAS, section 9(3) of the Standards Act, Chapter 295 of the Laws of Belize provides, inter alia, that the Minister shall, by publication in Gazette, give at least thirty days’ notice of his intention to make and Order declaring a compulsory standard and shall thereby indicate the date on which it is intended that the compulsory standard shall come into force; AND WHEREAS, a notice of intention to declare the BELIZE NATIONAL CODE OF HYGIENIC PRACTICE FOR PACKAGED WATER (BZ CP 4: 2007) to be a compulsory code of practice was published in the Belize Gazette dated 10th March 2007 and 30th June 2007; AND WHEREAS, no objections have been received to the making of the said Order; NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY ORDERED as follows1. This Order may be cited as theShort title. STANDARDS (BELIZE NATIONAL CODE OF HYGIENIC PRACTICE FOR PACKAGED WATER) (BZ CP 4: 2007) (DECLARATION AS A COMPULSORY STANDARD) ORDER. Standards 555 2. The Belize National Code of Practice (BZ CP 4:2007) CODE OF HYGIENIC PRACTICE FOR PACK AGED WATER, the full text of which appears in the Schedule hereto, is hereby declared to be a compulsory code of practice. Declaration of Compulsory Code of Practice. Schedule. Purpose of Compulsory Code of Practice. 3. The code of practice referred to in paragraph 2 above is intended primarily– (a) to protect the consumer or user against danger to health and safety; (b) to ensure quality in goods produced for home use or for export; (c) to prevent fraud or deception arising from misleading advertising or labelling; and (d) to require adequate information to be given to the consumer or user. 556 Standards Commencement. 4. This Order shall come into effect on the 1st day of October, 2007. MADE by the Minister of Finance, this 20th day of August, 2007. (SAID MUSA) Minister of Finance, Minister responsible for Bureau of Standards Standards 557 SCHEDULE [Paragraph 2] BELIZE NATIONAL STANDARD BZ CP 4: 2007 BELIZE NATIONAL CODE OF HYGIENIC PRACTICE FOR PACKAGED WATER BBS BELIZE BUREAU OF STANDARDS Government Complex Building P.O. Box 1647 Belize City, Belize CENTRAL AMERICA 558 Standards 0. FOREWORD 0.1 This standard has been prepared to set levels of quality and safety for packaged water produced and traded in the CARICOM region. Packaged waters that comply with the CARICOM Standard for Packaged Water and processed according to this code and under an approved system of quality assurance can qualify to use the CARICOM Standard Mark. 0.2 In several CARICOM countries waters from natural springs and other sources are being packaged and sold. There are many underground reservoirs that are capable of exploitation, which have not been exposed to any pollution, and can be used to satisfy a growing demand for natural pure water, or water containing certain minerals. Purified waters from other sources are also entering the trade and it is now desirable to set guidelines for the production and promotion of such products. 0.3 This standard is adopted from the Caribbean Community Code of Hygienic Practice for Packaged Water, approved by the Caribbean Community Council of Ministers for implementation as a regional voluntary standard with effect from May 26, 2003. 1.0 SCOPE 1.1 This Code of Hygienic Practice recommends appropriate general techniques for collecting mineral water, spring water and purified water; and the treatment, bottling, packaging, storage, transport, distribution and sale of packaged water, so as to guarantee a safe, healthy and wholesome product. 2.0 DEFINITIONS 2.1 Mineral water - all waters meeting the relevant requirements of the CARICOM Standard for Packaged Water. 2.2 Adequate - sufficient to accomplish the intended purpose of this code. Standards 559 2.3 Cleaning - the removal of soil, food residues, dirt, grease or other objectionable matter. 2.4 Contamination - the occurrence of any objectionable matter in the product. 2.5 Disinfection - the reduction, without adversely affecting the purified, spring or mineral water, by means of hygienically satisfactory chemical agents and/or physical methods, of the number of microorganisms to a level that will not lead to harmful contamination of packaged water. 2.6 Establishment - any building(s) or areas in which purified, spring or mineral water is handled after collection and the surroundings under the control of the same management. 2.7 Handling of purified, spring or mineral water – any manipulation with regard to collecting, treating, bottling, packaging, sorting, transport, distribution and sale of purified, spring or mineral water. 2.8 Food Hygiene - all measures necessary to ensure the safety, soundness and wholesomeness of packaged water at all stages from its exploitation and processing until its final consumption. 2.9 Packaging Material - any containers such as cans, bottles, cartons, boxes, cases or wrapping and covering material such as foil, film, metal paper and wax-paper. 2.10 Pests - any animals capable of directly or indirectly contaminating natural mineral water. 2.11 Containers - any bottle, carton, can or other container to be filled with purified, spring or mineral after, properly labelled and intended for sale. 2.12 Aquifers - any solid permeable mass of rocks. 560 Standards 2.13 Potable Water - water which is naturally suitable or artificially made suitable for human consumption and as such it is free from disease causing organisms. 2.14 Purified Water- Refer to Belize National Standard Specification for Bottled/Packaged Water - BZS10: 2002. 2.15 Spring Water - Refer to Belize National Standard Specification for Bottled/Packaged Water - BZS10: 2002. 3. PRESCRIPTIONS OF THE RESOURCES OF MINERAL AND SPRING WATER A. Protection of Alimentary Reservoirs and Aquifers 3.1 Authorization Mineral water, spring water or that used for purified water, must be abstracted only from officially approved sources. Details of the source required for recognition include a hydrological description, physical and chemical characteristics of the water, microbiological analyses, levels of toxic substances, freed of pollution and stability of source. Water from the source shall be sampled and analysed by a competent authority for a minimum of one year before approval be granted. Samples of water at the source shall be taken and analysed by the plant as often as necessary, but at a minimum frequency of once each year for chemical contaminants, once every four years for radiological contaminants, and at least once each week for microbiological contaminants. 3.2 Perimeter of Protection If possible areas wherein spring or mineral water might be polluted or its chemical and physical qualities otherwise deteriorated shall be determined by a hydrologist and the other competent authorities. Where indicated by hydrogeological conditions and considering the risks of pollution and physical Standards 561 chemical and biochemical reactions, several perimeters with separate dimensions may be provided for. 3.3 Protective Measures All possible precautions should be taken within the protected perimeters to avoid any pollution of, or external influence on, the chemical and physical qualities of mineral water and spring water. It is recommended that regulations be established by the appropriate authorities for the disposal of liquid, solid or gaseous waste, the use of substances that might deteriorate mineral water and spring water (e.g. by agriculture) as well as for any possibility of accidental deterioration of spring or mineral water by natural occurrences such as a change in the hydrogeological conditions. Particular consideration should be given to the following potential pollutants: bacteria, viruses, fertilizers, hydrocarbons, detergents, pesticides, phenolic compounds, toxic metals, radioactive substances and other soluble organic or inorganic substances. Adequate protective measures should be put in place against potential hazards which may arise from activities such as mining, hydraulic and engineering facilities. B Hygiene Prescriptions for the Collection of Spring and Mineral Water 3.4 Extraction The withdrawal of water (from springs, galleries, genuine or drilled wells) must be performed in conformity with the hydrogeological conditions in such a manner as to prevent any other than the spring or mineral water from entering or, should there be pumping facilities, prevent any extraneous water from entering by reducing the supply. The water thus collected or pumped should be protected in such a way that it will be safe from pollution whether caused by natural occurrence or actions or neglect or ill will. 562 Standards 3.5 Materials The pipes, pumps or other possible devices coming into contact with spring or mineral water and used for its collection should be made of such material, as described under Section 3.12 of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, Recommended International Code of Hygienic Practice for the Collecting, Processing and Marketing of Natural Mineral Waters, CAC/RCP 33-1985, to guarantee that the original qualities of water will not be changed. 3.6 Protection of the Extraction Area In the immediate surroundings of springs and wells, precautionary measures should be taken to guarantee that no pollutant whatsoever can enter the extraction area. The extraction area should be inaccessible to non-authorized people by providing adequate devices (e.g. enclosure). Any use not aiming at the collection of spring or mineral water should be forbidden in this area. 3.7 Exploitation of Spring and Mineral Water The condition of the extraction facilities, areas of extraction and perimeters of protection as well as the quality of the water should periodically be checked. To control the stability of the chemical and physical particulars of the water derived - besides the natural variations, frequent chemical and physical analyses of the water should be carried out, the results appropriately documented and communicated to the appropriate authorities. C. Maintenance of Extraction Facilities 3.8 Technical Aspects Methods and procedures for maintaining the extraction facilities should be hygienic and not be a potential health hazard to humans or a source of contamination to the spring or mineral water. From the hygiene stand point, servicing of the extraction Standards 563 installations should meet the same standards as those required for the bottling or treatment. 3.9 Equipment and Reservoirs Equipment and reservoirs used for extraction of mineral water should be constructed and maintained in order to minimize all hazards to human health and to avoid contamination. 3.10 Storage at the Point of Extraction The quantity of water stored at the point of extraction should be not more than 25-30% of the capacity of the extraction volume. The storing should furthermore guarantee protection against contamination or deterioration. D. Transport of Packaged Water 3.11 Means of Transport, Piping and Reservoirs Any vehicle, piping or reservoir used in the processing of packaged water from its source to the bottling facilities, the latter included, should comply with the necessary requirements and be made of inert material such as ceramic and stainless steel which prevents any deterioration, be it by water, handling, servicing or disinfection; it should allow easy cleaning. 3.12 Maintenance of Vehicles and Reservoirs Any vehicle or reservoir should be properly cleaned and disinfected and kept in good repair so as not to cause any danger of contamination to mineral or spring water and deterioration of the essential qualities of the water. 4.0 ESTABLISHMENT FOR PROCESSING MINERAL WATERS - DESIGN AND FACILITIES 4.1 Location 564 Standards Establishments should be located in areas which are free from objectionable odours, smoke, dust or other contaminants and are not subject to flooding. 4.2 Roadways and Areas Used by Wheeled Traffic Such roadways and areas serving the establishment which are within its boundaries or in its immediate vicinity should have a hard paved surface suitable for wheeled traffic. There should be adequate drainage and provision should be made for protection of the extraction area in accordance with sub-section 3.7 where appropriate and to allow for cleaning. Adequate road signals may be provided to call the attention of road users to the existence of a mineral water extraction area. 4.3 Buildings and Facilities Although good roadway connections for distribution of the product and facilitating services are advisable, heavy traffic in built-up areas near to the plant is not recommended. 4.3.1 Type of Construction Buildings and facilities should be of sound construction in accordance with the provisions of subsection 3.7 and maintained in good repair. 4.3.2 Disposition of Holding Facilities Rooms for recreation, for storing or packaging of raw material and areas for the cleaning of containers to be re-used should be apart from the bottling areas to prevent the end-product from being contaminated. Raw and packaging materials and any other additions which come into contact with the bottled water should be stored apart from other material. 4.3.3 Adequate working space should be provided to allow for satisfactory performance of all operations. Standards 565 4.3.4 The design should be such as to permit easy and adequate cleaning and to facilitate proper supervision of bottled water hygiene. 4.3.5 The buildings and facilities should be designed to provide separation by partition, location or other effective means between those operations which may cause cross- contamination. 4.3.6 Buildings and facilities should be designed to facilitate hygienic operations by means of a regulated flow in the process from the arrival of the water at the premises to the finished product and should provide for appropriate temperature conditions for the process and the product. 4.3.7 The room used for bottling water shall be separated from other areas of the plant by self-closing doors and have tight ceilings and floors to prevent contamination of the product. Conduits for utilities and openings for conveyors shall be no larger than necessary. 4.3.8 Packaged Water Handling, Storing and Bottling Areas 4.3.8.1 Floors, shall be of non-skid impervious material, graded to drains, and wall surfaces shall be smooth and impervious to water and where appropriate, should be of water-proof, non- absorbent, washable, non-slip and nontoxic materials, without crevices, and should be easy to clean and disinfect. Where appropriate, floors should slope sufficiently for liquids to drain to trapped outlets. 4.3.8.2 Walls, where appropriate, should be of waterproof, non- absorbent, washable and non-toxic materials and should be light coloured. Up to a height appropriate for the operation they should be smooth and without crevices and should be easy to clean and disinfect. Where appropriate, angles between walls, between walls and floors, and between walls and ceilings should be sealed and covered to facilitate cleaning. 566 Standards 4.3.8.3 Ceilings should be so designed, constructed, and finished as to prevent the accumulation of dirt and minimize condensation, mould development and flaking, and should be easy to clean. 4.3.8.4 Windows and other opening should be so constructed as to avoid accumulation of dirt and those which open should be fitted with screens. Screens should be easily movable for cleaning and kept in good repair. Internal windowsills, if present, should be sloped to prevent use as shelves. 4.3.8.5 Doors should have smooth, non-absorbent surfaces and, where appropriate, be self-closing and close fitting. 4.3.8.6 Stairs, lift cages and auxiliary structures such as platforms, ladders, chutes, should be so situated and constructed as not to cause contamination to food. Chutes should be constructed with inspection and cleaning hatches. 4.3.8.7 Piping for packaged water lines should be independent of potable and non-potable waters. 4.3.9 In packaged water handling areas all overhead structures and fittings should be installed in such a manner as to avoid contamination directly or indirectly of the packaged water and raw materials by condensation and drip and should not hamper cleaning operations. They should be insulated where appropriate and be so designed and finished as to prevent the accumulation of dirt and to minimize condensation, mould development and flaking. They should be easy to clean. 4.3.10 Where appropriate, establishments should be so designed that access can be controlled. 4.3.11 The use of material which cannot be adequately cleaned and disinfected, such as wood, should be avoided unless its use would clearly not be a source of contamination. Standards 567 4.3.12 Living quarters, toilets and areas where animals are kept should be completely separated from and should not open directly to packaged water handling areas. 4.3.13 Canalization, Drainage Lines Canalization and drainage and used water lines as well as any possible waste storage area within the protected perimeter should be built and maintained in such a manner as not to present any risk whatsoever of polluting aquifers and springs. 4.3.14 Fuel Storage Area Any storage area or tank for the storing of fuels such as coal or hydrocarbons should be designed, protected, controlled and maintained in such a manner as not to present a risk of aquifers and springs being polluted during the storage and manipulation of these fuels. 4.4 Hygienic Facilities 4.4.1 Water Supply 4.4.1.1 An ample supply of potable water, in compliance with the treatment described under Section VII.3 of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, Recommended International Code of Hygienic Practice for the Collecting, Processing and Marketing of Natural Mineral Waters, CAC/RCP 33-1985 (as above), and under adequate pressure and of suitable temperature should be available with adequate facilities for its storage, where necessary, and distribution, and with adequate protection against contamination. The standards of potability should not be less than those contained in the National Drinking Water Quality Standard Regulations. 4.4.1.2 Packaged water, other potable water and non-potable water for steam production or for refrigeration or any other use should be carried in completely separate lines with no cross connection between them and without back siphonage. It would 568 Standards be desirable that these lines be identified by different colours. Steam used in direct contact with packaged water and bottled water contact surfaces, should contain no substances which may be hazardous to health or may contaminate the food. 4.4.2 Effluent and waste disposal Establishments should have an efficient effluent and waste disposal system which should at all times be maintained in good order and repair. All effluent lines (including sewer systems) should be large enough to carry peak loads and should be so constructed as to avoid contamination of potable water supplies. 4.4.3 Changing facilities and toilets Adequate, suitable and conveniently located changing facilities and toilets should be provided in all establishments. Toilets should be so designed as to ensure hygienic removal of waste matter. These areas should be well lit, ventilated and where appropriate heated, and should not open directly on to packaged water handling areas. Hand washing facilities with warm or hot and cold water, a suitable hand-cleaning preparation, and with suitable hygienic means of drying hands, should be provided adjacent to toilets and in such a position that the employee must pass them when returning to the processing area. Where hot and cold water are available mixing taps should be provided. Where paper towels are used, a sufficient number of dispensers and receptacles should be provided near to each washing facility. Care should be taken that these receptacles for used paper towels are regularly emptied. Taps of a non-hand operable type are desirable. Notices should be posted directing personnel to wash their hands after using the toilet. 4.4.4 Hand washing facilities in packaged water processing areas Adequate and conveniently located facilities for hand washing and drying should be provided wherever the process demands. Where appropriate, facilities for hand disinfection should also Standards 569 be provided. Warm or hot and cold water and a suitable hand- cleaning preparation should be provided. Where hot and cold water are available mixing taps should be provided. There should be suitable hygienic means of drying hands. Where paper towels are used, a sufficient number of dispensers and receptacles should be provided adjacent to each washing facility. Taps of a non-hand operable type are desirable. The facilities should be furnished with properly trapped waste pipes leading to drains. 4.4.5 Disinfection Facilities Where appropriate, adequate facilities for cleaning and disinfection of working implements and equipment should be provided. These facilities should be constructed of corrosion resistant materials, capable of being easily cleaned, and should be fitted with suitable means of supplying hot and cold water in sufficient quantities. 4.4.6 Lighting Adequate natural or artificial lighting should be provided throughout the establishment. Where appropriate, the lighting should not alter colours and the intensity should not be less than540 lux (50 foot candles) at all inspection points; 220 lux (20 foot candles) in work rooms; 110 lux (10 foot candles) in other areas. Light bulbs and fixtures suspended over packaged water in any stage of production should be of a safety type and protected to prevent contamination of bottled water in case of breakage. 570 Standards 4.4.7 Ventilation Adequate ventilation should be provided to prevent excessive heat, steam condensation and dust and to remove contaminated air. The direction of the airflow should never be from a dirty area to a clean area. Ventilation openings should be provided with a screen or other protecting enclosure of non-corrodible material. Screens should be easily removable for cleaning. 4.4.8 Facilities for Storage of Waste and Inedible Material Facilities should be provided for the storage of waste and inedible material prior to removal from the establishment. These facilities should be designed to prevent access to waste or inedible material by pests and to avoid contamination of bottled water, other potable water, equipment, buildings or roadways on the premises. 4.5 Equipment and Utensils 4.5.1 Materials All equipment and utensils used in packaged water handling areas and which may contact the bottled water should be made of material which does not transmit toxic substances, odour or taste, is non-absorbent, is resistant to corrosion and is capable of withstanding repeated cleaning and disinfection. Surfaces should be smooth and free from pits and crevices. The use of wood and other materials which cannot be adequately cleaned and disinfected should be avoided except when their use would clearly not be a source of contamination. The use of different materials in such a way that contact corrosion can occur should be avoided. 4.5.2 Hygienic Design, Construction and Installation All equipment and utensils should be so designed and constructed as to prevent hygienic hazards and permit easy and thorough cleaning and disinfection. Standards 571 5.0 ESTABLISHMENT: HYGIENE REQUIREMENTS 5.1 Maintenance The buildings, equipment, utensils and all other physical facilities of the establishment, including drains, should be maintained in good repair and in an orderly condition. As far as practicable, rooms should be kept from steam, vapour and surplus water. 5.2 Cleaning and Disinfection 5.2.1 Cleaning and disinfection shall meet the requirements of this Code, and shall be in accordance with the appropriate sections of the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (Food Safety) Regulations 2001 - General Principles of Food Hygiene. 5.2.2 To prevent contamination of packaged water, all equipment and utensils should be cleaned on a regular basis and disinfected whenever circumstances demand. 5.2.3 Adequate precautions should be taken to prevent packaged water from being contaminated during cleaning or disinfection of rooms, equipment or utensils, by water and detergents or by disinfectants and their solutions. Detergents and disinfectants should be suitable for the purpose intended and should be acceptable to the official agency having jurisdiction. Any residues of these agents on a surface which may come in contact with bottled water should be removed by thorough rinsing with water in compliance with the Genera] Principles of Food Hygiene in Production and Processing before the area or equipment is again used for handling packaged water. 5.2.4 Either immediately after cessation of work for the day or at such other times as may be appropriate, floors, including drains, auxiliary structures and walls of bottled water handling areas should be thoroughly cleaned. 572 Standards 5.2.5 Changing facilities and toilets should be kept clean at all times. 5.2.6 Roadways and yards in the immediate vicinity of and serving the premises should be kept clean. 5.3 Hygiene Control Programme A permanent cleaning and disinfection schedule should be drawn up for each establishment to ensure that all areas are appropriately cleaned, and that critical areas, equipment and material are designated for special attention. A single individual, who should preferably be a permanent member of the staff of the establishment and whose duties should be independent of production, should be appointed to be responsible for the cleanliness of the establishment. He/She should have a thorough understanding of the significance of contamination and the hazards involved. All cleaning personnel should be well-trained in cleaning techniques. 5.4 Storage and Disposal of Waste Waste material should be handled in such a manner as to avoid contamination of bottled water or other potable water. Care should be taken to prevent access to waste by pests. Waste should be removed from the packaged water handling and other working areas as often as necessary and at least daily. Immediately after disposal of the waste, receptacles used for storage and any equipment which has come into contact with the waste should be cleaned and disinfected. The waste storage area should also be cleaned and disinfected. 5.5 Exclusion of Animals Animals that are uncontrolled or that could be a hazard to health should be excluded from establishments. Standards 573 5.6 Pest Control 5.6.1 There should be an effective and continuous programme for the control of pests. Establishments and surrounding areas should be regularly examined for evidence of infestation. 5.6.2 Should pests gain entrance to the establishment, eradication measures should be instituted. Control measures involving treatment with chemical, physical or biological agents should only be undertaken by or under direct supervision of personnel who have a thorough understanding of the potential hazards to health resulting from the use of these agents, including those hazards which may arise from residues retained in the bottled water. Such measures should only be carried out in accordance with the recommendations of the official agency having jurisdiction. 5.6.3 Pesticides should only be used if other precautionary measures cannot be used effectively. Before pesticides are applied, care should be taken to safeguard bottled water, equipment and utensils from contamination. After application, contaminated equipment and utensils should be thoroughly cleaned to remove residues prior to being used again. 5.7 Storage of Hazardous Substances 5.7.1 Pesticides or other substances which may represent a hazard to health should be suitably labelled with a warning about their toxicity and use. They should be stored in locked rooms or cabinets used only for that purpose and dispensed and handled only by authorized and properly trained personnel or by persons under strict supervision of trained personnel. Extreme care should be taken to avoid contaminating packaged water. 5.7.2 Except when necessary for hygienic or processing purposes, no substance which could contaminate packaged water should be used or stored in natural packaged water handling area. 574 Standards 5.8 Personal Effects and Clothing Personal effects and clothing should not be deposited in bottled water handling areas. 6.0 PERSONNEL HYGIENE AND HEALTH REQUIREMENTS 6.1 Hygiene Training Managers of establishments should arrange for adequate and continuing training of all bottled water handlers in hygienic handling of bottled water and in personal hygiene so that they understand the precautions necessary to prevent contamination of bottled water. 6.2 Medical Examination Persons who come into contact with the packaged water in the course of their work should have a medical examination prior to employment. Medical examination of bottled water handlers should be carried out at other times when clinically or epidemiologically indicated. If the product is untreated, consideration should be given to screening employees for Salmonella, Shigella and Campylobacter. Stool samples for this should be provided prior to appointment, yearly, after visits abroad, and after any sickness and/or diarrhoea. 6.3 Communicable Diseases The management should take care to ensure that no person, while known or suspected to be suffering from, or to be a carrier of a disease likely to be transmitted through food or while afflicted with infected wounds, skin infections, sores or with diarrhoea, is permitted to work in any packaged water handling area in any capacity in which there is any likelihood of such a person directly or indirectly contaminating the water with Standards 575 pathogenic microorganisms. Any person so affected should immediately report to the management that he is ill. 6.4 Injuries Any person who has a cut or wound should not continue to handle packaged water or bottled water contact surfaces until the injury is completely protected by a waterproof covering which is firmly secured, and which is conspicuous in colour. Adequate first-aid facilities should be provided for this purpose. 6.5 Washing of Hands Every person, while on duty in a packaged water handling area, should wash his hands frequently and thoroughly with a suitable hand cleaning preparation under running warm water. Hands should always be washed before commencing work, immediately after using the toilet, after handling contaminated material and whenever else necessary. After handling any material which might be capable of transmitting disease, hands should be washed and disinfected immediately. Notices requiring handwashing should be displayed. There should be adequate supervision to ensure compliance with this requirement. 6.6 Personal Cleanliness Every person engaged in a packaged water handling area should maintain a high degree of personal cleanliness while on duty and should at all times while so engaged wear suitable protective clothing including head covering and footwear, all of which should be cleanable unless designed to be disposed of and should be maintained in a clean condition consistent with the nature of the work in which the person is engaged. Aprons and similar items should not be washed on the floor. During periods where bottled water is manipulated, no jewellery should be worn with the exception of wedding rings and sleeper earrings/studs. Wristwatches and cufflinks should not be worn. Fingernails should be kept clean and short. No nail varnish should be worn. 576 Standards Long hair must be neatly contained with no grips outside the hair covering. Beards must be covered in open bottle areas. Invasive use of perfume or aftershave should not be permitted. Protective clothing should be restricted for on-site use only. Pockets should be restricted to below the waist and should only accommodate items required for work. Cleaning of protective clothing should facilitate a high standard of cleanliness, and employees should be discouraged from home laundering of these garments. 6.7 Personal Behaviour Any behaviour which could result in contamination of bottled water, such as eating, use of tobacco, chewing (e.g. gum, sticks, betel nuts, etc.) or unhygienic practices such as spitting, should be prohibited in packaged water handling areas. 6.8 Visitors Precautions should be taken to prevent visitors to packaged water handling areas from contaminating the product. These may include the use of protective clothing. Visitors should observe the provisions recommended in paragraph 5.8, 6.3, 6.4 and 6.7 of this Code. 6.9 Supervision Responsibility for ensuring compliance by all personnel with all requirements of Section 6.1 – 6.8 inclusive should be specifically allocated to competent supervisory personnel. 7.0 ESTABLISHMENT: HYGIENE PROCESSING REQUIREMENTS 7.1 Raw Material Requirements To guarantee a good and stable quality of packaged water, certain criteria should be monitored regularly, e.g.Standards 577 (i) Spring discharge, temperature of the packaged water; (ii) Appearance of the packaged water; (iii) Odour and taste of the packaged water; (iv) The conductance of packaged water or any other adequate parameter; (v) The microbiological flora. 7.1.1 Should there be a perceptible lack in meeting the standards, the necessary corrective measures are to be taken immediately. 7.2 Treatment Processing should be supervised by technically competent personnel. 7.2.2 All steps in the production process, including packaging, should be performed without unnecessary delay and under conditions which will prevent the possibility of contamination, deterioration, or the development of pathogenic and spoilage micro-organisms. 7.2.3 Rough treatment of containers should be avoided to prevent the possibility of contamination of the processed product. 7.2.4 Treatment and necessary controls should be such as to protect against contamination or development of a public health hazard and against deterioration within the limits of good commercial practice. 7.2.5 All contaminated equipment which has been in contact with raw materials should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected prior to being used in contact with the end-products. 578 Standards 7.3 Packaging Material and Containers All packaging material should be stored in a clean and sanitary manner. The material should be appropriate for the product to be packed and for the expected conditions of storage and should not transmit to the product objectionable substances beyond the limits acceptable to the official agency having jurisdiction. The packaging material should be sound and should provide appropriate protection from contamination. Only packaging material required for immediate use should be kept in the packing or filling area. 7.3.2 Product containers should not have been used for any purpose that may lead to contamination of the product. Used containers, also new containers if there is a possibility that they have been contaminated, should be cleaned and disinfected. When chemicals are used for these purposes, the container should be rinsed as prescribed under 5.2.3. Containers should be well drained after rising. Used and, when necessary, unused containers should be inspected immediately before filling. 7.4 Filling and Sealing of Containers 7.4.1 Packaging should be done under conditions that preclude the introduction of contaminants into the product. 7.4.2 The methods, equipment and material used for sealing should guarantee a tight and impervious sealing and not damage the containers nor deteriorate the chemical, bacteriological and organoleptic quality of the bottled water. 7.5 Packaging of Containers The packaging of containers should protect the latter from contamination and damage and allow appropriate handling and storing. Standards 579 7.6 Lot Identification Each container shall be permanently marked in code or in clear to identify the producing factory and the lot. A lot is a quantity of packaged water produced under identical conditions, all packages of which should bear a lot number that identifies the production during a particular time interval, and usually from a particular “line” or other critical processing unit. 7.7 Processing and Production Records Permanent, legible and dated records of pertinent processing production details should be kept concerning each lot. These records should be retained for a period that exceeds the shelf life of the product. Records should also be kept of the initial distribution by lot. 7.8 Storage and Transport of the End-Product The end-product should be stored and transported under such conditions as will preclude contamination with and/or proliferation of micro-organisms and protect against deterioration of the product or damage to the container. During storage, periodic inspection of the end-product should take place to ensure that only bottled water which is fit for human consumption is dispatched and that end-product specifications should be complied with when they exist. 580 Standards CHAPTER 295 STANDARDS (BELIZE STANDARD: CODE OF PRACTICE FOR RECREATIONAL SCUBA DIVING SERVICES) (BZ CP 5) (DECLARATION OF COMPULSORY STANDARD) ORDER ARRANGEMENT OF PARAGRAPHS 1. Citation. 2. Declaration of Compulsory Standard. 3. Purpose of Compulsory Standard. SCHEDULE Standards 581 CHAPTER 295 CAP. 295. R.E. 2020. 57 of 2016. STANDARDS (BELIZE STANDARD: CODE OF PRACTICE FOR RECREATIONAL SCUBA DIVING SERVICES) (BZ CP 5) (DECLARATION OF COMPULSORY STANDARD) ORDER (Section 9(2)) [Gazetted 18th June, 2016] 1. This Order may be cited as theCitation. STANDARDS (BELIZE STANDARD: CODE OF PRACTICE FOR RECREATIONAL SCUBA DIVING SERVICES) (BZ CP 5) (DECLARATION OF COMPULSORY STANDARD) ORDER. Declaration of Compulsory Standard. Schedule. 2. The Belize Standard (BZ CP 5: 2016) – Code of Practice for Recreational Scuba Diving Services, which is set out in the Schedule is hereby declared to be a compulsory standard with effect from June 1, 2016. Purpose of Compulsory Standard. 3. The compulsory standard declared in paragraph 2 is intended primarily to– (a) protect the consumer or user against danger to health or safety; (b) to require adequate information to be given to the consumer or user; and (c) to ensure quality in any case where there is restriction in choice of source of supply. 582 Standards SCHEDULE (Paragraph 2) BELIZE STANDARD (BZ CP 5: 2016) - CODE OF PRACTICE FOR RECREATIONAL SCUBA DIVING SERVICES 0 FOREWORD 0.1 This standard specifies minimum requirements for the effective and operational safety of the scuba diving experience in Belize. The standard was created in an effort to prevent and minimize accidents when scuba diving and for the prevention of possible environmental impacts of recreational scuba diving operations on fragile marine ecosystems in Belize. 0.2 In preparing this standard, assistance was derived from the following publications– (a) ICRAN-MAR 1; ICRAN Mesoamerican Reef Alliance and Code Taskforce: (2007). Standard Requirements for Recreational Scuba Diving Services in the Mesoamerican Reef System, San Francisco, CA 94104: Coral reef Alliance (b) PADI Instructor Manual: (2013). Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688-2125 USA (c) DAN Europe - EAP. (2014). DAN Europe - EAP. [ONLINE] Available at: http//www.daneurope.org/eap. 1 SCOPE 1.1 This standard specifies the minimum requirements for conducting guided recreational scuba diving operations in ecosystems such as coral reefs, sea grass beds and related coastal Standards 583 environments of Belize, only. The standard applies to the following critical areas– (a) minimizing impact to the marine environment, particularly coral reefs, sea grass fields and related coastal environments; (b) establishing minimum requirements for conducting guided and recreational scuba diving; (c) ensuring the safe operation and management of recreational scuba diving tours the activity, safety, health, emergency, equipment and special equipment of guided and recreational scuba diving and competence of staff; (d) providing guidelines for the rental of scuba diving equipment of scuba diving tour operators selling dive packages; (e) providing guidelines for the sale of scuba diving packages to the public. 1.2 This standard does not– (a) specify curricula or practices for initial or advanced diver training, the qualifications of instructors, or related subjects; (b) address standards related to technical diving such as cave diving, mixed gas diving or commercial diving; (c) address technical specifications needed for technical diving such as cave diving, mixed gas diving or commercial diving; 584 Standards (d) address standards for snorkelling or free diving. 2 NORMATIVE REFERENCES The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this standard. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies. (a) Dive Operators Policy, 2001; (b) Belize Tourism Board (Tour Operators) Regulations, Chapter 275; (c) Belize Port Authority Act – Chapter 233; (d) Belize Fisheries Act – Chapter 210; (e) Environmental Protection Act – Chapter 328: 3 TERMS AND DEFINITIONS For the purposes of this standard, the following definitions shall apply 3.1 dive assistant means a person who has sufficient knowledge and skill to dive and holds minimum of a dive master in training or equivalent from an accredited recreational scuba diving training agency. Dive assistants shall not increase the dive ratio of 1:8. 3.2 dive master means a qualified, professional scuba diver that licensed by the BTB and is a member in good standing with an international scuba diving training agency who is responsible for the monitoring and safety of other divers under his supervision. Standards 585 3.3 dive flag means a red flag with a white diagonal running from the upper left-hand corner to the lower right hand corner or a blue-and-white swallow-tailed flag is the signal flag for the letter A, pronounced phonetically as “alfa” or “alpha”. A dive flag shall indicate the presence of a person(s) engaged in diving in the water or that is in progress in the immediate area. (See Annex D) 3.4 dive leader means the person who has sufficient knowledge, skill and experience to plan, organize, supervise and lead dives to known sites within the region, possesses personal rescue and rescue management skills and holds minimum of a dive master or equivalent rating certificate from an accredited recreational scuba diving training agency. In order to lead dives in Belize, a dive leader must be a licensed Belize tour guide. 3.5 dive shop means a building or any other facility where recreational scuba diving services are offered by a scuba diving tour operator. 3.6 dive site means the area where a scuba diving tour operator conducts recreational scuba diving. 3.7 diver means the visitor or tourist that is paying or purchasing a dive service from a scuba diving tour operator. 3.8 environmental in relation to a briefing or other activity includes information on ways and reasons to minimize impact on coral reefs, sea grass beds and related coastal environments while scuba diving. 3.9 guided scuba diving tour means scuba diving where clients are accompanied and supervised by a dive leader or dive master appointed by the scuba diving tour operator. 3.10 marine protected area (MPA) means an area of the marine environment that has been reserved by local laws or regulations to provide protection and conservation to part or all 586 Standards of the marine, terrestrial and cultural resources within its boundaries. 3.11 pre-dive briefing means a briefing or other activity given to or carried out for one or more divers prior to a guided scuba diving tour. It shall include, but is not limited to, a briefing on safety and emergency procedures, separation procedures, exit and entry procedures, buddy or group assignments, underwater signs, the identity and role of staff, and a diver's expected conduct. 3.12 recreational scuba diving means an underwater recreational activity which utilizes scuba gear. Recreational scuba diving is limited to diving no deeper than 130 feet or 40 meters within the no stop limits of recognized dive tables or dive computers. 3.13 recreational scuba diving ratio means 1:8; i.e., 1 guide per every eight (8) certified diver: NOTE 1: This ratio is a maximum ratio based on scuba diving with ideal conditions; however, ratios may be adjusted to one (1) dive: master with less divers, but shall not be adjusted higher than 1 diver master to 8 divers, at the discretion of the scuba diving tour operator and/or dive leader considering environmental factors such as, but not limited to, strong currents, low visibility, dive depth, and diver certification level and experience. NOTE 2: Non-certified divers shall be guided as per ratios established by the scuba diving training agency which the scuba diving tour operator is a member of. 3.14 risk assessment means a precautionary examination of possible causes of harm in the workplace in order to determine measures to prevent said harms. 3.15 scuba diving means underwater swimming with the use of scuba gear. Standards 587 3.16 scuba diving tour operator means an entity (business, individual or organization), including any individual acting on behalf of such entity, which organizes and guides scuba diving tours and excursions for certified divers, is licensed under the BTB and is a certified member of a scuba diving training agency. 3.17 scuba instructor or instructor means anyone who holds a valid BTB tour guide license, a valid and renewed instructor certification from a scuba diving training agency such as, but not limited to: Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI), Scuba Schools International (SSI), or Technical Divers International (TDI). 3.18 staff means individuals fully employed or working under contract hired by a scuba diving tour operator and includes, but not limited to, a dive leader, dive assistant, boat captain, deck assistant and office personnel. 3.19 supervised diver means a Discover Scuba Diving participant, Scuba Diver Certified, and student diver. 3.20 waiting area means an area where people sit or stand until the event they are waiting for occurs. 4 REQUIREMENTS 4.1 Policy requirement The following requirements for a scuba diving tour operator and staff are compulsory and are subsequent requirements to the Dive Operators Policy, 2001 in order to ensure the utmost safety for divers in Belize. Its violations can be reported to local authorities, including co-managers of marine protected areas, natural monument and national park rangers or manager, the Fisheries Department, the Belize Port Authority (BPA) or the Belize Tourism Board (BTB). The Quality Assurance 588 Standards Department of the Belize Tourism Board reserves the right to conduct audits and inspections to ensure the below are adhered to. Failure to comply with these mandatory standards may result in legal or disciplinary action. 4.2 General requirements 4.2.1 Each Scuba diving tour operator shall– (a) have a valid Belizean Tour Operator license; (b) be a member and ensure the staff conducting scuba diving tours with supervised divers are also member of a scuba diving training agency; namely, but not limited to, Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI), Scuba Schools International (SSI), or Technical Divers International (TDI) and have in possession a valid certificate of said membership and have documentation of professional liability insurance; (c) shall verify that all divers are certified and have the necessary credentials or experience for the recreational scuba diving tour: NOTE: Where a diver presents a diving certification card or temporary card without a photograph, the diver shall show proof by means of a photo ID. (d) have a written established Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) that shall address decompression and injury emergency response procedures and tropical storm/hurricane evacuation plan (See Annex B for sample of an SOP); Standards 589 (e) maintain a file for each permanent staff member that will include a copy of the following documents– (i) Social Security card; (ii) current professional dive credentials where applicable; (iii) current address; (iv) valid Belize tour guide license where applicable; (v) Boat Captain’s license where applicable; (vi) job description; (vii) copy of insurance for staff, where applicable; (viii) current oxygen administration and first aid provider (or instructor) credentials; (f) abide with the following requirements of operation to ensure quality of the dive site and tour– (i) ensure equipment (snorkel, mask, BCD, regulators, compressed gas tanks, emergency oxygen units, engines and vessel) are in good working condition to provide for the safety and health of divers; (ii) provide clean and comfortable waiting areas and restrooms for divers; 590 Standards NOTE: Restrooms shall be done using appropriate systems in place as per local regulations. (iii) provide, if requested by divers, proof of staff’s qualification; (iv) provide oral dive instructions and information in English, Belize's official language, unless another language is requested by the diver; (v) not conduct recreational scuba diving tours at dive sites that may be deemed unreasonably safe: for the level of certification of the diver; NOTE: Recreational scuba diving tours to the "Blue Hole" require special skill sets because of its unique environment; therefore, divers are required to be screened as per Annex E by the scuba diving tour operator for eligibility to perform the dive. (vi) ensure proper mooring of dive vessel so as not to damage the coral reef at the dive site; (g) ensure the following are fulfilled prior to provision of scuba diving tour– (i) Liability waivers: these shall be provided by the scuba diving operator and signed by the diver(s). They shall outline risks associated with scuba diving activities, including but not limited toStandards 591 (a) the possibility of decompression sickness: if flying on an airplane, jet or helicopter or any travelling at altitude is done within 18 hours after scuba diving; (b) risks to persons that are pregnant or trying to get pregnant: It is not advisable to dive. There is not sufficient evidence to indicate the effects of Scuba Diving on a foetus; (ii) Scuba diving tour operators may allow a person to complete a dive only if that person– (a) provides a current and valid medical declaration of fitness to dive; or has read and signed a fit to dive declaration; and (b) has not declared any conditions that may be contraindications of diving, e.g. a cold, flu, hay fever, ear infections, heart conditions or being under the influence of alcohol or drugs; NOTE: If a diver declares that they have a medical condition, they should receive a medical clearance to dive prior to being permitted to dive. The use of medical statement form and medical clearance forms shall be kept confidential. (iii) Ensure that diver(s) are certified, and have the necessary credentials or 592 Standards experience for special types of dives. Additionally, determine whether the diver(s) should do a refresher course and the extent of any refresher course considering the time since last dive, level of certification and experience; (iv) Insurance requirements in accordance with national regulations; (v) If the service provided involves training; it shall be done using the standards of the scuba diving training agency with which the scuba diving tour operator is accredited with; (vi) Information concerning the service which shall not be limited to: cost of tour, departure time, depth and/or time of dive and return time shall be, provided to the diver(s); (h) Cooperate with other stakeholders, marine protected areas’ managers and other authority agencies to establish limits and use of dive sites and to install and maintain permanent mooring buoys; (i) When scuba diving from shore, entry and exit routes shall be used that avoid walking on corals or sea grass beds; (j) Ask for proof of diver's certification prior to agreeing to the rental of scuba diving equipment and/or gear; Standards 593 4.2.2 Dive Staff (a) All staff required to go in the water shall be at least a dive master or dive instructor; dive masters in training shall also be allowed to go into the water; however they shall not lead dives; (b) All staff on the dive boat and in the dive shop shall be trained in the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to address emergency events, such as decompression and injury emergency response procedures and tropical storm/hurricane evacuation plan, diving accident, etc. and shall be knowledgeable of their actions and responsibilities in the event of an emergency as specified. in the respective Emergency Action Plan (EAP); (c) All staff shall be required to dress professionally at all times while conducting a recreational scuba diving tour; (d) All staff that conduct dives shall adhere to environmental and conservation regulations as per the Environmental Protection Act; Chapter 328 and the Belize Fisheries Act, Chapter 210. 4.2.2.1 Dive leader shall– (a) demonstrate leadership and role modelling both above water and underwater by practicing good environmental behaviour; (b) conduct a pre-dive briefing prior to the scuba diving tour to review these preferred practices and alert divers to the impact of poor diving practices on coral reefs, sea grass beds, related coastal ecosystems and wildlife, including 594 Standards national laws related to removal and/or damage of coral and wildlife within the marine environment; (c) identify the environmental impact caused by a client's inappropriate diving behaviour and use practical tools and methods for taking corrective action such as– (i) First time offender shall be given a verbal communication in a private place and in a positive and reassuring manner mentioning that failure to comply will result in banning from activities; (ii) Second time offender shall be given a written notice/warning to desist from contravention; (iii) Third time offenders shall be banned from diving activities; (d) oversee all guided scuba diving activities. The dive leader shall utilize an additional dive assistant with large groups. A dive leader and dive assistant shall serve as role models, share information and provide leadership to clients; (e) have the minimum of a Belize Tour Guide License and a diver master certification card from a scuba diving training agency; (f) conduct a dive interview with diver(s) to ascertain competence to conduct the Recreational Scuba Diving Tour. This shall include at least level of certification, number of dives, date of last dive and level of comfort with the recreational scuba diving tour. Standards 595 4.2.2.2 Dive assistant shall– (a) be at least dive master in training or equivalent from an accredited agency; (b) abide and be knowledgeable of the requirements set: for the dive leader. 4.2.2.3 Boat captain and deck assistant shall– (a) be trained in Oxygen First Aid delivery; scuba diving tour operators' procedures for diving, and safety practices including diver rescue procedures, boat handling and navigation, communications, and first aid; cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); and shall have completed an emergency oxygen for scuba diving injuries course as they will be the person(s) to receive an injured diver in the case of an accident; (b) be knowledgeable of the boat operations requirements and regulations stated in the Belize Port Authority Act. - Chapter 233, the Fisheries Act Chapter-210, and the, requirements for marine protection in the Environmental Protection Act - Chapter 328; (c) ensure that any marine incident is immediately reported to the National Maritime Communications Centre, (NMCC) VHF Channel 16 or 232-9440. 4.2.3 Dive Planning and Organization (a) When conducting a guided scuba diving tour, a person onshore, employed by the scuba diving tour operator, shall have written details of the planned and alternate dive sites and dive 596 Standards routes. They shall also have a manifest of the passengers, crew and their expected return time; (b) All dives shall be planned in accordance with specifications required by the scuba diving training agency with which the tour operator is a member of; (c) Before commencement of diving, a suitable method of diver recall must be agreed upon between the diver(s) and the scuba diving tour operator; (d) Scuba diving tour operators shall assess all divers are competent for the dives that they plan to undertake; (e) Scuba diving tour operators shall give divers a pre-dive briefing that shall include, but is not limited to: dive safety, dive equipment and function, underwater signals and site orientation; (f) Scuba diving tour operators shall retain written, accurate record of each dive conducted for a period of one year. The record shall include the dive plan, the name of the dive guide(s), name of the diver(s), the location, depth, time in, time out, and any incidents occurred (See Annex A). 4.2.4 Boats and vessels (a) All vessels used for diving shall be in compliance with all Belize Port Authority regulations stated in the Belize Port Authority Act, Chap 233; Standards 597 (b) All vessels/boats used for Scuba Diving in a reserve shall comply with existing policies, guidelines and management plans of the dive site in accordance with established regulations; (c) All vessels used for scuba diving shall carry an Oxygen system capable of delivering oxygen to any diver(s) involved in a decompression accident during their transportation to suitable evacuation site or medical facility; (d) All Dive vessels shall comply with regulation “Diver’s down flag” stated in Fisheries Act. 5 REQUIREMENTS FOR OPERATION 5.1 A guided scuba diving tour shall be conducted at a recreational scuba diving ratio of one (1) tour guide to every (8) certified divers. Non-certified divers shall be guided as per ratios established by the scuba diving training agency with whom the scuba diving tour operator is accredited with. 5.2 Water entry points from boats shall lie over water with sufficient depth allowing divers to become acclimated with no impact on corals or sea grass beds. 5.3 When diving from shore, a diver buoy shall be placed, and entry and exit routes shall be used to avoid walking on corals or sea grass beds. 5.4 Scuba diving equipment– (a) diving equipment may consist, but is not limited to the below items– (i) wet or dry suit when and if appropriate; 598 Standards (ii) mask; (iii) snorkel; (iv) fins; (v) regulator; (vi) cylinder and cylinder-support system; (vii) buoyancy control device (BCD)/buoyancy compensator; (viii) weights; (ix) means to measure time and depth limit exposure to inert gas; (x) submersible pressure gauge; (xi) delayed surface marker buoy (DSMB)/surface marker buoy (SMB); (xii) underwater compass; NOTE: Specific environments may require additional equipment (e.g. an underwater navigational aid, knife/cutting device); (b) a record of all rental equipment, inclusive of scuba cylinders, shall be maintained at the scuba diving tour operator's tour establishment at all times. The record shall include the following information on each piece of equipment– (i) Manufacturer; (ii) Model; Standards 599 (iii) Serial Number; (iv) Servicing due and completed dates; (v) Name, signature and certification # of the technician; (c) all equipment used for diving shall be serviced and. maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations; (d) compressors shall be operated and maintained in accordance with manufacturers recommendations; (e) a running log of a compressor’s use shall be maintained. The log shall include the following information– (i) Start/Stop time; (ii) Filter part numbers; (iii) Filter life; (iv) Service due; (v) Operator name and signature; (f) an air analysis certificate in accordance with whichever scuba diving training agency the operator is accredited with, shall be posted or available; (g) a record of all tanks shall be maintained. This should include the following information– (i) Manufacturer’s name; 600 Standards (ii) Date into service; (iii) Visual Inspection Procedure (VIP) due date; (iv) Hydrostatic test due and completed date; (v) Servicing done on the tank or valve; (vi) Name and certification number of the person doing the work; (vii) Tanks which are de-commissioned and taken out of rental fleet. 6 HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS 6.1 Liability forms shall be available for a diver to review and sign. The scuba diving tour operator shall keep a file for storage of such forms. 6.2 All staff shall be trained in all aspects of emergency management procedures as outlined in the emergency action plan and the scuba diving tour operator shall review the procedures with staff annually. 6.2.1 A simulation shall be conducted at least every two (2) years to evaluate effectiveness of EAP. This shall be done by an emergency response evaluator identified by the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) and/or National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO). 6.3 In the event of any accident resulting in the death of a diver, a scuba diving tour operator shall make available the equipment and gear used by the diver at the time of the accident to the legally responsible authority. Standards 601 6.3.1 The tour operator shall not alter, repair or in any way tamper with any such equipment prior to the completion of any investigation into the matter. 6.4 A dive leader and/or dive assistant shall have a list of all divers or dive students for roll call on and off the boat. 6.5 A pre-dive briefing shall be done prior to leaving the dock and shall review safety and emergency procedures, separation procedures, exit and entry procedures, buddy or group assignments, the identity and role of staff, and a diver's expected conduct. 6.6 Prior to conducting a scuba diving tour, a scuba diving tour operator shall consider the following critical factors for diving– (a) weather; (b) local restrictions; (c) underwater visibility; (d) diver’s fitness; (e) current; (f) surface visibility; (g) planned activities; (h) water current; (i) entry and exit; (j) water depth; (k) boat traffic; and 602 Standards (l) emergency plan. 6.7 Dive leaders have the responsibility of preventing any diver from participating in the dive if, following a risk assessment, this is determined to be in the best interest of the diver, other divers, or both. A risk assessment can indicate the need to reduce the planned number of divers in each group due to sea conditions or other factors. 6.8 Scuba diving tour operators shall ensure that, in addition to meeting all specified requirements outlined in the Belize Port Authority Act. and the Fisheries Act, that dive boats are equipped with the following– (a) communications equipment, including contact numbers for medical transportation services (i.e. ambulance), emergency medical services (diving medical physician) and a hyperbaric chamber that can provide appropriate care and treatment; (b) navigation equipment appropriate for the locality; (c) an oxygen first aid unit including sufficient medical-grade oxygen to deliver a minimum amount to last for the duration of the journey to shore or other medical emergency services, as per 4.2.4(c) above; and (d) a fire extinguisher. 6.9 The dive leader and boat captain shall account for each diver on the vessel, as per 6.4. above, prior to leaving the dive site. This shall be accomplished by making use of the following count systems– (a) an active count system requires the persons being counted to actively participate in the Standards 603 counting process. Roll calls, tagging or signing systems are examples of such systems. (b) a passive counting system in which the boat captain and the dive leader both have to do individual counts and both counts need to match; 6.10 A dive safety log shall be filled in by the dive leader or dive assistant for the diver upon dive completion. It shall contain the following information (See Annex A)– (a) date of dive; (b) diver’s name (c) dive buddy’s name; (d) dive leader's and boat captain’s name; (e) dive site’s name and location of the dive; (f) time in and out (g) maximum depth of the dive (h) any incident, problem, discomfort or injury experienced or suffered during the dive; (i) amount of air at entry and exit. 6.11 The boat captain or deck assistant shall remain in the vessel to lookout for any possible potential hazards or dive incidents that may occur in water. 6.12 All scuba diving equipment shall be washed and rinsed as per manufacturer's recommendations after each and every use. 604 Standards 6.13 Alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs The consumption of alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs prior to or during a guided scuba diving tour shall not be allowed. 7 MANAGEMENT OF EMERGENCY 7.1 A scuba diving tour operator shall have a written Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for each type of service offered. The procedures shall take into account any unique local hazards, the capabilities of local emergency services and training required by the provider’s staff. It shall also identify and define actions to mitigate existing and potential hazards. and risks to clients and staff, and how to respond to emergencies including at least the following– (a) identification of a core emergency response team (e.g. care team); (b) rescue procedures for underwater, in-water, and surface emergencies; (c) diver recall procedure(s); (d) evacuation routes; (e) list of emergency procedures to follow and medical services’ numbers, head office contact, hospital/clinic contact, DAN hotline number, recompression chamber contact number etc. (See Annex C for EAP template). 7.2 The scuba diving tour operator shall ensure that all staff is fully familiarized with the EAP and signs a document indicating such. 7.3 Dive staff shall be in possession of current oxygen administration and first aid provider (or instructor) credentials. Standards 605 7.4 Injury and lost diver prevention plan An injury and lost diver prevention plan shall be kept by the tour operator. This is general information that includes– (a) Emergency First Aid Procedures; and (b) Injury Information Form: A scuba diving tour operator shall ensure that an Injury Information Form is filled out in the case of an emergency for every diver injured. The form shall include: the diver’s name, address, a description of the injury, significant medical history and dive profiles. 7.5 In the event of an accident and/or incident happening on a Scuba diving tour, a tour operator shall ensure that a copy of the accident and/or incident report is submitted to the legally responsible authority in a timely manner. 7.6 Emergency Equipment A scuba diving tour operator shall ensure that emergency equipment is readily available at all times. Emergency equipment shall include, but is not limited to, an oxygen kit and first aid kit that are in good working condition and with all needed emergency materials available and shall ensure that everyone on board the vessel knows where to find them. 7.7 Oxygen Equipment Maintenance The inspection, servicing and repair of oxygen equipment is the responsibility of the scuba diving tour operator. The scuba diving tour operator shall ensure that the above is carried out by a certified technician and conducted per the manufacturer's recommended schedule. 606 Standards 7.8 Dive operations A scuba diving tour operator and staff shall make sure divers know what to expect and what to do in certain situations. This includes the use of entry/exit procedures, safety stop procedures and lost diver procedures. 8 MANAGEMENT OF EQUIPMENT 8.1 The management of recreational scuba diving equipment is the responsibility of the scuba diving tour operator. The management shall include the inspection, repair and maintenance of all equipment used in the diving activity ensuring that– (a) scuba diving equipment shall be inspected as per manufacturer's recommendations by a certified technician; (b) worn or torn scuba diving equipment shall be repaired or replaced immediately and based upon condition and recommendation of the certified technician mentioned above; (c) basic on-site scuba diving equipment maintenance may be conducted by the dive leader or dive master. 8.2 Certifications of equipment inspection and repair shall be kept in a file and shall be made available to Belize Tourism Board’s Quality Assurance Department if requested. 8.3 The servicing, maintenance and storage of other scuba diving equipment (masks, fins, snorkel and wet suits) shall be conducted based upon the discretion of the scuba diving tour operator. It shall be performed in the best interest to present a safe, healthy and clean dive shop. Standards 607 9 MANAGEMENT OF SPECIAL EQUIPMENT 9.1 Cylinders shall be stored in the following way– (a) Cylinders shall be stored in a cool and dry place; (b) Partially empty air cylinders shall be stored as above and kept to at least 200 pounds per square inch (psi) to prevent any moisture from entering the cylinder; (c) Compressed and uncompressed air cylinders shall be maintained in an upright position. 9.2 Cylinders shall be used as per the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations. 9.3 Air compressor system (where applicable)– (a) an Operations Manual for the compressor shall be kept on file; (b) the scuba diving tour operator has the responsibility for the safe operation of the air compressor and shall ensure that the individual operating the system has basic mechanical and safety training in the operation of the compressor; (c) all staff shall be familiar with emergency shutdown procedures of the compressor; (d) the operation and maintenance of the air compressors shall be in accordance to the manufacturer's recommendations, and the following components of the compressor should be addressed608 Standards (i) Pressure relief devices: A scuba cylinder shall be fitted with relief valves of sufficient capacity to prevent the rated pressure of the scuba cylinder from being exceeded. In addition, compressors may be fitted with “offloading” mechanisms; (ii) Filtration, drying and odour absorption: materials used for filtering, drying or odour absorption shall not introduce contaminants into the air supply. Drain cocks shall be provided to draw off any water and oil that may accumulate in filters. The drain cocks shall be arranged so that they can be operated while the filter is in use; (iii) Supply lines: The supply line between the compressor and the receivers shall be either permanent pipe or high-quality air grade hose with external grade protection suitable for the delivery of breathing gas. and shall be free of contaminants. All supply lines. shall be located or guarded so that they are protected. against mechanical damage, fatigue and vibration; (iv) The exhaust pipes of gasoline or diesel- powered air compressors shall not be a health hazard. The fumes. shall be vented away from breathing by staff, divers and other surrounding people and from compressor air intake ports; (e) If a tour operator has an air compressor system, the scuba diving tour operator shall keep in a file the test certificate, from a Standards 609 certified technician and shall be made available to the Belize Tourism Board's Quality Assurance Department; 610 Standards ANNEX A (INFORMATIVE): EXAMPLE OF A DIVE SAFETY LOG THAT EXEMPLIFIES THE TYPE OF INFORMATION TO BE COLLECTED IN DIVE SAFETY LOGBOOK. Dive 1 Location: Glover’s Reef, Southwest Caye Date: 11/01/2006 Diver’s Name Buddy Time in Time out Max. depth (m) Bottom time/ Repetitive dive group dive time 1. R. Wilson R. Toth 09:00 09:23 18 23 M R. Wilson 2. R. Toth R. Wilson 09:04 09:27 18 23 M R. Toth 3. 4. 5. Log entry completed and signed Dive leader: M. Castillo Boat Captain: V. Palacio Dive 1: Incidents – None Problems – None Injury – None Discomfort – None Others - None Incidents etc. Surface conditions – Calm Currents – 0 Visibility – 10ft. Maximum depth – 20m Other – None Environmental Conditions Standards 611 Dive 2 Location: Glover’s Reef, Usher’s Caye Date: 11/01/2006 Diver’s Name Surface interval Repetitive Buddy Time Time Max. depth Bottom Repetitive Signature factor in out time/ dive group (m) dive time 2:37 B R. Toth 09:00 09:23 18 23 M R. Wilson 2. R. Toth 2:37 B R. Wilson 09:04 09:27 18 23 M R. Toth 3. 4. 5. Log entry completed and signed Dive leader: M. Castillo Boat Captain: V. Palacio Dive 1: Incidents – None Problems – None Injury – None Discomfort – None Others - None Incidents etc. Surface conditions – Calm Currents – 0 Visibility – 10ft. Maximum depth – 20m Other – None Environmental Conditions 612 Standards Annex B (Informative): Sample of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Name of Facility: ____________________________________________ S.O.P. authorized by: _______________ Effective as of: __ (specify date) Introduction It describes the need for procedures and a general overview of the SOP. Things to be considered in this section include who will be using the SOP and the reason for the SOP. Purpose This section briefly describes the SOP’s purpose. It describes the reason why the SOP is required. (e.g. compliance with Scuba Diving Standards). It also describes tasks and procedures being covered in the SOP. Scope This section states the sections and areas that the SOP covers. If certain areas are not covered in the SOP, then it should be mentioned in this section as well. This section also states the importance of procedure. Responsibility This section describes detailed information such as people required for detailed responsibilities for each person, the supplies, tools and equipment required, and the result of task performed. These include Pre-dive procedures, procedures when Scuba Diving is in progress, Post-Diving Procedures, and Record-keeping. Ensure that all staff is familiarized with SOP for the effective implementation of such. Any forms or templates to be used for SOP should be attached here. Date of SOP Effectiveness: ____________________ Standards 613 Annex C (Informative): Template of an EAP EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN (EMERGENCY PLAN) TEMPLATE/SAMPLE For the purpose of Scuba Diving Tours in Belize Facility’s Name: ___________________________________________________ Falicity Owner’s/Manager’s Name: ____________________________________ Facility’s Address: __________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ Facility’s Contact Information: Tel: ____________________________E-Mail Address: ____________________ Website: __________________________________________________________ Date Emergency Plan Prepared: _______________________________________ (BRIEF DESCRIPTION/SUMMARY of the Emergency Action Plan) _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ List of Emergency phone numbers (it is not limited to the below): Emergency/Police 911 Ambulance: 90 Bert (local ambulance direct line) 223-3292/0078 Belize Port Authority VHF Channel 16 or 232-9440 Belize Coast Guard Channel 16 (Marine Radio) /222- 5260 614 Standards Recompression Chamber (Ambergris Caye) 226-2851 Fire Department (local fire station) Police 911 Crime Stoppers 0-800-922-8477 Tour Operator Head Office Local hospital or clinic phone numbers (# local hospital/clinic) Astrum Helicopters 225-5100 DAN Hotline number 1-919-684-9111 Hyperbaric Recompression Chamber Clinic (San Pedro Clinic) 226- 2660/6293618 (Brief Description of procedures to follow in case of Medical or Injury Emergency& name of person in charge to ensure this protocol is carried out e.g. boat captain or Dive leader) _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ (Brief description of procedures to follow in case of boat-related emergency& name of person in charge to ensure this protocol is carried out e.g. boat captain or Dive leader) _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ (Brief description of procedures for evacuation in case of Tropical storm/Hurricane & name of person in charge to ensure this protocol is carried out e.g. Tour operator Manager) _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ Standards 615 TRAINING The following personnel have been trained to ensure a safe and orderly emergency evacuation of other employees: Facility: __________________________________________________________ Name Title Responsibility Date Emergency Action Plan Signed: _____________________________________ Owner/Manager of Facility (Name in print and signature) 616 Standards Annex D (Informative): Dive Flags Guide Dive Flag means a red flag with a white diagonal running from the upper left- hand corner to the lower right-hand corner or a blue-and-white swallow-tailed flag is the signal flag for the letter A, pronounced phonetically as “alfa” or “alpha”. A dive flag shall indicate the presence of a person(s) engaged in diving in the water or that is in progress in the immediate area. (a) Diver’s down flag: A red flag with a white diagonal running from the upper left-hand corner to the lower right-hand corner. Please see illustration below: (b) The Alpha or Alfa Flag: A blue-and-white swallow-tailed flag is the signal flag for the letter A, pronounced phonetically as “alfa” or “alpha”. Please see illustration below. Standards 617 Annex E (Normative): Safety Screening Form for Recreational Scuba Diving Tours to the Blue Hole of Belize The Blue Hole is a large submarine sinkhole that is 412 feet deep and 1,000 feet wide. It is located forty-three (43) miles from the mainland. The crystal-clear water allows you to see stalactites, stalagmites and sharks among other aquatic life. Recreational Scuba Diving tours to the “Blue Hole” require special skill sets because of its unique environment; therefore, divers are required to be screened for eligibility to perform the recreational scuba diving tour. Based on the information provided, it is left to the discretion of the Scuba Diving Tour Operator to proceed with the Recreational Scuba Diving Tour or additional training prior to the same. Note: Divers are advised that comments or concerns about the tour can be shared with the Belize Tourism Board at phone number +501-227-2420 or email at [email protected]. Diver’s Name: ____________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________ Type of Scuba Diver certification (Please check one) Open Water Diver Advanced Open Water Diver Other (Please specify) _____ Number (#) of logged dives: _________________ Date off last dive: (dd/mm/yy): _______________ The deepest depth I have dove to is: __________ feet OR __________ meters. 618 Standards I hereby certify that the above information provided is true and accurate. Signature: ___________________ Date: _________________ *The below is to be filled out by the Recreational Scuba Diving Tour Operator Based on the information provided by the diver above, the below action is to be taken (Please check one): Proceed with the recreational scuba diving tour to the Blue Hole Refresher Course needed Additional training needed (Please specify): _____________________________ Name of Dive Leader for the Tour: ____________________________________ Signature: ___________________ Date: _________________ MADE by the Minister responsible for the Belize Bureau of Standards this ________________day of __________________, 2016. HON. ERWIN CONTRERAS Minister of Economic Development, Petroleum, Investment, Trade and Commerce (Minister responsible for the Belize Bureau of Standards)