Clearer evidence
A structured review of relevant management arrangements, competence controls and operational evidence could help contractors demonstrate how they manage diving risk.
CONTRACTOR ASSURANCE
Demonstrate capability.
Build confidence.
ICDA is developing an independent contractor assurance framework intended to help commercial diving businesses evidence their operational capability and give clients clearer information when selecting diving contractors.
ASSURANCE FRAMEWORK IN DEVELOPMENT
VALUE TO CONTRACTORS
Independent assurance with a commercial purpose.
Contractors need credible ways to demonstrate competence to clients. The proposed ICDA framework aims to make that evidence more accessible, consistent and useful.
A stronger tender proposition
Defined, independently reviewed assurance may help businesses communicate their capabilities and differentiate themselves in procurement. It does not guarantee contract awards.
Practical improvement
Meaningful findings should identify opportunities to strengthen systems and operational practice, not simply produce a checklist score.
HOW THE PROPOSED PROCESS WORKS
Independent assessment. Independent decision.
- ▤Apply & scopeDefine operations, sites and applicable requirements
- ◎Approved auditorIndependent evidence-based assessment
- ✓Review findingsEvaluate evidence and corrective actions
- ✦ICDA decisionSeparate review; approval only when justified
One standard. Proportionate effort.
Assurance requirements would depend on the activities being assessed, not contractor turnover. Audit time and fees could vary significantly by operational scope and complexity. Any approved recognition would clearly state its scope and limitations.
Proposed process only. ICDA has not yet launched an auditor approval or certification scheme.
VALUE TO CLIENTS
Better-informed procurement.
Clearer expectations.
Independent assurance should support better questions and more informed decisions.
ICDA intends to develop a scope-defined approach that could help clients understand what has been assessed, the evidence considered and any important limitations. Clients and other dutyholders would continue to be responsible for their own procurement decisions and legal obligations.
Recognition would not be a guarantee of compliance, safety performance or suitability for every project.
HOW THE PROPOSED PROCESS COULD WORK
Assessment based on evidence, not affiliation.
The proposed framework will require technical consultation and documented rules before any audits or recognition decisions can be offered.
Define scope
Agree the operational activities, relevant standards and boundaries of the assessment.
Review evidence
Consider documented arrangements alongside representative operational evidence and competent professional judgement.
Report findings
Explain observed strengths, gaps, limitations and appropriate improvement actions.
Independent decision
Apply impartial decision-making, conflict safeguards, review and appeal procedures before any recognition is granted.
A PROPOSED GLOBAL AUDITOR NETWORK
Independent assessment. Consistent standards.
ICDA intends to develop a network of suitably qualified, approved external auditors in different regions. Contractors could commission an eligible auditor to assess their operations against the applicable ICDA requirements, subject to published scheme rules.
Qualified local expertise
Approved auditors could deliver assessments closer to the contractor, reducing unnecessary travel while applying a common methodology and reporting requirements.
Proportionate audit scope
Audit effort and cost would reflect the nature, complexity, risk, locations and scope of operations assessed — not the status a contractor can purchase.
Independent ICDA decision
Auditors would report evidence and findings. ICDA would retain responsibility for an impartial technical review and any decision to grant, maintain, suspend or refuse recognition.
A small contractor and a large contractor could achieve the same assurance designation against the same applicable requirements, but the certificate would clearly identify the assessed scope. Audit fees and ICDA review/membership fees would be distinct. Fees would never guarantee a favourable outcome.
IMPARTIALITY & INTEGRITY
Credibility cannot be bought.
Payment for an assessment must never determine its outcome.
ICDA intends to establish published criteria, appropriate assessor competence, conflict-of-interest controls and independent review mechanisms. Its commercial ownership will remain distinct from decisions about technical findings and recognition.
ICDA does not currently operate an accredited certification scheme, award contractor assurance status or provide regulatory approval. Any future scheme will clearly state its scope, status and limitations.
EXPRESS YOUR INTEREST
Help shape practical contractor assurance.
We welcome early conversations with diving contractors, clients and technical specialists as the proposed framework develops. There are no live assurance applications or fees at this stage.
Explore the context
See how the proposed ICDA inshore standard compares with selected industry frameworks.
View draft standards comparison →