The testing of diving cylinders is currently defined in the following ISO, European and British standard:
- BS EN ISO 18119:2018+A1:2021+A2:2024 Gas cylinders – Seamless steel and seamless aluminium alloy gas cylinders and tubes – Periodic inspection and testing
This standard was originally published in 2018 and includes amendments made in 2021 and 2024.
When the standard was originally drafted it was proposed that the recommended periodicity for diving cylinder testing would be ‘1 yearly internal visual inspection’ and a ‘hydraulic inspection every 5 years’. The UK lobbied for a pragmatic change to the periodicity intervals, and the standard was finally published with the following periodicity:
‘… an annual internal inspection should be carried out with a periodic inspection carried out every five years. However, if a risk assessment and the specific use of a cylinder indicate that there is a low risk of internal degradation, then the interval for carrying out an internal examination may be increased to a maximum of 2,5 years.’
In support of this, the UK Diving Industry Committee maintains a risk assessment (reviewed annually) to justify the 5 year periodic inspection and test (Hydraulic) and 2.5 year periodic inspection (Visual); this risk assessment is available to all in the diving industry.
As the UK’s National Standards Body, BSI is responsible for producing and publishing British Standards and for representing UK interests in international and European standards. All formal standards are developed with a period of public enquiry and full consultation. They incorporate the views and expertise of a very wide range of interests from consumers, academia, special interest groups, government, business and industry. As a result of this all-inclusive group, standards represent a consensus on current best practice.
Standards are designed for voluntary use and do not impose regulations. However, laws and regulations may refer to certain standards as guidance alongside manufacturers’ recommendations.
For many years, PADI has worked alongside other diving stakeholders highlighting the serious risks of injury caused by the effects of internal corrosion. PADI is one of a number of organizations represented on the BSI standards committee, specifically focusing on the prevention of risk and injury of those involved in at-work activities. With that in mind, PADI believes that their decision to support the changes to the internal visual inspection testing periodicity is proportionate and will provide those most at risk with additional protection.
When will the standard be next revised?
ISO are currently working to revise the standard, but the periodicity aspects are not expected to change.
