Page 608 - The ROV Manual - A User Guide for Remotely Operated Vehicles 2nd edition

608 CHAPTER 22 It’s the Little Things That Matter
dive, the checklist may require a restart from the top or from some intermediate step so that all checklist items are completed in a timely fashion.
Vehicle preparations are normally vehicle-specific, but should include at least the following items:
• Assure all functions of the vehicle are operational.
• Any tooling or sensor packages should be operational and tested with data and telemetry
flowing in a nominal fashion.
• All video feeds from the appropriate camera packages are wired and operational.
• Verify the generator has enough fuel to support the entire operation.
• All controls are operational and functioning in the appropriate direction.
• All video systems are fed through the appropriate systems with recording devices tested and
staged (e.g., tapes labeled, videotapes/DVDs logged, notes columned, test footage verified)—if
the dive is not recorded, it did not happen!!!
• All documentation packages are staged and ready for action (e.g., video overlay prepared with
the appropriate job number/location/date/time).
• Crew members are at their assigned stations.
• Crew communication systems are tested.
• The bridge is notified of hoist of vehicle from the deck.
• The bridge is notified of vehicle in the water.
22.1.4.3 Predive checklist
The following predive check should be carried out prior to every dive:
• Visually inspect the vehicle to ensure the propellers are not fouled, all components are secured, and there is no mechanical damage to the frame or other components.
• Check the tether for scrapes, nicks, or other visible damage. The vehicle should not be used if the tether jacket is broken through.
• Verify correct operation of thrusters. CAUTION: Most ROV manufacturers advise that the thrusters should be run for only a few seconds in air. Water forms a heat sink that cools the thrusters during normal in-water operations. Also, on vehicles with onboard hydraulic pumps, the typical on-deck operating time limit is 2 minutes due to heat buildup.
• Check that all fasteners are in place and secure.
• Ensure that the whip connectors at the electronics and tether termination cans are plugged in
securely. Note: Wet connectors have a tendency to become dry over time. Use dielectric silicone grease to lubricate both sides for easy installation. See Chapter 8 for further information on cable and connector maintenance.
• Ensure all unused vehicle connectors are capped securely with dummy plugs. A forgotten or unsecured dummy plug can lead to serious electrical system damage.
• Ensure all surface cables are securely connected.
• Unexpected thruster movement can occur when powering up. To prevent this, turn any auto
depth switch on the control panel to the Off position, center the manual depth control knob, and
switch any auto heading selector to the Off position before powering up the system.
• Verify correct operation of manipulators. CAUTION: Remain clear of the entire range of
motion of the manipulator (especially for hydraulic manipulators) during the activation of the