A Norwegian subsea service company has launched an investigation after two of its divers reported suffering symptoms of brain damage.
DOF Subsea has confirmed that its workers have adverse effects from high-pressure neurological syndrome (HPNS) after working on the Inpex Australia Ichthys LNG project last July.
Australian news sources have reported that divers are experiencing “bizarre neurological symptoms” after working at depths of 273m in Western Australia last summer.
DOF Subsea said diving operations were conducted in accordance with its approved diving operations manual and recognised industry standards.
The company said in a statement: “DOF Subsea has offered further specialist medical support to all the divers involved in the original dive campaign.
“People’s health and safety, and the welfare of their families is our priority.”
HPNS is a neurological and physiological disorder that occurs when divers descend below 150m and can cause symptoms such as nausea and dizziness.
Australian offshore safety regulator NOPSEMA was made aware of the situation in November last year and has launched its own investigation.