2.6.1 Passenger submersible craft should be able
to ascend/descend in a safe and controlled manner throughout the craft’s
rated depth of operations to the satisfaction of the Administration.
2.6.2 Passenger submersible craft should be able
to maintain an acceptable stability and trim during ascent, descent,
while submerged and on the surface.
2.6.3 Passenger submersible craft should be capable
of remaining on the surface with the hatches open during all normal
design environmental and operating conditions without downflooding.
2.6.4 Two independent means, one of which is to
be operated with no electric power, should be provided to bring the
unit to the surface in a stable and upright condition.
2.6.5 In addition to the means provided in accordance
with paragraph 2.6.4, passenger submersible craft should be provided
for emergency surfacing with means to jettison sufficient mass so
that if the largest single floodable volume, other than personnel
compartments, is flooded, the ascent rate will be equal to the normal
ascent rate. The jettisoned mass may consist of a drop weight, appendages
subject to entanglement or a combination of both. Alternatively, the
passenger compartment may be provided with a means of separating it
from all other parts of the system, including appendages, provided
the personnel compartment is positively buoyant when released.
2.6.6 The possibility of entanglement should be
considered in the design of the passenger submersible craft. Design
features, operational and emergency procedures and/or means of jettisoning
may be necessary.
2.6.7 In accordance with the emergency procedures,
it may be necessary to provide means to jettison lifting cables and
umbilicals.
2.6.8 Jettisoning systems, where provided, should
require at least two positive manual actions and should be independent
of electric power.
2.6.9 Passenger submersible craft should have
adequate stability under any possible combination of dropped jettisoned
masses to provide for the safe recovery of passengers in accordance
with the emergency response plan.
2.6.10 Passenger submersible craft should be provided
with means of externally bringing the craft to the surface.