Volunteers at Black Coral Inc. have learned that Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus and gear need to be cleaned to prevent the transmission of pathogens and harmful bacteria to coral reefs.
Black Coral is currently promoting the training of all SCUBA enthusiasts concerned about reef health in educating themselves about how to clean your equipment, so you don't spread harmful pathogens reefs are currently experiencing an outbreak of what we suspect is Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD). SCTLD is a highly contagious disease that affects corals, leading to the loss of tissue and eventually killing the coral colonies. It was first identified in Florida in 2014, and since then, it has spread to 22 countries in the Caribbean. The southern Caribbean was one of the last places where SCTLD was undetected until recently. We also know it is spread by SCUBA divers who don't properly clean their equipment!
Since recent outbreaks on the Dutch Caribbean islands and now lastly, Bonaire where Black Coral Members took courses at Buddy Dive Resorts, it seems the disease has now spread throughout the entire region. Help us stop this disease suspected to be caused by bacterial pathogen spread by those who love diving.
How to Disinfect Scuba Gear with Bleach to Remove Pathogens
Disinfecting scuba gear with bleach is an effective method to remove pathogens, including viruses such as SCTLD. Here are the steps to properly disinfect your scuba equipment using a bleach solution:
Step 1: Gather Materials
Common household bleach (5-6% sodium hypochlorite)
Clean fresh water
Measuring cup
A suitable container or tub for soaking the gear
Soft sponge or cloth for cleaning
Step 2: Prepare the Bleach Solution
Measure out 1/3 cup of bleach.
Mix it into 1 gallon of clean fresh water. This creates a diluted bleach solution that is effective against pathogens.
Step 3: Rinse the Equipment
Before disinfecting, rinse your scuba gear thoroughly with clean water to remove any salt, sand, or visible dirt. This helps ensure that the disinfectant can work effectively.
Step 4: Submerge the Equipment
Place the scuba gear in the prepared bleach solution, ensuring that all surfaces are fully submerged. It’s important that every part of the equipment that will come into contact with your mouth or face is included.
Step 5: Contact Time
Allow the gear to soak in the bleach solution for at least 1 minute. This contact time is crucial for effectively killing pathogens.
Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly
After soaking, remove the equipment from the bleach solution and rinse it thoroughly with clean fresh water. This step is essential to remove any residual bleach that could damage your gear or irritate your skin during use.
Step 7: Dry Completely
Allow your scuba gear to air dry completely before storing it or using it again. Proper drying helps prevent microbial growth and ensures that no moisture remains trapped in any components.
By following these steps carefully, you can effectively disinfect your scuba gear using a bleach solution while minimizing potential damage to the equipment and coral reefs!
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