The Byford Dolphin was a specialized diving support vessel used for deep-sea operations, primarily in the oil and gas industry. On November 5, 1983, during a routine saturation diving operation in the North Sea, the crew faced a catastrophic incident while transferring divers in the diving bell. As six crew members were in the process of transferring from the diving bell, the bell suddenly detached from the vessel and descended rapidly due to a mechanical failure. The resulting decompression at the lower depth caused five of the crew members to lose their lives while one could barely survive with severe injuries.

The accident sent shockwaves through the maritime and offshore oil industries, prompting immediate investigations into the safety measures and operational procedures surrounding saturation diving. The underwater catastrophe underscored the inherent dangers associated with deep-sea exploration and led to a re-evaluation of safety standards, training practices, and equipment reliability. The dynamics of working under extreme pressure became a focal point for officials and industry leaders seeking to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Aside from the immediate human toll, the incident sparked more comprehensive regulations regarding diving operations and equipment inspections to ensure the safety of offshore workers. It became a case study in the dire need for innovation and strict adherence to safety protocols, thereby influencing policy changes.