Federal Register #OSHA20220010

OSHA Permanent Variance for KBR Commercial Diving at NASA NBL

This opportunity concerns a permanent variance granted by OSHA to KBR Wyle Services, LLC for commercial diving operations at NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL). - Government Buyer: - Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Department of Labor - Office of Technical Programs and Coordination Activities - Vendor: - KBR Wyle Services, LLC - Services Requested: - Commercial diving operations at NASA's NBL under a modified safety standard - Variance allows divers to remain awake and near decompression chambers for only 10 minutes post-dive (instead of 1 hour) when using nitrox within no-decompression limits - Divers must follow NASA's NBL Safety Program, medical examination protocols, and strict communication, recordkeeping, and notification requirements - Unique Requirements: - Use of NASA alternate diving standard for commercial divers - Reduced post-dive observation period - Use of nitrox breathing gas mixtures - Compliance with NASA's training and medical clearance procedures - Non-transferable variance, applies only to KBR's operations at NASA's NBL - No specific products or OEMs are mentioned; focus is on operational procedures and safety standards

Description

This notice announces that OSHA has granted a permanent variance to KBR Wyle Services, LLC, allowing them to operate under modified standards for commercial diving operations at NASA's National Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL). The variance permits KBR divers to follow the NASA alternate diving standard, which includes a reduced observation period after diving and the use of nitrox breathing gas mixtures. The variance is effective from August 21, 2026, and remains in effect until modified or revoked. KBR contends that the variance provides a workplace at least as safe as OSHA's standard and that their divers undergo the same training and medical clearance as NASA employees.

View original listing