Three of the coolest tools we use Underwater

When one considers tools a diver might employ underwater the chainsaw isn’t likely to be the first thing that comes to mind. It sure beats using a handsaw however when you are trying to cut down an old wooden pile in a marina. The hydraulic chainsaw is just one of the machine tools we train with at Divesafe during the Unrestricted surface supply program. And it certainly is one of the coolest tools to use.

One of the great things about being a commercial diver is the diversity of jobs we can find ourselves doing. To meet the CSA standards students train with all manner of hydraulic tools like breakers or jackhammers, hammer drills, impact wrenches and an underwater chainsaw. Interestingly enough another very ‘cool’ tool students get to have a go with also involves cutting. Exothermic burning is another popular tool our surface supply students get an opportunity to work with. If we need to cut out something underwater that is made of metal then a cutting torch is required. This is a skill commonly seen at hydro dam sites, or underwater construction sites.

During the Unrestricted surface supply program students receive training with both burning and underwater welding gear. Less commonly, but sometimes the right tool for the job, are pneumatic or air-powered tools. Water jets, air lifting equipment, dredging gear and non destructive testing are also part of the surface supply training and equipment a commercial diver needs to have some experience in.

Over the years the top three most popular tools the students enjoy in reverse order are;

 3. The breaker, commercial divers love breaking stuff. 

2. Exothermic burning, commercial divers love burning stuff. 

1. The Chainsaw, how cool is underwater logging.