PERIODIC INSPECTIONS

The different components of a farm are exposed to different degrees of the forces described above. Several parameters impose how often the components need to be inspected. The location and function of the components within the structure, as well as the relative sturdiness (material and thickness), determine how much the forces affect the particular component. For this reason, some of the farm's components have to be checked daily, and others have to be subjected to weekly, monthly or six-monthly inspection. The type, frequency and outcome of all monitoring should be recorded on special technical management forms. These can then be reviewed, analysed and stored for future reference.

Inspections of the underwater structures will be made by scuba divers. Underwater work is dangerous. All safety precautions should be strictly followed. External sources are provided in the References and Further Reading section of this publication because it is outside the scope of this manual to discuss underwater safety. In general, excessively dangerous activities should be avoided completely, and some deep-diving operations may require specialized marine engineering contractors.