laying pipelines in water greater than 400 to 500 ft. is 

 limited to pipes of 12 in. diameter or less. Also, repair 

 of pipelines and other aspects of OCS activity that require 

 diving present a problem. The deepest actual working dives 

 so far have been in approximately 650 ft. of water although 

 this is being extended and divers are receiving a large number 

 of requests from oil companies to develop a capacity for work 

 in 2,000 and 3,000 ft. of water (Feder, 1975: 57). The sub- 

 contractors and service companies must also improve their 

 technology. These companies must play an increasing role in 

 designing, fabricating, and testing highly reliable components 

 in order to extend their life and reduce their maintenance. 

 This is essential for deepwater and subsea operations (Langley, 

 1975: 42). 



85 



