Figure

List of Illustrations
Page

Figure Page

1-1 Early Impractical Breathing Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

1-2 Assyrian Frieze (900 B.C.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

1-3 Engraving of Halley’s Diving Bell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

1-4 Lethbridge’s Diving Suit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

1-5 Siebe’s First Enclosed Diving Dress and Helmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

1-6 French Caisson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

1-7 Armored Diving Suit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

1-8 MK 12 and MK V . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

1-9 Fleuss Apparatus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11

1-10 Original Davis Submerged Escape Apparatus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

1-11 Lambertsen Amphibious Respiratory Unit (LARU) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14

1-12 Emerson-Lambertsen Oxygen Rebreather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15

1-13 Draeger LAR V UBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15

1-14 Helium-Oxygen Diving Manifold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

1-15 MK V MOD 1 Helmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18

1-16 MK 1 MOD 0 Diving Outfit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20

1-17 Sealab II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

1-18 U.S. Navy’s First DDS, SDS-450. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

1-19 DDS MK 1 Personnel Transfer Capsule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25

1-20 PTC Handling System, Elk River. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25

1-21 Recovery of the Squalus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28

2-1 Molecules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

2-2 The Three States of Matter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

2-3 Temperature Scales. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

2-4 The Six Forms of Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

2-5 Objects Underwater Appear Closer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

2-6 Kinetic Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

2-7 Depth, Pressure, Atmosphere Graph . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-37

3-1 The Heart’s Components and Blood Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

3-2 Respiration and Blood Circulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

3-3 Inspiration Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

3-4 Lungs Viewed from Medical Aspect. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

3-5 Lung Volumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

List of Illustrations xli

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3-6 Oxygen Consumption and RMV at Different Work Rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12

3-7 Gross Anatomy of the Ear in Frontal Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-23

3-8 Location of the Sinuses in the Human Skull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26

3-9 Components of the Middle/Inner Ear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-28

3-10 Pulmonary Overinflation Syndromes (POIS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-32

3-11 Arterial Gas Embolism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33

3-12 Mediastinal Emphysema . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-36

3-13 Subcutaneous Emphysema. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-37

3-14 Pneumothorax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-38

3-15 Tension Pneumothorax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-39

3-16 Saturation of Tissues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-47

3-17 Desaturation of Tissues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-49

5-1 Equipment Mishap Information Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

1A-1 Sonar Safe Diving Distance/Exposure Time Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-4

1A-2 Sonar Safe Diving Distance/Exposure Time Worksheet (Completed Example) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-8

1A-3 Sonar Safe Diving Distance/Exposure Time Worksheet (Completed Example) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-9

1A-4 Sonar Safe Diving Distance/Exposure Time Worksheet (Completed Example) . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-10

1A-5 Sonar Safe Diving Distance/Exposure Time Worksheet (Completed Example) . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-11

6-1 Underwater Ship Husbandry Diving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

6-2 Salvage Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

6-3 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6

6-4 Underwater Construction Diving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

6-5 Dive Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-11

6-6 Planning Data Sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13

6-7 Link Between Time Critical and Deliberate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-17

6-8 Emergency Assistance Checklist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-29

6-9 Diving Planning ORM Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-30

6-10 Ship Repair Safety Checklist for Diving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-33

7-1 Normal and Maximum Limits for SCUBA Diving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

7-2 SCUBA General Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3

7-3 Minimum Manning Levels for SCUBA Diving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4

7-4 Schematic of Demand Regulator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9

7-5 Full Face Mask . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10

7-6 Typical Gas Cylinder Identification Markings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11

7-7 Life Preserver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-15

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 Figure Page

7-8 Protective Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-18

7-9 Cascading System for Charging SCUBA Cylinders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-25

7-10 SCUBA Entry Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-33

7-11 SCUBA Diving Operations Setup Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-34

7-12 Dive Supervisor Pre-Dive Checklist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-37

7-13 Clearing a Face Mask . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-40

7-14 SCUBA Hand Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-41

8-1 Normal and Maximum Limits for Surface Supplied Air Diving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

8-2 Minimum Qualified Divers for Surface Supplied Air Diving Stations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

8-3 KM-37 NS SSDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6

8-4 KM-37 NS General Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9

8-5 MK 20 General Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13

8-6 MK 20 MOD 0 UBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15

8-7 Divator DP General Characteristics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-17

8-8 MK 3 Lightweight Dive System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-19

8-9 Flyaway Dive System (FADS) III . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-20

8-10 Oxygen Regulator Control Assembly (ORCA) II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-21

8-11 Oxygen Regulator Control Assembly (ORCA) II Schematic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-22

8-12 Communicating with Line-Pull Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-22

8-13 Surface Supplied Diving Station Setup Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-28

8-14 Surface Decompression . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-37

9-1 Diving Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5

9-2 Graphic View of a Dive with Abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6

9-3 Completed Air Diving Chart: No-Decompression Dive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10

9-4 Completed Air Diving Chart: In-water Decompression on Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-12

9-5 Completed Air Diving Chart: In-water Decompression on Air and Oxygen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-14

9-6 Completed Air Diving Chart: Surface Decompression on Oxygen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-18

9-7 Decompression Mode Selection Flowchart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20

9-8 Repetitive Dive Flow Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22

9-9 Repetitive Dive Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-24

9-10 Completed Air Diving Chart: First Dive of Repetitive Dive Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-26

9-11 Completed Repetitive Dive Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-27

9-12 Completed Air Diving Chart: Second Dive of Repetitive Dive Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28

9-13 Completed Air Diving Chart: Delay in Ascent deeper than 50 fsw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-33

9-14 Completed Air Diving Chart: Delay in Ascent Shallower than 50 fsw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-34

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 Figure Page

9-15 Diving at Altitude Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-51

9-16 Completed Diving at Altitude Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-54

9-17 Completed Air Diving Chart: Dive at Altitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-55

9-18 Repetitive Dive at Altitude Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-56

9-19 Completed Repetitive Dive at Altitude Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-59

9-20 Completed Air Diving Chart: First Dive of Repetitive Dive Profile at Altitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-60

9-21 Completed Air Diving Chart: Second Dive of Repetitive Dive Profile at Altitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-60

10-1 NITROX Diving Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-6

10-2 NITROX SCUBA Bottle Markings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-8

10-3 NITROX O2 Injection System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-10

10-4 LP Air Supply NITROX Membrane Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12

10-5 HP Air Supply NITROX Membrane Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13

11-1 Two SCUBA Cylinders Fitted with Two Actual Redundant First Stage Regulators . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3

11-2 Ice Diving with SCUBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-8

11-3 DRASH Brand 10-man Tent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-9

11-4 Typical Ice Diving Worksite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-11

2B-1 Navy Dive Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-1

2B-2 NDC Ascent Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-6

2C-1 Water Temperature Protection Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2C-8

2C-2 Environmental Assessment Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2C-10

2C-3 International Code Signal Flags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2C-16

2D-1 DP Diving Vessel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-1

2D-2 DP Component Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-5

2D-3 DP Pilot Seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-5

2D-4 Alarm Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-6

2D-5 Safe Distance Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2D-12

2D-6 Illustration of Maximum Umbilical Lengths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2D-16

2D-7 Illustration of Maximum Umbilical Lengths. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2D-18

2D-8 Vessel Section Checklist for Navy Surface Supplied Diving Operations from a DP Vessel. . . .2D-21

2D-9 Pre Dive Check List for Navy Surface Supplied Diving Operations from a DP Vessel . . . . . . .2D-22

12-1 FADS III Mixed Gas System (FMGS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-5

12-2 FMGS Control Console Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-5

12-3 Dive Team Brief for Divers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-6

12-4 Diving Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-27

12-5 Completed HeO2 Diving Chart: Surface Decompression Dive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-28

xliv U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volumes 1 through 5

 Figure Page

12-6 Completed HeO2 Diving Chart: In-water Decompression Dive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-29

12-7 Completed HeO2 Diving Chart: Surface Decompression Dive with Hold
on Descent and Delay on Ascent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-30

13-1 SAT FADS System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-1

13-2 SAT FADS Dive Bell Exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-2

13-3 SAT FADS DDC Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-3

13-4 SAT FADS Control Van . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-6

13-5 DIVEX SLS MK-4 Helmet with Backpack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-7

13-6 MK 22 MOD 0 with Hot Water Suit, Hot Water Shroud, and ComeHome Bottle . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-7

13-7 NEDU’s Ocean Simulation Facility (OSF) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-8

13-8 NEDU’s Ocean Simulation Facility Saturation Diving Chamber Complex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-9

13-9 NEDU’s Ocean Simulation Facility Control Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-9

13-10 Dive Bell and LARS System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-18

13-11 Inside Dive Bell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-28

13-12 PTC Placement Relative to Excursion Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-33

13-13 Saturation Decompression Sickness Treatment Flow Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-41

14-1 Mixing by Cascading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3

14-2 Mixing with Gas Transfer System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-4

15-1 MK 16 MOD 1 Closed-Circuit Mixed-Gas UBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-1

15-2 Typical EC-UBA Functional Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-2

15-3 UBA Breathing Bag Acts to Maintain the Diver’s Constant Buoyancy
by Responding Counter to Lung Displacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-4

15-4 EC-UBA Dive Record Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-14

15-5 Typical EC-UBA Emergency Breathing System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-21

15-6 MK 16 MOD 1 UBA General Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-33

15-7 MK 16 MOD 0 General Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-34

15-8 Repetitive Dive Worksheet for 1.3 ata ppO2N202 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-38

15-9 Repetitive Dive Worksheet for 1.3 ata ppO2 HeO2 Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-50

15-10 Dive Worksheet for Repetitive 0.75 ata ppO2N202 Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-68

16-1 Diver in MK-25 CC-UBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-1

16-2 Example of Transit with Excursion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-8

16-3 MK 25 MOD 2 Operational Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-21

17-1 Treatment of Arterial Gas Embolism or Serious Decompression Sickness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-39

17-2 Treatment of Type I Decompression Sickness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-40

17-3 Treatment of Symptom Recurrence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-42

17-4 Treatment Table 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-43

List of Illustrations xlv

 Figure Page

17-5 Treatment Table 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-44

17-6 Treatment Table 6A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-45

17-7 Treatment Table 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-46

17-8 Treatment Table 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-47

17-9 Treatment Table 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-48

17-10 Treatment Table 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-49

17-11 Air Treatment Table 1A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-50

17-12 Air Treatment Table 2A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-51

17-13 Air Treatment Table 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-52

18-1 Double-Lock Steel Recompression Chamber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-6

18-2 Recompression Chamber Facility: RCF 6500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-7

18-3 Recompression Chamber Facility: RCF 5000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-8

18-4 Double-Lock Steel Recompression Chamber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-9

18-5 Fleet Modernized Double-Lock Recompression Chamber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-10

18-6 Standard Navy Double-Lock Recompression Chamber System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-11

18-7 Transportable Recompression Chamber System (TRCS). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-12

18-8 Transportable Recompression Chamber (TRC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-12

18-9 Transfer Lock (TL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-13

18-10 Fly Away Recompression Chamber (FARCC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-13

18-11 Fly Away Recompression Chamber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-14

18-12 Fly Away Recompression Chamber Life Support Skid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-14

18-13 Recompression Chamber Predive Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-18

18-14 Recompression Chamber Postdive Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-24

18-15 Pressure Test for USN Recompression Chambers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-26

5A-1a Neurological Examination Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5A-3

5A-2a Dermatomal Areas Correlated to Spinal Cord Segment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5A-11

5B-1 Pressure Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5B-3

5B-2 Applying a Tourniquet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5B-5

5C-1 Types of Sharks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5C-2

5C-2 Killer Whale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5C-3

5C-3 Barracuda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5C-4

5C-4 Moray Eel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5C-5

5C-5 Weeverfish. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5C-6

5C-6 Highly Toxic Fish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5C-8

5C-7 Stingray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5C-9

xlvi U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volumes 1 through 5

 Table Page

5C-8 Coelenterates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5C-10

5C-9 Octopus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5C-12

5C-10 Cone Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5C-15

5C-11 Sea Snake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5C-16

List of Tables xlvii

 Chap/Para Page

PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY

xlviii U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volumes 1 through 5

 Table
List of Tables
Page

Table Page

2-1 Pressure Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

2-2 Components of Dry Atmospheric Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

2-3 Partial Pressure at 1 ata . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24

2-4 Partial Pressure at 137 ata . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24

2-5 Symbols and Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-31

2-6 Buoyancy (In Pounds) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32

2-7 Formulas for Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32

2-8 Formulas for Volumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32

2-9 Formulas for Partial Pressure/Equivalent Air Depth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32

2-10 Pressure Equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-33

2-11 Volume and Capacity Equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-33

2-12 Length Equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34

2-13 Area Equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34

2-14 Velocity Equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34

2-15 Mass Equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35

2-16 Energy or Work Equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35

2-17 Power Equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35

2-18 Temperature Equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-36

2-19 Atmospheric Pressure at Altitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-36

3-1 Signs and Symptoms of Dropping Core Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-54

3-2 Signs of Heat Stress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-57

4-1 U.S. Navy Diving Breathing Air Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

4-2 Diver’s Compressed Oxygen Breathing Purity Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

4-3 Diver’s Compressed Helium Breathing Purity Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

4-4 Diver’s Compressed Nitrogen Breathing Purity Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

1A-1 PEL Selection Table. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-3

1A-2 Depth Reduction Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-5

1A-3 Wet Suit Un-Hooded . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-12

1A-4 Wet Suit Hooded . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-13

1A-5 Helmeted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-14

1A-6 Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) Within a 24-hour Period for

Exposure to AN/SQQ-14, -30, -32 Sonars. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-15

6-1 Navy Recompression Chamber Support Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-20

List of Tables xlix

 Table Page

6-2 Air Diving Recompression Chamber Recommendations (Bottom Time in Minutes) . . . . . . . . . . 6-20

7-1 Sample SCUBA Cylinder Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12

8-1 KM-37 NS Overbottom Pressure Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8

8-2 Line-Pull Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-24

9-1 Pneumofathometer Correction Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7

9-2 Management of Extended Surface Interval and Type I Decompression

Sickness during the Surface Interval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-41

9-3 Management of Asymptomatic Omitted Decompression. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-43

9-4 Sea Level Equivalent Depth (fsw) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-48

9-5 Repetitive Groups Associated with Initial Ascent to Altitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-50

9-6 Required Surface Interval Before Ascent to Altitude After Diving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-62
9-7 No-Decompression Limits and Repetitive Group Designators for
No-Decompression Air Dives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-63

9-8 Residual Nitrogen Time Table for Repetitive Air Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-64

9-9 Air Decompression Table. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-65

10-1 Equivalent Air Depth Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4

10-2 Oil Free Air. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11

2A-1 No-Decompression Limits and Repetitive Group Designators for Shallow Water
Air No-Decompression Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2A-2

2A-2 Residual Nitrogen Time Table for Repetitive Shallow Water Air Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2A-3

2B-1 NDC Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-4

2B-2 Initial Management of Asymptomatic Omitted Decompression for NDC Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-8

2C-1 Equivalent Wind Chill Temperature Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2C-2

2C-2 Sea State Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2C-4

2C-3 Bottom Conditions and Effects Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2C-6

12-1 Surface Supplied Mixed Gas Dive Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2

12-2 Pneumofathometer Correction Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-6

12-3 Management of Asymptomatic Omitted Decompression. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-21

12-4 Surface-Supplied Helium-Oxygen Decompression Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-31

13-1 Guidelines for Minimum Inspired HeO2 Temperatures for Saturation Depths
Between 350 and 1,500 fsw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-11

13-2 Typical Saturation Diving Watch Stations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-16

13-3 Chamber Oxygen Exposure Time Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-19

13-4 Treatment Gases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-20

13-5 Limits for Selected Gaseous Contaminants in Saturation Diving Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-24

13-6 Saturation Diving Compression Rates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-26

l U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volumes 1 through 5

 Table Page

13-7 Unlimited Duration Downward Excursion Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-29

13-8 Unlimited Duration Upward Excursion Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-30

13-9 Saturation Decompression Rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-36

13-10 Emergency Abort Decompression Times and Oxygen Partial Pressures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-39

15-1 EC-UBA Operational Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6

15-2 Personnel Requirements Chart for EC-UBA Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-8

15-3 EC-UBA Diving Equipment Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-10

15-4 MK 16 MOD 1 Recompression Chamber Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-12

15-5 EC-UBA Dive Briefing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-16

15-6 EC-UBA Line-Pull Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-16

15-7 Initial Management of Asymptomatic Omitted Decompression EC-UBA Diver . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-31

15-8 No Decompression Limits and Repetitive Group Designators for 1.3 ata ppO2N2O2 Dives . . . 15-36
15-9 Residual Nitrogen Timetable for 1.3 ata ppO2N2O2 Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-37

15-10 1.3 ata ppO2N2O2 Decompression Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-39

15-11 No Decompression Limits and Repetitive Group Designators for 1.3 ata ppO2 HeO2 Dives . . . 15-48

15-12 Residual Helium Timetable for 1.3 ata ppO2 HeO2 Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-49

15-13 1.3 ata ppO2 HeO2 Decompression Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-51

15-14 No Decompression Limits and Repetitive Group Designation Table for 0.75 ata Constant ppO2
N2O2 Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-66

15-15 Residual Nitrogen Timetable for Repetitive 0.75 ata Constant ppO2N2O2 Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-67

15-16 Closed-Circuit Mixed-Gas UBA Decompression Table Using 0.75 ata Constant ppO2N2O2 . . 15-69

15-17 Closed-Circuit Mixed-Gas UBA Decompression Table Using 0.75 ata Constant Partial Pressure
Oxygen in Helium. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-77

16-1 Excursion Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-8

16-2 Single-Depth Oxygen Exposure Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-10

16-3 Adjusted Oxygen Exposure Limits for Successive Oxygen Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-12

16-4 CC-UBA Diving Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-16

16-5 Diving Supervisor Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-18

17-1 Minimum Manning Levels for Recompression Treatments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-2

17-2 Rules for Recompression Treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-10

17-3 Decompression . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-20

17-4 Guidelines for Conducting Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-22

17-5 Maximum Permissible Recompression Chamber Exposure Times at Various Temperatures. . 17-24

17-6 High Oxygen Treatment Gas Mixtures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-26

17-7 Tender Oxygen Breathing Requirements. (Note 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-29

17-8 Primary Emergency Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-37

List of Tables li
 Table Page
17-9 Secondary Emergency Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-38

18-1 Navy Recompression Chamber Support Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-1

18-2 Recompression Chamber Line Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-5

18-3 Recompression Chamber Air Supply Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-16

5A-1 Extremity Strength Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5A-9

5A-2 Reflexes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5A-13

lii U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volumes 1 through 5

VOLUME 1

Diving Principles
and Policy

1 History of Diving
2 Underwater Physics
3 Underwater Physiology
and Diving Disorders
4 Dive Systems
5 Dive Program
Administration
Appendix 1A Safe Diving Distances from
Transmitting Sonar
Appendix 1B References
Appendix 1C Telephone Numbers
Appendix 1D List of Acronyms

U.S. NAVY DIVING MANUAL

PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
 Volume 1 - Table of Contents
Chap/Para Page

1 HISTORY OF DIVING

1-1 INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

1-1.1 Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1-1.2 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1-1.3 Role of the U.S. Navy.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

1-2 SURFACE-SUPPLIED AIR DIVING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

1-2.1 Breathing Tubes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
1-2.2 Breathing Bags. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1-2.3 Diving Bells. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1-2.4 Diving Dress Designs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1-2.4.1 Lethbridge’s Diving Dress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1-2.4.2 Deane’s Patented Diving Dress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
1-2.4.3 Siebe’s Improved Diving Dress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
1-2.4.4 Salvage of the HMS Royal George . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
1-2.5 Caissons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
1-2.6 Physiological Discoveries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
1-2.6.1 Caisson Disease (Decompression Sickness). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
1-2.6.2 Inadequate Ventilation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
1-2.6.3 Nitrogen Narcosis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
1-2.7 Armored Diving Suits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
1-2.8 MK V Deep-Sea Diving Dress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8

1-3 SCUBA DIVING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8

1-3.1 Open-Circuit SCUBA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
1‑3.1.1 Rouquayrol’s Demand Regulator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
1‑3.1.2 LePrieur’s Open-Circuit SCUBA Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
1‑3.1.3 Cousteau and Gagnan’s Aqua-Lung . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
1‑3.1.4 Impact of SCUBA on Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
1-3.2 Closed-Circuit SCUBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
1‑3.2.1 Fleuss’ Closed-Circuit SCUBA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
1‑3.2.2 Modern Closed-Circuit Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
1-3.3 Hazards of Using Oxygen in SCUBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
1-3.4 Semiclosed-Circuit SCUBA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12
1‑3.4.1 Lambertsen’s Mixed-Gas Rebreather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12
1‑3.4.2 MK 6 UBA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12
1-3.5 SCUBA Use During World War II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13
1‑3.5.1 Diver-Guided Torpedoes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13
1‑3.5.2 U.S. Combat Swimming. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14
1‑3.5.3 Underwater Demolition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15

Table of Contents­—Volume 1 1–i

 Chap/Para Page

1-4 MIXED-GAS DIVING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16

1-4.1 Nonsaturation Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
1‑4.1.1 Helium-Oxygen (HeO2) Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
1‑4.1.2 Hydrogen-Oxygen Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18
1‑4.1.3 Modern Surface-Supplied Mixed-Gas Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
1‑4.1.4 MK 1 MOD 0 Diving Outfit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
1-4.2 Diving Bells. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
1-4.3 Saturation Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
1‑4.3.1 Advantages of Saturation Diving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
1‑4.3.2 Bond’s Saturation Theory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
1‑4.3.3 Genesis Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
1‑4.3.4 Developmental Testing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
1‑4.3.5 Sealab Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
1-4.4 Deep Diving Systems (DDS). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
1‑4.4.1 ADS-IV. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
1‑4.4.2 MK 1 MOD 0. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
1‑4.4.3 MK 2 MOD 0. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
1‑4.4.4 MK 2 MOD 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26

1-5 SUBMARINE SALVAGE AND RESCUE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26

1-5.1 USS F-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26
1-5.2 USS S-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27
1-5.3 USS S-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27
1-5.4 USS Squalus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
1-5.5 USS Thresher. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
1-5.6 Deep Submergence Systems Project. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29

1-6 SALVAGE DIVING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29

1-6.1 World War II Era. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29
1‑6.1.1 Pearl Harbor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29
1‑6.1.2 USS Lafayette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29
1‑6.1.3 Other Diving Missions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30
1-6.2 Vietnam Era . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30

1-7 OPEN-SEA DEEP DIVING RECORDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30

1-8 SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31

2 UNDERWATER PHYSICS

2-1 INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

2-1.1 Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2-1.2 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

2-2 PHYSICS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

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2-3 MATTER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

2-3.1 Elements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2-3.2 Atoms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2-3.3 Molecules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2-3.4 The Three States of Matter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

2-4 MEASUREMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

2-4.1 Measurement Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
2-4.2 Temperature Measurements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
2‑4.2.1 Kelvin Scale. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
2‑4.2.2 Rankine Scale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
2-4.3 Gas Measurements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

2-5 ENERGY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

2-5.1 Conservation of Energy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
2-5.2 Classifications of Energy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

2-6 LIGHT ENERGY IN DIVING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

2-6.1 Refraction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
2-6.2 Turbidity of Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
2-6.3 Diffusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
2-6.4 Color Visibility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

2-7 MECHANICAL ENERGY IN DIVING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

2-7.1 Water Temperature and Sound. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
2-7.2 Water Depth and Sound. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
2‑7.2.1 Diver Work and Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
2‑7.2.2 Pressure Waves. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
2-7.3 Underwater Explosions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
2‑7.3.1 Type of Explosive and Size of the Charge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
2‑7.3.2 Characteristics of the Seabed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
2‑7.3.3 Location of the Explosive Charge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
2‑7.3.4 Water Depth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
2‑7.3.5 Distance from the Explosion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
2‑7.3.6 Degree of Submersion of the Diver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
2‑7.3.7 Estimating Explosion Pressure on a Diver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
2‑7.3.8 Minimizing the Effects of an Explosion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

2-8 HEAT ENERGY IN DIVING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

2-8.1 Conduction, Convection, and Radiation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
2-8.2 Heat Transfer Rate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
2-8.3 Diver Body Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

2-9 PRESSURE IN DIVING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

2-9.1 Atmospheric Pressure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Table of Contents­—Volume 1 1–iii

 Chap/Para Page

2-9.2 Terms Used to Describe Gas Pressure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

2-9.3 Hydrostatic Pressure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
2-9.4 Buoyancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
2‑9.4.1 Archimedes’ Principle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
2‑9.4.2 Diver Buoyancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

2-10 GASES IN DIVING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

2-10.1 Atmospheric Air. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
2-10.2 Oxygen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
2-10.3 Nitrogen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
2-10.4 Helium. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
2-10.5 Hydrogen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
2-10.6 Neon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
2-10.7 Carbon Dioxide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
2-10.8 Carbon Monoxide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
2-10.9 Kinetic Theory of Gases. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16

2-11 GAS LAWS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

2-11.1 Boyle’s Law. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
2-11.2 Charles’/Gay-Lussac’s Law. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
2-11.3 The General Gas Law. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21

2-12 GAS MIXTURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24

2-12.1 Dalton’s Law. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24
2‑12.1.1 Calculating Surface Equivalent Value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-27
2‑12.1.2 Expressing Small Quantities of Pressure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28
2‑12.1.3 Expressing Small Quantities of Volume. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28
2-12.2 Gas Diffusion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28
2-12.3 Humidity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-29
2-12.4 Gases in Liquids. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-29
2-12.5 Solubility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-29
2-12.6 Henry’s Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-29
2‑12.6.1 Gas Tension. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-30
2‑12.6.2 Gas Absorption. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-30
2‑12.6.3 Gas Solubility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-30

3 UNDERWATER PHYSIOLOGY AND DIVING DISORDERS

3-1 INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

3-1.1 Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3-1.2 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3-1.3 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

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3-2 THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

3-3 THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

3-3.1 Anatomy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3‑3.1.1 The Heart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3‑3.1.2 The Pulmonary and Systemic Circuits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3-3.2 Circulatory Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3-3.3 Blood Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

3-4 THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

3-4.1 Gas Exchange. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
3-4.2 Respiration Phases. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
3-4.3 Upper and Lower Respiratory Tract . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
3-4.4 The Respiratory Apparatus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
3‑4.4.1 The Chest Cavity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
3‑4.4.2 The Lungs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
3-4.5 Respiratory Tract Ventilation Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
3-4.6 Alveolar/Capillary Gas Exchange. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
3-4.7 Breathing Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
3-4.8 Oxygen Consumption. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

3-5 RESPIRATORY PROBLEMS IN DIVING.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

3-5.1 Oxygen Deficiency (Hypoxia). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
3‑5.1.1 Causes of Hypoxia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
3‑5.1.2 Symptoms of Hypoxia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
3‑5.1.3 Treatment of Hypoxia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14
3‑5.1.4 Prevention of Hypoxia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14
3-5.2 Carbon Dioxide Retention (Hypercapnia). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15
3‑5.2.1 Causes of Hypercapnia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15
3‑5.2.2 Symptoms of Hypercapnia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16
3‑5.2.3 Treatment of Hypercapnia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
3‑5.2.4 Prevention of Hypercapnia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18
3-5.3 Asphyxia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18
3-5.4 Drowning/Near Drowning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18
3‑5.4.1 Causes of Drowning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18
3‑5.4.2 Symptoms of Drowning/Near Drowning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
3‑5.4.3 Treatment of Near Drowning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
3‑5.4.4 Prevention of Near Drowning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
3-5.5 Breathholding and Unconsciousness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20
3-5.6 Involuntary Hyperventilation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20
3‑5.6.1 Causes of Involuntary Hyperventilation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20
3‑5.6.2 Symptoms of Involuntary Hyperventilation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20
3‑5.6.3 Treatment of Involuntary Hyperventilation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-21
3-5.7 Overbreathing the Rig. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-21

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3-5.8 Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-21

3‑5.8.1 Causes of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-21
3‑5.8.2 Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-22
3‑5.8.3 Treatment of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-22
3‑5.8.4 Prevention of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-22

3-6 MECHANICAL EFFECTS OF PRESSURE ON THE HUMAN BODY-BAROTRAUMA

DURING DESCENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-23
3-6.1 Prerequisites for Squeeze. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-23
3-6.2 Middle Ear Squeeze. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-24
3‑6.2.1 Preventing Middle Ear Squeeze. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-24
3‑6.2.2 Treating Middle Ear Squeeze. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25
3-6.3 Sinus Squeeze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25
3‑6.3.1 Causes of Sinus Squeeze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25
3‑6.3.2 Preventing Sinus Squeeze. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26
3-6.4 Tooth Squeeze (Barodontalgia). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26
3-6.5 External Ear Squeeze. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26
3-6.6 Thoracic (Lung) Squeeze.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-27
3-6.7 Face or Body Squeeze. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-27
3-6.8 Inner Ear Barotrauma. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-27

3-7 MECHANICAL EFFECTS OF PRESSURE ON THE HUMAN BODY--BAROTRAUMA

DURING ASCENT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-30
3-7.1 Middle Ear Overpressure (Reverse Middle Ear Squeeze) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-30
3-7.2 Sinus Overpressure (Reverse Sinus Squeeze) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-31
3-7.3 Gastrointestinal Distention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-31

3-8 PULMONARY OVERINFLATION SYNDROMES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-32

3-8.1 Arterial Gas Embolism (AGE). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33
3‑8.1.1 Causes of AGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-34
3‑8.1.2 Symptoms of AGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-34
3‑8.1.3 Treatment of AGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-35
3‑8.1.4 Prevention of AGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-35
3-8.2 Mediastinal and Subcutaneous Emphysema . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-36
3‑8.2.1 Causes of Mediastinal and Subcutaneous Emphysema . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-36
3‑8.2.2 Symptoms of Mediastinal and Subcutaneous Emphysema. . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-37
3‑8.2.3 Treatment of Mediastinal and Subcutaneous Emphysema. . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-37
3‑8.2.4 Prevention of Mediastinal and Subcutaneous Emphysema. . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-38
3-8.3 Pneumothorax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-38
3‑8.3.1 Causes of Pneumothorax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-38
3‑8.3.2 Symptoms of Pneumothorax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-39
3‑8.3.3 Treatment of Pneumothorax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-40
3‑8.3.4 Prevention of Pneumothorax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-40

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3-9 INDIRECT EFFECTS OF PRESSURE ON THE HUMAN BODY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-40

3-9.1 Nitrogen Narcosis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-40
3‑9.1.1 Causes of Nitrogen Narcosis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-41
3‑9.1.2 Symptoms of Nitrogen Narcosis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-41
3‑9.1.3 Treatment of Nitrogen Narcosis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-41
3‑9.1.4 Prevention of Nitrogen Narcosis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-41
3-9.2 Oxygen Toxicity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-42
3‑9.2.1 Pulmonary Oxygen Toxicity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-42
3‑9.2.2 Central Nervous System (CNS) Oxygen Toxicity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-42
3-9.3 Decompression Sickness (DCS). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-46
3‑9.3.1 Absorption and Elimination of Inert Gases. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-46
3‑9.3.2 Bubble Formation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-50
3‑9.3.3 Direct Bubble Effects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-50
3‑9.3.4 Indirect Bubble Effects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-51
3‑9.3.5 Symptoms of Decompression Sickness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-51
3‑9.3.6 Treating Decompression Sickness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-52
3‑9.3.7 Preventing Decompression Sickness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-52

3-10 THERMAL PROBLEMS IN DIVING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-52

3-10.1 Regulating Body Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-53
3-10.2 Excessive Heat Loss (Hypothermia). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-53
3‑10.2.1 Causes of Hypothermia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-53
3‑10.2.2 Symptoms of Hypothermia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-54
3‑10.2.3 Treatment of Hypothermia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-54
3‑10.2.4 Prevention of Hypothermia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-55
3-10.3 Other Physiological Effects of Exposure to Cold Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-56
3‑10.3.1 Caloric Vertigo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-56
3‑10.3.2 Diving Reflex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-56
3‑10.3.3 Uncontrolled Hyperventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-56
3-10.4 Excessive Heat Gain (Hyperthermia). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-56
3‑10.4.1 Causes of Hyperthermia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-56
3‑10.4.2 Symptoms of Hyperthermia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-57
3‑10.4.3 Treatment of Hyperthermia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-57
3‑10.4.4 Prevention of Hyperthermia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-58

3-11 SPECIAL MEDICAL PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH DEEP DIVING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-58

3-11.1 High Pressure Nervous Syndrome (HPNS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-58
3-11.2 Compression Arthralgia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-58

3-12 OTHER DIVING MEDICAL PROBLEMS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-59

3-12.1 Dehydration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-59
3‑12.1.1 Causes of Dehydration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-59
3‑12.1.2 Preventing Dehydration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-60
3-12.2 Immersion Pulmonary Edema. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-60
3-12.3 Carotid Sinus Reflex. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-60

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3-12.4 Middle Ear Oxygen Absorption Syndrome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-60

3‑12.4.1 Symptoms of Middle Ear Oxygen Absorption Syndrome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-61
3‑12.4.2 Treating Middle Ear Oxygen Absorption Syndrome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-61
3-12.5 Underwater Trauma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-61
3-12.6 Blast Injury . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-61
3-12.7 Otitis Externa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-62
3-12.8 Hypoglycemia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-63
3-12.9 Use of Medications While Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-63

4 DIVE SYSTEMS

4-1 INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

4-1.1 Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
4-1.2 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
4-1.3 References. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

4-2 GENERAL INFORMATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

4-2.1 Document Precedence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
4-2.2 Equipment Authorized For Military Use (AMU). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
4-2.3 System Certification Authority (SCA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
4-2.4 Planned Maintenance System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
4-2.5 Alteration of Diving Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
4‑2.5.1 Technical Program Managers for Shore-Based Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
4‑2.5.2 Technical Program Managers for Other Diving Apparatus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
4-2.6 Operating and Emergency Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
4‑2.6.1 Standard Dive Systems/Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4‑2.6.2 Non-Standard Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4‑2.6.3 OP/EP Approval Process. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4‑2.6.4 Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4‑2.6.5 Example. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

4-3 DIVER’S BREATHING GAS PURITY STANDARDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

4-3.1 Diver’s Breathing Air. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
4-3.2 Diver’s Breathing Oxygen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
4-3.3 Diver’s Breathing Helium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
4-3.4 Diver’s Breathing Nitrogen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

4-4 DIVER’S AIR SAMPLING PROGRAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

4-4.1 Sampling Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
4-4.2 NSWC-PC Air Sampling Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
4-4.3 Local Air Sampling Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
4-4.4 Portable Air Monitor (PAM). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
4-4.5 General Air Sampling Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10

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4-5 DIVE SYSTEM COMPONENTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11

4-5.1 Diving Compressors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
4‑5.1.1 Lubrication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
4‑5.1.2 Maintaining Oil Lubricated Compressors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
4‑5.1.3 Water Vapor Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
4‑5.1.4 Volume Tank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
4‑5.1.5 Pressure Regulators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
4‑5.1.6 Air Filtration System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
4-5.2 High-Pressure Air Cylinders and Flasks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
4‑5.2.1 Compressed Gas Handling and Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
4-5.3 Diving Gauges. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
4‑5.3.1 Selecting Diving System Gauges. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
4‑5.3.2 Calibrating and Maintaining Gauges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
4‑5.3.3 Helical Bourdon Tube Gauges. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
4‑5.3.4 Pneumofathometer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17

5 DIVE PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION

5-1 INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

5-1.1 Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
5-1.2 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

5-2 OBJECTIVES OF THE RECORD KEEPING AND REPORTING SYSTEM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

5-3 RECORD KEEPING AND REPORTING DOCUMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

5-4 COMMAND DIVE LOG. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

5-5 RECOMPRESSION CHAMBER LOG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

5-6 U.S. NAVY DIVE/JUMP REPORTING SYSTEM (DJRS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

5-7 PERSONAL DIVE LOG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

5-8 EQUIPMENT FAILURE OR DEFICIENCY REPORTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

5-9 DIVE MISHAP/NEAR MISHAP/HAZARD REPORTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

5-9.1 Mishap/Near-Mishap/Hazard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
5-9.2 Judge Advocate General (JAG Investigation). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
5-9.3 Reporting Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
5-9.4 HAZREPS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

5-10 ACTIONS REQUIRED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

5-10.1 Equipment Mishap Information Sheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
5-10.2 Shipment of Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

Table of Contents­—Volume 1 1–ix

 Chap/Para Page

1A SAFE DIVING DISTANCES FROM TRANSMITTING SONAR

1A-1 INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-1

1A-2 BACKGROUND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-1

1A-3 ACTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-2

1A-4 SONAR DIVING DISTANCES WORKSHEETS WITH DIRECTIONS FOR USE. . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-2
1A-4.1 General Information/Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-2
1A‑4.1.1 Effects of Exposure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-2
1A‑4.1.2 Suit and Hood Characteristics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-2
1A‑4.1.3 In­-Water Hearing vs. In-Gas Hearing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-2
1A-4.2 Directions for Completing the Sonar Diving Distances Worksheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-3

1A-5 GUIDANCE FOR DIVER EXPOSURE TO LOW-FREQUENCY SONAR (160–320 HZ). . . . . 1A-16

1A-6 GUIDANCE FOR DIVER EXPOSURE TO ULTRASONIC SONAR

(250 KHZ AND GREATER). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-16

1B REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1B-1

1C TELEPHONE NUMBERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1C-1

1D LIST OF ACRONYMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1D-1

1–x U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 Volume 1 - List of Illustrations
Figure Page

1-1 Early Impractical Breathing Device. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

1-2 Assyrian Frieze (900 B.C.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

1-3 Engraving of Halley’s Diving Bell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

1-4 Lethbridge’s Diving Suit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

1-5 Siebe’s First Enclosed Diving Dress and Helmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

1-6 French Caisson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

1-7 Armored Diving Suit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

1-8 MK 12 and MK V. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

1-9 Fleuss Apparatus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11

1-10 Original Davis Submerged Escape Apparatus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

1-11 Lambertsen Amphibious Respiratory Unit (LARU). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14

1-12 Emerson-Lambertsen Oxygen Rebreather. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15

1-13 Draeger LAR V UBA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15

1-14 Helium-Oxygen Diving Manifold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

1-15 MK V MOD 1 Helmet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18

1-16 MK 1 MOD 0 Diving Outfit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20

1-17 Sealab II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

1-18 U.S. Navy’s First DDS, SDS-450. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

1-19 DDS MK 1 Personnel Transfer Capsule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25

1-20 PTC Handling System, Elk River. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25

1-21 Recovery of the Squalus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28

2-1 Molecules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

2-2 The Three States of Matter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

2-3 Temperature Scales. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

2-4 The Six Forms of Energy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

2-5 Objects Underwater Appear Closer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

2‑6 Kinetic Energy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

2‑7 Depth, Pressure, Atmosphere Graph . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-37

3-1 The Heart’s Components and Blood Flow. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

3-2 Respiration and Blood Circulation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

3-3 Inspiration Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

3-4 Lungs Viewed from Medical Aspect. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

3-5 Lung Volumes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

List of Illustrations—Volume 1 1–xi

 Figure Page

3-6 Oxygen Consumption and RMV at Different Work Rates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12

3-7 Gross Anatomy of the Ear in Frontal Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-23

3-8 Location of the Sinuses in the Human Skull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26

3-9 Components of the Middle/Inner Ear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-28

3-10 Pulmonary Overinflation Syndromes (POIS). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-32

3-11 Arterial Gas Embolism. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33

3-12 Mediastinal Emphysema. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-36

3-13 Subcutaneous Emphysema. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-37

3-14 Pneumothorax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-38

3-15 Tension Pneumothorax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-39

3-16 Saturation of Tissues. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-47

3-17 Desaturation of Tissues. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-49

5-1 Equipment Mishap Information Sheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

1A-1 Sonar Safe Diving Distance/Exposure Time Worksheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-4

1A‑2 Sonar Safe Diving Distance/Exposure Time Worksheet (Completed Example). . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-8

1A-3 Sonar Safe Diving Distance/Exposure Time Worksheet (Completed Example). . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-9

1A‑4 Sonar Safe Diving Distance/Exposure Time Worksheet (Completed Example). . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-10

1A‑5 Sonar Safe Diving Distance/Exposure Time Worksheet (Completed Example). . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-11

1–xii U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 Volume 1 - List of Tables
Table Page

2‑1 Pressure Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

2‑2 Components of Dry Atmospheric Air. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

2‑3 Partial Pressure at 1 ata . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24

2‑4 Partial Pressure at 137 ata . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24

2‑5 Symbols and Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-31

2‑6 Buoyancy (In Pounds). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32

2‑7 Formulas for Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32

2‑8 Formulas for Volumes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32

2‑9 Formulas for Partial Pressure/Equivalent Air Depth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32

2‑10 Pressure Equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-33

2‑11 Volume and Capacity Equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-33

2‑12 Length Equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34

2‑13 Area Equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34

2‑14 Velocity Equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34

2‑15 Mass Equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35

2‑16 Energy or Work Equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35

2‑17 Power Equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35

2‑18 Temperature Equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-36

2-19 Atmospheric Pressure at Altitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-36

3‑1 Signs and Symptoms of Dropping Core Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-54

3‑2 Signs of Heat Stress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-57

4‑1 U.S. Navy Diving Breathing Air Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

4‑2 Diver’s Compressed Oxygen Breathing Purity Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

4‑3 Diver’s Compressed Helium Breathing Purity Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

4‑4 Diver’s Compressed Nitrogen Breathing Purity Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

1A‑1 PEL Selection Table. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-3

1A‑2 Depth Reduction Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-5

1A‑3 Wet Suit Un-Hooded. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-12

1A‑4 Wet Suit Hooded. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-13

1A‑5 Helmeted. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-14

1A‑6 Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) Within a 24-hour Period for

Exposure to AN/SQQ-14, -30, ‑32 Sonars. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1A-15

List of Tables—Volume 1 1–xiii

 Chap/Para Page

PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY

1–xiv U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 CHAPTER 1

History of Diving

1-1 INTRODUCTION

1-1.1 Purpose. This chapter provides a general history of the development of military
diving operations.

1-1.2 Scope. This chapter outlines the hard work and dedication of a number of
individuals who were pioneers in the development of diving technology. As with
any endeavor, it is important to build on the discoveries of our predecessors and
not repeat mistakes of the past.

1-1.3 Role of the U.S. Navy. The U.S. Navy is a leader in the development of modern
diving and underwater operations. The general requirements of national defense
and the specific require­ments of underwater reconnaissance, demolition, ordnance
disposal, construction, ship maintenance, search, rescue and salvage operations
repeatedly give impetus to training and development. Navy diving is no longer
limited to tactical combat operations, wartime salvage, and submarine sinkings.
Fleet diving has become increasingly important and diversified since World War
II. A major part of the diving mission is inspecting and repairing naval vessels to
minimize downtime and the need for dry-docking. Other aspects of fleet diving
include recovering practice and research torpedoes, installing and repairing
underwater electronic arrays, underwater construction, and locating and recovering
downed aircraft.

1-2 SURFACE-SUPPLIED AIR DIVING

The origins of diving are firmly rooted in man’s need and desire to engage in mari­
time commerce, to conduct salvage and military operations, and to expand the
frontiers of knowledge through exploration, research, and development.

Diving, as a profession, can be traced back more than 5,000 years. Early divers
confined their efforts to waters less than 100 feet deep, performing salvage work
and harvesting food, sponges, coral, and mother-of-pearl. A Greek historian,
Herodotus, recorded the story of a diver named Scyllis, who was employed by the
Persian King Xerxes to recover sunken treasure in the fifth century B.C.

From the earliest times, divers were active in military operations. Their missions
included cutting anchor cables to set enemy ships adrift, boring or punching holes
in the bottoms of ships, and building harbor defenses at home while attempting
to destroy those of the enemy abroad. Alexander the Great sent divers down to
remove obstacles in the harbor of the city of Tyre, in what is now Lebanon, which
he had taken under siege in 332 B.C.

Other early divers developed an active salvage industry centered around the major
shipping ports of the eastern Mediterranean. By the first century B.C., operations

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-1

 in one area had become so well organized that a payment scale for salvage work
was established by law, acknowledging the fact that effort and risk increased with
depth. In 24 feet of water, the divers could claim a one-half share of all goods
recovered. In 12 feet of water, they were allowed a one-third share, and in 3 feet,
only a one-tenth share.

1-2.1 Breathing Tubes. The most obvious and crucial step to broadening a diver’s
capabilities was providing an air supply that would permit him to stay underwater.
Hollow reeds or tubes extending to the surface allowed a diver to remain
submerged for an extended period, but he could accomplish little in the way of
useful work. Breathing tubes were employed in military operations, permitting an
undetected approach to an enemy stronghold (Figure 1-1).

At first glance, it seemed logical that a longer breathing tube was the only require­
ment for extending a diver’s range. In fact, a number of early designs used leather
hoods with long flexible tubes supported at the surface by floats. There is no record,
however, that any of these devices were actually constructed or tested. The result
may well have been the drowning of the diver. At a depth of 3 feet, it is nearly
impossible to breathe through a tube using only the body’s natural respira­tory
ability, as the weight of the water exerts a total force of almost 200 pounds on
the diver’s chest. This force increases steadily with depth and is one of the most
important factors in diving. Successful diving operations require that the pressure
be overcome or eliminated. Throughout history, imaginative devices were designed
to overcome this problem, many by some of the greatest minds of the time. At first,
the problem of pressure underwater was not fully understood and the designs were
impractical.

Figure 1-1. Early Impractical Breathing Device. Figure 1-2. Assyrian Frieze (900 B.C.).
This 1511 design shows the diver’s head encased
in a leather bag with a breathing tube extending to
the surface.

1-2 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 1-2.2 Breathing Bags. An entire series of designs was based on the idea of a breathing
bag carried by the diver. An Assyrian frieze of the ninth century B.C. shows what
appear to be divers using inflated animal skins as air tanks. However, these men
were probably swim­mers using skins for flotation. It would be impossible to
submerge while holding such an accessory (Figure 1-2).

A workable diving system may have made a brief appearance in the later Middle
Ages. In 1240, Roger Bacon made reference to “instruments whereby men can
walk on sea or river beds without danger to themselves.”

1-2.3 Diving Bells. Between 1500 and 1800 the diving bell was developed, enabling
divers to remain underwater for hours rather than minutes. The diving bell is a
bell-shaped appa­ratus with the bottom open to the sea.

The first diving bells were large, strong tubs weighted to sink in a vertical posi­tion,
trapping enough air to permit a diver to breathe for several hours. Later diving bells
were suspended by a cable from the surface. They had no significant underwater
maneuverability beyond that provided by moving the support ship. The diver could
remain in the bell if positioned directly over his work, or could venture outside for
short periods of time by holding his breath.

The first reference to an actual practical diving bell was made in 1531. For several
hundred years thereafter, rudimentary but effective bells were used with regu­larity.
In the 1680s, a Massachusetts-born adventurer named William Phipps modified the
diving bell technique by supplying his divers with air from a series of weighted,
inverted buckets as they attempted to recover treasure valued at $200,000.

In 1690, the English astronomer Edmund Halley developed a diving bell in which
the atmosphere was replenished by sending weighted barrels of air down from the
surface (Figure 1-3). In an early demonstration of his system, he and four compan­
ions remained at 60 feet in the Thames River for almost 1½ hours. Nearly 26 years
later, Halley spent more than 4 hours at 66 feet using an improved version of his
bell.

1-2.4 Diving Dress Designs. With an increasing number of military and civilian wrecks
littering the shores of Great Britain each year, there was strong incentive to develop
a diving dress that would increase the efficiency of salvage operations.

1-2.4.1 Lethbridge’s Diving Dress. In 1715, Englishman John Lethbridge developed

a one-man, completely enclosed diving dress (Figure 1-4). The Lethbridge
equipment was a reinforced, leather-covered barrel of air, equipped with a glass
porthole for viewing and two arm holes with watertight sleeves. Wearing this gear,
the occupant could accomplish useful work. This apparatus was lowered from a
ship and maneuvered in the same manner as a diving bell.

Lethbridge was quite successful with his invention and participated in salvaging
a number of European wrecks. In a letter to the editor of a popular magazine in
1749, the inventor noted that his normal operating depth was 10 fathoms (60 feet),

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-3

Figure 1-3. Engraving of Halley’s Figure 1-4. Lethbridge’s Diving Suit.
Diving Bell.

with about 12 fathoms the maximum, and that he could remain underwater for 34
minutes.

Several designs similar to Lethbridge’s were used in succeeding years. However,

all had the same basic limitation as the diving bell—the diver had little freedom
because there was no practical way to continually supply him with air. A true
tech­nological breakthrough occurred at the turn of the 19th century when a hand-
operated pump capable of delivering air under pressure was developed.

1-2.4.2 Deane’s Patented Diving Dress. Several men produced a successful apparatus at
the same time. In 1823, two salvage operators, John and Charles Deane, patented
the basic design for a smoke apparatus that permitted firemen to move about in
burning buildings. By 1828, the apparatus evolved into Deane’s Patent Diving
Dress, consisting of a heavy suit for protection from the cold, a helmet with viewing
ports, and hose connections for delivering surface-supplied air. The helmet rested
on the diver’s shoulders, held in place by its own weight and straps to a waist belt.
Exhausted or surplus air passed out from under the edge of the helmet and posed
no problem as long as the diver was upright. If he fell, however, the helmet could
quickly fill with water. In 1836, the Deanes issued a diver’s manual, perhaps the
first ever produced.

1-2.4.3 Siebe’s Improved Diving Dress. Credit for developing the first practical diving
dress has been given to Augustus Siebe. Siebe’s initial contribution to diving was
a modification of the Deane outfit. Siebe sealed the helmet to the dress at the collar
by using a short, waist-length waterproof suit and added an exhaust valve to the
system (Figure 1-5). Known as Siebe’s Improved Diving Dress, this apparatus is
the direct ancestor of the MK V standard deep-sea diving dress.

1-4 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 1-2.4.4 Salvage of the HMS Royal George. By 1840, sev­
eral types of diving dress were being used in actual
diving operations. At that time, a unit of the British
Royal Engineers was engaged in removing the
remains of the sunken warship, HMS Royal George.
The warship was fouling a major fleet anchorage
just outside Portsmouth, England. Colonel William
Pasley, the officer in charge, de­cided that his
operation was an ideal opportunity to formally test
and evaluate the various types of ap­paratus. Wary
of the Deane apparatus because of the possibility of
helmet flooding, he formally rec­ommended that the
Siebe dress be adopted for future operations.

When Pasley’s project was completed, an official

government historian noted that “of the seasoned
divers, not a man escaped the repeated attacks
of rheumatism and cold.” The divers had been Figure 1-5. Siebe’s First
working for 6 or 7 hours a day, much of it spent Enclosed Diving Dress and
at depths of 60 to 70 feet. Pasley and his men did Helmet.
not realize the implications of the observation.
What appeared to be rheumatism was instead a symptom of a far more serious
physiological problem that, within a few years, was to become of great importance
to the diving profession.

1-2.5 Caissons. At the same time that a practical diving dress was being perfected,
inventors were working to improve the diving bell by increasing its size and
adding high-capacity air pumps that could deliver enough pressure to keep water
entirely out of the bell’s interior. The improved pumps soon led to the construction
of chambers large enough to permit several men to engage in dry work on the
bottom. This was particularly advantageous for projects such as excavating bridge
footings or constructing tunnel sections where long periods of work were required.
These dry chambers were known as caissons, a French word meaning “big boxes”
(Figure 1-6).

Figure 1-6. French Caisson.

This caisson could be floated
over the work site and
lowered to the bottom by
flooding the side tanks.

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-5

 Caissons were designed to provide ready access from the surface. By using an
air lock, the pressure inside could be maintained while men or materials could be
passed in and out. The caisson was a major step in engineering technology and its
use grew quickly.

1-2.6 Physiological Discoveries.

1-2.6.1 Caisson Disease (Decompression Sickness). With the increasing use of caissons,
a new and unexplained malady began to affect the caisson workers. Upon returning
to the surface at the end of a shift, the divers frequently would be struck by dizzy
spells, breathing difficulties, or sharp pains in the joints or abdomen. The sufferer
usually recovered, but might never be completely free of some of the symptoms.
Caisson workers often noted that they felt better working on the job, but wrongly
attributed this to being more rested at the beginning of a shift.

As caisson work extended to larger projects and to greater operating pressures, the
physiological problems increased in number and severity. Fatalities occurred with
alarming frequency. The malady was called, logically enough, caisson disease.
However, workers on the Brooklyn Bridge project in New York gave the sickness
a more descriptive name that has remained—the “bends.”

Today the bends is the most well-known danger of diving. Although men had been
diving for thousands of years, few men had spent much time working under great
atmospheric pressure until the time of the caisson. Individuals such as Pasley, who
had experienced some aspect of the disease, were simply not prepared to look for
anything more involved than indigestion, rheumatism, or arthritis.

1-2.6.1.1 Cause of Decompression Sickness. The actual cause of caisson disease was first
clinically described in 1878 by a French physiologist, Paul Bert. In studying the
effect of pressure on human physi­ology, Bert determined that breathing air under
pressure forced quantities of nitrogen into solution in the blood and tissues of
the body. As long as the pressure remained, the gas was held in solution. When
the pressure was quickly released, as it was when a worker left the caisson, the
nitrogen returned to a gaseous state too rapidly to pass out of the body in a natural
manner. Gas bubbles formed throughout the body, causing the wide range of
symptoms associated with the disease. Paralysis or death could occur if the flow of
blood to a vital organ was blocked by the bubbles.

1-2.6.1.2 Prevention and Treatment of Decompression Sickness. Bert recommended

that cais­son workers gradually decompress and divers return to the surface slowly.
His studies led to an immediate improvement for the caisson workers when they
discovered their pain could be relieved by returning to the pressure of the caisson as
soon as the symptom appeared.

Within a few years, specially designed recompression chambers were being placed
at job sites to provide a more controlled situation for handling the bends. The pres­
sure in the chambers could be increased or decreased as needed for an individual
worker. One of the first successful uses of a recompression chamber was in 1879

1-6 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 during the construction of a subway tunnel under the Hudson River between New
York and New Jersey. The recompression chamber markedly reduced the number
of serious cases and fatalities caused by the bends.

Bert’s recommendation that divers ascend gradually and steadily was not a
complete success, however; some divers continued to suffer from the bends. The
general thought at the time was that divers had reached the practical limits of the
art and that 120 feet was about as deep as anyone could work. This was because
of the repeated incidence of the bends and diver inefficiency beyond that depth.
Occasionally, divers would lose consciousness while working at 120 feet.

1-2.6.2 Inadequate Ventilation. J.S. Haldane, an English physiologist, conducted experi­

ments with Royal Navy divers from 1905 to 1907. He determined that part of the
problem was due to the divers not adequately ventilating their helmets, causing
high levels of carbon dioxide to accumulate. To solve the problem, he established
a standard supply rate of flow (1.5 cubic feet of air per minute, measured at the
pressure of the diver). Pumps capable of maintaining the flow and ventilating the
helmet on a continuous basis were used.

Haldane also composed a set of diving tables that established a method of decom­
pression in stages. Though restudied and improved over the years, these tables
remain the basis of the accepted method for bringing a diver to the surface.

As a result of Haldane’s studies, the practical operating depth for air divers was
extended to slightly more than 200 feet. The limit was not imposed by physiolog­
ical factors, but by the capabilities of the hand-pumps available to provide the air
supply.

1-2.6.3 Nitrogen Narcosis. Divers soon were moving into

deeper water and another unexplained malady began
to appear. The diver would appear intoxicated,
sometimes feeling euphoric and frequently losing
judgment to the point of forgetting the dive’s
purpose. In the 1930s this “rapture of the deep”
was linked to nitrogen in the air breathed under
higher pressures. Known as nitrogen narcosis, this
condition occurred because nitrogen has anesthetic
properties that become progressively more severe
with increasing air pres­sure. To avoid the problem,
special breathing mixtures such as helium-oxygen
were developed for deep diving (see section 1‑4,
Mixed-Gas Diving).

1-2.7 Armored Diving Suits. Numerous inventors, many

with little or no under­water experience, worked to
create an armored diving suit that would free the
diver from pressure problems (Figure 1‑7). In an
armored suit, the diver could breathe air at normal Figure 1-7. Armored
atmospheric pressure and descend to great depths Diving Suit.

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-7

 without any ill effects. The barrel diving suit, de­signed by John Lethbridge in
1715, had been an armored suit in essence, but one with a limited operating depth.

The utility of most armored suits was questionable. They were too clumsy for the
diver to be able to accomplish much work and too complicated to provide protec­
tion from extreme pressure. The maximum anticipated depth of the various suits
developed in the 1930s was 700 feet, but was never reached in actual diving. More
recent pursuits in the area of armored suits, now called one-atmosphere diving
suits, have demonstrated their capability for specialized underwater tasks to 2,000
feet of saltwater (fsw).

1-2.8 MK V Deep-Sea Diving Dress. By 1905, the Bureau of Construction and Repair
had designed the MK V Diving Helmet which seemed to address many of the
problems encountered in diving. This deep-sea outfit was designed for extensive,
rugged diving work and provided the diver maximum physical protection and
some maneuverability.

The 1905 MK V Diving Helmet had an elbow inlet with a safety valve that
allowed air to enter the helmet, but not to escape back up the umbilical if the air
supply were interrupted. Air was expelled from the helmet through an exhaust
valve on the right side, below the port. The exhaust valve was vented toward the
rear of the helmet to prevent escaping bubbles from interfering with the diver’s
field of vision.

By 1916, several improvements had been made to the helmet, including a rudi­
mentary communications system via a telephone cable and a regulating valve
operated by an interior push button. The regulating valve allowed some control of
the atmospheric pressure. A supplementary relief valve, known as the spitcock, was
added to the left side of the helmet. A safety catch was also incorporated to keep
the helmet attached to the breast plate. The exhaust valve and the communi­cations
system were improved by 1927, and the weight of the helmet was decreased to be
more comfortable for the diver.

After 1927, the MK V changed very little. It remained basically the same helmet
used in salvage operations of the USS S-51 and USS S-4 in the mid-1920s. With
its associated deep-sea dress and umbilical, the MK V was used for all submarine
rescue and salvage work undertaken in peacetime and practically all salvage work
undertaken during World War II. The MK V Diving Helmet was the standard U.S.
Navy diving equipment until succeeded by the MK 12 Surface-Supplied Diving
System (SSDS) in February 1980 (see Figure 1‑8). The MK 12 was replaced by the
MK 21 in December 1993.

1-3 SCUBA DIVING

The diving equipment developed by Charles and John Deane, Augustus Siebe, and
other inventors gave man the ability to remain and work underwater for extended
periods, but movement was greatly limited by the requirement for surface-supplied
air. Inventors searched for methods to increase the diver’s movement without
increasing the hazards. The best solution was to provide the diver with a portable,

1-8 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 Figure 1-8. MK 12 and MK V.

self-contained air supply. For many years the self-contained underwater breathing
apparatus (SCUBA) was only a theoretical possibility. Early attempts to supply
self-contained compressed air to divers were not successful due to the limi­tations
of air pumps and containers to compress and store air at sufficiently high pressure.
SCUBA development took place gradually, however, evolving into three basic
types:

n Open-circuit SCUBA (where the exhaust is vented directly to the surrounding

water),

n Closed-circuit SCUBA (where the oxygen is filtered and recirculated), and

n Semiclosed-circuit SCUBA (which combines features of the open- and closed-

circuit types).

1-3.1 Open-Circuit SCUBA. In the open-circuit apparatus, air is inhaled from a supply
cylinder and the exhaust is vented directly to the surrounding water.

1‑3.1.1 Rouquayrol’s Demand Regulator. The first and highly necessary component of
an open-circuit apparatus was a demand regulator. Designed early in 1866 and
patented by Benoist Rouquayrol, the regulator adjusted the flow of air from the
tank to meet the diver’s breathing and pressure requirements. However, because
cylinders strong enough to contain air at high pressure could not be built at the
time, Rouquayrol adapted his regulator to surface-supplied diving equipment
and the technology turned toward closed-circuit designs. The application of
Rouquayrol’s concept of a demand regulator to a successful open-circuit SCUBA
was to wait more than 60 years.

1‑3.1.2 LePrieur’s Open-Circuit SCUBA Design. The thread of open-circuit development

was picked up in 1933. Commander LePrieur, a French naval officer, constructed
an open-circuit SCUBA using a tank of compressed air. However, LePrieur did not
include a demand regulator in his design and, the diver’s main effort was diverted
to the constant manual control of his air supply. The lack of a demand regulator,

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-9

 coupled with extremely short endurance, severely limited the practical use of
LePrieur’s apparatus.

1‑3.1.3 Cousteau and Gagnan’s Aqua-Lung. At the same time that actual combat opera­
tions were being carried out with closed-circuit apparatus, two Frenchmen
achieved a significant breakthrough in open-circuit SCUBA design. Working in
a small Mediterranean village, under the diffi­cult and restrictive conditions of
German-occupied France, Jacques-Yves Cousteau and Emile Gagnan combined
an improved demand regulator with high-pressure air tanks to create the first truly
efficient and safe open-circuit SCUBA, known as the Aqua-Lung. Cousteau and
his companions brought the Aqua-Lung to a high state of development as they
explored and photographed wrecks, devel­oping new diving techniques and testing
their equipment.

The Aqua-Lung was the culmination of hundreds of years of progress, blending

the work of Rouquayol, LePrieur, and Fleuss, a pioneer in closed-circuit SCUBA
development. Cousteau used his gear successfully to 180 fsw without significant
difficulty and with the end of the war the Aqua-Lung quickly became a commer­cial
success. Today the Aqua-Lung is the most widely used diving equipment, opening
the underwater world to anyone with suitable training and the funda­mental physical
abilities.

1‑3.1.4 Impact of SCUBA on Diving. The underwater freedom brought about by the
development of SCUBA led to a rapid growth of interest in diving. Sport diving has
become very popular, but science and commerce have also benefited. Biologists,
geologists and archaeolo­gists have all gone underwater, seeking new clues to
the origins and behavior of the earth, man and civilization as a whole. An entire
industry has grown around commercial diving, with the major portion of activity
in offshore petroleum production.

After World War II, the art and science of diving progressed rapidly, with emphasis
placed on improving existing diving techniques, creating new methods, and
developing the equipment required to serve these methods. A complete gener­ation
of new and sophisticated equipment took form, with substantial improvements
being made in both open and closed-circuit apparatus. However, the most significant
aspect of this technological expansion has been the closely linked development of
saturation diving techniques and deep diving systems.

1-3.2 Closed-Circuit SCUBA. The basic closed-circuit system, or oxygen rebreather,

uses a cylinder of 100 percent oxygen that supplies a breathing bag. The oxygen
used by the diver is recirculated in the apparatus, passing through a chemical
filter that removes carbon dioxide. Oxygen is added from the tank to replace that
consumed in breathing. For special warfare operations, the closed-circuit system
has a major advantage over the open-circuit type: it does not produce a telltale trail
of bubbles on the surface.

1‑3.2.1 Fleuss’ Closed-Circuit SCUBA. Henry A. Fleuss developed the first commercially
practical closed-circuit SCUBA between 1876 and 1878 (Figure 1‑9). The Fleuss
device consisted of a watertight rubber face mask and a breathing bag connected to

1-10 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 a copper tank of 100 percent oxygen charged to 450 psi. By using oxygen instead
of compressed air as the breathing medium, Fleuss eliminated the need for high-
strength tanks. In early models of this apparatus, the diver controlled the makeup
feed of fresh oxygen with a hand valve.

Fleuss successfully tested his apparatus in 1879. In the

first test, he remained in a tank of water for about an
hour. In the second test, he walked along a creek bed at
a depth of 18 feet. During the second test, Fleuss turned
off his oxygen feed to see what would happen. He was
soon unconscious, and suffered gas embolism as his
tenders pulled him to the surface. A few weeks after his
recovery, Fleuss made arrangements to put his recircu­
lating design into commercial production.

In 1880, the Fleuss SCUBA figured prominently in a

highly publicized achievement by an English diver,
Alexander Lambert. A tunnel under the Severn River
flooded and Lambert, wearing a Fleuss apparatus,
walked 1,000 feet along the tunnel, in complete dark­
ness, to close several crucial valves.

1‑3.2.2 Modern Closed-Circuit Systems. As development of the

Figure 1-9. Fleuss
closed-circuit design continued, the Fleuss equipment Apparatus.
was improved by adding a demand regulator and tanks
capable of holding oxygen at more than 2,000 psi. By
World War I, the Fleuss SCUBA (with modifications) was the basis for subma­rine
escape equipment used in the Royal Navy. In World War II, closed-circuit units
were widely used for combat diving operations (see paragraph 1‑3.5.2).

Some modern closed-circuit systems employ a mixed gas for breathing and elec­
tronically senses and controls oxygen concentration. This type of apparatus retains
the bubble-free characteristics of 100-percent oxygen recirculators while signifi­
cantly improving depth capability.

1-3.3 Hazards of Using Oxygen in SCUBA. Fleuss had been unaware of the serious
problem of oxygen toxicity caused by breathing 100 percent oxygen under
pressure. Oxygen toxicity apparently was not encountered when he used his
apparatus in early shallow water experiments. The danger of oxygen poisoning
had actually been discovered prior to 1878 by Paul Bert, the physiologist who
first proposed controlled decompression as a way to avoid the bends. In laboratory
experiments with animals, Bert demonstrated that breathing oxygen under pressure
could lead to convulsions and death (central nervous system oxygen toxicity).

In 1899, J. Lorrain Smith found that breathing oxygen over prolonged periods of
time, even at pressures not sufficient to cause convulsions, could lead to pulmo­nary
oxygen toxicity, a serious lung irritation. The results of these experiments, however,
were not widely publicized. For many years, working divers were unaware of the
dangers of oxygen poisoning.

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-11

 The true seriousness of the problem was not apparent until large numbers of combat
divers were being trained in the early years of World War II. After a number of
oxygen toxicity accidents, the British established an operational depth limit of 33
fsw. Additional research on oxygen toxicity continued in the U.S. Navy after the
war and resulted in the setting of a normal working limit of 25 fsw for 75 minutes
for the Emerson oxygen rebreather. A maximum emergency depth/time limit of 40
fsw for 10 minutes was also allowed.

These limits eventually proved operationally restrictive, and prompted the Navy
Experimental Diving Unit to reexamine the entire problem of oxygen toxicity
in the mid-1980s. As a result of this work, more liberal and flexible limits were
adopted for U.S. Navy use.

1-3.4 Semiclosed-Circuit SCUBA. The semiclosed-circuit SCUBA combines features

of the open and closed-circuit systems. Using a mixture of gases for breathing,
the apparatus recycles the gas through a carbon dioxide removal canister and
continually adds a small amount of oxygen-rich mixed gas to the system from a
supply cylinder. The supply gas flow is preset to satisfy the body’s oxygen demand;
an equal amount of the recirculating mixed-gas stream is continually exhausted to
the water. Because the quantity of makeup gas is constant regardless of depth, the
semiclosed-circuit SCUBA provides significantly greater endurance than open-
circuit systems in deep diving.

1‑3.4.1 Lambertsen’s Mixed-Gas Rebreather. In the late 1940s, Dr. C.J. Lambertsen
proposed that mixtures of nitrogen or helium with an elevated oxygen content be
used in SCUBA to expand the depth range beyond that allowed by 100-percent
oxygen rebreathers, while simulta­ neously minimizing the requirement for
decompression.

In the early 1950s, Lambertsen introduced the FLATUS I, a semiclosed-circuit

SCUBA that continually added a small volume of mixed gas, rather than pure
oxygen, to a rebreathing circuit. The small volume of new gas provided the oxygen
necessary for metabolic consumption while exhaled carbon dioxide was absorbed
in an absorbent canister. Because inert gas, as well as oxygen, was added to the rig,
and because the inert gas was not consumed by the diver, a small amount of gas
mixture was continuously exhausted from the rig.

1‑3.4.2 MK 6 UBA. In 1964, after significant development work, the Navy adopted a
semiclosed-circuit, mixed-gas rebreather, the MK 6 UBA, for combat swimming
and EOD operations. Decompression procedures for both nitrogen-oxygen and
helium-oxygen mixtures were developed at the Navy Experimental Diving Unit.
The apparatus had a maximum depth capability of 200 fsw and a maximum
endurance of 3 hours depending on water temperature and diver activity. Because
the appa­ratus was based on a constant mass flow of mixed gas, the endurance was
independent of the diver’s depth.

In the late 1960s, work began on a new type of mixed-gas rebreather technology,
which was later used in the MK 15 and MK 16 UBAs. In this UBA, the oxygen
partial pressure was controlled at a constant value by an oxygen sensing and addi­

1-12 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 tion system. As the diver consumed oxygen, an oxygen sensor detected the fall in
oxygen partial pressure and signaled an oxygen valve to open, allowing a small
amount of pure oxygen to be admitted to the breathing circuit from a cylinder.
Oxygen addition was thus exactly matched to metabolic consumption. Exhaled
carbon dioxide was absorbed in an absorption canister. The system had the endur­
ance and completely closed-circuit characteristics of an oxygen rebreather without
the concerns and limitations associated with oxygen toxicity.

Beginning in 1979, the MK 6 semiclosed-circuit underwater breathing apparatus

(UBA) was phased out by the MK 15 closed-circuit, constant oxygen partial
pres­sure UBA. The Navy Experimental Diving Unit developed decompression
procedures for the MK 15 with nitrogen and helium in the early 1980s. In 1985, an
improved low magnetic signature version of the MK 15, the MK 16, was approved
for Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team use.

1-3.5 SCUBA Use During World War II. Although closed-circuit equipment was restricted
to shallow-water use and carried with it the potential danger of oxygen toxicity, its
design had reached a suitably high level of efficiency by World War II. During the
war, combat diver breathing units were widely used by navies on both sides of the
conflict. The swimmers used various modes of underwater attack. Many notable
successes were achieved including the sinking of several battleships, cruisers, and
merchant ships.

1‑3.5.1 Diver-Guided Torpedoes. Italian divers,

using closed-circuit gear, rode chariot
torpedoes fitted with seats and manual
controls in repeated attacks against British
ships. In 1936, the Italian Navy tested a
chariot torpedo system in which the divers
used a descendant of the Fleuss SCUBA.
This was the Davis Lung (Figure 1‑10). It
was originally designed as a submarine es­
cape device and was later manufactured in
Italy under a license from the English patent
holders.

British divers, carried to the scene of action in

midget submarines, aided in placing explosive
charges under the keel of the German
battleship Tirpitz. The British began their Figure 1-10. Original Davis
chariot program in 1942 using the Davis Lung Submerged Escape Apparatus.
and exposure suits. Swimmers using the MK
1 chariot dress quickly discovered that the steel oxygen bottles adversely affected
the compass of the chariot torpedo. Aluminum oxygen cylin­ders were not readily
available in England, but German aircraft used aluminum oxygen cylinders that
were almost the same size as the steel cylinders aboard the chariot torpedo. Enough
aluminum cylinders were salvaged from downed enemy bombers to supply the
British forces.

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-13

 Changes introduced in the MK 2 and MK 3 diving dress involved improvements in
valving, faceplate design, and arrangement of components. After the war, the MK 3
became the standard Royal Navy shallow water diving dress. The MK 4 dress was
used near the end of the war. Unlike the MK 3, the MK 4 could be supplied with
oxygen from a self-contained bottle or from a larger cylinder carried in the chariot.
This gave the swimmer greater endurance, yet preserved freedom of movement
independent of the chariot torpedo.

In the final stages of the war, the Japanese employed an underwater equivalent of
their kamikaze aerial attack—the kaiten diver-guided torpedo.

1‑3.5.2 U.S. Combat Swimming. There were two groups of U.S. combat divers during
World War II: Naval beach reconnaissance swimmers and U.S. operational
swimmers. Naval beach reconnaissance units did not normally use any breathing
devices, although several models existed.

U.S. operational swimmers, however,

under the Office of Strategic Services,
developed and applied advanced methods
for true self-contained diver-submersible
operations. They employed the Lambertsen
Amphibious Respiratory Unit (LARU), a
rebreather invented by Dr. C.J. Lambertsen
(see Figure 1‑11). The LARU was a closed-
circuit oxygen UBA used in special warfare
operations where a complete absence of
exhaust bubbles was required. Following
World War II, the Emerson-Lambertsen
Oxygen Rebreather replaced the LARU
(Figure 1‑12). The Emerson Unit was
used exten­sively by Navy special warfare
divers until 1982, when it was replaced by
the Draeger Lung Automatic Regenerator
(LAR) V. The LAR V is the standard unit
now used by U.S. Navy combat divers (see Figure 1-11. Lambertsen Amphibious
Respiratory Unit (LARU).
Figure 1-13).

Today Navy combat divers are organized into two separate groups, each with
specialized training and missions. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team
handles, defuses, and disposes of munitions and other explosives. The Sea, Air and
Land (SEAL) special warfare teams make up the second group of Navy combat
divers. SEAL team members are trained to operate in all of these envi­ronments.
They qualify as parachutists, learn to handle a range of weapons, receive intensive
training in hand-to-hand combat, and are expert in SCUBA and other swimming
and diving techniques. In Vietnam, SEALs were deployed in special counter-
insurgency and guerrilla warfare operations. The SEALs also participated in the

1-14 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 Figure 1-12. Emerson-Lambertsen Figure 1-13. Draeger LAR V UBA.
Oxygen Rebreather.

space program by securing flotation collars to returned space capsules and assisting
astronauts during the helicopter pickup.

1‑3.5.3 Underwater Demolition. The Navy’s Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs) were
created when bomb disposal experts and Seabees (combat engineers) teamed
together in 1943 to devise methods for removing obstacles that the Germans were
placing off the beaches of France. The first UDT combat mission was a daylight
reconnaissance and demolition project off the beaches of Saipan in June 1944. In
March of 1945, preparing for the invasion of Okinawa, one underwater demolition
team achieved the exceptional record of removing 1,200 underwater obstacles in 2
days, under heavy fire, without a single casualty.

Because suitable equipment was not readily available, diving apparatus was not
extensively used by the UDT during the war. UDT experimented with a modified
Momsen lung and other types of breathing apparatus, but not until 1947 did the
Navy’s acquisition of Aqua-Lung equipment give impetus to the diving aspect of
UDT operations. The trail of bubbles from the open-circuit apparatus limited the
type of mission in which it could be employed, but a special SCUBA platoon of
UDT members was formed to test the equipment and determine appropriate uses
for it.

Through the years since, the mission and importance of the UDT has grown. In the
Korean Conflict, during the period of strategic withdrawal, the UDT destroyed an
entire port complex to keep it from the enemy. The UDTs have since been incor­
porated into the Navy Seal Teams.

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-15

1-4 MIXED-GAS DIVING

Mixed-gas diving operations are conducted using a breathing medium other than
air. This medium may consist of:

 Nitrogen and oxygen in proportions other than those found in the atmosphere

 A mixture of other inert gases, such as helium, with oxygen.

The breathing medium can also be 100 percent oxygen, which is not a mixed gas,
but which requires training for safe use. Air may be used in some phases of a
mixed-gas dive.

Mixed-gas diving is a complex undertaking. A mixed-gas diving operation requires

extensive special training, detailed planning, specialized and advanced equipment
and, in many applications, requires extensive surface-support personnel and
facilities. Because mixed-gas operations are often conducted at great depth or for
extended periods of time, hazards to personnel increase greatly. Divers studying
mixed-gas diving must first be qualified in air diving operations.

In recent years, to match basic operational requirements and capabilities, the U.S.
Navy has divided mixed-gas diving into two categories:

 Nonsaturation diving without a pressurized bell to a maximum depth of 300

fsw, and

 Saturation diving for dives of 150 fsw and greater depth or for extended bottom
time missions.

The 300-foot limit is based primarily on the increased risk of decompression sick­
ness when nonsaturation diving techniques are used deeper than 300 fsw.

1-4.1 Nonsaturation Diving.

1‑4.1.1 Helium-Oxygen (HeO2) Diving. An inventor named Elihu Thomson theorized that
helium might be an appropriate substitute for the nitrogen in a diver’s breathing
supply. He estimated that at least a 50-percent gain in working depth could be
achieved by substituting helium for nitrogen. In 1919, he suggested that the U.S.
Bureau of Mines investigate this possibility. Thomson directed his suggestion to
the Bureau of Mines rather than the Navy Department, since the Bureau of Mines
held a virtual world monopoly on helium marketing and distribution.

1‑4.1.1.1 Experiments with Helium-Oxygen Mixtures. In 1924, the Navy and the Bureau of
Mines jointly sponsored a series of experi­ments using helium-oxygen mixtures.
The preliminary work was conducted at the Bureau of Mines Experimental Station
in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Figure 1‑14 is a picture of an early Navy helium-
oxygen diving manifold.

1-16 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 Figure 1-14. Helium-Oxygen Diving Manifold.

The first experiments showed no detrimental effects on test animals or humans

from breathing a helium-oxygen mixture, and decompression time was shortened.
The principal physiological effects noted by divers using helium-oxygen were:

 Increased sensation of cold caused by the high thermal conductivity of helium

 The high-pitched distortion or “Donald Duck” effect on human speech that

resulted from the acoustic properties and reduced density of the gas

These experiments clearly showed that helium-oxygen mixtures offered great

advantages over air for deep dives. They laid the foundation for developing the
reliable decompression tables and specialized apparatus, which are the corner­
stones of modern deep diving technology.

In 1937, at the Experimental Diving Unit research facility, a diver wearing a deep-
sea diving dress with a helium-oxygen breathing supply was compressed in a
chamber to a simulated depth of 500 feet. The diver was not told the depth and
when asked to make an estimate of the depth, the diver reported that it felt as if he
were at 100 feet. During decompression at the 300-foot mark, the breathing mixture
was switched to air and the diver was troubled immediately by nitrogen narcosis.

The first practical test of helium-oxygen came in 1939, when the submarine USS
Squalus was salvaged from a depth of 243 fsw. In that year, the Navy issued
decompression tables for surface-supplied helium-oxygen diving.

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-17

 1‑4.1.1.2 MK V MOD 1 Helmet. Because helium was
expensive and ship­ board supplies were
limited, the standard MK V MOD 0 open-
circuit helmet was not economical for
surface-supplied helium-oxygen diving.
After experi­menting with several different
designs, the U.S. Navy adopted the
semiclosed-circuit MK V MOD 1 (Figure
1‑15).

The MK V MOD 1 helmet was equipped

with a carbon dioxide absorption canister
and venturi-powered recirculator assembly.
Gas in the helmet was continu­ ously
recirculated through the carbon dioxide
scrubber assembly by the venturi. By
removing carbon dioxide by scrubbing
rather than ventilating the helmet, the fresh
gas flow into the helmet was reduced to the Figure 1-15. MK V MOD 1 Helmet.
amount required to replenish oxygen. The
gas consumption of the semiclosed-circuit
MK V MOD 1 was approximately 10 percent
of that of the open-circuit MK V MOD 0.

The MK V MOD 1, with breastplate and recirculating gas canister, weighed

approximately 103 pounds compared to 56 pounds for the standard air helmet and
breastplate. It was fitted with a lifting ring at the top of the helmet to aid in hatting
the diver and to keep the weight off his shoulders until he was lowered into the
water. The diver was lowered into and raised out of the water by a diving stage
connected to an onboard boom.

1‑4.1.1.3 Civilian Designers. U.S. Navy divers were not alone in working with mixed gases
or helium. In 1937, civilian engineer Max Gene Nohl reached 420 feet in Lake
Michigan while breathing helium-oxygen and using a suit of his own design. In
1946, civilian diver Jack Browne, designer of the lightweight diving mask that
bears his name, made a simulated helium-oxygen dive of 550 feet. In 1948, a
British Navy diver set an open-sea record of 540 fsw while using war-surplus
helium provided by the U.S.

1‑4.1.2 Hydrogen-Oxygen Diving. In countries where the availability of helium was

more restricted, divers experi­mented with mixtures of other gases. The most
notable example is that of the Swedish engineer Arne Zetterstrom, who worked
with hydrogen-oxygen mixtures. The explosive nature of such mixtures was well
known, but it was also known that hydrogen would not explode when used in a
mixture of less than 4 percent oxygen. At the surface, this percentage of oxygen
would not be sufficient to sustain life; at 100 feet, however, the oxygen partial
pressure would be the equivalent of 16 percent oxygen at the surface.

1-18 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 Zetterstrom devised a simple method for making the transition from air to
hydrogen-oxygen without exceeding the 4-percent oxygen limit. At the 100-foot
level, he replaced his breathing air with a mixture of 96 percent nitrogen and 4
percent oxygen. He then replaced that mixture with hydrogen-oxygen in the same
proportions. In 1945, after some successful test dives to 363 feet, Zetterstrom
reached 528 feet. Unfortunately, as a result of a misunderstanding on the part of his
topside support personnel, he was brought to the surface too rapidly. Zetter­strom
did not have time to enrich his breathing mixture or to adequately decompress and
died as a result of the effects of his ascent.

1‑4.1.3 Modern Surface-Supplied Mixed-Gas Diving. The U.S. Navy and the Royal Navy
continued to develop procedures and equip­ment for surface-supplied helium-
oxygen diving in the years following World War II. In 1946, the Admiralty
Experimental Diving Unit was established and, in 1956, during open-sea tests
of helium-oxygen diving, a Royal Navy diver reached a depth of 600 fsw. Both
navies conducted helium-oxygen decompression trials in an attempt to develop
better procedures.

In the early 1960s, a young diving enthusiast from Switzerland, Hannes Keller,
proposed techniques to attain great depths while minimizing decompression
requirements. Using a series of gas mixtures containing varying concentrations
of oxygen, helium, nitrogen, and argon, Keller demonstrated the value of elevated
oxygen pressures and gas sequencing in a series of successful dives in mountain
lakes. In 1962, with partial support from the U.S. Navy, he reached an open-sea
depth of more than 1,000 fsw off the California coast. Unfortunately, this dive was
marred by tragedy. Through a mishap unrelated to the technique itself, Keller lost
consciousness on the bottom and, in the subsequent emergency decompression,
Keller’s companion died of decompression sickness.

By the late 1960s, it was clear that surface-supplied diving deeper than 300 fsw
was better carried out using a deep diving (bell) system where the gas sequencing
techniques pioneered by Hannes Keller could be exploited to full advantage, while
maintaining the diver in a state of comfort and security. The U.S. Navy developed
decompression procedures for bell diving systems in the late 1960s and early
1970s. For surface-supplied diving in the 0-300 fsw range, attention was turned
to developing new equipment to replace the cumbersome MK V MOD 1 helmet.

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-19

 1‑4.1.4 MK 1 MOD 0 Diving Outfit. The new
equipment development proceeded along
two parallel paths, developing open-circuit
demand breathing systems suitable for deep
helium-oxygen diving, and developing an
improved recirculating helmet to replace the
MK V MOD 1. By the late 1960s, engineering
improvements in demand regulators had
reduced breathing resis­ tance on deep dives
to acceptable levels. Masks and helmets
incorporating the new regulators became
commercially avail­able. In 1976, the U.S.
Navy approved the MK 1 MOD 0 Lightweight,
Mixed-Gas Diving Outfit for dives to 300 fsw
on helium-oxygen (Figure 1‑16). The MK 1
MOD 0 Diving Outfit incorporated a full face
mask (bandmask) featuring a demand open-
circuit breathing regulator and a backpack for
an emergency gas supply. Surface contact was
maintained through an umbilical that included
the breathing gas hose, communications Figure 1-16. MK 1 MOD 0
Diving Outfit.
cable, lifeline strength member and pneumo­
fathometer hose. The diver was dressed in a
dry suit or hot water suit depending on water
temperature. The equipment was issued as a lightweight diving outfit in a system
with sufficient equipment to support a diving operation employing two working
divers and a standby diver. The outfit was used in conjunction with an open diving
bell that replaced the traditional diver’s stage and added additional safety. In 1990,
the MK 1 MOD 0 was replaced by the MK 21 MOD 1 (Superlite 17 B/NS) demand
helmet. This is the lightweight rig in use today.

In 1985, after an extensive development period, the direct replacement for the
MK V MOD 1 helmet was approved for Fleet use. The new MK 12 Mixed-Gas
Surface-Supplied Diving System (SSDS) was similar to the MK 12 Air SSDS,
with the addition of a backpack assembly to allow operation in a semiclosed-circuit
mode. The MK 12 system was retired in 1992 after the introduction of the MK 21
MOD 1 demand helmet.

1-4.2 Diving Bells. Although open, pressure-balanced diving bells have been used for
several centu­ries, it was not until 1928 that a bell appeared that was capable of
maintaining internal pressure when raised to the surface. In that year, Sir Robert
H. Davis, the British pioneer in diving equipment, designed the Submersible
Decompression Chamber (SDC). The vessel was conceived to reduce the time a
diver had to remain in the water during a lengthy decompression.

The Davis SDC was a steel cylinder capable of holding two men, with two inward-
opening hatches, one on the top and one on the bottom. A surface-supplied diver
was deployed over the side in the normal mode and the bell was lowered to a

1-20 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 depth of 60 fsw with the lower hatch open and a tender inside. Surface-supplied air
ventilated the bell and prevented flooding. The diver’s deep decompression stops
were taken in the water and he was assisted into the bell by the tender upon arrival
at 60 fsw. The diver’s gas supply hose and communications cable were removed
from the helmet and passed out of the bell. The lower door was closed and the bell
was lifted to the deck where the diver and tender were decompressed within the
safety and comfort of the bell.

By 1931, the increased decompression times associated with deep diving and the
need for diver comfort resulted in the design of an improved bell system. Davis
designed a three-compartment deck decompression chamber (DDC) to which the
SDC could be mechanically mated, permitting the transfer of the diver under pres­
sure. The DDC provided additional space, a bunk, food and clothing for the diver’s
comfort during a lengthy decompression. This procedure also freed the SDC for
use by another diving team for continuous diving operations.

The SDC-DDC concept was a major advance in diving safety, but was not applied
to American diving technology until the advent of saturation diving. In 1962, E. A.
Link employed a cylindrical, aluminum SDC in conducting his first open-sea satu­
ration diving experiment. In his experiments, Link used the SDC to transport the
diver to and from the sea floor and a DDC for improved diver comfort. American
diving had entered the era of the Deep Diving System (DDS) and advances
and applications of the concept grew at a phenomenal rate in both military and
commercial diving.

1-4.3 Saturation Diving. As divers dove deeper and attempted more ambitious
underwater tasks, a safe method to extend actual working time at depth became
crucial. Examples of satu­ration missions include submarine rescue and salvage,
sea bed implantments, construction, and scientific testing and observation. These
types of operations are characterized by the need for extensive bottom time and,
consequently, are more efficiently conducted using saturation techniques.

1‑4.3.1 Advantages of Saturation Diving. In deep diving operations, decompression is the

most time-consuming factor. For example, a diver working for an hour at 200 fsw
would be required to spend an additional 3 hours and 20 minutes in the water
undergoing the necessary decompression.

However, once a diver becomes saturated with the gases that make decompression
necessary, the diver does not need additional decompression. When the blood and
tissues have absorbed all the gas they can hold at that depth, the time required for
decompression becomes constant. As long as the depth is not increased, additional
time on the bottom is free of any additional decompression.

If a diver could remain under pressure for the entire period of the required task, the
diver would face a lengthy decompression only when completing the project. For
a 40-hour task at 200 fsw, a saturated diver would spend 5 days at bottom pressure
and 2 days in decompression, as opposed to spending 40 days making 1‑hour dives
with long decompression periods using conventional methods.

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-21

 The U.S. Navy developed and proved saturation diving techniques in its Sealab
series. Advanced saturation diving techniques are being developed in ongoing
programs of research and development at the Navy Experimental Diving Unit
(NEDU), Navy Submarine Medical Research Laboratory (NSMRL), and many
institutional and commercial hyperbaric facilities. In addition, saturation diving
using Deep Diving Systems (DDS) is now a proven capability.

1‑4.3.2 Bond’s Saturation Theory. True scientific impetus was first given to the saturation
concept in 1957 when a Navy diving medical officer, Captain George F. Bond,
theorized that the tissues of the body would eventually become saturated with inert
gas if exposure time was long enough. Bond, then a commander and the director
of the Submarine Medical Center at New London, Connecticut, met with Captain
Jacques-Yves Cousteau and determined that the data required to prove the theory
of saturation diving could be developed at the Medical Center.

1‑4.3.3 Genesis Project. With the support of the U.S. Navy, Bond initiated the Genesis
Project to test the theory of saturation diving. A series of experiments, first with
test animals and then with humans, proved that once a diver was saturated, further
extension of bottom time would require no additional decompression time. Project
Genesis proved that men could be sustained for long periods under pressure, and
what was then needed was a means to put this concept to use on the ocean floor.

1‑4.3.4 Developmental Testing. Several test dives were conducted in the early 1960s:

 The first practical open-sea demonstrations of saturation diving were undertaken

in September 1962 by Edward A. Link and Captain Jacques-Yves Cousteau.

 Link’s Man-in-the-Sea program had one man breathing helium-oxygen at 200

fsw for 24 hours in a specially designed diving system.

 Cousteau placed two men in a gas-filled, pressure-balanced underwater habitat

at 33 fsw where they stayed for 169 hours, moving freely in and out of their
deep-house.

 Cousteau’s Conshelf One supported six men breathing nitrogen-oxygen at 35

fsw for 7 days.

 In 1964, Link and Lambertsen conducted a 2-day exposure of two men at 430
fsw.

 Cousteau’s Conshelf Two experiment maintained a group of seven men for 30

days at 36 fsw and 90 fsw with excursion dives to 330 fsw.

1‑4.3.5 Sealab Program. The best known U.S. Navy experimental effort in saturation
diving was the Sealab program.

1-22 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 1‑4.3.5.1 Sealabs I and II. After completing the Genesis Project, the Office of Naval
Research, the Navy Mine Defense Laboratory and Bond’s small staff of volunteers
gathered in Panama City, Florida, where construction and testing of the Sealab I
habitat began in December 1963.

In 1964, Sealab I placed four men underwater for 10 days at an average depth of
192 fsw. The habitat was eventually raised to 81 fsw, where the divers were trans­
ferred to a decompression chamber that was hoisted aboard a four-legged offshore
support structure.

In 1965, Sealab II put three teams of ten men each in a habitat at 205 fsw. Each
team spent 15 days at depth and one man, Astronaut Scott Carpenter, remained for
30 days (see Figure 1‑17).

1‑4.3.5.2 Sealab III. The follow-on seafloor experiment, Sealab III, was planned for 600 fsw.
This huge undertaking required not only extensive development and testing of
equipment but also assessment of human tolerance to high-pressure environments.

To prepare for Sealab III, 28 helium-oxygen saturation dives were performed at

the Navy Experimental Diving Unit to depths of 825 fsw between 1965 and 1968.
In 1968, a record-breaking excursion dive to 1,025 fsw from a saturation depth of
825 fsw was performed at the Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU). The cul­
mination of this series of dives was a 1,000 fsw, 3-day saturation dive conducted
jointly by the U.S. Navy and Duke University in the hyperbaric chambers at Duke.
This was the first time man had been saturated at 1,000 fsw. The Sealab III prepa­
ration experiments showed that men could readily perform useful work at pressures
up to 31 atmospheres and could be returned to normal pressure without harm.

Figure 1-17. Sealab II. Figure 1-18. U.S. Navy’s First DDS, SDS-450.

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-23

 Reaching the depth intended for the Sealab III habitat required highly specialized
support, including a diving bell to transfer divers under pressure from the habitat to
a pressurized deck decompression chamber. The experiment, however, was marred
by tragedy. Shortly after being compressed to 600 fsw in February 1969, Aquanaut
Berry Cannon convulsed and drowned. This unfortunate accident ended the Navy’s
involvement with sea­floor habitats.

1‑4.3.5.3 Continuing Research. Research and development continues to extend the depth
limit for saturation diving and to improve the diver’s capability. The deepest
dive attained by the U.S. Navy to date was in 1979 when divers from the NEDU
completed a 37-day, 1,800 fsw dive in its Ocean Simulation Facility. The world
record depth for experimental saturation, attained at Duke University in 1981, is
2,250 fsw, and non-Navy open sea dives have been completed to in excess of 2300
fsw. Experiments with mixtures of hydrogen, helium, and oxygen have begun and
the success of this mixture was demonstrated in 1988 in an open-sea dive to 1,650
fsw.

Advanced saturation diving techniques are being developed in ongoing programs

of research and development at NEDU, Navy Submarine Medical Research Labo­
ratory (NSMRL), and many institutional and commercial hyperbaric facilities. In
addition, saturation diving using Deep Diving Systems (DDS) is now a proven
capability.

1-4.4 Deep Diving Systems (DDS). Experiments in saturation technique required

substantial surface support as well as extensive underwater equipment. DDS are a
substantial improvement over previous methods of accomplishing deep undersea
work. The DDS is readily adaptable to saturation techniques and safely maintains
the saturated diver under pressure in a dry environment. Whether employed for
saturation or nonsaturation diving, the Deep Diving System totally eliminates
long decompression periods in the water where the diver is subjected to extended
environmental stress. The diver only remains in the sea for the time spent on a
given task. Additional benefits derived from use of the DDS include eliminating
the need for underwater habitats and increasing operational flexibility for the
surface-support ship.

The Deep Diving System consists of a Deck Decompression Chamber (DDC)

mounted on a surface-support ship. A Personnel Transfer Capsule (PTC) is mated
to the DDC, and the combination is pressurized to a storage depth. Two or more
divers enter the PTC, which is unmated and lowered to the working depth. The
interior of the capsule is pressurized to equal the pressure at depth, a hatch is
opened, and one or more divers swim out to accomplish their work. The divers
can use a self-contained breathing apparatus with a safety tether to the capsule, or
employ a mask and an umbilical that provides breathing gas and communications.
Upon completing the task, the divers enters the capsule, close the hatch and return
to the support ship with the interior of the PTC still at the working pressure. The
capsule is hoisted aboard and mated to the pressurized DDC. The divers enter the
larger, more comfortable DDC via an entry lock. They remain in the DDC until

1-24 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 they must return to the undersea job site. Decompression is carried out comfort­ably
and safely on the support ship.

The Navy developed four deep diving systems: ADS-IV, MK 1 MOD 0, MK 2

MOD 0, and MK 2 MOD 1.

1‑4.4.1 ADS-IV. Several years prior to the Sealab I experiment, the Navy successfully
deployed the Advanced Diving System IV (ADS-IV) (see Figure 1‑18). The ADS-
IV was a small deep diving system with a depth capability of 450 fsw. The ADS-
IV was later called the SDS-450.

1‑4.4.2 MK 1 MOD 0. The MK 1 MOD 0 DDS was a small system intended to be used on
the new ATS-1 class salvage ships, and underwent operational evaluation in 1970.
The DDS consisted of a Personnel Transfer Capsule (PTC) (see Figure 1‑19), a
life-support system, main control console and two deck decompression chambers
to handle two teams of two divers each. This system was also used to operationally
evaluate the MK 11 UBA, a semiclosed-circuit mixed-gas apparatus, for saturation
diving. The MK 1 MOD 0 DDS conducted an open-sea dive to 1,148 fsw in 1975.
The MK 1 DDS was not installed on the ATS ships as originally planned, but
placed on a barge and assigned to Harbor Clearance Unit Two. The system went
out of service in 1977.

Figure 1-19. DDS MK 1 Personnel Transfer Figure 1-20. PTC Handling System,
Capsule. Elk River.

1‑4.4.3 MK 2 MOD 0. The Sealab III experiment required a much larger and more capable
deep diving system than the MK 1 MOD 0. The MK 2 MOD 0 was constructed
and installed on the support ship Elk River (IX-501). With this system, divers could
be saturated in the deck chamber under close observation and then transported
to the habitat for the stay at depth, or could cycle back and forth between the
deck chamber and the seafloor while working on the exterior of the habitat. The

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-25

 bell could also be used in a non-pressurized observation mode. The divers would
be transported from the habitat to the deck decompression chamber, where final
decompression could take place under close observation.

1‑4.4.4 MK 2 MOD 1. Experience gained with the MK 2 MOD 0 DDS on board Elk River
(IX-501) (see Figure 1‑20) led to the development of the MK 2 MOD 1, a larger,
more sophisti­cated DDS. The MK 2 MOD 1 DDS supported two four-man teams
for long term saturation diving with a normal depth capability of 850 fsw. The
diving complex consisted of two complete systems, one at starboard and one at
port. Each system had a DDC with a life-support system, a PTC, a main control
console, a strength-power-communications cable (SPCC) and ship support. The
two systems shared a helium-recovery system. The MK 2 MOD 1 was installed on
the ASR 21 Class submarine rescue vessels.

1-5 SUBMARINE SALVAGE AND RESCUE

At the beginning of the 20th century, all major navies turned their attention toward
developing a weapon of immense potential—the military submarine. The highly
effective use of the submarine by the German Navy in World War I heightened this
interest and an emphasis was placed on the submarine that continues today.

The U.S. Navy had operated submarines on a limited basis for several years prior
to 1900. As American technology expanded, the U.S. submarine fleet grew rapidly.
However, throughout the period of 1912 to 1939, the development of the Navy’s F,
H, and S class boats was marred by a series of accidents, collisions, and sinkings.
Several of these submarine disasters resulted in a correspondingly rapid growth in
the Navy diving capability.

Until 1912, U.S. Navy divers rarely went below 60 fsw. In that year, Chief Gunner
George D. Stillson set up a program to test Haldane’s diving tables and methods
of stage decompression. A companion goal of the program was to improve Navy
diving equipment. Throughout a 3-year period, first diving in tanks ashore and then
in open water in Long Island Sound from the USS Walkie, the Navy divers went
progressively deeper, eventually reaching 274 fsw.

1-5.1 USS F-4. The experience gained in Stillson’s program was put to dramatic use
in 1915 when the submarine USS F-4 sank near Honolulu, Hawaii. Twenty-one
men lost their lives in the accident and the Navy lost its first boat in 15 years
of submarine oper­ations. Navy divers salvaged the submarine and recovered the
bodies of the crew. The salvage effort incorporated many new techniques, such as
using lifting pontoons. What was most remarkable, however, was that the divers
completed a major salvage effort working at the extreme depth of 304 fsw, using
air as a breathing mixture. The decompression requirements limited bottom time
for each dive to about 10 minutes. Even for such a limited time, nitrogen narcosis
made it difficult for the divers to concentrate on their work.

The publication of the first U.S. Navy Diving Manual and the establishment of a
Navy Diving School at Newport, Rhode Island, were the direct outgrowth of expe­
rience gained in the test program and the USS F-4 salvage. When the U.S. entered

1-26 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 World War I, the staff and graduates of the school were sent to Europe, where they
conducted various salvage operations along the coast of France.

The physiological problems encountered in the salvage of the USS F-4 clearly
demonstrated the limitations of breathing air during deep dives. Continuing concern
that submarine rescue and salvage would be required at great depth focused Navy
attention on the need for a new diver breathing medium.

1-5.2 USS S-51. In September of 1925, the USS S-51 submarine was rammed by a
passenger liner and sunk in 132 fsw off Block Island, Rhode Island. Public pressure
to raise the submarine and recover the bodies of the crew was intense. Navy diving
was put in sharp focus, realizing it had only 20 divers who were qualified to go
deeper than 90 fsw. Diver training programs had been cut at the end of World War
I and the school had not been reinstituted.

Salvage of the USS S-51 covered a 10-month span of difficult and hazardous
diving, and a special diver training course was made part of the operation. The
submarine was finally raised and towed to the Brooklyn Navy Yard in New York.

Interest in diving was high once again and the Naval School, Diving and Salvage,
was reestablished at the Washington Navy Yard in 1927. At the same time, the
Navy brought together its existing diving technology and experimental work by
shifting the Experimental Diving Unit (EDU), which had been working with the
Bureau of Mines in Pennsylvania, to the Navy Yard as well. In the following years,
EDU developed the U.S. Navy Air Decompression Tables, which have become
the accepted world standard and continued developmental work in helium-oxygen
breathing mixtures for deeper diving.

Losing the USS F-4 and USS S-51 provided the impetus for expanding the Navy’s
diving ability. However, the Navy’s inability to rescue men trapped in a disabled
submarine was not confronted until another major submarine disaster occurred.

1-5.3 USS S-4. In 1927, the Navy lost the submarine USS S-4 in a collision with the
Coast Guard cutter USS Paulding. The first divers to reach the submarine in 102
fsw, 22 hours after the sinking, exchanged signals with the men trapped inside.
The submarine had a hull fitting designed to take an air hose from the surface,
but what had looked feasible in theory proved too difficult in reality. With stormy
seas causing repeated delays, the divers could not make the hose connection until
it was too late. All of the men aboard the USS S-4 had died. Even had the hose
connection been made in time, rescuing the crew would have posed a significant
problem.

The USS S-4 was salvaged after a major effort and the fate of the crew spurred
several efforts toward preventing a similar disaster. LT C.B. Momsen, a subma­
rine officer, developed the escape lung that bears his name. It was given its first
operational test in 1929 when 26 officers and men successfully surfaced from an
intentionally bottomed submarine.

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-27

 1-5.4 USS Squalus. The Navy pushed for development of a rescue chamber that was
essentially a diving bell with special fittings for connection to a submarine deck
hatch. The apparatus, called the McCann-Erickson Rescue Chamber, was proven
in 1939 when the USS Squalus, carrying a crew of 50, sank in 243 fsw. The rescue
chamber made four trips and safely brought 33 men to the surface. (The rest of
the crew, trapped in the flooded after-section of the submarine, had perished in the
sinking.)

The USS Squalus was raised by salvage divers (see Figure 1‑21). This salvage
and rescue operation marked the first operational use of HeO2 in salvage diving.
One of the primary missions of salvage divers was to attach a down-haul cable
for the Submarine Rescue Chamber (SRC). Following renovation, the submarine,
renamed USS Sailfish, compiled a proud record in World War II.

Figure 1-21. Recovery of the Squalus.

1-5.5 USS Thresher. Just as the loss of the USS F-4, USS S-51, USS S-4 and the sinking
of the USS Squalus caused an increased concern in Navy diving in the 1920s and
1930s, a submarine disaster of major proportions had a profound effect on the
development of new diving equipment and techniques in the postwar period. This
was the loss of the nuclear attack submarine USS Thresher and all her crew in
April 1963. The submarine sank in 8,400 fsw, a depth beyond the survival limit of
the hull and far beyond the capability of any existing rescue apparatus.

An extensive search was initiated to locate the submarine and determine the cause
of the sinking. The first signs of the USS Thresher were located and photographed
a month after the disaster. Collection of debris and photographic coverage of the
wreck continued for about a year.

Two special study groups were formed as a result of the sinking. The first was a
Court of Inquiry, which attributed probable cause to a piping system failure. The

1-28 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 second, the Deep Submergence Review Group (DSRG), was formed to assess the
Navy’s undersea capabilities. Four general areas were examined—search, rescue,
recovery of small and large objects, and the Man-in-the-Sea concept. The basic
recommendations of the DSRG called for a vast effort to improve the Navy’s
capabilities in these four areas.

1-5.6 Deep Submergence Systems Project. Direct action on the recommendations of

the DSRG came with the formation of the Deep Submergence Systems Project
(DSSP) in 1964 and an expanded interest regarding diving and undersea activity
throughout the Navy.

Submarine rescue capabilities have been substantially improved with the develop­
ment of the Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) which became operational
in 1972. This deep-diving craft is air-transportable, highly instru­mented, and
capable of diving to 5,000 fsw and rescues to 2,500 fsw.

Three additional significant areas of achievement for the Deep Submergence

Systems Project have been that of Saturation Diving, the development of Deep
Diving Systems, and progress in advanced diving equipment design.

1-6 SALVAGE DIVING

1-6.1 World War II Era.

1‑6.1.1 Pearl Harbor. Navy divers were plunged into the war with the Japanese raid on
Pearl Harbor. The raid began at 0755 on 7 December 1941; by 0915 that same
morning, the first salvage teams were cutting through the hull of the overturned
battleship USS Oklahoma to rescue trapped sailors. Teams of divers worked to
recover ammuni­tion from the magazines of sunken ships, to be ready in the event
of a second attack.

The immense salvage effort that followed at Pearl Harbor was highly successful.
Most of the 101 ships in the harbor at the time of the attack sustained damage. The
battleships, one of the primary targets of the raid, were hardest hit. Six battleships
were sunk and one was heavily damaged. Four were salvaged and returned to the
fleet for combat duty; the former battleships USS Arizona and USS Utah could not
be salvaged. The USS Oklahoma was righted and refloated but sank en route to a
shipyard in the U.S.

Battleships were not the only ships salvaged. Throughout 1942 and part of
1943, Navy divers worked on destroyers, supply ships, and other badly needed
vessels, often using makeshift shallow water apparatus inside water and gas-filled
compartments. In the Pearl Harbor effort, Navy divers spent 16,000 hours under­
water during 4,000 dives. Contract civilian divers contributed another 4,000 diving
hours.

1‑6.1.2 USS Lafayette. While divers in the Pacific were hard at work at Pearl Harbor,
a major challenge was presented to the divers on the East Coast. The interned
French passenger liner Normandie (rechristened as the USS Lafayette) caught fire

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-29

 alongside New York City’s Pier 88. Losing stability from the tons of water poured
on the fire, the ship capsized at her berth.

The ship had to be salvaged to clear the vitally needed pier. The Navy took advan­tage
of this unique training opportunity by instituting a new diving and salvage school
at the site. The Naval Training School (Salvage) was established in September
1942 and was transferred to Bayonne, New Jersey in 1946.

1‑6.1.3 Other Diving Missions. Salvage operations were not the only missions assigned
to Navy divers during the war. Many dives were made to inspect sunken enemy
ships and to recover mate­rials such as code books or other intelligence items. One
Japanese cruiser yielded not only $500,000 in yen, but also provided valuable
information concerning plans for the defense of Japan against the anticipated
Allied invasion.

1-6.2 Vietnam Era. Harbor Clearance Unit One (HCU 1) was commissioned 1 February
1966 to provide mobile salvage capability in direct support of combat operations
in Vietnam. Homeported at Naval Base Subic Bay, Philippines, HCU 1 was dedi­
cated primarily to restoring seaports and rivers to navigable condition following
their loss or diminished use through combat action.

Beginning as a small cadre of personnel, HCU 1 quickly grew in size to over 260
personnel, as combat operations in littoral environment intensified. At its peak, the
unit consisted of five Harbor Clearance teams of 20 to 22 personnel each and a
varied armada of specialized vessels within the Vietnam combat zone.

As their World War II predecessors before them, the salvors of HCU 1 left an
impressive legacy of combat salvage accomplishments. HCU 1 salvaged hundreds
of small craft, barges, and downed aircraft; refloated many stranded U.S. Military
and merchant vessels; cleared obstructed piers, shipping channels, and bridges;
and performed numerous underwater repairs to ships operating in the combat zone.

Throughout the colorful history of HCU 1 and her East Coast sister HCU 2, the vital
role salvage forces play in littoral combat operations was clearly demon­strated.
Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit One and Two, the modern-day descendants of
the Vietnam era Harbor Clearance Units, have a proud and distin­guished history of
combat salvage operations.

1-7 OPEN-SEA DEEP DIVING RECORDS

Diving records have been set and broken with increasing regularity since the early
1900s:

n 1915. The 300-fsw mark was exceeded. Three U.S. Navy divers, F. Crilley,
W.F. Loughman, and F.C. Nielson, reached 304 fsw using the MK V dress.

n 1972. The MK 2 MOD 0 DDS set the in-water record of 1,010 fsw.

n 1975. Divers using the MK 1 Deep Dive System descended to 1,148 fsw.

1-30 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 n 1977. A French dive team broke the open-sea record with 1,643 fsw.

n 1981. The deepest salvage operation made with divers was 803 fsw when
British divers retrieved 431 gold ingots from the wreck of HMS Edinburgh,
sunk during World War II.

n Present. Commercial open water diving operations to over 1,000 fsw.

1-8 SUMMARY

Throughout the evolution of diving, from the earliest breath-holding sponge diver
to the modern saturation diver, the basic reasons for diving have not changed.
National defense, commerce, and science continue to provide the underlying basis
for the development of diving. What has changed and continues to change radi­cally
is diving technology.

Each person who prepares for a dive has the opportunity and obligation to take
along the knowledge of his or her predecessors that was gained through difficult
and dangerous experience. The modern diver must have a broad understanding of
the physical properties of the undersea environment and a detailed knowledge of
his or her own physiology and how it is affected by the environment. Divers must
learn to adapt to environmental conditions to successfully carry out their missions.

Much of the diver’s practical education will come from experience. However,
before a diver can gain this experience, he or she must build a basic foundation
from certain principles of physics, chemistry and physiology and must understand
the application of these principles to the profession of diving.

CHAPTER 1 — History of Diving 1-31

 PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY

1-32 U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 1

 CHAPTER 2

Underwater Physics

2-1 INTRODUCTION

2-1.1 Purpose. This chapter describes the laws of physics as they affect humans in the
water.

2-1.2 Scope. A thorough understanding of the principles outlined in this chapter is

essential to safe and effective diving performance.

2-2 PHYSICS

Humans readily function within the narrow atmospheric envelope present at the
earth’s surface and are seldom concerned with survival requirements. Outside the
boundaries of the envelope, the environment is hostile and our existence depends
on our ability to counteract threatening forces. To function safely, divers must
understand the characteristics of the subsea environment and the techniques that
can be used to modify its effects. To accomplish this, a diver must have a basic
knowledge of physics—the science of matter and energy. Of particular importance
to a diver are the behavior of gases, the principles of buoyancy, and the properties
of heat, light, and sound.

2-3 MATTER

Matter is anything that occupies space and has mass, and is the building block of
the physical world. Energy is required to cause matter to change course or speed.
The diver, the diver’s air supply, everything that supports him or her, and the
surrounding environment is composed of matter.

2-3.1 Elements. An element is the simplest form of matter that exhibits distinct physical
and chem­ical properties. An element cannot be broken down by chemical means
into other, more basic forms. Scientists have identified more than 100 elements
in the phys­ical universe. Elements combine to form the more than four million
substances known to man.

2-3.2 Atoms. The atom is the smallest particle of matter that carries the specific properties
of an element. Atoms are made up of electrically charged particles known as
protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons have a positive charge, neutrons have a
neutral charge, and electrons have a negative charge.

2-3.3 Molecules. Molecules are formed when atoms group together (Figure 2-1).
Molecules usually exhibit properties different from any of the contributing atoms.
For example, when two hydrogen atoms combine with one oxygen atom, a new
substance—water—is formed. Some molecules are active and try to combine with
many of the other molecules that surround them. Other molecules are inert and

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-1

 H atom O atom

O2 molecule H2O molecule Liquid

(2 oxygen atoms)
Solid Gas
(2 hydrogen atoms
+ 1 oxygen atom)

Figure 2-1. Molecules. Two similar atoms Figure 2-2. The Three States of Matter.
combine to form an oxygen molecule
while the atoms of two different elements,
hydrogen and oxygen, combine to form a
water molecule.

do not naturally combine with other substances. The presence of inert elements
in breathing mixtures is important when calculating a diver’s decompression
obligations.

2-3.4 The Three States of Matter. Matter can exist in one of three natural states: solid,
liquid, or gas (Figure 2-2). A solid has a definite size and shape. A liquid has a
definite volume, but takes the shape of the container. Gas has neither definite shape
nor volume, but will expand to fill a container. Gases and liquids are collectively
referred to as fluids.

The physical state of a substance depends primarily upon temperature and partially
upon pressure. A solid is the coolest of the three states, with its molecules rigidly
aligned in fixed patterns. The molecules move, but their motion is like a constant
vibration. As heat is added the molecules increase their motion, slip apart from
each other and move around; the solid becomes a liquid. A few of the mole­cules
will spontaneously leave the surface of the liquid and become a gas. When the
substance reaches its boiling point, the molecules are moving very rapidly in all
directions and the liquid is quickly transformed into a gas. Lowering the temperature
reverses the sequence. As the gas molecules cool, their motion is reduced and the
gas condenses into a liquid. As the temperature continues to fall, the liquid reaches
the freezing point and transforms to a solid state.

2-4 MEASUREMENT

Physics relies heavily upon standards of comparison of one state of matter or

energy to another. To apply the principles of physics, divers must be able to employ
a variety of units of measurement.

2-4.1 Measurement Systems. Two systems of measurement are widely used throughout
the world. Although the English System is commonly used in the United States,
the most common system of measurement in the world is the International System
of Units. The Interna­tional System of Units, or SI system, is a modernized metric
system designated in 1960 by the General Conference on Weights and Measures.
The SI system is decimal based with all its units related, so that it is not necessary

2-2 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 to use calcula­tions to change from one unit to another. The SI system changes one
of its units of measurement to another by moving the decimal point, rather than by
the lengthy calculations necessary in the English System. Because measurements
are often reported in units of the English system, it is important to be able to
convert them to SI units. Measurements can be converted from one system to
another by using the conversion factors in Table 2-10 through 2-18.

2-4.2 Temperature Measurements. While the English System of weights and measures
uses the Fahrenheit (°F) temperature scale, the Celsius (°C) scale is the one most
commonly used in scien­tific work. Both scales are based upon the freezing and
boiling points of water. The freezing point of water is 32°F or 0°C; the boiling
point of water is 212°F or 100°C. Temperature conversion formulas and charts are
found in Table 2-18.

Absolute temperature values are used

when employing the ideal gas laws.
The absolute temperature scales are
672o R
based upon absolute zero. Absolute
212° F 100° C 373 K

zero is the lowest temperature that

could possibly be reached at which all
molecular motion would cease (Figure
2‑3).
o
32° F 0° C 273 K 492 R

2‑4.2.1 Kelvin Scale. One example of an

absolute tempera­ ture scale is the
Kelvin scale, which has the same Figure 2-3. Temperature Scales.
size degrees as the Celsius scale. The Fahrenheit, Celsius, Kelvin, and Rankine
freezing point of water is 273°K and temperature scales showing the freezing
boiling point of water is 373°K. Use and boiling points of water.
this formula to convert from Celsius to
absolute temperature (Kelvin):
Kelvin (K) = °C + 273.

2‑4.2.2 Rankine Scale. The Rankine scale is another absolute temperature scale, which
has the same size degrees as the Fahrenheit scale. The freezing point of water is
492°R and the boiling point of water is 672°R. Use this formula to convert from
Fahrenheit to absolute temperature (degrees Rankine, °R):
°R = °F + 460

2-4.3 Gas Measurements. When measuring gas, actual cubic feet (acf) of a gas refers to
the quantity of a gas at ambient conditions. The most common unit of measurement
for gas in the United States is standard cubic feet (scf). Standard cubic feet relates
the quantity measurement of a gas under pressure to a specific condition. The
specific condi­tion is a common basis for comparison. For air, the standard cubic
foot is measured at 60°F and 14.696 psia.

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-3

2-5 ENERGY

Energy is the capacity to do work. The six basic types of energy are mechanical,
heat, light, chemical, electromagnetic, and nuclear, and may appear in a variety
of forms (Figure 2‑4). Energy is a vast and complex aspect of physics beyond the
scope of this manual. Consequently, this chapter only covers a few aspects of light,
heat, and mechanical energy because of their unusual effects underwater and their
impact on diving.  

Figure 2-4. The Six Forms of Energy.

2-4 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 2-5.1 Conservation of Energy. The Law of the Conservation of Energy, formulated in
the 1840s, states that energy in the universe can neither be created nor destroyed.
Energy can be changed, however, from one form to another.

2-5.2 Classifications of Energy. The two general classifications of energy are potential
energy and kinetic energy. Potential energy is due to position. An automobile
parked on a hill with its brakes set possesses potential energy. Kinetic energy is
energy of motion. An automobile rolling on a flat road possesses kinetic energy
while it is moving.

2-6 LIGHT ENERGY IN DIVING

Refraction, turbidity of the water, salinity, and pollution all contribute to the
distance, size, shape, and color perception of underwater objects. Divers must
understand the factors affecting underwater visual perception, and must realize
that distance perception is very likely to be inaccurate.

2-6.1 Refraction. Light passing from an

object bends as it passes through the
diver’s faceplate and the air in his
mask (Figure 2-5). This phenomenon
is called refraction, and occurs because
light travels faster in air than in water.
Although the refraction that occurs Water

between the water and the air in the

diver’s face mask produces undesir­able
perceptual inaccuracies, air is essential
for vision. When a diver loses his face
mask, his eyes are immersed in water,
which has about the same refrac­ tive
index as the eye. Consequently, the light
is not focused normally and the diver’s
vision is reduced to a level that would be Figure 2-5. Objects Underwater
classified as legally blind on the surface. Appear Closer.

Refraction can make objects appear closer

than they really are. A distant object will appear to be approximately three-quarters
of its actual distance. At greater distances, the effects of refraction may be reversed,
making objects appear farther away than they actually are. Reduced brightness and
contrast combine with refrac­tion to affect visual distance relationships.

Refraction can also affect perception of size and shape. Generally, underwater
objects appear to be about 30 percent larger than they actually are. Refraction
effects are greater for objects off to the side in the field of view. This distortion
interferes with hand-eye coordination, and explains why grasping objects under­
water is sometimes difficult for a diver. Experience and training can help a diver
learn to compensate for the misinterpretation of size, distance, and shape caused
by refraction.

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-5

 2-6.2 Turbidity of Water. Water turbidity can also profoundly influence underwater
vision and distance perception. The more turbid the water, the shorter the distance
at which the reversal from underestimation to overestimation occurs. For example,
in highly turbid water, the distance of objects at 3 or 4 feet may be overestimated;
in moder­ately turbid water, the change might occur at 20 to 25 feet and in very
clear water, objects as far away as 50 to 70 feet might appear closer than they
actually are. Generally speaking, the closer the object, the more it will appear to be
too close, and the more turbid the water, the greater the tendency to see it as too far
away.

2-6.3 Diffusion. Light scattering is intensified underwater. Light rays are diffused
and scattered by the water molecules and particulate matter. At times diffusion
is helpful because it scatters light into areas that otherwise would be in shadow
or have no illumination. Normally, however, diffusion interferes with vision and
underwater photography because the backscatter reduces the contrast between an
object and its background. The loss of contrast is the major reason why vision
underwater is so much more restricted than it is in air. Similar degrees of scattering
occur in air only in unusual conditions such as heavy fog or smoke.

2-6.4 Color Visibility. Object size and distance are not the only characteristics distorted
underwater. A variety of factors may combine to alter a diver’s color perception.
Painting objects different colors is an obvious means of changing their visibility
by enhancing their contrast with the surroundings, or by camouflaging them to
merge with the back­ground. Determining the most and least visible colors is much
more complicated underwater than in air.

Colors are filtered out of light as it enters the water and travels to depth. Red light
is filtered out at relatively shallow depths. Orange is filtered out next, followed
by yellow, green, and then blue. Water depth is not the only factor affecting the
filtering of colors. Salinity, turbidity, size of the particles suspended in the water,
and pollution all affect the color-filtering properties of water. Color changes vary
from one body of water to another, and become more pronounced as the amount of
water between the observer and the object increases.

The components of any underwater scene, such as weeds, rocks, and encrusting
animals, generally appear to be the same color as the depth or viewing range
increases. Objects become distinguishable only by differences in brightness and
not color. Contrast becomes the most important factor in visibility; even very large
objects may be undetectable if their brightness is similar to that of the background.

2-7 MECHANICAL ENERGY IN DIVING

Mechanical energy mostly affects divers in the form of sound. Sound is a periodic
motion or pressure change transmitted through a gas, a liquid, or a solid. Because
liquid is denser than gas, more energy is required to disturb its equilibrium. Once
this disturbance takes place, sound travels farther and faster in the denser medium.
Several aspects of sound underwater are of interest to the working diver.

2-6 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 2-7.1 Water Temperature and Sound. In any body of water, there may be two or more
distinct contiguous layers of water at different temperatures; these layers are
known as thermoclines. The colder a layer of water, the greater its density. As
the difference in density between layers increases, the sound energy transmitted
between them decreases. This means that a sound heard 50 meters from its source
within one layer may be inaudible a few meters from its source if the diver is in
another layer.

2-7.2 Water Depth and Sound. In shallow water or in enclosed spaces, reflections and
reverberations from the air/water and object/water interfaces produce anomalies
in the sound field, such as echoes, dead spots, and sound nodes. When swimming
in shallow water, among coral heads, or in enclosed spaces, a diver can expect
periodic losses in acoustic communication signals and disruption of acoustic
navigation beacons. The problem becomes more pronounced as the frequency of
the signal increases.

Because sound travels so quickly underwater (4,921 feet per second), human ears
cannot detect the difference in time of arrival of a sound at each ear. Consequently,
a diver cannot always locate the direction of a sound source. This disadvantage can
have serious consequences for a diver or swimmer trying to locate an object or a
source of danger, such as a powerboat.

2‑7.2.1 Diver Work and Noise. Open-circuit SCUBA affects sound reception by producing
high noise levels at the diver’s head and by creating a screen of bubbles that
reduces the effective sound pressure level (SPL). When several divers are working
in the same area, the noise and bubbles affect communication signals more for
some divers than for others, depending on the position of the divers in relation to
the communicator and to each other.

A neoprene wet suit is an effective barrier to sound above 1,000 Hz and it becomes
more of a barrier as frequency increases. This problem can be overcome by exposing
a small area of the head either by cutting holes at the ears of the suit or by folding
a small flap away from the surface.

2‑7.2.2 Pressure Waves. Sound is transmitted through water as a series of pressure waves.
High-intensity sound is transmitted by correspondingly high-intensity pressure
waves. A high-pressure wave transmitted from the water surrounding a diver to
the open spaces within the body (ears, sinuses, lungs) may increase the pressure
within these open spaces, causing injury. Underwater explosions and sonar can
create high-intensity sound or pressure waves. Low intensity sonar, such as depth
finders and fish finders, do not produce pressure waves intense enough to endanger
divers. However, anti-submarine sonar-equipped ships do pulse dangerous, high-
intensity pressure waves.

Diving operations must be suspended if a high-powered sonar transponder is being

operated in the area. When using a diver-held pinger system, divers are advised
to wear the standard ¼-inch neoprene hood for ear protection. Experi­ments have
shown that such a hood offers adequate protection when the ultrasonic pulses are
of 4-millisecond duration, repeated once per second for acoustic source levels up

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-7

 to 100 watts, at head-to-source distances as short as 0.5 feet (Pence and Sparks,
1978).

2-7.3 Underwater Explosions. An underwater explosion creates a series of waves that

are transmitted as hydraulic shock waves in the water, and as seismic waves in the
seabed. The hydraulic shock wave of an underwater explosion consists of an initial
wave followed by further pressure waves of diminishing intensity. The initial
high-intensity shock wave is the result of the violent creation and liberation of a
large volume of gas, in the form of a gas pocket, at high pressure and temperature.
Subsequent pressure waves are caused by rapid gas expansion in a non-compress­
ible environment, causing a sequence of contractions and expansions as the gas
pocket rises to the surface.

The initial high-intensity shock wave is the most dangerous; as it travels outward
from the source of the explosion, it loses its intensity. Less severe pressure waves
closely follow the initial shock wave. Considerable turbulence and movement of
the water in the area of the explosion are evident for an extended time after the
detonation.

2‑7.3.1 Type of Explosive and Size of the Charge. Some explosives have characteristics
of high brisance (shattering power in the immediate vicinity of the explosion) with
less power at long range, while the bri­sance of others is reduced to increase their
power over a greater area. Those with high brisance generally are used for cutting
or shattering purposes, while high-power, low-­brisance explosives are used in
depth charges and sea mines where the target may not be in immediate contact and
the ability to inflict damage over a greater area is an advantage. The high-brisance
explosives create a high-level shock and pressure waves of short duration over
a limited area. Low brisance explosives create a less intense shock and pressure
waves of long duration over a greater area.

2‑7.3.2 Characteristics of the Seabed. Aside from the fact that rock or other bottom debris
may be propelled through the water or into the air with shallow-placed charges,
bottom conditions can affect an explosion’s pressure waves. A soft bottom tends
to dampen reflected shock and pressure waves, while a hard, rock bottom may
amplify the effect. Rock strata, ridges and other topographical features of the
seabed may affect the direction of the shock and pressure waves, and may also
produce secondary reflecting waves.

2‑7.3.3 Location of the Explosive Charge. Research has indicated that the magnitude of
shock and pressure waves generated from charges freely suspended in water is
considerably greater than that from charges placed in drill holes in rock or coral.

2‑7.3.4 Water Depth. At great depth, the shock and pressure waves are drawn out by the
greater water volume and are thus reduced in intensity. An explosion near the
surface is not weakened to the same degree.

2‑7.3.5 Distance from the Explosion. In general, the farther away from the explosion, the
greater the attenuation of the shock and pressure waves and the less the intensity.
This factor must be considered in the context of bottom conditions, depth of

2-8 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 water, and reflection of shock and pressure waves from underwater structures and
topographical features.

2‑7.3.6 Degree of Submersion of the Diver. A fully submerged diver receives the total
effect of the shock and pressure waves passing over the body. A partially submerged
diver whose head and upper body are out of the water, may experience a reduced
effect of the shock and pressure waves on the lungs, ears, and sinuses. However,
air will transmit some portion of the explosive shock and pressure waves. The
head, lungs, and intestines are the parts of the body most vulnerable to the pressure
effects of an explosion. A pres­sure wave of 500 pounds per square inch is sufficient
to cause serious injury to the lungs and intestinal tract, and one greater than 2,000
pounds per square inch will cause certain death. Even a pressure wave of 500
pounds per square inch could cause fatal injury under certain circumstances.

2‑7.3.7 Estimating Explosion Pressure on a Diver. There are various formulas for
estimating the pressure wave resulting from an explosion of TNT. The equations
vary in format and the results illustrate that the technique for estimation is only an
approximation. Moreover, these formulas relate to TNT and are not applicable to
other types of explosives.

The formula below (Greenbaum and Hoff, 1966) is one method of estimating the
pressure on a diver resulting from an explosion of tetryl or TNT.
13, 000 3 W
P=
r

Where:
P = pressure on the diver in pounds per square inch
W = weight of the explosive (TNT) in pounds
r = range of the diver from the explosion in feet

Sample Problem. Determine the pressure exerted by a 45-pound charge at a

distance of 80 feet.
1. Substitute the known values.

13, 000 3 45
P=
80

2. Solve for the pressure exerted.

13, 000 3 45
P=
80
13, 000 · 3.56
=
80
= 578.5

Round up to 579 psi.

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-9

 A 45-pound charge exerts a pressure of 579 pounds per square inch at a distance
of 80 feet.

2‑7.3.8 Minimizing the Effects of an Explosion. When expecting an underwater blast, the
diver shall get out of the water and out of range of the blast whenever possible.
If the diver must be in the water, it is prudent to limit the pressure he experiences
from the explosion to less than 50 pounds per square inch. To minimize the effects,
the diver can position himself with feet pointing toward and head directly away
from the explosion. The head and upper section of the body should be out of the
water or the diver should float on his back with his head out of the water.

2-8 HEAT ENERGY IN DIVING

Heat is crucial to man’s environmental balance. The human body functions within
only a very narrow range of internal temperature and contains delicate mecha­nisms
to control that temperature.

Heat is a form of energy associated with and proportional to the molecular motion
of a substance. It is closely related to temperature, but must be distinguished from
temperature because different substances do not necessarily contain the same heat
energy even though their temperatures are the same.

Heat is generated in many ways. Burning fuels, chemical reactions, friction, and
electricity all generate heat. Heat is transmitted from one place to another by
conduction, convection, and radiation.

2-8.1 Conduction, Convection, and Radiation. Conduction is the transmission of heat by

direct contact. Because water is an excellent heat conductor, an unprotected diver
can lose a great deal of body heat to the surrounding water by direct conduction.

Convection is the transfer of heat by the movement of heated fluids. Most home
heating systems operate on the principle of convection, setting up a flow of air
currents based on the natural tendency of warm air to rise and cool air to fall. A
diver seated on the bottom of a tank of water in a cold room can lose heat not only
by direct conduction to the water, but also by convection currents in the water. The
warmed water next to his body will rise and be replaced by colder water passing
along the walls of the tank. Upon reaching the surface, the warmed water will lose
heat to the cooler surroundings. Once cooled, the water will sink only to be warmed
again as part of a continuing cycle.

Radiation is heat transmission by electromagnetic waves of energy. Every warm

object gives off waves of electromagnetic energy, which is absorbed by cool
objects. Heat from the sun, electric heaters, and fireplaces is primarily radiant
heat.

2-8.2 Heat Transfer Rate. To divers, conduction is the most significant means of
transmitting heat. The rate at which heat is transferred by conduction depends on
two basic factors:

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 n The difference in temperature between the warmer and cooler material

n The thermal conductivity of the materials

Not all substances conduct heat at the same rate. Iron, helium, and water are
excel­lent heat conductors while air is a very poor conductor. Placing a poor heat
conductor between a source of heat and another substance insulates the substance
and slows the transfer of heat. Materials such as wool and foam rubber insulate the
human body and are effective because they contain thousands of pockets of trapped
air. The air pockets are too small to be subject to convective currents, but block
conductive transfer of heat.

2-8.3 Diver Body Temperature. A diver will start to become chilled when the water
temperature falls below a seemingly comfortable 70°F (21°C). Below 70°F, a
diver wearing only a swim­ming suit loses heat to the water faster than his body
can replace it. Unless he is provided some protection or insulation, he may quickly
experience difficulties. A chilled diver cannot work efficiently or think clearly, and
is more susceptible to decompression sickness.

Suit compression, increased gas density, thermal conductivity of breathing gases,

and respiratory heat loss are contributory factors in maintaining a diver’s body
temperature. Cellular neoprene wet suits lose a major portion of their insulating
properties as depth increases and the material compresses. As a consequence, it is
often necessary to employ a thicker suit, a dry suit, or a hot water suit for extended
exposures to cold water.

The heat transmission characteristics of an individual gas are directly proportional

to its density. Therefore, the heat lost through gas insulating barriers and respira­
tory heat lost to the surrounding areas increase with depth. The heat loss is further
aggravated when high thermal conductivity gases, such as helium-oxygen, are used
for breathing. The respiratory heat loss alone increases from 10 percent of the body’s
heat generating capacity at one ata (atmosphere absolute), to 28 percent at 7 ata,
to 50 percent at 21 ata when breathing helium-oxygen. Under these circum­stances,
standard insulating materials are insufficient to maintain body temperatures and
supplementary heat must be supplied to the body surface and respiratory gas.

2-9 PRESSURE IN DIVING

Pressure is defined as a force acting upon a particular area of matter. It is typically

measured in pounds per square inch (psi) in the English system and Newton per
square centimeter (N/cm2) in the System International (SI). Underwater pressure is
a result of the weight of the water above the diver and the weight of the atmo­sphere
over the water. There is one concept that must be remembered at all times—any
diver, at any depth, must be in pressure balance with the forces at that depth. The
body can only function normally when the pressure difference between the forces
acting inside of the diver’s body and forces acting outside is very small. Pressure,
whether of the atmosphere, seawater, or the diver’s breathing gases, must always
be thought of in terms of maintaining pressure balance.

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-11

 2-9.1 Atmospheric Pressure. Given that one atmosphere is equal to 33 feet of sea
water or 14.7 psi, 14.7 psi divided by 33 feet equals 0.445 psi per foot. Thus, for
every foot of sea water, the total pressure is increased by 0.445 psi. Atmospheric
pressure is constant at sea level; minor fluctuations caused by the weather are
usually ignored. Atmospheric pressure acts on all things in all directions.

Most pressure gauges measure differential pressure between the inside and outside
of the gauge. Thus, the atmospheric pressure does not register on the pressure gauge
of a cylinder of compressed air. The initial air in the cylinder and the gauge are
already under a base pressure of one atmosphere (14.7 psi or 10N/cm2). The gauge
measures the pressure difference between the atmosphere and the increased air
pressure in the tank. This reading is called gauge pressure and for most purposes
it is sufficient.

In diving, however, it is important to include atmospheric pressure in computa­

tions. This total pressure is called absolute pressure and is normally expressed in
units of atmospheres. The distinction is important and pressure must be identified
as either gauge (psig) or absolute (psia). When the type of pressure is identified
only as psi, it refers to gauge pressure. Table 2‑10 contains conversion factors for
pressure measurement units.

2-9.2 Terms Used to Describe Gas Pressure. Four terms are used to describe gas
pressure:

n Atmospheric. Standard atmosphere, usually expressed as 10N/cm2, 14.7 psi, or

one atmosphere absolute (1 ata).

n Barometric. Essentially the same as atmospheric but varying with the weather
and expressed in terms of the height of a column of mercury. Standard pressure
is equal to 29.92 inches of mercury, 760 millimeters of mercury, or 1013
millibars.

n Gauge. Indicates the difference between atmospheric pressure and the pressure
being measured.

n Absolute. The total pressure being exerted, i.e., gauge pressure plus atmospheric
pressure.

2-9.3 Hydrostatic Pressure. The water on the surface pushes down on the water
below and so on down to the bottom where, at the greatest depths of the ocean
(approximately 36,000 fsw), the pressure is more than 8 tons per square inch
(1,100 ata). The pressure due to the weight of a water column is referred to as
hydrostatic pressure.

The pressure of seawater at a depth of 33 feet equals one atmosphere. The absolute
pressure, which is a combination of atmospheric and water pressure for that depth,
is two atmospheres. For every additional 33 feet of depth, another atmosphere of
pressure (14.7 psi) is encountered. Thus, at 99 feet, the absolute pressure is equal

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 to four atmospheres. Table 2‑1 and Figure 2‑7 shows how pressure increases with
depth. 

Table 2‑1. Pressure Chart.

Depth Gauge Pressure Atmospheric Pressure Absolute Pressure

0 One Atmosphere 1 ata (14.7 psia)

33 fsw + One Atmosphere 2 ata (29.4 psia)

66 fsw + One Atmosphere 3 ata (44.1 psia)

99 fsw + One Atmosphere 4 ata (58.8 psia)

The change in pressure with depth is so pronounced that the feet of a 6-foot tall
person standing underwater are exposed to pressure that is almost 3 pounds per
square inch greater than that exerted at his head.

2-9.4 Buoyancy. Buoyancy is the force that makes objects float. It was first defined by
the Greek mathematician Archimedes, who established that “Any object wholly or
partly immersed in a fluid is buoyed up by a force equal to the weight of the fluid
displaced by the object.” This is known as Archimedes’ Principle and applies to all
objects and all fluids.

2‑9.4.1 Archimedes’ Principle. According to Archimedes’ Principle, the buoyancy of a

submerged body can be established by subtracting the weight of the submerged
body from the weight of the displaced liquid. If the total displacement (the weight
of the displaced liquid) is greater than the weight of the submerged body, the
buoyancy is positive and the body will float or be buoyed upward. If the weight
of the body is equal to that of the displaced liquid, the buoyancy is neutral and the
body will remain suspended in the liquid. If the weight of the submerged body is
greater than that of the displaced liquid, the buoyancy is negative and the body
will sink.

The buoyant force on an object is dependent upon the density of the substance it
is immersed in (weight per unit volume). Fresh water has a density of 62.4 pounds
per cubic foot. Sea water is heavier, having a density of 64.0 pounds per cubic
foot. Thus an object is buoyed up by a greater force in seawater than in fresh water,
making it easier to float in the ocean than in a fresh water lake.

2‑9.4.2 Diver Buoyancy. Lung capacity has a significant effect on buoyancy of a diver.
A diver with full lungs displaces a greater volume of water and, therefore, is
more buoyant than with deflated lungs. Individual differences that may affect
the buoyancy of a diver include bone structure, bone weight, and body fat. These
differences explain why some individuals float easily while others do not.

A diver can vary his buoyancy in several ways. By adding weight to his gear,
he can cause himself to sink. When wearing a variable volume dry suit, he can
increase or decrease the amount of air in his suit, thus changing his displacement

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-13

 and thereby his buoyancy. Divers usually seek a condition of neutral to slightly
negative buoyancy. Negative buoyancy gives a diver in a helmet and dress a better
foothold on the bottom. Neutral buoyancy enhances a SCUBA diver’s ability to
swim easily, change depth, and hover.

2-10 GASES IN DIVING

Knowledge of the properties and behavior of gases, especially those used for
breathing, is vitally important to divers.

2-10.1 Atmospheric Air. The most common gas used in diving is atmospheric air, the
composition of which is shown in Table 2-2. Any gases found in concentrations
different than those in Table 2-2 or that are not listed in Table 2-2 are considered
contaminants. Depending on weather and location, many industrial pollutants may
be found in air. Carbon monoxide is the most commonly encountered and is often
present around air compressor engine exhaust. Care must be taken to exclude the
pollut­ants from the diver’s compressed air by appropriate filtering, inlet location,
and compressor maintenance. Water vapor in varying quantities is present in
compressed air and its concentration is important in certain instances.  

Table 2‑2. Components of Dry Atmospheric Air.

Concentration
Component Percent by Volume Parts per Million (ppm)

Nitrogen 78.084

Oxygen 20.9476

Carbon Dioxide 0.038 380

Argon 0.0934

Neon 18.18

Helium 5.24

Krypton 1.14

Xenon 0.08

Hydrogen 0.5

Methane 2.0

Nitrous Oxide 0.5

For most purposes and computations, diving air may be assumed to be composed
of 79 percent nitrogen and 21 percent oxygen. Besides air, varying mixtures of
oxygen, nitrogen, and helium are commonly used in diving. While these gases are
discussed separately, the gases themselves are almost always used in some mixture.
Air is a naturally occurring mixture of most of them. In certain types of diving
applications, special mixtures may be blended using one or more of the gases with
oxygen.

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 2-10.2 Oxygen. Oxygen (O2) is the most important of all gases and is one of the most
abundant elements on earth. Fire cannot burn without oxygen and people cannot
survive without oxygen. Atmospheric air contains approximately 21 percent
oxygen, which exists freely in a diatomic state (two atoms paired off to make one
mole­cule). This colorless, odorless, tasteless, and active gas readily combines
with other elements. From the air we breathe, only oxygen is actually used by the
body. The other 79 percent of the air serves to dilute the oxygen. Pure 100 percent
oxygen is often used for breathing in hospitals, aircraft, and hyperbaric medical
treatment facilities. Sometimes 100 percent oxygen is used in shallow diving oper­
ations and certain phases of mixed-gas diving operations. However, breathing pure
oxygen under pressure may induce the serious problems of oxygen toxicity.

2-10.3 Nitrogen. Like oxygen, nitrogen (N2) is diatomic, colorless, odorless, and tasteless,
and is a component of all living organisms. Unlike oxygen, it will not support life
or aid combustion and it does not combine easily with other elements. Nitrogen
in the air is inert in the free state. For diving, nitrogen may be used to dilute
oxygen. Nitrogen is not the only gas that can be used for this purpose and under
some conditions it has severe disadvantages as compared to other gases. Nitrogen
narcosis, a disorder resulting from the anesthetic properties of nitrogen breathed
under pressure, can result in a loss of orientation and judgment by the diver. For
this reason, compressed air, with its high nitrogen content, is not used below a
specified depth in diving operations.

2-10.4 Helium. Helium (He) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas, but it is monatomic
(exists as a single atom in its free state). It is totally inert. Helium is a rare element,
found in air only as a trace element of about 5 parts per million (ppm). Helium
coexists with natural gas in certain wells in the southwestern United States, Canada,
and Russia. These wells provide the world’s supply. When used in diving to dilute
oxygen in the breathing mixture, helium does not cause the same problems associ­
ated with nitrogen narcosis, but it does have unique disadvantages. Among these
is the distortion of speech which takes place in a helium atmosphere. The “Donald
Duck” effect is caused by the acoustic properties of helium and it impairs voice
communications in deep diving. Another negative characteristic of helium is its
high thermal conductivity which can cause rapid loss of body and respiratory heat.

2-10.5 Hydrogen. Hydrogen (H2) is diatomic, colorless, odorless, and tasteless, and is so
active that it is rarely found in a free state on earth. It is, however, the most abundant
element in the visible universe. The sun and stars are almost pure hydrogen. Pure
hydrogen is violently explosive when mixed with air in proportions that include
a presence of more than 5.3 percent oxygen. Hydrogen has been used in diving
(replacing nitrogen for the same reasons as helium) but the hazards have limited
this to little more than experimentation.

2-10.6 Neon. Neon (Ne) is inert, monatomic, colorless, odorless, and tasteless, and is
found in minute quantities in the atmosphere. It is a heavy gas and does not exhibit
the narcotic properties of nitrogen when used as a breathing medium. Because
it does not cause the speech distortion problem associated with helium and has
superior thermal insulating properties, it has been the subject of some experimental
diving research.

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-15

 2-10.7 Carbon Dioxide. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is colorless, odorless, and tasteless when
found in small percentages in the air. In greater concentrations it has an acid taste
and odor. Carbon dioxide is a natural by-product of animal and human respiration,
and is formed by the oxidation of carbon in food to produce energy. For divers,
the two major concerns with carbon dioxide are control of the quantity in the
breathing supply and removal of the exhaust after breathing. Carbon dioxide
can cause unconsciousness when breathed at increased partial pressure. In high
concentra­tions the gas can be extremely toxic. In the case of closed and semiclosed
breathing apparatus, the removal of excess carbon dioxide generated by breathing
is essential to safety.

2-10.8 Carbon Monoxide. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, tasteless,

and poisonous gas whose presence is difficult to detect. Carbon monoxide is
formed as a product of incomplete fuel combustion, and is most commonly
found in the exhaust of internal combustion engines. A diver’s air supply can be
contaminated by carbon monoxide when the compressor intake is placed too close
to the compressor’s engine exhaust. The exhaust gases are sucked in with the air
and sent on to the diver, with potentially disastrous results. Carbon monoxide
seriously interferes with the blood’s ability to carry the oxygen required for the
body to function normally. The affinity of carbon monoxide for hemoglobin is
approximately 210 times that of oxygen. Carbon monoxide dissociates from
hemoglobin at a much slower rate than oxygen.

2-10.9 Kinetic Theory of Gases. On the surface of the earth the constancy of the
atmosphere’s pressure and compo­sition tend to be accepted without concern. To the
diver, however, the nature of the high pressure or hyperbaric, gaseous environment
assumes great importance. The basic explanation of the behavior of gases under all
variations of temperature and pressure is known as the kinetic theory of gases.

The kinetic theory of gases states: “The kinetic energy of any gas at a given tem­
perature is the same as the kinetic energy of any other gas at the same tempera­ture.”
Consequently, the measurable pressures of all gases resulting from kinetic activity
are affected by the same factors.

The kinetic energy of a gas is related to the speed at which the molecules are
mov­ing and the mass of the gas. Speed is a function of temperature and mass is a
function of gas type. At a given temperature, molecules of heavier gases move at a
slower speed than those of lighter gases, but their combination of mass and speed
results in the same kinetic energy level and impact force. The measured impact
force, or pressure, is representative of the kinetic energy of the gas. This is illus­
trated in Figure 2‑6.

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 (a) (b) (c)

HEAT

Figure 2‑6. Kinetic Energy. The kinetic energy of the molecules inside the container (a) produces a constant
pressure on the internal surfaces. As the container volume is decreased (b), the molecules per unit volume
(density) increase and so does the pressure. As the energy level of the molecules increases from the addition
of thermal energy (heat), so does the pressure (c).

2-11 GAS LAWS

Gases are subject to three closely interrelated factors - temperature, pressure,

and volume. As the kinetic theory of gases points out, a change in one of these
factors must result in some measurable change in the other factors. Further, the
theory indicates that the kinetic behavior of any one gas is the same for all gases or
mixtures of gases. Consequently, basic laws have been established to help predict
the changes that will be reflected in one factor as the conditions of one or both of
the other factors change. A diver needs to know how changing pressure will effect
the air in his suit and lungs as he moves up and down in the water. He must be able
to determine whether an air compressor can deliver an adequate supply of air to a
proposed operating depth. He also needs to be able to interpret the reading on the
pressure gauge of his tanks under varying conditions of temperature and pressure.
The answers to such questions are calculated using a set of rules called the gas
laws. This section explains the gas laws of direct concern to divers.

2-11.1 Boyle’s Law. Boyle’s law states that at constant temperature, the absolute pressure
and the volume of gas are inversely proportional. As pressure increases the gas
volume is reduced; as the pressure is reduced the gas volume increases. Boyle’s
law is important to divers because it relates to change in the volume of a gas
caused by the change in pressure, due to depth, which defines the relationship of
pressure and volume in breathing gas supplies.

The formula for Boyle’s law is:  C = P × V

Where:
C = a constant
P = absolute pressure
V = volume

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-17

 Boyle’s law can also be expressed as: P1V1 = P2V2

Where:
P1 = initial pressure
V1 = initial volume
P2 = final pressure
V2 = final volume

When working with Boyle’s law, pressure may be measured in atmospheres abso­
lute. To calculate pressure using atmospheres absolute:
Depth fsw + 33 fsw psig + 14.7 psi
Pata = or Pata =
33 fsw 14.7 psi
Sample Problem 1. An open diving bell with a volume of 24 cubic feet is to be
lowered into the sea from a support craft. No air is supplied to or lost from the bell.
Calculate the volume of the air in the bell at 99 fsw.
1. Rearrange the formula for Boyle’s law to find the final volume (V2):
P1V1
V2 =
P2

2. Calculate the final pressure (P2) at 99 fsw:

99 fsw + 33 fsw
P2 =
33 fsw
= 4 ata
3. Substitute known values to find the final volume:

1ata × 24 ft 3
V2 =
4 ata
3
= 6 ft
The volume of air in the open bell has been compressed to 6 ft3 at 99 fsw.

2-11.2 Charles’/Gay-Lussac’s Law. When working with Boyle’s law, the temperature
of the gas is a constant value. However, temperature significantly affects the
pressure and volume of a gas. Charles’/Gay-Lussac’s law describes the physical
relationships of temperature upon volume and pressure. Charles’/Gay-Lussac’s
law states that at a constant pressure, the volume of a gas is directly proportional
to the change in the absolute temperature. If the pressure is kept constant and
the absolute temperature is doubled, the volume will double. If the temperature
decreases, volume decreases. If volume instead of pressure is kept constant (i.e.,
heating in a rigid container), then the absolute pressure will change in proportion
to the absolute temperature.

The formulas for expressing Charles’/Gay-Lussac’s law are as follows.

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 For the relationship between volume and temperature:
V1 V2
=
T1 T2

Where: Pressure is constant

T1 = initial temperature (absolute)
T2 = final temperature (absolute)
V 1 = initial volume
V2 = final volume

And, for the relationship between pressure and temperature:

P1 P2
=
T1 T2

Where: Volume is constant

P1 = initial pressure (absolute)
P2 = final pressure (absolute)
T1 = initial temperature (absolute)
T2 = final temperature (absolute)

Sample Problem 1. An open diving bell of 24 cubic feet capacity is lowered into
the ocean to a depth of 99 fsw. The surface temperature is 80°F, and the temperature
at depth is 45°F. From the sample problem illustrating Boyle’s law, we know that
the volume of the gas was compressed to 6 cubic feet when the bell was lowered
to 99 fsw. Apply Charles’/Gay-Lussac’s law to determine the volume when it is
effected by temperature.
1. Convert Fahrenheit temperatures to absolute temperatures (Rankine):
°R = °F + 460
T1 = 80°F + 460
= 540°R
T2 = 45°F + 460
= 505°R

2. Transpose the formula for Charles’/Gay-Lussac’s law to solve for the final volume
(V2):
V1T2
V2 =
T1

3. Substitute known values to solve for the final volume (V2):

6 ft3 · 505
V2 =
540
The volume of the gas at 99 fsw is 5.61 ft3.

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-19

 Sample Problem 2. The pressure in a 6-cubic-foot flask is 3000 psig and the
temperature in the flask room is 72° F. A fire in an adjoining space causes the
temperature in the flask room to reach 170° F. What will happen to the pressure in
the flask?
1. Convert gauge pressure to absolute atmospheric pressure unit:
P1 = 3000 psig + 14.7 psi

= 3014.7 psia

2. Convert Fahrenheit temperatures to absolute temperatures (Rankine):

°R = °F + 460

T1 = 72°F + 460

= 532°R

T2 = 170°F + 460

= 630°R

3. Transpose the formula for Gay-Lussac’s law to solve for the final pressure (P2):
P1T2
P2 =
T1

4. Substitute known values and solve for the final pressure (P2):
3014.7 × 630
P2 =
532
1, 899, 261
=
532
= 3570.03 psia

5. Convert absolute pressure back to gauge pressure:

= 3570.03 psia - 14.7

= 3555.33 psig

The pressure in the flask increased from 3000 psig to 3555.33 psig. Note that
the pressure increased even though the flask’s volume and the volume of the gas
remained the same.

This example also shows what would happen to a SCUBA cylinder that was filled
to capacity and left unattended in the trunk of an automobile or lying in direct
sunlight on a hot day.

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 2-11.3 The General Gas Law. Boyle, Charles, and Gay-Lussac demonstrated that
temperature, volume, and pres­sure affect a gas in such a way that a change in one
factor must be balanced by corresponding change in one or both of the others.
Boyle’s law describes the rela­tionship between pressure and volume, Charles’/
Gay-Lussac’s law describes the relationship between temperature and volume and
the relationship between temperature and pressure. The general gas law combines
the laws to predict the behavior of a given quantity of gas when any of the factors
change.
P1V1 P2 V2
The formula for expressing the general gas law is: T = T
1 2

Where:
P1 = initial pressure (absolute)
V1 = initial volume
T1 = initial temperature (absolute)
P2 = final pressure (absolute)
V2 = final volume
T2 = final temperature (absolute)

Two simple rules must be kept in mind when working with the general gas law:

n There can be only one unknown value.

n The equation can be simplified if it is known that a value remains unchanged

(such as the volume of an air cylinder) or that the change in one of the variables
is of little consequence. In either case, cancel the value out of both sides of the
equation to simplify the computations.

Sample Problem 1. Your ship has been assigned to salvage a sunken LCM landing
craft located in 130 fsw. An exploratory dive, using SCUBA, is planned to survey
the wreckage. The SCUBA cylinders are charged to 2,250 psig, which raises the
temperature in the tanks to 140 °F. From experience in these waters, you know
that the temperature at the operating depth will be about 40°F. Apply the general
gas law to find what the gauge reading will be when you first reach the bottom.
(Assume no loss of air due to breathing.)
1. Simplify the equation by eliminating the variables that will not change. The volume
of the tank will not change, so V1 and V2 can be eliminated from the formula in this
problem:
P1 P2
=
T1 T2

2. Calculate the initial pressure by converting gauge pressure to absolute pressure:

P1 = 2,250 psig + 14.7

= 2,264.7 psia

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-21

 3. Convert Fahrenheit temperatures to Rankine (absolute) temperatures:
Conversion formula: °R = °F + 460

T1 = 140° F + 460

= 600° R

T2 = 40° F + 460

= 500° R

4. Rearrange the formula to solve for the final pressure (P2):

P1T2
P2 =
T1

5. Fill in known values:

2,264.7 psia × 500°R

P2 =
600°R
= 1887.25 psia

6. Convert final pressure (P2) to gauge pressure:

P2 = 1,887.25 psia − 14.7

= 1, 872.55 psia

The gauge reading when you reach bottom will be 1,872.55 psig.

Sample Problem 2. During the survey dive for the operation outlined in Sample
Problem 1, the divers determined that the damage will require a simple patch.
The Diving Supervisor elects to use surface-supplied KM-37 equipment. The
compressor discharge capacity is 60 cubic feet per minute, and the air temperature
on the deck of the ship is 80°F.

Apply the general gas law to determine whether the compressor can deliver the
proper volume of air to both the working diver and the standby diver at the oper­
ating depth and temperature.
1. Calculate the absolute pressure at depth (P2):
130 fsw + 33 fsw
P2 =
33 fsw
= 4.93 ata

2. Convert Fahrenheit temperatures to Rankine (absolute) temperatures:

Conversion formula:

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 °R = °F + 460
T1 = 80°F + 460
= 540°R
T2 = 40°F + 460
= 500°R

3. Rearrange the general gas law formula to solve for the volume of air at depth (V2):
P1V1T2
V2 =
P2 T1

4. Substitute known values and solve:

1 ata × 60 cfm × 500°R
V2 =
4.93 ata × 540°R
= 11.26 acfm at bottom conditions

Based upon an actual volume (displacement) flow requirement of 1.4 acfm for a
deep-sea diver, the compressor capacity is sufficient to support the working and
standby divers at 130 fsw.

Sample Problem 3. Find the actual cubic feet of air contained in a .399-cubic foot
internal volume cylinder pressurized to 3,000 psi.
1. Simplify the equation by eliminating the variables that will not change. The
temperature of the tank will not change so T1 and T2 can be eliminated from the
formula in this problem:

P1V1 = P2V2

2. Rearrange the formula to solve for the initial volume:

P2 V2
V1 =
P1
Where:
P1 = 14.7 psi
P2 = 3,000 psi + 14.7 psi
V2 = .399 ft3

3. Fill in the known values and solve for V1:

3014.7 psia · .399 ft
V1 =
14.7 psi
= 81.82 scf

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-23

2-12 GAS MIXTURES

If a diver used only one gas for all underwater work, at all depths, then the general
gas law would suffice for most of his necessary calculations. However, to accom­
modate use of a single gas, oxygen would have to be chosen because it is the only
one that provides life support. But 100 percent oxygen can be dangerous to a diver
as depth and breathing time increase. Divers usually breathe gases in a mixture,
either air (21 percent oxygen, 78 percent nitrogen, 1 percent other gases) or oxygen
with one of the inert gases serving as a diluent for the oxygen. The human body has
a wide range of physiological reactions to various gases under different conditions
of pressure and for this reason another gas law is required to predict the effects of
breathing those gases while under pressure.

2-12.1 Dalton’s Law. Dalton’s law states: “The total pressure exerted by a mixture of
gases is equal to the sum of the pressures of each of the different gases making up
the mixture, with each gas acting as if it alone was present and occupied the total
volume.”

In a gas mixture, the portion of the total pressure contributed by a single gas is
called the partial pressure (pp) of that gas. An easily understood example is that
of a container at atmospheric pressure (14.7 psi). If the container were filled with
oxygen alone, the partial pressure of the oxygen would be one atmosphere. If
the same container at 1 atm were filled with dry air, the partial pressures of all
the constituent gases would contribute to the total partial pressure, as shown in
Table 2‑3.

If the same container was filled with air to 2,000 psi (137 ata), the partial pressures of
the various components would reflect the increased pressure in the same proportion
as their percentage of the gas, as illustrated in Table 2‑4.

Table 2‑3. Partial Pressure at 1 ata.

Gas Percent of Component Atmospheres Partial Pressure

N2 78.08 0.7808
O2 20.95 0.2095

CO2 .03 0.0003

Other .94 0.0094

Total 100.00 1.0000

Table 2‑4. Partial Pressure at 137 ata.

Gas Percent of Component Atmospheres Partial Pressure

N2 78.08 106.97
O2 20.95 28.70

2-24 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 Gas Percent of Component Atmospheres Partial Pressure

CO2 .03 0.04

Other .94 1.29

Total 100.00 137.00

The formula for expressing Dalton’s law is:

PTotal = pp A + pp B + pp C + …

Where: A, B, and C are gases and

PTotal × %VolA
pp A =
1.00

A simple method to solve problems of Dalton’s law is to arrange the variables in a

“T” formula. To use the T formula there can only be one unknown value; Multiply
the known values if the unknown value is partial pressure or divide if the unknown
is ata or volume of gas.

The T formula is illustrated as:

partial pressure
ata % of Gas (in decimal form)

Sample Problem 1. Use the T formula to calculate the partial pressure of oxygen
given in air at 190 fsw.
1. Convert feet of salt water to ata:

190 fsw + 33
= 6.75 ata
33
2. Convert the percentage of oxygen in air to decimal:

21%
= .21 pp02
100
3. Substitute known values:
pp
6.75 .21

2. Multiply the pressure by the volume to solve for pp:

6.75 x .21 = 1.41 ppO2

Sample Problem 2. In diving we have the option of using gas mixtures other than
air. However, we must control the level of oxygen in those mixtures to avoid

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-25

 exposing divers to harmful side effects of increased ppO2. Use Dalton’s law to
determine the maximum O2 % allowed when diving to 300 fsw given a limit of
1.3ppO2.

1. Convert fsw to ata:

300 + 33
ata = = 10.09
33
= 10.09 ata
2. Substitute known values:

1.3 ppO2
10.09 ata % of Gas

3. Divide pp by ata to solve for percent of gas:

1.3 ppO2
= 0.1288 % of Gas
10.09
4. Convert from decimal to percentage:

0.1288 x 100 = 12.88 max % O2 allowed

Sample Problem 3. Determine the maximum safe depth of an 11% mix of HeO2
given a 1.3ppO2 limit:

1. Convert 11% HEO2 to a decimal:

11%
= 0.11
100
2. Substitute known values:
1.3 ppO2
ata 0.11

3. Divide pp by percentage of gas to solve ata:

1.3 ppO2
= 11.81 ata
0.11

4. Convert from ata to fsw:

(11.81 x 33) - 33 = 356.73 fsw

Round down to a max safe depth of 356 fsw

2-26 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 2‑12.1.1 Calculating Surface Equivalent Value (SEV). Dalton’s law explains the potential
consequences of exposure to increased partial pressures of various gasses. For
example, if the surface air were contaminated with 2 percent (0.02 ata) CO2, a
level that could be readily accommodated by a person on the surface, the partial
pressure at an increased depth could be dangerously high. The correlation of a gas
inspired at depth to its equivalent physiological effect if the same concentration
were breathed on the surface is referred to as surface equivalent value (SEV). The
formula for calculating SEV is:
pp
SEV =
1 ata

Example: When breathing air on the surface 21% (0.21 ppO2) oxygen is being inspired. At
33 fsw (2ata) the pressure doubles to 0.42ppO2, the percentage by volume stays
the same but the number of molecules inspired increased. Move the decimal point
2 places to the right to get a surface equivalent of 42% oxygen. It makes sense that
we are breathing twice the molecules of O2 at 33 fsw since we are at twice the
pressure.

Sample problem 1. Your recompression chamber is on ascent from treatment depth

at 1fpm and is at a depth of 127 fsw. The chamber CO2 monitor reads .23% CO2.
The limit for chamber CO2 levels is 1.5 SEV. Is the chamber within safe limits for
CO2?

1. Calculate ppCO2 at 127 fsw.

SEV = ATA x % of gas (decimal form)

SEV = 4.84 x .023 CO2

= 1.11 SEV

SEV = 1.11 which is lower than 1.5. The chamber is within acceptable limits.

Sample problem 2. What is the maximum permissible CO2 reading on the monitor
for the same scenario in problem 1?

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-27

 1. The formula for calculating the surface equivalent value is:

% CO2 = ppCO2
ata
= 1.5 SEV
= .30 CO2
4.84

The maximum monitor reading on the chamber can be .30% and still be within
the limit of 1.5 sev CO2 at 127 fsw.

2‑12.1.2 Expressing Small Quantities of Pressure. Partial pressures of less than 0.1
atmosphere are usually expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). One
atmosphere is equal to 760 mmHg. The formula used to convert pp to mmHg is:

mmHg = pp x 760mmHg

Sample problem 1. Convert the result in sample problem 2 to mmHg.

1. Convert % of gas to

0.30 CO2
pp = = 0.0030 ppCO2
100

2. 0.0030 ppCO2 x 760mmHg = 2.28mmHg

2.12.1.3 Expressing Small Quantities of Volume. Volume of gas is typically expressed as

a percentage. Where a gas constituent is less than 0.01 percent its volume may be
expressed in parts per million (ppm). 1ppm = 1/1000000, therefore 1ppm = 0.0001
percent. The formula to convert a percentage to ppm is:
ppm = Percent of gas X 10,000.

Conversely, percent of gas = ppm / 10,000

2-12.2 Gas Diffusion. Another physical effect of partial pressures and kinetic activity is
that of gas diffu­sion. Gas diffusion is the process of intermingling or mixing of gas
molecules. If two gases are placed together in a container, they will eventually mix
completely even though one gas may be heavier. The mixing occurs as a result of
constant molecular motion.

An individual gas will move through a permeable membrane (a solid that permits
molecular transmission) depending upon the partial pressure of the gas on each side
of the membrane. If the partial pressure is higher on one side, the gas mole­cules
will diffuse through the membrane from the higher to the lower partial pressure
side until the partial pressure on sides of the membrane are equal. Mole­cules are

2-28 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 actually passing through the membrane at all times in both directions due to kinetic
activity, but more will move from the side of higher concentration to the side of
lower concentration.

Body tissues are permeable membranes. The rate of gas diffusion, which is related
to the difference in partial pressures, is an important consideration in determining
the uptake and elimination of gases in calculating decompression tables.

2-12.3 Humidity. Humidity is the amount of water vapor in gaseous atmospheres. Like
other gases, water vapor behaves in accordance with the gas laws. However,
unlike other gases encountered in diving, water vapor condenses to its liquid state
at temperatures normally encountered by man.

Humidity is related to the vapor pressure of water, and the maximum partial pres­
sure of water vapor in the gas is governed entirely by the temperature of the gas.
As the gas temperature increases, more molecules of water can be maintained in
the gas until a new equilibrium condition and higher maximum partial pressure are
established. As a gas cools, water vapor in the gas condenses until a lower partial
pressure condition exists regardless of the total pressure of the gas. The tempera­
ture at which a gas is saturated with water vapor is called the dewpoint.

In proper concentrations, water vapor in a diver’s breathing gas can be beneficial to

the diver. Water vapor moistens body tissues, thus keeping the diver comfort­able.
As a condensing liquid, however, water vapor can freeze and block air passageways
in hoses and equipment, fog a diver’s faceplate, and corrode his equipment.

2-12.4 Gases in Liquids. When a gas comes in contact with a liquid, a portion of the gas
molecules enters into solution with the liquid. The gas is said to be dissolved in
the liquid. Solubility is vitally important because significant amounts of gases are
dissolved in body tissues at the pressures encountered in diving.

2-12.5 Solubility. Some gases are more soluble (capable of being dissolved) than others,
and some liquids and substances are better solvents (capable of dissolving another
substance) than others. For example, nitrogen is five times more soluble in fat than
it is in water.

Apart from the individual characteristics of the various gases and liquids, tempera­
ture and pressure greatly affect the quantity of gas that will be absorbed. Because a
diver is always operating under unusual conditions of pressure, understanding this
factor is particularly important.

2-12.6 Henry’s Law. Henry’s law states: “The amount of any given gas that will dissolve
in a liquid at a given temperature is directly proportional to the partial pressure of
that gas.” Because a large percentage of the human body is water, the law simply
states that as one dives deeper and deeper, more gas will dissolve in the body
tissues and that upon ascent, the dissolved gas must be released.

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-29

 2‑12.6.1 Gas Tension. When a gas-free liquid is first exposed to a gas, quantities of gas
molecules rush to enter the solution, pushed along by the partial pressure of the
gas. As the mole­cules enter the liquid, they add to a state of gas tension. Gas
tension is a way of identifying the partial pressure of that gas in the liquid.

The difference between the gas tension and the partial pressure of the gas outside
the liquid is called the pressure gradient. The pressure gradient indicates the rate at
which the gas enters or leaves the solution.

2‑12.6.2 Gas Absorption. At sea level, the body tissues are equilibrated with dissolved
nitrogen at a partial pressure equal to the partial pressure of nitrogen in the lungs.
Upon exposure to altitude or increased pressure in diving, the partial pressure of
nitrogen in the lungs changes and tissues either lose or gain nitrogen to reach a
new equilibrium with the nitrogen pressure in the lungs. Taking up nitrogen in
tissues is called absorp­tion or uptake. Giving up nitrogen from tissues is termed
elimination or offgassing. In air diving, nitrogen absorption occurs when a diver
is exposed to an increased nitrogen partial pressure. As pressure decreases, the
nitrogen is elimi­nated. This is true for any inert gas breathed.

Absorption consists of several phases, including transfer of inert gas from the lungs
to the blood and then from the blood to the various tissues as it flows through the
body. The gradient for gas transfer is the partial pressure difference of the gas
between the lungs and blood and between the blood and the tissues.

The volume of blood flowing through tissues is small compared to the mass of the
tissue, but over a period of time the gas delivered to the tissue causes it to become
equilibrated with the gas carried in the blood. As the number of gas molecules
in the liquid increases, the tension increases until it reaches a value equal to the
partial pressure. When the tension equals the partial pressure, the liquid is satu­rated
with the gas and the pressure gradient is zero. Unless the temperature or pressure
changes, the only molecules of gas to enter or leave the liquid are those which may,
in random fashion, change places without altering the balance.

The rate of equilibration with the blood gas depends upon the volume of blood
flow and the respective capacities of blood and tissues to absorb dissolved gas. For
example, fatty tissues hold significantly more gas than watery tissues and will thus
take longer to absorb or eliminate excess inert gas.

2‑12.6.3 Gas Solubility. The solubility of gases is affected by temperature - the lower the
temperature, the higher the solubility. As the temperature of a solution increases,
some of the dissolved gas leaves the solution. The bubbles rising in a pan of water
being heated (long before it boils) are bubbles of dissolved gas coming out of
solution.

The gases in a diver’s breathing mixture are dissolved into his body in proportion
to the partial pressure of each gas in the mixture. Because of the varied solubility
of different gases, the quantity of a particular gas that becomes dissolved is also
governed by the length of time the diver is breathing the gas at the increased pres­
sure. If the diver breathes the gas long enough, his body will become saturated.

2-30 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 The dissolved gas in a diver’s body, regardless of quantity, depth, or pressure,
remains in solution as long as the pressure is maintained. However, as the
diver ascends, more and more of the dissolved gas comes out of solution. If his
ascent rate is controlled (i.e., through the use of the decompression tables), the
dissolved gas is carried to the lungs and exhaled before it accumulates to form
significant bubbles in the tissues. If, on the other hand, he ascends suddenly and
the pressure is reduced at a rate higher than the body can accommodate, bubbles
may form, disrupt body tissues and systems, and produce decompression sickness. 

Table 2‑5. Symbols and Values.

Symbol Value

°F Degrees Fahrenheit

°C Degrees Celsius

°R Degrees Rankine

A Area

C Circumference

D Depth of Water

H Height

L Length

P Pressure

r Radius

T Temperature

t Time

V Volume

W Width

Dia Diameter

Dia2 Diameter Squared

Dia3 Diameter Cubed

� 3.1416

ata Atmospheres Absolute

pp Partial Pressure

psi Pounds per Square Inch

psig Pounds per Square Inch Gauge

psia Pounds per Square Inch Absolute

fsw Feet of Sea Water

fpm Feet per Minute

scf Standard Cubic Feet

BTU British Thermal Unit

cm3 Cubic Centimeter

kw hr Kilowatt Hour

mb Millibars

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-31

 Table 2‑6. Buoyancy (In Pounds).

Fresh Water (V cu ft x 62.4) - Weight of Unit

Salt Water (V cu ft x 64) - Weight of Unit

Table 2‑7. Formulas for Area.

Square or Rectangle A=LxW

Circle A = 0.7854 x Dia2

or

A = πr2

Table 2‑8. Formulas for Volumes.

Compartment V=LxWxH

Sphere = π x 4/3 x r 3
= 0.5236 x Dia3

Cylinder V=πxr2xL
= π x 1/4 x Dia2 x L
= 0.7854 x Dia2 x L

Table 2‑9. Formulas for Partial Pressure/Equivalent Air Depth.

 %V 
Partial Pressure Measured in psi pp = (D + 33 fsw) × 0.445 psi ×  
 100% 

D + 33 fsw %V
Partial Pressure Measured in ata pp = ×
33 fsw 100%

%V
Partial Pressure Measured in fsw pp = (D + 33 fsw) ×
100%

pp
T formula for Measuring Partial Pressure
ata  %

Equivalent Air Depth for N2O2 Diving Measured in fsw EAD = [(1.0 - O .79%)(D + 33) ] - 33
2

Equivalent Air Depth for N2O2 Diving Measured in meters EAD = [ (1.0 − O .79
%)(M + 10)
2
] − 10

2-32 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

Table 2‑10. Pressure Equivalents.
Columns of Mercury Columns of Water*
at 0°C at 15°C
10 Newton Pounds
Atmos- Per Square Per Square Feet Feet
pheres Bars Centimeter Inch Meters Inches Meters Inches (FW) (FSW)

1 1.01325 1.03323 14.696 0.76 29.9212 10.337 406.966 33.9139 33.066

0.986923 1 1.01972 14.5038 0.750062 29.5299 10.2018 401.645 33.4704 32.6336

0.967841 0.980665 1 14.2234 0.735559 28.959 10.0045 393.879 32.8232 32.0026

0.068046 0.068947 0.070307 1 0.0517147 2.03601 0.703386 27.6923 2.30769 2.25

1.31579 1.33322 1.35951 19.33369 1 39.37 13.6013 535.482 44.6235 43.5079

0.0334211 0.0338639 0.0345316 0.491157 0.0254 1 0.345473 13.6013 1.13344 1.1051

0.09674 0.09798 0.099955 1.42169 0.073523 2.89458 1 39.37 3.28083 3.19881

0.002456 0.002489 0.002538 0.03609 0.001867 0.073523 0.02540 1 0.08333 0.08125

0.029487 0.029877 0.030466 0.43333 0.02241 0.882271 0.304801 12 1 0.975

0.030242 0.030643 0.031247 0.44444 0.022984 0.904884 0.312616 12.3077 1.02564 1
1.  Fresh Water (FW) = 62.4 lbs/ft3;
Salt Water (fsw) = 64.0 lbs/ft3.
2.  The SI unit for pressure is Kilopascal (KPA)—1KG/CM2 = 98.0665 KPA and by definition 1 BAR = 100.00 KPA @ 4ºC.
3. In the metric system, 10 MSW is defined as 1 BAR. Note that pressure conversion from MSW to FSW is different than length
conversion; i.e., 10 MSW = 32.6336 FSW and 10 M = 32.8083 feet.

Table 2‑11. Volume and Capacity Equivalents.

Cubic
Centi- Cubic Cubic Cubic
meters Inches Feet Yards Milliliters Liters Pint Quart Gallon

1 .061023 3.531 x 10-5 1.3097 x 10-6 1.00000 1x 10-3 2.113 x 10-3 1.0567 x 10-3 2.6417x 10-4
16.3872 1 5.787 x 10-4 2.1434 x 10-5 16.3867 0.0163867 0.034632 0.017316 4.329 x 10-3

28317 1728 1 0.037037 28316.2 28.3162 59.8442 29.9221 7.48052

764559 46656 27 1 764538 764.538 1615.79 807.896 201.974

1.00003 0.0610251 3.5315 x 10-5 1.308 x 10-6 1 0.001 2.1134 x 10-3 1.0567 x 10-3 2.6418 x 10-4

1000.03 61.0251 0.0353154 1.308 x 10-3 1000 1 2.11342 1.05671 0.264178

473.179 28.875 0.0167101 6.1889 x 10-4 473.166 0.473166 1 0.5 0.125

946.359 57.75 0.0334201 1.2378 x 10-3 946.332 0.946332 2 1 0.25

3785.43 231 0.133681 49511 x 10-3 3785.33 3.78533 8 4 1

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-33

Table 2‑12. Length Equivalents.

Centi- Int. Nautical

meters Inches Feet Yards Meters Fathom Kilometers Miles Miles

1 0.3937 0.032808 0.010936 0.01 5.468 x 10-3 0.00001 6.2137 x 10-5 5.3659 x 10-6
2.54001 1 0.08333 0.027778 0.025400 0.013889 2.540 x 10-5 1.5783 x 10-5 1.3706 x 10-5

30.4801 12 1 0.33333 0.304801 0.166665 3.0480 x 10-4 1.8939 x 10-4 1.6447 x 10-4

91.4403 36 3 1 0.914403 0.5 9.144 x 10-4 5.6818 x 10-4 4.9341 x 10-4

100 39.37 3.28083 1.09361 1 0.5468 0.001 6.2137 x 10-4 5.3959 x 10-4

182.882 72 6 2 1.82882 1 1.8288 x 10-3 1.1364 x 10-3 9.8682 x 10-4

100000 39370 3280.83 1093.61 1000 546.8 1 0.62137 0.539593

160935 63360 5280 1760 1609.35 80 1.60935 1 0.868393

185325 72962.4 6080.4 2026.73 1852 1013.36 1.85325 1.15155 1

Table 2‑13. Area Equivalents.

Square Square Square Square Square Square

Meters Centimeters Inches Feet Yards Acres Miles

1 10000 1550 10.7639 1.19599 2.471 x 10-4 3.861 x 10-7

0.0001 1 0.155 1.0764 x 10-3 1.196 x 10-4 2.471 x 10-8 3.861 x 10-11

6.4516 x 10-4 6.45163 1 6.944 x 10-3 7.716 x 10-4 1.594 x 10-7 2.491 x 10-10

0.092903 929.034 144 1 0.11111 2.2957 x 10-5 3.578 x 10-8

0.836131 8361.31 1296 9 1 2.0661 x 10-4 3.2283 x 10-7

4046.87 4.0469 x 107 6.2726 x 106 43560 4840 1 1.5625 x 10-3

2.59 x 106 2.59 x 1010 4.0145 x 109 2.7878 x 107 3.0976 x 106 640 1

Table 2‑14. Velocity Equivalents.

Centimeters Meters Meters Kilometers Feet Feet Miles

Per Second Per Second Per Minute Per Hour Per Second Per Minute Per Hour Knots

1 0.01 0.6 0.036 0.0328083 1.9685 0.0223639 0.0194673

100 1 60 3.6 3.28083 196.85 2.23693 1.9473

1.66667 0.016667 1 0.06 0.0546806 3.28083 0.0372822 0.0324455

27.778 0.27778 16.667 1 0.911343 54.6806 0.62137 0.540758

30.4801 0.304801 18.288 1.09728 1 60 0.681818 0.593365

0.5080 5.080 x 10-3 0.304801 0.018288 0.016667 1 0.0113636 9.8894 x 10-3

44.7041 0.447041 26.8225 1.60935 1.4667 88 1 0.870268

51.3682 0.513682 30.8209 1.84926 1.6853 101.118 1.14907 1

2-34 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

Table 2‑15. Mass Equivalents.
 Kilograms Grams Grains Ounces Pounds Tons (short) Tons (long) Tons (metric)

1 1000 15432.4 35.274 2.20462 1.1023 x 10-3 9.842 x 10-4 0.001

0.001 1 15432.4 0.035274 2.2046 x 10-3 1.1023 x 10-6 9.842 x 10-7 0.000001

6.4799 x 10-5 0.6047989 1 2.2857 x 10-3 1.4286 x 10-4 7.1429 x 10-8 6.3776 x 10-8 6.4799 x 10-8

0.0283495 28.3495 437.5 1 0.0625 3.125 x 10-5 2.790 x 10-5 2.835 x 10-5

0.453592 453.592 7000 16 1 0.0005 4.4543 x 10-4 4.5359 x 10-4

907.185 907185 1.4 x 107 32000 2000 1 0.892857 0.907185

1016.05 1.016 x 106 1.568 x 107 35840 2240 1.12 1 1.01605

1000 106 1.5432 x 107 35274 2204.62 1.10231 984206 1

Table 2‑16. Energy or Work Equivalents.

International
International Foot - Kilowatt Horse Power Kilo -
Joules Ergs Pounds Hours Hours Calories BTUs

1 107 0.737682 2.778 x 10-7 3.7257 10-7 2.3889 x 10-4 9.4799 x 10-4
10-7 1 7.3768 x 10-8 2.778 x 10-14 3.726 x 10-14 2.389 x 10-11 9.4799 x 10-11

1.3566 1.3556 x 107 1 3.766 x 10-7 5.0505 x 10-7 3.238 x 10-4 1.285 x 10-3

3.6 x 106 3.6 x 1013 2.6557 x 106 1 1.34124 860 3412.76

2.684 x 106 2.684 x 1013 1.98 x 106 0.745578 1 641.197 2544.48

4186.04 4.186 x 1010 3087.97 1.163 x 10-3 1.596 x 10-3 1 3.96832

1054.87 1.0549 x 1010 778.155 2.930 x 10-4 3.93 x 10-4 0.251996 1

Table 2‑17. Power Equivalents.

International
Horse International Joules/ Kg-M Foot lbs. IT Calories BTUs
Power Kilowatts Second Second Per Second Per Second Per Second

1 0.745578 745.578 76.0404 550 178.11 0.7068

1.34124 1 1000 101.989 737.683 238.889 0.947989
1.3412 x 10-3 0.001 1 0.101988 0.737682 0.238889 9.4799 x 10-4
0.0131509 9.805 x 10-3 9.80503 1 7.233 2.34231 9.2951 x 10-3
1.8182 x 10-3 1.3556 x 10-3 1.3556 0.138255 1 0.323837 1.2851 x 10-3
5.6145 x 10-3 4.1861 x 10-3 4.18605 0.426929 3.08797 1 3.9683 x 10-3
1.41483 1.05486 1054.86 107.584 778.155 251.995 1

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-35

Table 2‑18. Temperature Equivalents.

5 9
Conversion Formulas: °C = (°F − 32) × °F = ( × °C) + 32
9 5
°C °F °C °F °C °F °C °F °C °F °C °F °C °F

-100 -148.0 -60 -76.0 -20 -4.0 20 68.0 60 140.0 100 212.0 140 284.0
-98 -144.4 -58 -72.4 -18 -0.4 22 71.6 62 143.6 102 215.6 142 287.6
-96 -140.8 -56 -68.8 -16 3.2 24 75.2 64 147.2 104 219.2 144 291.2
-94 -137.2 -54 -65.2 -14 6.8 26 78.8 66 150.8 106 222.8 146 294.8
-92 -133.6 -52 -61.6 -12 10.4 28 82.4 68 154.4 108 226.4 148 298.4

-90 -130.0 -50 -58.0 -10 14.0 30 86.0 70 158.0 110 230.0 150 302.0
-88 -126.4 -48 -54.4 -8 17.6 32 89.6 72 161.6 112 233.6 152 305.6
-86 -122.8 -46 -50.8 -6 21.2 34 93.2 74 165.2 114 237.2 154 309.2
-84 -119.2 -44 -47.2 -4 24.8 36 96.8 76 168.8 116 240.8 156 312.8
-82 -115.6 -42 -43.6 -2 28.4 38 100.4 78 172.4 118 244.4 158 316.4

-80 -112.0 -40 -40.0 0 32 40 104.0 80 176.0 120 248.0 160 320.0
-78 -108.4 -38 -36.4 2 35.6 42 107.6 82 179.6 122 251.6 162 323.6
-76 -104.8 -36 -32.8 4 39.2 44 111.2 84 183.2 124 255.2 164 327.2
-74 -101.2 -34 -29.2 6 42.8 46 114.8 86 186.8 126 258.8 166 330.8
-72 -97.6 -32 -25.6 8 46.4 48 118.4 88 190.4 128 262.4 168 334.4
-70 -94.0 -30 -22.0 10 50.0 50 122.0 90 194.0 130 266.0 170 338.0
-68 -90.4 -28 -18.4 12 53.6 52 125.6 92 197.6 132 269.6 172 341.6
-66 -86.8 -26 -14.8 14 57.2 54 129.2 94 201.2 134 273.2 174 345.2
-64 -83.2 -24 -11.2 16 60.8 56 132.8 96 204.8 136 276.8 176 348.8
-62 -79.6 -22 -7.6 18 64.4 58 136.4 98 208.4 138 280.4 178 352.4

Table 2-19. Atmospheric Pressure at Altitude.

Atmospheric Pressure
Altitude Atmospheres Millimeters Pounds per
in Feet absolute of Mercury sq. in. absolute Millibars Kilopascals
500 0.982 746.4 14.43 995.1 99.51
1000 0.964 732.9 14.17 977.2 97.72
1500 0.947 719.7 13.92 959.5 95.95
2000 0.930 706.7 13.66 942.1 94.21
2500 0.913 693.8 13.42 925.0 92.50
3000 0.896 681.1 13.17 908.1 90.81
3500 0.880 668.7 12.93 891.5 89.15
4000 0.864 656.4 12.69 875.1 87.51
4500 0.848 644.3 12.46 859.0 85.90
5000 0.832 632.4 12.23 843.1 84.31
5500 0.817 620.6 12.00 827.4 82.74
6000 0.801 609.0 11.78 812.0 81.20
6500 0.786 597.7 11.56 796.8 79.68
7000 0.772 586.4 11.34 781.9 78.19
7500 0.757 575.4 11.13 767.1 76.71
8000 0.743 564.5 10.92 752.6 75.26
8500 0.729 553.8 10.71 738.3 73.83
9000 0.715 543.3 10.50 724.3 72.43
9500 0.701 532.9 10.30 710.4 71.04
10000 0.688 522.7 10.11 696.8 69.68

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 Depth, Pressure, Atmosphere
300
10
290
280
270
9
260
250
240
230 8

220
210
200 7
190
180

ATMOSPHERE
170 6

ABSOLUTE
DEPTH

160
FSW

150
140 5
130
120
100
4
90
80
70
3
60
50
40
2
30
20
10
0 1
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130
PRESSURE PSIG

Figure 2‑7. Depth, Pressure, Atmosphere Graph.

CHAPTER 2 — Underwater Physics 2-37

 PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY

2-38 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 CHAPTER 3

Underwater Physiology and Diving

Disorders

3-1 INTRODUCTION

3-1.1 Purpose. This chapter provides basic information on the changes in human anatomy
and physiology that occur while working in the underwater environment. It also
discusses the diving disorders that result when these anatomical or physiological
changes exceed the limits of adaptation.

3-1.2 Scope. Anatomy is the study of the structure of the organs of the body. Physiology
is the study of the processes and functions of the body. This chapter explains
the basic anatomical and physiological changes that occur when diver enters the
water and is subject to increased ambient pressure. A diver’s knowledge of these
changes is as important as his knowledge of diving gear and procedures. When the
changes in normal anatomy or physiology exceed the limits of adaptation, one or
more patho­logical states may emerge. These pathological states are called diving
disorders and are also discussed in this chapter. Safe diving is only possible when
the diver fully understands the fundamental processes at work on the human body
in the underwater environment.

3-1.3 General. A body at work requires coordinated functioning of all organs and systems.
The heart pumps blood to all parts of the body, the tissue fluids exchange dissolved
materials with the blood, and the lungs keep the blood supplied with oxygen and
cleared of excess carbon dioxide. Most of these processes are controlled directly by
the brain, nervous system, and various glands. The individual is generally unaware
that these functions are taking place.

As efficient as it is, the human body lacks effective ways of compensating for
many of the effects of increased pressure at depth and can do little to keep its
internal environment from being upset. Such external effects set definite limits on
what a diver can do and, if not understood, can give rise to serious accidents.

3-2 THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

The nervous system coordinates all body functions and activities. The nervous
system comprises the brain, spinal cord, and a complex network of nerves that
course through the body. The brain and spinal cord are collectively referred to as
the central nervous system (CNS). Nerves originating in the brain and spinal cord
and traveling to peripheral parts of the body form the peripheral nervous system
(PNS). The peripheral nervous system consists of the cranial nerves, the spinal
nerves, and the sympathetic nervous system. The peripheral nervous system is
involved in regulating cardiovascular, respiratory, and other automatic body func­
tions. These nerve trunks also transmit nerve impulses associated with sight,

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-1

 hearing, balance, taste, touch, pain, and temperature between peripheral sensors
and the spinal cord and brain.

3-3 THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM

The circulatory system consists of the heart, arteries, veins, and capillaries. The
circulatory system carries oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to every cell of the
body, and carries away carbon dioxide, waste chemicals, and heat. Blood circulates
through a closed system of tubes that includes the lung and tissue capillaries, heart,
arteries, and veins.

3-3.1 Anatomy. Every part of the body is completely interwoven with intricate networks
of extremely small blood vessels called capillaries. The very large surface areas
required for ample diffusion of gases in the lungs and tissues are provided by the
thin walls of the capillaries. In the lungs, capillaries surround the tiny air sacs
(alveoli) so that the blood they carry can exchange gases with air.

3‑3.1.1 The Heart. The heart (Figure 3‑1) is the muscular pump that propels the blood
throughout the system. It is about the size of a closed fist, hollow, and made up
almost entirely of muscle tissue that forms its walls and provides the pumping
action. The heart is located in the front and center of the chest cavity between the
lungs, directly behind the breastbone (sternum).

The interior of the heart is divided lengthwise into halves, separated by a wall of
tissue called a septum. The two halves have no direct connection to each other.
Each half is divided into an upper chamber (the atrium), which receives blood from
the veins of its circuit and a lower chamber (the ventricle) which takes blood from
the atrium and pumps it away via the main artery. Because the ventricles do most
of the pumping, they have the thickest, most muscular walls. The arteries carry
blood from the heart to the capillaries; the veins return blood from the capil­laries
to the heart. Arteries and veins branch and rebranch many times, very much like
a tree. Trunks near the heart are approximately the diameter of a human thumb,
while the smallest arterial and venous twigs are microscopic. Capillaries provide
the connections that let blood flow from the smallest branch arteries (arte­rioles)
into the smallest veins (venules).

3‑3.1.2 The Pulmonary and Systemic Circuits. The circulatory system consists of two
circuits with the same blood flowing through the body. The pulmonary circuit
serves the lung capillaries; the systemic circuit serves the tissue capillaries. Each
circuit has its own arteries and veins and its own half of the heart as a pump.
In complete circulation, blood first passes through one circuit and then the other,
going through the heart twice in each complete circuit.

3-3.2 Circulatory Function. Blood follows a continuous circuit through the human
body. Blood leaving a muscle or organ capillary has lost most of its oxygen and
is loaded with carbon dioxide. The blood flows through the body’s veins to the
main veins in the upper chest (the superior and inferior vena cava). The superior
vena cava receives blood from the upper half of the body; the inferior vena cava
receives blood from areas of the body below the diaphragm. The blood flows

3-2 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 Head and Upper
Extremities
Brachiocephalic Trunk
Superior Vena Cava Left Common Carotid Artery
Left Subclavian Artery
Arch of Aorta

Right Pulmonary Artery Left Pulmonary Artery

Right Left
Lung Lung
Right Pulmonary Veins Left Pulmonary Veins

Left Atrium
Right Atrium

Left Ventricle
Right Ventricle

Inferior Vena Cava

Thoracic Aorta
Trunk and Lower
Extremities

Figure 3-1. The Heart’s Components and Blood Flow.

through the main veins into the right atrium and then through the tricuspid valve
into the right ventricle.

The next heart contraction forces the blood through the pulmonic valve into the
pulmonary artery. The blood then passes through the arterial branchings of the
lungs into the pulmonary capillaries, where gas transfer with air takes place. By
diffusion, the blood exchanges inert gas as well as carbon dioxide and oxygen with
the air in the lungs. The blood then returns to the heart via the pulmonary venous
system and enters the left atrium.

The next relaxation finds it going through the mitral valve into the left ventricle
to be pumped through the aortic valve into the main artery (aorta) of the systemic
circuit. The blood then flows through the arteries branching from the aorta,
into successively smaller vessels until reaching the capillaries, where oxygen
is exchanged for carbon dioxide. The blood is now ready for another trip to the
lungs and back again. Figure 3‑2 shows how the pulmonary circulatory system is
arranged.

The larger blood vessels are somewhat elastic and have muscular walls. They
stretch and contract as blood is pumped from the heart, maintaining a slow but
adequate flow (perfusion) through the capillaries.

3-3.3 Blood Components. The average human body contains approximately five liters
of blood. Oxygen is carried mainly in the red corpuscles (red blood cells). There
are approximately 300 million red corpuscles in an average-sized drop of blood.

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-3

 Capillaries O2

CO2

Terminal
bronchiole
CO2 Alveoli

O2 Venules Vein
Artery

Figure 3-2. Respiration and Blood Circulation. The lung’s gas exchange system is
essentially three pumps. The thorax, a gas pump, moves air through the trachea and
bronchi to the lung’s air sacs. These sacs, the alveoli, are shown with and without their
covering of pulmonary capillaries. The heart’s right ventricle, a fluid pump, moves blood
that is low in oxygen and high in carbon dioxide into the pulmonary capillaries. Oxygen
from the air diffuses into the blood while carbon dioxide diffuses from the blood into the air
in the lungs. The oxygenated blood moves to the left ventricle, another fluid pump, which
sends the blood via the arterial system to the systemic capillaries which deliver oxygen to
and collect carbon dioxide from the body’s cells.

These corpuscles are small, disc-shaped cells that contain hemoglobin to carry
oxygen. Hemoglobin is a complex chemical compound containing iron. It can
form a loose chemical combi­nation with oxygen, soaking it up almost as a sponge
soaks up liquid. Hemoglobin is bright red when it is oxygen-rich; it becomes
increasingly dark as it loses oxygen. Hemoglobin gains or loses oxygen depending
upon the partial pressure of oxygen to which it is exposed. Hemoglobin takes up
about 98 percent of the oxygen it can carry when it is exposed to the normal partial
pressure of oxygen in the lungs. Because the tissue cells are using oxygen, the
partial pressure (tension) in the tissues is much lower and the hemoglobin gives up
much of its oxygen in the tissue capillaries.

Acids form as the carbon dioxide dissolves in the blood. Buffers in the blood
neutralize the acids and permit large amounts of carbon dioxide to be carried away
to prevent excess acidity. Hemoglobin also plays an important part in transporting
carbon dioxide. The uptake or loss of carbon dioxide by blood depends mainly
upon the partial pressure (or tension) of the gas in the area where the blood is
exposed. For example, in the peripheral tissues, carbon dioxide diffuses into the
blood and oxygen diffuses into the tissues.

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 Blood also contains infection-fighting white blood cells, and platelets, which are
cells essential in blood coagulation. Plasma is the colorless, watery portion of the
blood. It contains a large amount of dissolved material essential to life. The blood
also contains several substances, such as fibrinogen, associated with blood clot­
ting. Without the clotting ability, even the slightest bodily injury could cause death.

3-4 THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

Every cell in the body must obtain energy to maintain its life, growth, and func­
tion. Cells obtain their energy from oxidation, which is a slow, controlled burning
of food materials. Oxidation requires fuel and oxygen. Respiration is the process
of exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide during oxidation and releasing energy
and water.

3-4.1 Gas Exchange. Few body cells are close enough to the surface to have any chance
of obtaining oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide by direct air diffusion. Instead,
the gas exchange takes place via the circulating blood. The blood is exposed to
air over a large diffusing surface as it passes through the lungs. When the blood
reaches the tissues, the small capillary vessels provide another large surface where
the blood and tissue fluids are in close contact. Gases diffuse readily at both ends
of the circuit and the blood has the remarkable ability to carry both oxygen and
carbon dioxide. This system normally works so well that even the deepest cells of
the body can obtain oxygen and get rid of excess carbon dioxide almost as readily
as if they were completely surrounded by air.

If the membrane surface in the lung, where blood and air come close together,
were just an exposed sheet of tissue like the skin, natural air currents would keep
fresh air in contact with it. Actually, this lung membrane surface is many times
larger than the skin area and is folded and compressed into the small space of the
lungs that are protected inside the bony cage of the chest. This makes it necessary
to continually move air in and out of the space. The processes of breathing and the
exchange of gases in the lungs are referred to as ventilation and pulmonary gas
exchange, respectively.

3-4.2 Respiration Phases. The complete process of respiration includes six important
phases:
1. Ventilation of the lungs with fresh air

2. Exchange of gases between blood and air in lungs

3. Transport of gases by blood

4. Exchange of gases between blood and tissue fluids

5. Exchange of gases between the tissue fluids and cells

6. Use and production of gases by cells

If any one of the processes stops or is seriously hindered, the affected cells cannot
function normally or survive for any length of time. Brain tissue cells, for example,

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-5

 stop working almost immediately and will either die or be permanently injured in
a few minutes if their oxygen supply is completely cut off.

The respiratory system is a complex of organs and structures that performs the
pulmonary ventilation of the body and the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide
between the ambient air and the blood circulating through the lungs. It also warms
the air passing into the body and assists in speech production by providing air to
the larynx and the vocal chords. The respiratory tract is divided into upper and
lower tracts.

3-4.3 Upper and Lower Respiratory Tract. The upper respiratory tract consists of the
nose, nasal cavity, frontal sinuses, maxillary sinuses, larynx, and trachea. The
upper respiratory tract carries air to and from the lungs and filters, moistens and
warms air during each inhalation.

The lower respiratory tract consists of the left and right bronchi and the lungs,
where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide occurs during the respiratory
cycle. The bronchi divide into smaller bronchioles in the lungs, the bronchioles
divide into alveolar ducts, the ducts into alveolar sacs, and the sacs into alveoli. The
alveolar sacs and the alveoli present about 850 square feet of surface area for the
exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide that occurs between the internal alve­olar
surface and the tiny capillaries surrounding the external alveolar wall.

3-4.4 The Respiratory Apparatus. The mechanics of taking fresh air into the lungs
(inspiration or inhalation) and expelling used air from the lungs (expiration or
exhalation) is diagrammed in Figure 3-3. By elevating the ribs and lowering the
diaphragm, the volume of the lung is increased. Thus, according to Boyle’s Law,
a lower pressure is created within the lungs and fresh air rushes in to equalize this
lowered pressure. When the ribs are lowered again and the diaphragm rises to its
original position, a higher pressure is created within the lungs, expelling the used
air.

3‑4.4.1 The Chest Cavity. The chest cavity does not have space between the outer lung
surfaces and the surrounding chest wall and diaphragm. Both surfaces are covered
by membranes; the visceral pleura covers the lung and the parietal pleura lines the
chest wall. These pleurae are separated from each other by a small amount of fluid
that acts as a lubri­cant to allow the membranes to slide freely over themselves as
the lungs expand and contract during respiration.

3‑4.4.2 The Lungs. The lungs are a pair of light, spongy organs in the chest and are the
main component of the respiratory system (see Figure 3‑4). The highly elastic
lungs are the main mechanism in the body for inspiring air from which oxygen is
extracted for the arte­rial blood system and for exhaling carbon dioxide dispersed
from the venous system. The lungs are composed of lobes that are smooth and
shiny on their surface. The lungs contain millions of small expandable air sacs
(alveoli) connected to air passages. These passages branch and rebranch like the

3-6 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 Spinal Column

First Rib

Vertebrae
Deep Inspiration

Seventh Rib

Ordinary Inspiration Quiet Inspiration Inspiration Expiration

Figure 3-3. Inspiration Process. Inspiration involves both raising the rib cage (left panel) and lowering the
diaphragm (right panel). Both movements enlarge the volume of the thoracic cavity and draw air into the lung.

Apex
Upper Lobes

Horizontal Pulmonary
Fissure Arteries
Right Bronchus
Left Bronchus Root

Costal
Surface

Cardiac
Pulmonary Veins Notch or
Middle Lobe Lower Lobes Impression

Oblique
Base Oblique
Fissure
Fissure
Right Lung Left Lung
Figure 3-4. Lungs Viewed from Medical Aspect.

twigs of a tree. Air entering the main airways of the lungs gains access to the
entire surface of these alveoli. Each alveolus is lined with a thin membrane and is
surrounded by a network of very small vessels that make up the capillary bed of
the lungs. Most of the lung membrane has air on one side of it and blood on the
other; diffusion of gases takes place freely in either direction.

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-7

 Inspiratory
reserve
volume

Vital
capacity
Total
lung
capacity
Expiratory
Tidal reserve
volume volume

Residual volume

Figure 3-5. Lung Volumes. The heavy line is a tracing, derived from a subject breathing
to and from a sealed recording bellows. Following several normal tidal breaths, the subject
inhales maximally, then exhales maximally. The volume of air moved during this maximal
effort is called the vital capacity. During exercise, the tidal volume increases, using part
of the inspiratory and expiratory reserve volumes. The tidal volume, however, can never
exceed the vital capacity. The residual volume is the amount of air remaining in the lung
after the most forceful expiration. The sum of the vital capacity and the residual volume is
the total lung capacity.

3-4.5 Respiratory Tract Ventilation Definitions. Ventilation of the respiratory system

establishes the proper composition of gases in the alveoli for exchange with the
blood. The following definitions help in understanding respiration (Figure 3-5).

Respiratory Cycle. The respiratory cycle is one complete breath consisting of an

inspiration and exhalation, including any pause between the movements.

Respiratory Rate. The number of complete respiratory cycles that take place in

1 minute is the respiratory rate. An adult at rest normally has a respiratory rate of
approximately 12 to 16 breaths per minute.

Total Lung Capacity. The total lung capacity (TLC) is the total volume of air that
the lungs can hold when filled to capacity. TLC is normally between five and six
liters.

Vital Capacity. Vital capacity is the volume of air that can be expelled from the
lungs after a full inspiration. The average vital capacity is between four and five
liters.

Tidal Volume. Tidal volume is the volume of air moved in or out of the lungs during
a single normal respiratory cycle. The tidal volume generally averages about one-
half liter for an adult at rest. Tidal volume increases considerably during physical
exertion, and may be as high as 3 liters during severe work.

3-8 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 Respiratory Minute Volume. The respiratory minute volume (RMV) is the total
amount of air moved in or out of the lungs in a minute. The respiratory minute
volume is calculated by multiplying the tidal volume by the respiratory rate.
RMV varies greatly with the body’s activity. It is about 6 to 10 liters per minute at
complete rest and may be over 100 liters per minute during severe work.

Maximal Breathing Capacity and Maximum Ventilatory Volume. The maximum

breathing capacity (MBC) and maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV) are the
greatest respiratory minute volumes that a person can produce during a short
period of extremely forceful breathing. In a healthy young man, they may average
as much as 180 liters per minute (the range is 140 to 240 liters per minute).

Maximum Inspiratory Flow Rate and Maximum Expiratory Flow Rate. The maxi-
mum inspiratory flow rate (MIFR) and maximum expiratory flow rate (MEFR) are
the fastest rates at which the body can move gases in and out of the lungs. These
rates are important in designing breathing equipment and computing gas use under
various workloads. Flow rates are usually expressed in liters per second.

Respiratory Quotient. Respiratory quotient (RQ) is the ratio of the amount

of carbon dioxide produced to the amount of oxygen consumed during cellular
processes per unit time. This value ranges from 0.7 to 1.0 depending on diet and
physical exertion and is usually assumed to be 0.9 for calculations. This ratio is
significant when calculating the amount of carbon dioxide produced as oxygen is
used at various workloads while using a closed-circuit breathing apparatus. The
duration of the carbon dioxide absorbent canister can then be compared to the
duration of the oxygen supply.

Respiratory Dead Space. Respiratory dead space refers to the part of the respira­
tory system that has no alveoli, and in which little or no exchange of gas between
air and blood takes place. It normally amounts to less than 0.2 liter. Air occupying
the dead space at the end of expiration is rebreathed in the following inspiration.
Parts of a diver’s breathing apparatus can add to the volume of the dead space and
thus reduce the proportion of the tidal volume that serves the purpose of respira­
tion. To compensate, the diver must increase his tidal volume. The problem can
best be visualized by using a breathing tube as an example. If the tube contains
one liter of air, a normal exhalation of about one liter will leave the tube filled with
used air from the lungs. At inhalation, the used air will be drawn right back into
the lungs. The tidal volume must be increased by more than a liter to draw in the
needed fresh supply, because any fresh air is diluted by the air in the dead space.
Thus, the air that is taken into the lungs (inspired air) is a mixture of fresh and dead
space gases.

3-4.6 Alveolar/Capillary Gas Exchange. Within the alveolar air spaces, the composition
of the air (alveolar air) is changed by the elimination of carbon dioxide from the
blood, the absorption of oxygen by the blood, and the addition of water vapor. The
air that is exhaled is a mixture of alveolar air and the inspired air that remained in
the dead space.

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-9

 The blood in the capillary bed of the lungs is exposed to the gas pressures of alve­
olar air through the thin membranes of the air sacs and the capillary walls. With
this exposure taking place over a vast surface area, the gas pressure of the blood
leaving the lungs is approximately equal to that present in alveolar air.

When arterial blood passes through the capillary network surrounding the cells in
the body tissues it is exposed to and equalizes with the gas pressure of the tissues.
Some of the blood’s oxygen is absorbed by the cells and carbon dioxide is picked
up from these cells. When the blood returns to the pulmonary capillaries and is
exposed to the alveolar air, the partial pressures of gases between the blood and the
alveolar air are again equalized.

Carbon dioxide diffuses from the blood into the alveolar air, lowering its partial
pressure, and oxygen is absorbed by the blood from the alveolar air, increasing its
partial pressure. With each complete round of circulation, the blood is the medium
through which this process of gas exchange occurs. Each cycle normally requires
approximately 20 seconds.

3-4.7 Breathing Control. The amount of oxygen consumed and carbon dioxide produced
increases mark­ edly when a diver is working. The amount of blood pumped
through the tissues and the lungs per minute increases in proportion to the rate at
which these gases must be transported. As a result, more oxygen is taken up from
the alveolar air and more carbon dioxide is delivered to the lungs for disposal. To
maintain proper blood levels, the respiratory minute volume must also change in
proportion to oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide output.

Changes in the partial pressure (concentration) of oxygen and carbon dioxide

(ppO2 and ppCO2) in the arterial circulation activate central and peripheral
chemoreceptors. These chemoreceptors are attached to important arteries. The
most important are the carotid bodies in the neck and aortic bodies near the heart.
The chemoreceptor in the carotid artery is activated by the ppCO2 in the blood and
signals the respiratory center in the brain stem to increase or decrease respiration.
The chemoreceptor in the aorta causes the aortic body reflex. This is a normal
chemical reflex initiated by decreased oxygen concentration and increased carbon
dioxide concentration in the blood. These changes result in nerve impulses that
increase respiratory activity. Low oxygen tension alone does not increase breathing
markedly until dangerous levels are reached. The part played by chemoreceptors is
evident in normal processes such as breathholding.

As a result of the regulatory process and the adjustments they cause, the blood
leaving the lungs usually has about the same oxygen and carbon dioxide levels
during work that it did at rest. The maximum pumping capacity of the heart (blood
circulation) and respiratory system (ventilation) largely determines the amount of
work a person can do.

3-10 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 3-4.8 Oxygen Consumption. A diver’s oxygen consumption is an important factor
when determining how long breathing gas will last, the ventilation rates required
to maintain proper helmet oxygen level, and the length of time a canister will
absorb carbon dioxide. Oxygen consumption is a measure of energy expenditure
and is closely linked to the respi­ratory processes of ventilation and carbon dioxide
production.

Oxygen consumption is measured in liters per minute (l/min) at Standard Temper­

ature (0°C, 32°F) and Pressure (14.7 psia, 1 ata), Dry Gas (STPD). These rates of
oxygen consumption are not depth dependent. This means that a fully charged MK
16 oxygen bottle containing 360 standard liters (3.96 scf) of usable gas will last
225 minutes at an oxygen consumption rate of 1.6 liters per minute at any depth,
provided no gas leaks from the rig.

Minute ventilation, or respiratory minute volume (RMV), is measured at BTPS

(body temperature 37°C/98.6°F, ambient barometric pressure, saturated with water
vapor at body temperature) and varies depending on a person’s activity level,
as shown in Figure 3‑6. Surface RMV can be approximated by multiplying the
oxygen consumption rate by 25. Although this 25:1 ratio decreases with increasing
gas density and high inhaled oxygen concentrations, it is a good rule-of-thumb
approximation for computing how long the breathing gas will last.

Unlike oxygen consumption, the amount of gas a diver inhales is depth dependent.
At the surface, a diver swimming at 0.5 knot inhales 20 l/min of gas. A SCUBA
cylinder containing 71.2 standard cubic feet (scf) of air (approximately 2,000
stan­dard liters) lasts approximately 100 minutes. At 33 fsw, the diver still inhales
20 l/min at BTPS, but the gas is twice as dense; thus, the inhalation would be
approxi­mately 40 standard l/min and the cylinder would last only half as long, or
50 minutes. At three atmospheres, the same cylinder would last only one-third as
long as at the surface.

Carbon dioxide production depends only on the level of exertion and can be
assumed to be independent of depth. Carbon dioxide production and RQ are used
to compute ventilation rates for chambers and free-flow diving helmets. These
factors may also be used to determine whether the oxygen supply or the duration
of the CO2 absorbent will limit a diver’s time in a closed or semi-closed system.

3-5 RESPIRATORY PROBLEMS IN DIVING.

Physiological problems often occur when divers are exposed to the pressures of
depth. However, some of the difficulties related to respiratory processes can occur
at any time because of an inadequate supply of oxygen or inadequate removal of
carbon dioxide from the tissue cells. Depth may modify these problems for the
diver, but the basic difficulties remain the same. Fortunately, the diver has normal
physiological reserves to adapt to environmental changes and is only marginally
aware of small changes. The extra work of breathing reduces the diver’s ability to
do heavy work at depth, but moderate work can be done with adequate equipment
at the maximum depths currently achieved in diving.

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-11

Figure 3-6. Oxygen Consumption and RMV at Different Work Rates.

3-5.1 Oxygen Deficiency (Hypoxia). Hypoxia, is an abnormal deficiency of oxygen in

the arterial blood. Severe hypoxia will impede the normal function of cells and
eventually kill them. The brain is the most vulnerable organ in the body to the
effects of hypoxia.

The partial pressure of oxygen (ppO2) determines whether the amount of oxygen
in a breathing medium is adequate. Air contains approximately 21 percent oxygen
and provides an ample ppO2 of about 0.21 ata at the surface. A drop in ppO2 below
0.16 ata causes the onset of hypoxic symptoms. Most individuals become hypoxic
to the point of helplessness at a ppO2 of 0.11 ata and unconscious at a ppO2 of 0.10
ata. Below this level, permanent brain damage and eventually death will occur. In

3-12 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 diving, a lower percentage of oxygen will suffice as long as the total pressure is
sufficient to maintain an adequate ppO2. For example, 5 percent oxygen gives a
ppO2 of 0.20 ata for a diver at 100 fsw. On ascent, however, the diver would rapidly
experience hypoxia if the oxygen percentage were not increased.

3‑5.1.1 Causes of Hypoxia. The causes of hypoxia vary, but all interfere with the normal
oxygen supply to the body. For divers, interference of oxygen delivery can be
caused by:

n Improper line up of breathing gases resulting in a low partial pressure of oxygen

in the breathing gas supply.

n Partial or complete blockage of the fresh gas injection orifice in a semiclosed-

circuit UBA. Failure of the oxygen addition valve in closed circuit rebreathers
like the MK 16.

n Inadequate purging of breathing bags in closed-circuit oxygen rebreathers like

the MK 25.

n Blockage of all or part of the air passages by vomitus, secretions, water, or

foreign objects.

n Collapse of the lung due to pneumothorax.

n Paralysis of the respiratory muscles from spinal cord injury.

n Accumulation of fluid in the lung tissues (pulmonary edema) due to diving

in cold water while overhydrated, negative pressure breathing, inhalation of
water in a near drowning episode, or excessive accumulation of venous gas
bubbles in the lung during decompression. The latter condition is referred to
as “chokes”. Pulmonary edema causes a mismatch of alveolar ventilation and
pulmonary blood flow and decreases the rate of transfer of oxygen across the
alveolar capillary membrane.

n Carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide interferes with the transport of

oxygen by the hemoglobin in red blood cells and blocks oxygen utilization at
the cellular level.

n Breathholding. During a breathhold the partial pressure of oxygen in the lung

falls progressively as the body continues to consume oxygen. If the breathhold
is long enough, hypoxia will occur.

3‑5.1.2 Symptoms of Hypoxia. The symptoms of hypoxia include:

n Loss of judgment

n Lack of concentration

n Lack of muscle control

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-13

 n Inability to perform delicate or skill-requiring tasks

n Drowsiness

n Weakness

n Agitation

n Euphoria

n Loss of consciousness

Brain tissue is by far the most susceptible to the effects of hypoxia. Unconscious­
ness and death can occur from brain hypoxia before the effects on other tissues
become very prominent.

There is no reliable warning of the onset of hypoxia. It can occur unexpectedly,

making it a particularly serious hazard. A diver who loses his air supply is in danger
of hypoxia, but he immediately knows he is in danger and usually has time to do
something about it. He is much more fortunate than a diver who gradually uses up
the oxygen in a closed-circuit rebreathing rig and has no warning of impending
unconsciousness.

When hypoxia develops, pulse rate and blood pressure increase as the body tries
to offset the hypoxia by circulating more blood. A small increase in breathing may
also occur. A general blueness (cyanosis) of the lips, nail beds, and skin may occur
with hypoxia. This may not be noticed by the diver and often is not a reliable indi­
cator of hypoxia, even for the trained observer at the surface. The same signs could
be caused by prolonged exposure to cold water.

If hypoxia develops gradually, symptoms of interference with brain function will

appear. None of these symptoms, however, are sufficient warning and very few
people are able to recognize the mental effects of hypoxia in time to take correc­tive
action.

3‑5.1.3 Treatment of Hypoxia. A diver suffering from severe hypoxia must be rescued
promptly. Treat with basic first aid and 100% oxygen. If a victim of hypoxia is
given gas with adequate oxygen content before his breathing stops, he usually
regains consciousness shortly and recovers completely. For SCUBA divers, this
usually involves bringing the diver to the surface. For surface-supplied mixed-
gas divers, it involves shifting the gas supply to alternative banks and ventilating
the helmet or chamber with the new gas. Refer to Volume 4 for information on
treatment of hypoxia arising in specific operational environments for dives
involving semi-closed and closed-circuit rebreathers.

3‑5.1.4 Prevention of Hypoxia. Because of its insidious nature and potentially fatal
outcome, preventing hypoxia is essential. In open-circuit SCUBA and helmets,
hypoxia is unlikely unless the supply gas has too low an oxygen content. On
mixed-gas operations, strict atten­tion must be paid to gas analysis, cylinder lineups

3-14 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 and predive checkout procedures. In closed and semi-closed circuit rebreathers,
a malfunction can cause hypoxia even though the proper gases are being used.
Electronically controlled, fully closed-circuit Underwater Breathing Apparatus
(UBAs), like the MK 16, have oxygen sensors to read out oxygen partial
pressure, but divers must be constantly alert to the possibility of hypoxia from a
UBA malfunction. To prevent hypoxia, oxygen sensors should be monitored
closely throughout the dive. MK 25 UBA breathing bags should be purged
in accordance with Operating Procedures (OPs). Recently surfaced mixed-gas
chambers should not be entered until after they are thoroughly ventilated with air.

3-5.2 Carbon Dioxide Retention (Hypercapnia). Hypercapnia is an abnormally high

level of carbon dioxide in the blood and body tissues.

3‑5.2.1 Causes of Hypercapnia. In diving operations, hypercapnia is generally the result

of a buildup of carbon dioxide in the breathing supply or an inadequate respiratory
minute volume. The principal causes are:

n Excess carbon dioxide levels in compressed air supplies due to improper

placement of the compressor inlet.

n Inadequate ventilation of surface-supplied helmets or UBAs.

n Failure of carbon dioxide absorbent canisters to absorb carbon dioxide or

incorrect installation of breathing hoses in closed or semi-closed circuit UBAs.

n Inadequate lung ventilation in relation to exercise level. The latter may be

caused by skip breathing, increased apparatus dead space, excessive breathing
resistance, or increased oxygen partial pressure.

Excessive breathing resistance is an important cause of hypercapnia and arises

from two sources: flow resistance and static lung load. Flow resistance results from
the flow of dense gas through tubes, hoses, and orifices in the diving equip­ment
and through the diver’s own airways. As gas density increases, a larger driving
pressure must be applied to keep gas flowing at the same rate. The diver has to
exert higher negative pressures to inhale and higher positive pressures to exhale.
As ventilation increases with increasing levels of exercise, the necessary driving
pressures increase. Because the respiratory muscles can only exert so much effort
to inhale and exhale, a point is reached when further increases cannot occur. At this
point, metabolically produced carbon dioxide is not adequately eliminated and in­
creases in the blood and tissues, causing symptoms of hyper­capnia. Symptoms of
hypercapnia usually become apparent when divers attempt heavy work at depths
deeper then 120 FSW on air or deeper than 850 FSW on helium-oxygen. At very
great depths (1,600-2,000 FSW), shortness of breath and other signs of carbon di­
oxide toxicity may occur even at rest.

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-15

 Static lung load is the result of breathing gas being supplied at a different pressure
than the hydrostatic pressure surrounding the lungs. For example, when swimming
horizontally with a single-hose regulator, the regulator diaphragm is lower than the
mouth and the regulator supplies gas at a slight positive pressure once the demand
valve has opened. If the diver flips onto his back, the regulator diaphragm is shal­
lower than his mouth and the regulator supplies gas at a slightly negative pressure.
Inhalation is harder but exhalation is easier because the exhaust ports are above the
mouth and at a slightly lower pressure.

Static lung loading is more apparent in closed and semi-closed circuit underwater
breathing apparatus such as the MK 25 and MK 16. When swimming horizontally
with the MK 16, the diaphragm on the diver’s back is shallower than the lungs and
the diver feels a negative pressure at the mouth. Exhalation is easier than inhala­
tion. If the diver flips onto his back, the diaphragm is below the lungs and the diver
feels a positive pressure at the mouth. Inhalation becomes easier than exhala­tion.
Static lung load is an important contributor to hypercapnia.

Excessive breathing resistance may cause shortness of breath and a sensation of

labored breathing (dyspnea) without any increase in blood carbon dioxide level. In
this case, the sensation of shortness of breath is due to activation of pressure and
stretch receptors in the airways, lungs, and chest wall rather than activation of the
chemoreceptors in the brain stem and carotid and aortic bodies. Usually, both types
of activation are present when breathing resistance is excessive.

3‑5.2.2 Symptoms of Hypercapnia. Hypercapnia affects the brain differently than hypoxia
does. However, it can result in similar symptoms. Symptoms of hypercapnia
include:

n Increased breathing rate

n Shortness of breath, sensation of difficult breathing or suffocation (dyspnea)

n Confusion or feeling of euphoria

n Inability to concentrate

n Increased sweating

n Drowsiness

n Headache

n Loss of consciousness

n Convulsions

3-16 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 The increasing level of carbon dioxide in the blood stimulates the respiratory center
to increase the breathing rate and volume. The pulse rate also often increases. On
dry land, the increased breathing rate is easily noticed and uncom­fortable enough
to warn the victim before the rise in ppCO2 becomes dangerous. This is usually not
the case in diving. Factors such as water temperature, work rate, increased breath­
ing resistance, and an elevated ppO2 in the breathing mixture may produce changes
in respiratory drive that mask changes caused by excess carbon dioxide. This is es­
pecially true in closed-circuit UBAs, particularly 100-percent oxygen rebreathers.
In cases where the ppO2 is above 0.5 ata, the short­ness of breath usually associated
with excess carbon dioxide may not be prominent and may go unnoticed by the
diver, especially if he is breathing hard because of exertion. In these cases the diver
may become confused and even slightly euphoric before losing consciousness. For
this reason, a diver must be particularly alert for any marked change in his breath­
ing comfort or cycle (such as shortness of breath or hyperventilation) as a warning
of hypercapnia. A similar situation can occur in cold water. Exposure to cold water
often results in an increase in respiratory rate. This increase can make it difficult
for the diver to detect an increase in respiratory rate related to a buildup of carbon
dioxide.

Injury from hypercapnia is usually due to secondary effects such as drowning or

injury caused by decreased mental function or unconsciousness. A diver who loses
consciousness because of excess carbon dioxide in his breathing medium and does
not inhale water generally revives rapidly when given fresh air and usually feels
normal within 15 minutes. The after effects rarely include symptoms more serious
than headache, nausea, and dizziness. Permanent brain damage and death are much
less likely than in the case of hypoxia. If breathing resistance was high, the diver
may note some respiratory muscle soreness post-dive.

Excess carbon dioxide also dilates the arteries of the brain. This may partially
explain the headaches often associated with carbon dioxide intoxication, though
these headaches are more likely to occur following the exposure than during it.
The increase in blood flow through the brain, which results from dilation of the
arteries, is thought to explain why carbon dioxide excess speeds the onset of CNS
oxygen toxicity. Excess carbon dioxide during a dive is also believed to increase
the likelihood of decompression sickness, but the reasons are less clear.

The effects of nitrogen narcosis and hypercapnia are additive. A diver under the
influence of narcosis will probably not notice the warning signs of carbon dioxide
intoxication. Hypercapnia in turn will intensify the symptoms of narcosis.

3‑5.2.3 Treatment of Hypercapnia. Hypercapnia is treated by:

n Decreasing the level of exertion to reduce CO2 production

n Increasing helmet and lung ventilation to wash out excess CO2

n Shifting to an alternate breathing source or aborting the dive if defective

equipment is the cause.

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-17

 Because the first sign of hypercapnia may be unconsciousness and it may not be
readily apparent whether the cause is hypoxia or hypercapnia. It is important to
rule out hypoxia first because of the significant potential for brain damage in hy­
poxia. Hypercapnia may cause unconsciousness, but by itself will not injure the
brain permanently.

3‑5.2.4 Prevention of Hypercapnia. In surface-supplied diving, hypercapnia is prevented

by ensuring that gas supplies do not contain excess carbon dioxide, by maintaining
proper manifold pressure during the dive and by ventilating the helmet frequently
with fresh gas. For dives deeper than 150 fsw, helium-oxygen mixtures should be
used to reduce breathing resistance. In closed or semiclosed-circuit UBAs, hyper­
capnia is prevented by carefully filling the CO2 absorbent canister and limiting
dive duration to estab­lished canister duration limits. For dives deeper than 150 fsw,
helium-oxygen mixtures should be used to reduce breathing resistance.

3-5.3 Asphyxia. Asphyxia is a condition where breathing stops and both hypoxia and
hypercapnia occur simultaneously. Asphyxia will occur when there is no gas to
breathe, when the airway is completely obstructed, when the respiratory muscles
become para­lyzed, or when the respiratory center fails to send out impulses to
breathe. Running out of air is a common cause of asphyxia in SCUBA diving.
Loss of the gas supply may also be due to equipment failure, for example regulator
freeze up. Divers who become unconscious as a result of hypoxia, hypercapnia,
or oxygen toxicity may lose the mouthpiece and suffer asphyxia. Obstruction of
the airway can be caused by injury to the windpipe, the tongue falling back in the
throat during unconsciousness, or the inhalation of water, saliva, vomitus or a for­
eign body. Paralysis of the respiratory muscles may occur with high cervical spinal
cord injury due to trauma or decompression sickness. The respiratory center in the
brain stem may become non-functional during a prolonged episode of hypoxia.

3-5.4 Drowning/Near Drowning. Drowning is fluid induced asphyxia. Near drowning is

the term used when a victim is successfully resuscitated following a drowning epi­
sode.

3‑5.4.1 Causes of Drowning. A swimmer or diver can fall victim to drowning because of
overexertion, panic, inability to cope with rough water, exhaustion, or the effects
of cold water or heat loss. Drowning in a hard-hat diving rig is rare. It can happen
if the helmet is not properly secured and comes off, or if the diver is trapped in a
head-down position with a water leak in the helmet. Normally, as long as the diver
is in an upright position and has a supply of air, water can be kept out of the helmet
regardless of the condition of the suit. Divers wearing lightweight or SCUBA gear
can drown if they lose or ditch their mask or mouthpiece, run out of air, or inhale
even small quantities of water. This could be the direct result of failure of the air
supply, or panic in a hazardous situation. The SCUBA diver, because of direct
exposure to the environment, can be affected by the same conditions that may
cause a swimmer to drown.

3-18 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 3‑5.4.2 Symptoms of Near Drowning.

n Unconsciousness

n Pulmonary edema

n Increased respiratory rate.

3‑5.4.3 Treatment of unconscious drowning victims.

n In water rescue requires ventilation alone.

1. Open/Maintain an airway.
2. Check breathing
3. Provide 5 rescue breaths if victim not breathing.
4. DO NOT attempt chest compressions in water.

n The victim should be assumed to be in cardiac arrest if there is no response to

rescue breaths.

n Once on a stable platform, the patient should be placed in the supine position

n It is possible that the patient may only need ventilation.

NOTE: It is important that we revert back to the ABC method for drowning, rather
than the updated CAB.

A: Airway = Make sure airway is open

B: Breathing = Check for breathing; if victim is not breathing, give 2 rescue

breaths (if not already done in water rescue).

C: Circulation = Check circulation by feeling for pulse; if pulse is absent,

initiate chest compressions.

„„ Patient should be placed on 100% O2 and AED placed on chest – although a

shockable rhythm is unlikely.

„„ Be prepared to turn patient on their side and suction their airway – vomiting is
common.

„„ Even if AGE/DCS cannot be ruled out – immediately transport patient to nearest

hospital for continued treatment of cardiac/respiratory arrest. The mildest cases
of drowning will still require post rescue hospitalization and possibly intensive
care.

3‑5.4.4 Prevention of Near Drowning. Drowning is best prevented by thoroughly training

divers in safe diving practices and carefully selecting diving personnel. A trained

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-19

 diver should not easily fall victim to drowning. However, overconfidence can give
a feeling of false security that might lead a diver to take dangerous risks.

3-5.5 Breathholding and Unconsciousness. Most people can hold their breath approxi­
mately 1 minute, but usually not much longer without training or special prepara­
tion. At some time during a breath­holding attempt, the desire to breathe becomes
uncontrollable. The demand to breathe is signaled by the respiratory center re­
sponding to the increasing levels of carbon dioxide in the arterial blood and pe­
ripheral chemoreceptors responding to the corresponding fall in arterial oxygen
partial pressure. If the breathhold is preceded by a period of voluntary hyperventi­
lation, the breathhold can be much longer. Voluntary hyperventilation lowers body
stores of carbon dioxide below normal (a condition known as hypocapnia), with­
out significantly increasing oxygen stores. During the breathhold, it takes an ap­
preciable time for the body stores of carbon dioxide to return to the normal level
then to rise to the point where breathing is stimulated. During this time the oxy­
gen partial pressure may fall below the level necessary to maintain consciousness.
This is a common cause of breathholding accidents in swimming pools. Extended
breathholding after hyper­ventilation is not a safe procedure.

WARNING Voluntary hyperventilation is dangerous and can lead to unconscious-

ness and death during breathhold dives.

Another hazard of breathhold diving is the possible loss of consciousness from

hypoxia during ascent. Air in the lungs is compressed during descent, raising the
oxygen partial pressure. The increased ppO2 readily satisfies the body’s oxygen
demand during descent and while on the bottom, even though a portion is being
consumed by the body. During ascent, the partial pressure of the remaining oxygen
is reduced rapidly as the hydrostatic pressure on the body lessens. If the ppO2
falls below 0.10 ata (10% sev), unconsciousness may result. This danger is further
heightened when hyperventilation has eliminated normal body warning signs of
carbon dioxide accumulation and allowed the diver to remain on the bottom for a
longer period of time. Refer to Chapter 6 for breathhold diving restrictions.

3-5.6 Involuntary Hyperventilation. Hyperventilation is the term applied to breathing

more than is necessary to keep the body’s carbon dioxide tensions at proper level.
Hyperventilation may be volun­tary (for example, to increase breathholding time)
or involuntary. In involuntary hyperventilation, the diver is either unaware that he
is breathing excessively, or is unable to control his breathing.

3‑5.6.1 Causes of Involuntary Hyperventilation. Involuntary hyperventilation can be

triggered by fear experienced during stressful situations. It can also be initiated by
the slight “smothering sensation” that accom­panies an increase in equipment dead
space, an increase in static lung loading, or an increase in breathing resistance. Cold
water exposure can add to the sensation of needing to breathe faster and deeper.
Divers using SCUBA equipment for the first few times are likely to hyperventilate
to some extent because of anxiety.

3‑5.6.2 Symptoms of Involuntary Hyperventilation. Hyperventilation may lead to a

biochemical imbalance that gives rise to dizziness, tingling of the extremities, and

3-20 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 spasm of the small muscles of the hands and feet. Hyperventilating over a long
period, produces additional symptoms such as weak­ness, headaches, numbness,
faintness, and blurring of vision. The diver may experience a sensation of “air
hunger” even though his ventilation is more than enough to eliminate carbon
dioxide. All these symptoms can be easily confused with symptoms of CNS oxygen
toxicity.

3‑5.6.3 Treatment of Involuntary Hyperventilation. Hyperventilation victims should

be encouraged to relax and slow their breathing rates. The body will correct
hyperventilation naturally.

3-5.7 Overbreathing the Rig. “Overbreathing the Rig” is a special term divers apply to
an episode of acute hypercapnia that develops when a diver works at a level greater
than his UBA can support. When a diver starts work, or abruptly increases his
workload, the increase in respiratory minute ventilation lags the increase in oxygen
consumption and carbon dioxide production by several minutes. When the RMV
demand for that workload finally catches up, the UBA may not be able to supply
the gas necessary despite extreme respiratory efforts on the part of the diver. Acute
hyper­capnia with marked respiratory distress ensues. Even if the diver stops work
to lower the production of carbon dioxide, the sensation of shortness of breath may
persist or even increase for a short period of time. When this occurs, the inexperi­
enced diver may panic and begin to hyperventilate. The situation can rapidly
develop into a malicious cycle of severe shortness of breath and uncontrollable
hyperventilation. In this situation, if even a small amount of water is inhaled, it
can cause a spasm of the muscles of the larynx (voice box), called a laryngospasm,
followed by asphyxia and possible drowning.

The U.S. Navy makes every effort to ensure that UBA meet adequate breathing
standards to minimize flow resistance and static lung loading problems. However,
all UBA have their limitations and divers must have sufficient experience to
recognize those limitations and pace their work accordingly. Always increase
workloads gradually to insure that the UBA can match the demand for increased
lung ventilation. If excessive breathing resistance is encountered, slow or stop
the pace of work until a respiratory comfort level is achieved. If respiratory
distress occurs following an abrupt increase in workload, stop work and take even
controlled breaths until the sensation of respiratory distress subsides. If the situa­
tion does not improve, abort the dive.

3-5.8 Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. The body produces carbon monoxide as a part of
the process of normal metabo­lism. Consequently, there is always a small amount
of carbon monoxide present in the blood and tissues. Carbon monoxide poisoning
occurs when levels of carbon monoxide in the blood and tissues rise above these
normal values due to the pres­ence of carbon monoxide in the diver’s gas supply.
Carbon monoxide not only blocks hemoglobin’s ability to delivery oxygen to the
cells, causing cellular hypoxia, but also poisons cellular metabolism directly.

3‑5.8.1 Causes of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. Carbon monoxide is not found in any
significant quantity in fresh air. Carbon monoxide poisoning is usually caused by

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-21

 a compressor’s intake being too close to the exhaust of an internal combustion
engine or malfunction of a oil lubricated compressor. Concentrations as low as
0.002 ata (2,000 ppm, or 0.2%) can prove fatal.

3‑5.8.2 Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. The symptoms of carbon monoxide

poisoning are almost identical to those of hypoxia. When toxicity develops
gradually the symptoms are:

n Headache

n Dizziness

n Confusion

n Nausea

n Vomiting

n Tightness across the forehead

When carbon monoxide concentrations are high enough to cause rapid onset of
poisoning, the victim may not be aware of any symptoms before he becomes
unconscious.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is particularly treacherous because conspicuous

symptoms may be delayed until the diver begins to ascend. While at depth, the
greater partial pressure of oxygen in the breathing supply forces more oxygen into
solution in the blood plasma. Some of this additional oxygen reaches the cells and
helps to offset the hypoxia. In addition, the increased partial pressure of oxygen
forcibly displaces some carbon monoxide from the hemoglobin. During ascent,
however, as the partial pressure of oxygen diminishes, the full effect of carbon
monoxide poisoning is felt.

3‑5.8.3 Treatment of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. The immediate treatment of carbon

monoxide poisoning consists of getting the diver to fresh air and seeking medical
attention. Oxygen, if available, shall be administered immediately and while
transporting the patient to a hyperbaric or medical treatment facility. Hyperbaric
oxygen therapy is the definitive treatment of choice and transportation for
recompression should not be delayed except to stabilize the serious patient.
Divers with severe symptoms (i.e. severe headache, mental status changes, any
neurological symptoms, rapid heart rate) should be treated using Treatment Table
6.

3‑5.8.4 Prevention of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. Locating compressor intakes away

from engine exhausts and maintaining air compressors in the best possible
mechanical condition can prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. When carbon
monoxide poisoning is suspected, isolate the suspect breathing gas source, and
forward gas samples for analysis as soon as possible.

3-22 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 Semicircular
Canals
Incus Vestibular Nerve Facial Nerve

Cochlear Nerve

Cochlea

Round
Window

Eustachian Tubes
Malleus
Tympanic Stapes
Membrane at Oval
Window

External Auditory
Canal

Figure 3-7. Gross Anatomy of the Ear in Frontal Section.

3-6 MECHANICAL EFFECTS OF PRESSURE ON THE HUMAN BODY-BAROTRAUMA

DURING DESCENT

Barotrauma, or damage to body tissues from the mechanical effects of pressure,

results when pressure differentials between body cavities and the hydrostatic pres­
sure surrounding the body, or between the body and the diving equipment, are not
equalized properly. Barotrauma most frequently occurs during descent, but may
also occur during ascent. Barotrauma on descent is called squeeze. Barotrauma on
ascent is called reverse squeeze.

3-6.1 Prerequisites for Squeeze. For squeeze to occur during descent the following five
conditions must be met:

„„ There must be a gas-filled space. Any gas-filled space within the body (such as
a sinus cavity) or next to the body (such as a face mask) can damage the body
tissues when the gas volume changes because of increased pressure.

„„ The gas-filled space must have rigid walls. If the walls are collapsible like a
balloon, no damage will be done by compression.

„„ The gas-filled space must be enclosed. If gas or liquid can freely enter the
space as the gas volume changes, no damage will occur.

„„ The space must have lining membrane with an arterial blood supply and venous
drainage that penetrates the space from the outside. This allows blood to be
forced into the space to compensate for the change in pressure.

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-23

 „„ There must be a change in ambient pressure.

3-6.2 Middle Ear Squeeze. Middle ear squeeze is the most common type of barotrauma.
The anatomy of the ear is illustrated in Figure 3-7. The eardrum completely seals off
the outer ear canal from the middle ear space. As a diver descends, water pressure
increases on the external surface of the drum. To counterbalance this pressure, the
air pressure must reach the inner surface of the eardrum. This is accomplished by
the passage of air through the narrow eustachian tube that leads from the nasal
passages to the middle ear space. When the eustachian tube is blocked by mucous,
the middle ear meets four of the requirements for barotrauma to occur (gas filled
space, rigid walls, enclosed space, penetrating blood vessels).

As the diver continues his descent, the fifth requirement (change in ambient pres­
sure) is attained. As the pressure increases, the eardrum bows inward and initially
equalizes the pressure by compressing the middle ear gas. There is a limit to this
stretching capability and soon the middle ear pressure becomes lower than the
external water pressure, creating a relative vacuum in the middle ear space. This
negative pressure causes the blood vessels of the eardrum and lining of the middle
ear to first expand, then leak and finally burst. If descent continues, either the
eardrum ruptures, allowing air or water to enter the middle ear and equalize the
pressure, or blood vessels rupture and cause sufficient bleeding into the middle ear
to equalize the pressure. The latter usually happens.

The hallmark of middle ear squeeze is sharp pain caused by stretching of the
eardrum. The pain produced before rupture of the eardrum often becomes intense
enough to prevent further descent. Simply stopping the descent and ascending a
few feet usually brings about immediate relief.

If descent continues in spite of the pain, the eardrum may rupture. When rupture
occurs, this pain will diminish rapidly. Unless the diver is in hard hat diving dress,
the middle ear cavity may be exposed to water when the ear drum ruptures. This
exposes the diver to a possible middle ear infection and, in any case, prevents
the diver from diving until the damage is healed. If eardrum rupture occurs, the
dive shall be aborted. At the time of the rupture, the diver may experience the
sudden onset of a brief but violent episode of vertigo (a sensation of spinning). This
can completely disorient the diver and cause nausea and vomiting. This vertigo is
caused by violent disturbance of the malleus, incus, and stapes, or by cold water
stimulating the balance mechanism of the inner ear. The latter situation is referred
to as caloric vertigo and may occur from simply having cold or warm water enter
one ear and not the other. The eardrum does not have to rupture for caloric vertigo
to occur. It can occur as the result of having water enter one ear canal when swim­
ming or diving in cold water. Fortunately, these symptoms quickly pass when the
water reaching the middle ear is warmed by the body. Suspected cases of eardrum
rupture shall be referred to medical personnel.

3‑6.2.1 Preventing Middle Ear Squeeze. Diving with a partially blocked eustachian tube
increases the likelihood of middle ear squeeze. Divers who cannot clear their ears
on the surface should not dive. Medical personnel shall examine divers who have

3-24 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 trouble clearing their ears before diving. The possibility of barotrauma can be
virtually eliminated if certain precautions are taken. While descending, stay ahead
of the pressure. To avoid collapse of the eustachian tube and to clear the ears,
frequent adjustments of middle ear pressure must be made by adding gas through
the eustachian tubes from the back of the nose. If too large a pressure difference
develops between the middle ear pressure and the external pressure, the eustachian
tube collapses as it becomes swollen and blocked. For some divers, the eustachian
tube is open all the time so no conscious effort is necessary to clear their ears.
For the majority, however, the eustachian tube is normally closed and some action
must be taken to clear the ears. Many divers can clear by yawning, swallowing, or
moving the jaw around.

Some divers must gently force gas up the eustachian tube by closing their mouth,
pinching their nose and exhaling. This is called a Valsalva maneuver. If too large
a relative vacuum exists in the middle ear, the eustachian tube collapses and no
amount of forceful clearing will open it. If a squeeze is noticed during descent,
the diver shall stop, ascend a few feet and gently perform a Valsalva maneuver. If
clearing cannot be accomplished as described above, abort the dive.

WARNING Never do a forceful Valsalva maneuver during descent. A forceful Valsalva

maneuver can result in alternobaric vertigo or barotrauma to the inner
ear (see below).

WARNING If decongestants must be used, check with medical personnel trained in

diving medicine to obtain medication that will not cause drowsiness and
possibly add to symptoms caused by the narcotic effect of nitrogen.

3‑6.2.2 Treating Middle Ear Squeeze. Upon surfacing after a middle ear squeeze, the
diver may complain of pain, full­ness in the ear, hearing loss, or even mild vertigo.
Occasionally, the diver may have a bloody nose, the result of blood being forced
out of the middle ear space and into the nasal cavity through the eustachian tube
by expanding air in the middle ear. The diver shall report symptoms of middle ear
squeeze to the diving supervisor and seek medical attention. Treatment consists
of taking decongestants, pain medication if needed, and cessation of diving until
the damage is healed. If the eardrum has ruptured antibiotics may be prescribed as
well. Never administer medications directly into the external ear canal if a ruptured
eardrum is suspected or confirmed unless done in direct consultation with an ear,
nose, and throat (ENT) medical specialist.

3-6.3 Sinus Squeeze. Sinuses are located within hollow spaces of the skull bones and
are lined with a mucous membrane continuous with that of the nasal cavity (Figure
3-8). The sinuses are small air pockets connected to the nasal cavity by narrow
passages. If pressure is applied to the body and the passages to any of these sinuses
are blocked by mucous or tissue growths, pain will soon be experienced in the
affected area. The situation is very much like that described for the middle ear.

3‑6.3.1 Causes of Sinus Squeeze. When the air pressure in these sinuses is less than the
pressure applied to the tissues surrounding these incompressible spaces, the same
relative effect is produced as if a vacuum were created within the sinuses: the

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-25

 Frontal Sinus

Orbit

Ethmoidal Sinus

Nasal Cavity Maxillary Sinus

Nasal Septum Sphenoid Sinus

Figure 3-8. Location of the Sinuses in the Human Skull.

lining membranes swell and, if severe enough, hemorrhage into the sinus spaces.
This process repre­sents nature’s effort to balance the relative negative air pressure
by filling the space with swollen tissue, fluid, and blood. The sinus is actually
squeezed. The pain produced may be intense enough to halt the diver’s descent.
Unless damage has already occurred, a return to normal pressure will bring about
immediate relief. If such difficulty has been encountered during a dive, the diver
may often notice a small amount of bloody nasal discharge on reaching the surface.

3‑6.3.2 Preventing Sinus Squeeze. Divers should not dive if any signs of nasal congestion
or a head cold are evident. The effects of squeeze can be limited during a dive by
halting the descent and ascending a few feet to restore the pressure balance. If the
space cannot be equal­ized by swallowing or blowing against a pinched-off nose,
the dive must be aborted.

3-6.4 Tooth Squeeze (Barodontalgia). Tooth squeeze occurs when a small pocket of
gas, generated by decay, is lodged under a poorly fitted or cracked filling. If this
pocket of gas is completely isolated, the pulp of the tooth or the tissues in the tooth
socket can be sucked into the space causing pain. If additional gas enters the tooth
during descent and does not vent during ascent, it can cause the tooth to crack
or the filling to be dislodged. Prior to any dental work, personnel shall identify
themselves as divers to the dentist.

3-6.5 External Ear Squeeze. A diver who wears ear plugs, has an infected external ear
(external otitis), has a wax-impacted ear canal, or wears a tight-fitting wet suit
hood, can develop an external ear squeeze. The squeeze occurs when gas trapped
in the external ear canal remains at atmospheric pressure while the external water
pressure increases during descent. In this case, the eardrum bows outward (opposite
of middle ear squeeze) in an attempt to equalize the pressure difference and may
rupture. The skin of the canal swells and hemorrhages, causing considerable pain.

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 Ear plugs must never be worn while diving. In addition to creating the squeeze,
they may be forced deep into the ear canal. When a hooded suit must be worn, air
(or water in some types) must be allowed to enter the hood to equalize pressure in
the ear canal.

3-6.6 Thoracic (Lung) Squeeze. When making a breathhold dive, it is possible to reach
a depth at which the air held in the lungs is compressed to a volume somewhat
smaller than the normal residual volume of the lungs. At this volume, the chest
wall becomes stiff and incompressible. If the diver descends further, the additional
pressure is unable to compress the chest walls, force additional blood into the blood
vessels in the chest, or elevate the diaphragm further. The pressure in the lung
becomes negative with respect to the external water pressure. Injury takes the form
of squeeze. Blood and tissue fluids are forced into the lung alveoli and air passages
where the air is under less pressure than the blood in the surrounding vessels. This
amounts to an attempt to relieve the negative pressure within the lungs by partially
filling the air space with swollen tissue, fluid, and blood. Considerable lung damage
results and, if severe enough, may prove fatal. If the diver descends still further,
death will occur as a result of the collapse of the chest. Breathhold diving shall be
limited to controlled, training situations or special operational situations involving
well-trained personnel at shallow depths.

A surface-supplied diver who suffers a loss of gas pressure or hose rupture with
failure of the nonreturn valve may suffer a lung squeeze, if his depth is great
enough, as the surrounding water pressure compresses his chest.

3-6.7 Face or Body Squeeze. SCUBA face masks, goggles, and certain types of exposure
suits may cause squeeze under some conditions. Exhaling through the nose can
usually equalize the pressure in a face mask, but this is not possible with goggles.
Goggles shall only be used for surface swimming. The eye and the eye socket
tissues are the most seriously affected tissues in an instance of face mask or goggle
squeeze. When using exposure suits, air may be trapped in a fold in the garment
and may lead to some discomfort and possibly a minor case of hemorrhage into the
skin from pinching.

3-6.8 Inner Ear Barotrauma. The inner ear contains no gas and therefore cannot be
“squeezed” in the same sense that the middle ear and sinuses can. However,
the inner ear is located next to the middle ear cavity and is affected by the same
conditions that lead to middle ear squeeze. To understand how the inner ear could
be damaged as a result of pressure imbalances in the middle ear, it is first necessary
to understand the anatomy of the middle and inner ear.

The inner ear contains two important organs, the cochlea and the vestibular appa­
ratus. The cochlea is the hearing sense organ; damage to the cochlea will result in
hearing loss and ringing in the ear (tinnitus). The vestibular apparatus is the balance
organ; damage to the vestibular apparatus will result in vertigo and unsteadiness.

There are three bones in the middle ear: the malleus, the incus, and the stapes.
They are also commonly referred to as the hammer, anvil, and stirrup, respectively
(Figure 3‑9). The malleus is connected to the eardrum (tympanic membrane) and

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-27

 Incus
Malleus Stapedius
Muscle
Tensor tympani
Tympanic
Membrane

Stapes

Oval
Window

Eustachian
Tube

Figure 3-9. Components of the Middle Ear.

transmits sound vibrations to the incus, which in turn transmits these vibrations to
the stapes, which relays them to the inner ear. The stapes transmits these vibrations
to the inner ear fluid through a membrane-covered hole called the oval window.
Another membrane-covered hole called the round window connects the inner ear
with the middle ear and relieves pressure waves in the inner ear caused by move­ment
of the stapes. When the stapes drives the oval window inward, the round window
bulges outward to compensate. The fluid-filled spaces of the inner ear are also
connected to the fluid spaces surrounding the brain by a narrow passage called the
cochlear aqueduct. The cochlear aqueduct can transmit increases in cerebrospinal
fluid pressure to the inner ear. When Valsalva maneuvers are performed to equalize
middle ear and sinus pressure, cerebrospinal fluid pressure increases.

If middle ear pressure is not equalized during descent, the inward bulge of the
eardrum is transmitted to the oval window by the middle ear bones. The stapes
pushes the oval window inward. Because the inner ear fluids are incompressible,
the round window correspondingly bulges outward into the middle ear space. If
this condition continues, the round window may rupture spilling inner ear fluids
into the middle ear and leading to a condition know as inner ear barotrauma with
perilymph fistula. Fistula is a medical term for a hole in a membrane; the fluid
in the inner ear is called perilymph. Rupture of the oval or round windows may
also occur when middle ear pressures are suddenly and forcibly equalized. When
equalization is sudden and forceful, the eardrum moves rapidly from a position of
bulging inward maximally to bulging outward maximally. The positions of the oval
and round windows are suddenly reversed. Inner ear pressure is also increased by
transmission of the Valsalva-induced increase in cerebrospinal fluid pressure. This
puts additional stresses on these two membranes. Either the round or oval window
may rupture. Rupture of the round window is by far the most common. The oval

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 window is a tougher membrane and is protected by the foot­plate of the stapes.
Even if rupture of the round or oval window does not occur, the pressure waves
induced in the inner ear during these window movements may lead to disruption
of the delicate cells involved in hearing and balance. This condi­tion is referred to
inner ear barotrauma without perilymph fistula.

The primary symptoms of inner ear barotrauma are persistent vertigo and hearing
loss. Vertigo is the false sensation of motion. The diver feels that he is moving
with respect to his environment or that the environment is moving with respect to
him, when in fact no motion is taking place. The vertigo of inner ear barotrauma is
generally described as whirling, spinning, rotating, tilting, rocking, or undu­lating.
This sensation is quite distinct from the more vague complaints of dizziness or
lightheadedness caused by other conditions. The vertigo of inner ear barotrauma
is often accompanied by symptoms that may or may not be noticed depending
on the severity of the insult. These include nausea, vomiting, loss of balance,
incoordination, and a rapid jerking movement of the eyes, called nystagmus.
Vertigo may be accentuated when the head is placed in certain posi­tions. The
hearing loss of inner ear barotrauma may fluctuate in intensity and sounds may be
distorted. Hearing loss is accompanied by ringing or roaring in the affected ear.
The diver may also complain of a sensation of bubbling in the affected ear.

Symptoms of inner ear barotrauma usually appear abruptly during descent, often
as the diver arrives on the bottom and performs his last equalization maneuver.
However, the damage done by descent may not become apparent until the dive
is over. A common scenario is for the diver to rupture a damaged round window
while lifting heavy weights or having a bowel movement post dive. Both these
activities increase cerebrospinal fluid pressure and this pressure increase is trans­
mitted to the inner ear. The round window membrane, weakened by the trauma
suffered during descent, bulges into the middle ear space under the influence of the
increased cerebrospinal fluid pressure and ruptures.

All cases of suspected inner ear barotrauma should be referred to an ear, nose and
throat (ENT) physician as soon as possible. Treatment of inner ear barotrauma
ranges from bed rest with head elevation to exploratory surgery, depending on
the severity of the symptoms and whether a perilymph fistula is suspected. Any
hearing loss or vertigo occurring within 72 hours of a hyperbaric exposure should
be evaluated as a possible case of inner ear barotrauma.

When either hearing loss or vertigo develop after the diver has surfaced, it may
be impossible to tell whether the symptoms are caused by inner ear barotrauma,
decompression sickness or arterial gas embolism. For the latter two conditions,
recompression treatment is mandatory. Although it might be expected that
recompression treatment would further damage to the inner ear in a case of
barotrauma and should be avoided, experience has shown that recompression is
generally not harmful provided a few simple precautions are followed. The diver
should be placed in a head up position and compressed slowly to allow adequate
time for middle ear equalization. Clearing maneuvers should be gentle. The diver
should not be exposed to excessive positive or negative pressure when breathing

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-29

 oxygen on the built-in breathing system (BIBS) mask. Recompress the diver if
there is doubt about the cause of post-dive hearing loss or vertigo.

CAUTION When in doubt, always recompress.

Frequent oscillations in middle ear pressure associated with difficult clearing may
lead to a transient vertigo. This condition is called alternobaric vertigo of descent.
Vertigo usually follows a Valsalva maneuver, often with the final clearing episode
just as the diver reaches the bottom. Symptoms typically last less than a minute but
can cause significant disorientation during that period. Descent should be halted
until the vertigo resolves. Once the vertigo resolves, the dive may be continued.
Alternobaric vertigo is a mild form of inner ear barotrauma in which no lasting
damage to the inner ear occurs.

3-7 MECHANICAL EFFECTS OF PRESSURE ON THE HUMAN BODY--BAROTRAUMA

DURING ASCENT

During ascent gases expand according to Boyle’s Law. If the excess gas is not
vented from enclosed spaces, damage to those spaces may result.

3-7.1 Middle Ear Overpressure (Reverse Middle Ear Squeeze). Expanding gas in the
middle ear space during ascent ordinarily vents out through the eustachian tube. If
the tube becomes blocked, pressure in the middle ear rela­tive to the external water
pressure increases. To relieve this pressure, the eardrum bows outward causing
pain. If the overpressure is significant, the eardrum may rupture. If rupture occurs,
the middle ear will equalize pressure with the surrounding water and the pain will
disappear. However, there may be a transient episode of intense vertigo as cold
water enters the middle ear space.

The increased pressure in the middle ear may also affect the inner ear balance
mechanism, leading to a condition called alternobaric vertigo of ascent. Alter­
nobaric vertigo occurs when the middle ear space on one side is overpressurized
while the other side is equalizing normally. The onset of vertigo is usually sudden
and may be preceded by pain in the ear that is not venting excess pressure. Alter­
nobaric vertigo usually lasts for only a few minutes, but may be incapacitating
during that time. Relief is usually abrupt and may be accompanied by a hissing
sound in the affected ear as it equalizes. Alternobaric vertigo during ascent will
disappear immediately if the diver halts his ascent and descends a few feet.

Increased pressure in the middle ear can also produce paralysis of the facial
muscles, a condition known as facial baroparesis. In some individuals, the facial
nerve is exposed to middle ear pressure as it traverses the temporal bone. If the
middle ear fails to vent during ascent, the overpressure can shut off the blood
supply to the nerve causing it to stop transmitting neural impulses to the facial
muscles on the affected side. Generally, a 10 to 30 min period of overpressure is
necessary for symptoms to occur. Full function of the facial muscles returns 5-10
min after the overpressure is relieved.

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 Increased pressure in the middle ear can also cause structural damage to the inner
ear, a condition known as inner ear barotrauma of ascent. The bulging ear drum
pulls the oval window outward into the middle ear space through the action of the
middle ear bones. The round window correspondingly bulges inward. This inward
deflection can be enhanced if the diver further increases middle ear pressure by
performing a Valsalva maneuver. The round window may rupture causing inner
ear fluids to spill into the middle ear space. The symptoms of marked hearing loss
and sustained vertigo are identical to the symptoms experienced with inner ear
barotrauma during descent.

A diver who has a cold or is unable to equalize the ears is more likely to develop
reverse middle ear squeeze. There is no uniformly effective way to clear the ears
on ascent. Do not perform a Valsalva maneuver on ascent, as this will increase the
pressure in the middle ear, which is the direct opposite of what is required. The
Valsalva maneuver can also lead to the possibility of an arterial gas embolism.
If pain in the ear or vertigo develops on ascent, the diver should halt the ascent,
descend a few feet to relieve the symptoms and then continue his ascent at a slower
rate. Several such attempts may be necessary as the diver gradually works his way
to the surface. If symptoms of sustained hearing loss or vertigo appear during
ascent, or shortly after ascent, it may be impossible to tell whether the symptoms
are arising from inner ear barotrauma or from decompression sickness or arterial
gas embolism. Recompression therapy is indicated unless there is high confidence
that the condition is inner ear barotrauma.

3-7.2 Sinus Overpressure (Reverse Sinus Squeeze). Overpressure is caused when gas
is trapped within the sinus cavity. A fold in the sinus-lining membrane, a cyst, or
an outgrowth of the sinus membrane (polyp) may act as a check valve and prevent
gas from leaving the sinus during ascent. Sharp pain in the area of the affected
sinus results from the increased pressure. The pain is usually sufficient to stop
the diver from ascending. Pain is immediately relieved by descending a few feet.
From that point, the diver should titrate himself slowly to the surface in a series of
ascents and descents just as with a reverse middle ear squeeze.

When overpressure occurs in the maxillary sinus, the blood supply to the infraor­
bital nerve may be reduced, leading to numbness of the lower eyelid, upper lip,
side of the nose, and cheek on the affected side. This numbness will resolve spon­
taneously when the sinus overpressure is relieved.

3-7.3 Gastrointestinal Distention. Divers may occasionally experience abdominal

pain during ascent because of gas expansion in the stomach or intestines. This
condition is caused by gas being generated in the intestines during a dive, or by
swallowing air (aerophagia). These pockets of gas will usually work their way out
of the system through the mouth or anus. If not, distention will occur.

If the pain begins to pass the stage of mild discomfort, ascent should be halted and
the diver should descend slightly to relieve the pain. The diver should then attempt
to gently burp or release the gas anally. Overzealous attempts to belch should be

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-31

 avoided as they may result in swallowing more air. Abdominal pain following fast
ascents shall be evaluated by a Diving Medical Officer.

To avoid intestinal gas expansion:

„„ Do not dive with an upset stomach or bowel.

„„ Avoid eating foods that are likely to produce intestinal gas.

„„ Avoid a steep, head-down angle during descent to minimize the amount of air
swallowed.

Figure 3-10. Pulmonary Overinflation Syndromes (POIS). Leaking of gas into the pulmo­
nary interstitial tissue causes no symptoms unless further leaking occurs. If gas enters
the arterial circulation, potentially fatal arterial gas embolism may occur. Pneumothorax
occurs if gas accumulates between the lung and chest wall and if accumulation continues
without venting, then tension pneumothorax may result.

3-8 PULMONARY OVERINFLATION SYNDROMES

Pulmonary overinflation syndromes are a group of barotrauma-related diseases

caused by the expansion of gas trapped in the lung during ascent (reverse squeeze)
or overpressurization of the lung with subsequent overexpansion and rupture of
the alveolar air sacs. Excess pressure inside the lung can also occur when a diver
presses the purge button on a single-hose regulator while taking a breath. The two
main causes of alveolar rupture are:

„„ Excessive pressure inside the lung caused by positive pressure

„„ Failure of expanding gas to escape from the lung during ascent

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 Figure 3-11. Arterial Gas Embolism.

Pulmonary overinflation from expanding gas failing to escape from the lung during
ascent can occur when a diver voluntarily or involuntarily holds his breath during
ascent. Localized pulmonary obstructions that can cause air trapping, such as
asthma or thick secretions from pneumonia or a severe cold, are other causes. The
conditions that bring about these incidents are different from those that produce lung
squeeze and they most frequently occur during free and buoyant ascent training or
emergency ascent from dives made with lightweight diving equipment or SCUBA.

The clinical manifestations of pulmonary overinflation depend on the location

where the free air collects. In all cases, the first step is rupture of the alveolus with
a collection of air in the lung tissues, a condition known as interstitial emphysema.
Interstitial emphysema causes no symptoms unless further distribution of the air
occurs. Gas may find its way into the chest cavity or arterial circulation. These
conditions are depicted in Figure 3‑10.

3-8.1 Arterial Gas Embolism (AGE). Arterial gas embolism (AGE), sometimes simply
called gas embolism, is an obstruction of blood flow caused by gas bubbles
(emboli) entering the arterial circulation. Obstruction of the arteries of the brain
and heart can lead to death if not promptly relieved (see Figure 3-11).

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-33

 3‑8.1.1 Causes of AGE. AGE is caused by the expansion of gas taken into the lungs while
breathing under pressure and held in the lungs during ascent. The gas might have
been retained in the lungs by choice (voluntary breathholding) or by accident
(blocked air passages), or by over pressurization of breathing gas. The gas could
have become trapped in an obstructed portion of the lung that has been damaged
from some previous disease or accident; or the diver, reacting with panic to a
difficult situation, may breathhold without realizing it. If there is enough gas and
if it expands sufficiently, the pressure will force gas through the alveolar walls
into surrounding tissues and into the bloodstream. If the gas enters the arterial
circulation, it will be dispersed to all organs of the body. The organs that are
especially susceptible to arterial gas embolism and that are respon­sible for the life-
threatening symptoms are the central nervous system (CNS) and the heart. In all
cases of arterial gas embolism, associated pneumothorax is possible and should not
be overlooked. Exhaustion of air supply and the need for an emer­gency ascent is
the most common cause of AGE.

3‑8.1.2 Symptoms of AGE

„„ Unconsciousness

„„ Paralysis

„„ Numbness

„„ Weakness

„„ Extreme fatigue

„„ Large areas of abnormal sensations (Paresthesias)

„„ Difficulty in thinking

„„ Vertigo

„„ Convulsions

„„ Vision abnormalities

„„ Loss of coordination

„„ Nausea and or vomiting

„„ Hearing abnormalities

„„ Sensation similar to that of a blow to the chest during ascent

„„ Bloody sputum

„„ Dizziness

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 „„ Personality changes

„„ Loss of control of bodily functions

„„ Tremors

Symptoms of subcutaneous/medistinal emphysema, pneumothorax and/or pneu­

mopericardium may also be present (see below). In all cases of arterial gas
embolism, the possible presence of these associated conditions should not be
overlooked.

3‑8.1.3 Treatment of AGE.

„„ Basic first aid (ABC)

„„ 100 percent oxygen

„„ Immediate recompression

„„ See Volume 5 for more specific information regarding treatment.

3‑8.1.4 Prevention of AGE. The risk of arterial gas embolism can be substantially reduced
or eliminated by paying careful attention to the following:

„„ Every diver must receive intensive training in diving physics and physiology,
as well as instruction in the correct use of diving equipment. Particular attention
must be given to the training of SCUBA divers, because SCUBA operations
produce a comparatively high incidence of embolism accidents.

„„ A diver must never interrupt breathing during ascent from a dive in which
compressed gas has been breathed.

„„ A diver must exhale continuously while making an emergency ascent. The rate
of exhalation must match the rate of ascent. For a free ascent, where the diver
uses natural buoyancy to be carried toward the surface, the rate of exhalation
must be great enough to prevent embolism, but not so great that positive
buoyancy is lost. In a uncontrolled or buoyant ascent, where a life preserver,
dry suit or buoyancy compensator assists the diver, the rate of ascent may far
exceed that of a free ascent. The exhalation must begin before the ascent and
must be a strong, steady, and forceful. It is difficult for an untrained diver to
execute an emergency ascent properly. It is also often dangerous to train a diver
in the proper technique.

„„ The diver must not hesitate to report any ill­ness, especially respiratory illness
such as a cold, to the Diving Supervisor or Diving Medical Personnel prior to
diving.

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-35

 Figure 3-12. Mediastinal Emphysema.

3-8.2 Mediastinal and Subcutaneous Emphysema. Mediastinal emphysema, also called

pneumomediastinum, occurs when gas is forced through torn lung tissue into the
loose mediastinal tissues in the middle of the chest surrounding the heart, the
trachea, and the major blood vessels (see Figure 3-12). Subcutaneous emphysema
occurs when that gas subsequently migrates into the subcutaneous tissues of the
neck (Figure 3-13). Mediastinal emphysema is a pre-requisite for subcutaneous
emphysema.

3‑8.2.1 Causes of Mediastinal & Subcutaneous Emphysema. Mediastinal/subcutaneous

emphysema is caused by over inflation of the whole lung or parts of the lung due
to:

„„ Breath holding during ascent

„„ Positive pressure breathing such as ditch and don exercises

„„ Drown proofing exercises

„„ Cough during surface swimming

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 Figure 3-13. Subcutaneous Emphysema.

3‑8.2.2 Symptoms of Mediastinal & Subcutaneous Emphysema. Mild cases are often
unnoticed by the diver. In more severe cases, the diver may experience mild to
moderate pain under the breastbone, often described as dull ache or feeling of
tightness. The pain may radiate to the shoulder or back and may increase upon
deep inspiration, coughing, or swallowing. The diver may have a feeling of fullness
around the neck and may have difficulty in swallowing. His voice may change in
pitch. An observer may note a swelling or apparent inflation of the diver’s neck.
Movement of the skin near the windpipe or about the collar bone may produce a
cracking or crunching sound (crepitation).

3‑8.2.3 Treatment of Mediastinal & Subcutaneous Emphysema. Suspicion of mediastinal

or subcutaneous emphysema warrants prompt referral to medical personnel to rule
out the coexistence of arterial gas embolism or pneu­mothorax. The latter two con­
ditions require more aggressive treatment. Treatment of mediastinal or subcutane­
ous emphysema with mild symptoms consists of breathing 100 percent oxygen
at the surface. If symptoms are severe, shallow recompression may be beneficial.
Recompression should only be carried out upon the recommendation of a Diving
Medical Officer who has ruled out the occurrence of pneumothorax. Recompres­
sion is performed with the diver breathing 100 percent oxygen and using the shal­
lowest depth of relief (usually 5 or 10 feet). An hour of breathing oxygen should

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-37

 Figure 3-14. Pneumothorax.

be sufficient for resolution, but longer stays may be necessary. Decompression

will be dictated by the tender’s decompression obli­gation. The appropriate air ta­
ble should be used, but the ascent rate should not exceed 1 foot per minute. In this
specific case, the delay in ascent should be included in bottom time when choosing
the proper decompression table.

3‑8.2.4 Prevention of Mediastinal & Subcutaneous Emphysema. The strategies for pre-
venting mediastinal/subcutaneous emphysema are identical to the strategies for
preventing arterial gas embolism. Breathe normally during ascent. If emergency
ascent is required, exhale continuously. Mediastinal/subcuta­neous emphysema is
particularly common after ditch and don exercises. Avoid positive pressure breathing
situations during such exercises. The mediastinal/subcutaneous emphysema that is
seen during drown proofing exercises and during surface swimming unfortunately
is largely unavoidable.

3-8.3 Pneumothorax. A pneumothorax is air trapped in the pleural space between the
lung and the chest wall (Figure 3-14).

3‑8.3.1 Causes of Pneumothorax. A pneumothorax occurs when the lung surface ruptures
and air spills into the space between the lung and chest wall. Lung rupture can
result from a severe blow to the chest or from overpressurization of the lung. In
its usual manifesta­tion, called a simple pneumothorax, a one-time leakage of air
from the lung into the chest partially collapses the lung, causing varying degrees

3-38 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 Organ
Shift

Heart

Figure 3-15. Tension Pneumothorax.

of respiratory distress. This condition normally improves with time as the air is
reabsorbed. In severe cases of collapse, the air must be removed with the aid of a
tube or catheter.

In certain instances, the damaged lung may allow air to enter but not exit the
pleural space. Successive breathing gradually enlarges the air pocket. This
is called a tension pneumothorax (Figure 3‑15) because of the progressively
increasing tension or pressure exerted on the lung and heart by the expanding gas.
If uncorrected, this force presses on the involved lung, causing it to completely
collapse. The lung, and then the heart, are pushed toward the opposite side of the
chest, which impairs both respiration and circulation.

A simple pneumothorax that occurs while the diver is at depth can be converted to
a tension pneumothorax by expansion of the gas pocket during ascent. Although a
ball valve like mechanism that allows air to enter the pleural cavity but not escape
is not present, the result is the same. The mounting tension collapses the lung on
the affected side and pushes the heart and lung to the opposite side of the chest.

3‑8.3.2 Symptoms of Pneumothorax. The onset of a simple pneumothorax is accompanied

by a sudden, sharp chest pain, followed by shortness of breath, labored breathing,
rapid heart rate, a weak pulse, and anxiety. The normal chest movements associated
with respiration may be reduced on the affected side and breath sounds may be
difficult to hear with a stethoscope.

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-39

 The symptoms of tension pneumothorax are similar to simple pneumothorax, but
become progressively more intense over time. As the heart and lungs are displaced
to the opposite side of the chest, blood pressure falls along with the arterial oxygen
partial pressure. Cyanosis (a bluish discoloration) of the skin appears. If left
untreated, shock and death will ensue. Tension pneumothorax is a true medical
emergency.

3‑8.3.3 Treatment of Pneumothorax. A diver believed to be suffering from pneumothorax

must be thoroughly examined for the possible co-existence of arterial gas embolism.
This is covered more fully in Volume 5.

A small pneumothorax (less than 15%) normally will improve with time as the
air in the pleural space is reabsorbed spontaneously. A larger pneumothorax
may require active treatment. Mild pneumothorax can be treated by breathing
100 percent oxygen. Cases of pneumothorax that demonstrate cardio-respiratory
compromise may require the insertion of a chest tube, largebore intravenous (IV)
catheter, or other device designed to remove intrathoracic gas (gas around the
lung). Only personnel trained in the use of these and the other accessory devices
(one-way valves, underwater suction, etc.) necessary to safety decompress the
thoracic cavity should insert them. Divers recompressed for treatment of arterial
gas embolism or decompression sickness, who also have a pneumothorax, will
experience relief upon recompression. A chest tube or other device with a one-
way relief valve may need to be inserted at depth to prevent expansion of the
trapped gas during subsequent ascent. A tension pneumothorax should always be
suspected if the diver’s condition deteriorates rapidly during ascent, especially if
the symptoms are respiratory. If a tension pneumothorax is found, recompress to
depth of relief until the thoracic cavity can be properly vented. Pneumothorax,
if present in combination with arterial gas embolism or decompression sickness,
should not prevent immediate recompression therapy. However, a pneumothorax
may need to be vented as described before ascent from treatment depth. In cases of
tension pneumothorax, this procedure may be lifesaving.

3‑8.3.4 Prevention of Pneumothorax. The strategies for avoiding pneumothorax are the
same as those for avoiding arte­rial gas embolism. Breathe normally during ascent.
If forced to perform an emergency ascent, exhale continuously.

3-9 INDIRECT EFFECTS OF PRESSURE ON THE HUMAN BODY

The conditions previously described occur because of differences in pressure that

damage body structures in a direct, mechanical manner. The indirect or secondary
effects of pressure are the result of changes in the partial pressure of individual
gases in the diver’s breathing medium. The mechanisms of these effects include
saturation and desaturation of body tissues with dissolved gas and the modifica­tion
of body functions by abnormal gas partial pressures.

3-9.1 Nitrogen Narcosis. Nitrogen narcosis is the state of euphoria and exhilaration that
occurs when a diver breathes a gas mixture with a nitrogen partial pressure greater
than approximately 4 ata.

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 3‑9.1.1 Causes of Nitrogen Narcosis. Breathing nitrogen at high partial pressures has
a narcotic effect on the central nervous system that causes euphoria and impairs
the diver’s ability to think clearly. The narcotic effect begins at a nitrogen partial
pressure of approximately 4 ata and increases in severity as the partial pressure
is increased beyond that point. A nitrogen partial pressure of 8 ata causes very
marked impairment; partial pres­sures in excess of 10 ata may lead to hallucinations
and unconsciousness. For a dive on air, narcosis usually appears at a depth of
approximately 130 fsw, is very prominent at a depth of 200 fsw, and becomes
disabling at deeper depths.

There is a wide range of individual susceptibility to narcosis. There is also some

evidence that adaptation occurs on repeated exposures. Some divers, particularly
those experienced in deep operations with air, can often work as deep as 200 fsw
without serious difficulty. Others cannot.

3‑9.1.2 Symptoms of Nitrogen Narcosis. The symptoms of nitrogen narcosis include:

„„ Loss of judgment or skill

„„ A false feeling of well-being

„„ Lack of concern for job or safety

„„ Apparent stupidity

„„ Inappropriate laughter

„„ Tingling and vague numbness of the lips, gums, and legs

Disregard for personal safety is the greatest hazard of nitrogen narcosis. Divers
may display abnormal behavior such as removing the regulator mouthpiece or
swimming to unsafe depths without regard to decompression sickness or air supply.

3‑9.1.3 Treatment of Nitrogen Narcosis. The treatment for nitrogen narcosis is to bring
the diver to a shallower depth where the effects are not felt. The narcotic effects
will rapidly dissipate during the ascent. There is no hangover associated with
nitrogen narcosis.

3‑9.1.4 Prevention of Nitrogen Narcosis. Experienced and stable divers may be reasonably
productive and safe at depths where others fail. They are familiar with the extent to
which nitrogen narcosis impairs performance. They know that a strong conscious
effort to continue the dive requires unusual care, time, and effort to make even
the simplest observations and decisions. Any relaxation of conscious effort can
lead to failure or a fatal blunder. Experience, frequent exposure to deep diving,
and training may enable divers to perform air dives as deep as 180-200 fsw, but
novices and susceptible individuals should remain at shallower depths or dive with
helium-oxygen mixtures.

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-41

 Helium is widely used in mixed-gas diving as a substitute for nitrogen to prevent
narcosis. Helium has not demonstrated narcotic effects at any depth tested by
the U.S. Navy. Diving with helium-oxygen mixtures is the only way to prevent
nitrogen narcosis. Helium-oxygen mixtures should be considered for any dive in
excess of 150 fsw.

3-9.2 Oxygen Toxicity. Exposure to a partial pressure of oxygen above that encountered
in normal daily living may be toxic to the body. The extent of the toxicity is
dependent upon both the oxygen partial pressure and the exposure time. The higher
the partial pressure and the longer the exposure, the more severe the toxicity. The
two types of oxygen toxicity experienced by divers are pulmonary oxygen toxicity
and central nervous system (CNS) oxygen toxicity.

3‑9.2.1 Pulmonary Oxygen Toxicity. Pulmonary oxygen toxicity, sometimes called low
pressure oxygen poisoning, can occur whenever the oxygen partial pressure
exceeds 0.5 ata. A 12 hour exposure to a partial pressure of 1 ata will produce mild
symptoms and measurable decreases in lung function. The same effect will occur
with a 4 hour exposure at a partial pressure of 2 ata.

Long exposures to higher levels of oxygen, such as administered during Recom­

pression Treatment Tables 4, 7, and 8, may produce pulmonary oxygen toxicity.
The symptoms of pulmonary oxygen toxicity may begin with a burning sensation
on inspiration and progress to pain on inspiration. During recompression treat­
ments, pulmonary oxygen toxicity may have to be tolerated in patients with severe
neurological symptoms to effect adequate treatment. In conscious patients, the
pain and coughing experienced with inspiration eventually limit further exposure
to oxygen. Unconscious patients who receive oxygen treatments do not feel pain
and it is possible to subject them to exposures resulting in permanent lung damage
or pneumonia. For this reason, care must be taken when administering 100 percent
oxygen to unconscious patients even at surface pressure.

Return to normal pulmonary function gradually occurs after the exposure is termi­
nated. There is no specific treatment for pulmonary oxygen toxicity.

The only way to avoid pulmonary oxygen toxicity completely is to avoid the
long exposures to moderately elevated oxygen partial pressures that produce it.
However, there is a way of extending tolerance. If the oxygen exposure is period­
ically interrupted by a short period of time at low oxygen partial pressure, the total
exposure time needed to produce a given level of toxicity can be increased signifi­
cantly.

3‑9.2.2 Central Nervous System (CNS) Oxygen Toxicity. Central nervous system (CNS)
oxygen toxicity, sometimes called high pressure oxygen poisoning, can occur
whenever the oxygen partial pressure exceeds 1.3 ata in a wet diver or 2.4 ata in a
dry diver. The reason for the marked increase in susceptibility in a wet diver is not
completely understood. At partial pressures above the respective 1.3 ata wet and
2.4 ata dry thresholds, the risk of CNS toxicity is dependent on the oxygen partial
pressure and the exposure time. The higher the partial pressure and the longer the

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 exposure time, the more likely CNS symptoms will occur. This gives rise to partial
pressure of oxygen-exposure time limits for various types of diving.

3‑9.2.2.1 Factors Affecting the Risk of CNS Oxygen Toxicity. A number of factors are
known to influence the risk of CNS oxygen toxicity:

Individual Susceptibility. Susceptibility to CNS oxygen toxicity varies markedly

from person to person. Individual susceptibility also varies markedly from time to
time and for this reason divers may experience CNS oxygen toxicity at exposure
times and pressures previously tolerated. Individual variability makes it difficult to
set oxygen exposure limits that are both safe and practical.

CO2 Retention. Hypercapnia greatly increases the risk of CNS toxicity probably
through its effect on increasing brain blood flow and consequently brain oxygen
levels. Hypercapnia may result from an accumulation of CO2 in the inspired gas
or from inadequate ventilation of the lungs. The latter is usually due to increased
breathing resistance or a suppression of respiratory drive by high inspired ppO2.
Hypercapnia is most likely to occur on deep dives and in divers using closed and
semi-closed circuit rebreathers.

Exercise. Exercise greatly increases the risk of CNS toxicity, probably by increasing
the degree of CO2 retention. Exposure limits must be much more conservative for
exercising divers than for resting divers.

Immersion in Water. Immersion in water greatly increases the risk of CNS toxicity.
The precise mechanism for the big increase in risk over comparable dry chamber
exposures is unknown, but may involve a greater tendency for diver CO2 retention
during immersion. Exposure limits must be much more conservative for immersed
divers than for dry divers.

Depth. Increasing depth is associated with an increased risk of CNS toxicity even
though ppO2 may remain unchanged. This is the situation with UBAs that control
the oxygen partial pressure at a constant value, like the MK 16. The precise mech­
anism for this effect is unknown, but is probably more than just the increase in gas
density and concomitant CO2 retention. There is some evidence that the inert gas
component of the gas mixture accelerates the formation of damaging oxygen free
radicals. Exposure limits for mixed gas diving must be more conservative than for
pure oxygen diving.

Intermittent Exposure. Periodic interruption of high ppO2 exposure with a 5-15

min exposure to low ppO2 will reduce the risk of CNS toxicity and extend the total
allowable exposure time to high ppO2. This technique is most often employed in
hyperbaric treatments and surface decompression.

Because of these modifying influences, allowable oxygen exposure times vary

from situation to situation and from diving system to diving system. In general,
closed and semi-closed circuit rebreathing systems require the lowest partial pres­
sure limits, whereas surface-supplied open-circuit systems permit slightly higher

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-43

 limits. Allowable oxygen exposure limits for each system are discussed in later
chapters.

3‑9.2.2.2 Symptoms of CNS Oxygen Toxicity. The most serious direct consequence of
oxygen toxicity is convulsions. Some­times recognition of early symptoms may
provide sufficient warning to permit reduction in oxygen partial pressure and
prevent the onset of more serious symp­toms. The warning symptoms most often
encountered also may be remembered by the mnemonic VENTIDC:

V: Visual symptoms. Tunnel vision, a decrease in diver’s peripheral vision, and

other symptoms, such as blurred vision, may occur.

E: Ear symptoms. Tinnitus, any sound perceived by the ears but not resulting
from an external stimulus, may resemble bells ringing, roaring, or a
machinery-like pulsing sound.

N: Nausea or spasmodic vomiting. These symptoms may be intermittent.

T: Twitching and tingling symptoms. Any of the small facial muscles, lips, or
muscles of the extremities may be affected. These are the most frequent and
clearest symptoms.

I: Irritability. Any change in the diver’s mental status including confusion,

agitation, and anxiety.

D: Dizziness. Symptoms include clumsiness, incoordination, and unusual

fatigue.

C: Convulsions. The first sign of CNS oxygen toxicity may be convulsions that
occur with little or no warning.

Warning symptoms may not always appear and most are not exclusively symp­toms
of oxygen toxicity. Muscle twitching is perhaps the clearest warning, but it may
occur late, if at all. If any of these warning symptoms occur, the diver should take
immediate action to lower the oxygen partial pressure.

A convulsion, the most serious direct consequence of CNS oxygen toxicity, may
occur suddenly without being preceded by any other symptom. During a convul­
sion, the individual loses consciousness and his brain sends out uncontrolled nerve
impulses to his muscles. At the height of the seizure, all of the muscles are stimu­
lated at once and lock the body into a state of rigidity. This is referred to as the
tonic phase of the convulsion. The brain soon fatigues and the number of impulses
slows. This is the clonic phase and the random impulses to various muscles may
cause violent thrashing and jerking for a minute or so.

After the convulsive phase, brain activity is depressed and a postconvulsive

(postictal) depression follows. During this phase, the patient is usually uncon­
scious and quiet for a while, then semiconscious and very restless. He will then
usually sleep on and off, waking up occasionally though still not fully rational. The

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 depression phase sometimes lasts as little as 15 minutes, but an hour or more is not
uncommon. At the end of this phase, the patient often becomes suddenly alert and
complains of no more than fatigue, muscular soreness, and possibly a headache.
After an oxygen-toxicity convulsion, the diver usually remembers clearly the
events up to the moment when consciousness was lost, but remembers nothing of
the convulsion itself and little of the postictal phase.

3‑9.2.2.3 Treatment of CNS Oxygen Toxicity. A diver who experiences the warning
symptoms of oxygen toxicity shall inform the Diving Supervisor immediately. The
following actions can be taken to lower the oxygen partial pressure:

„„ Ascend

„„ Shift to a breathing mixture with a lower oxygen percentage

„„ In a recompression chamber, remove the mask.

WARNING Reducing the oxygen partial pressure does not instantaneously reverse
the biochemical changes in the central nervous system caused by high
oxygen partial pressures. If one of the early symptoms of oxygen toxicity
occurs, the diver may still convulse up to a minute or two after being
removed from the high oxygen breathing gas. One should not assume
that an oxygen convulsion will not occur unless the diver has been off
oxygen for 2 or 3 minutes.

Despite its rather alarming appearance, the convulsion itself is usually not much
more than a strenuous muscular workout for the victim. The possible danger of
hypoxia during breathholding in the tonic phase is greatly reduced because of
the high partial pressure of oxygen in the tissues and brain. If a diver convulses,
the UBA should be ventilated immediately with a gas of lower oxygen content,
if possible. If depth control is possible and the gas supply is secure (helmet or
full face mask), the diver should be kept at depth until the convulsion subsides
and normal breathing resumes. If an ascent must take place, it should be done as
slowly as possible to reduce the risk of an arterial gas embolism. AGE should be
considered in any diver surfacing unconscious due to an oxygen convulsion.

If the convulsion occurs in a recompression chamber, it is important to keep the

individual from thrashing against hard objects and being injured. Complete restraint
of the individual’s movements is neither necessary nor desirable. The oxygen mask
shall be removed immediately. It is not necessary to force the mouth open to insert
a bite block while a convulsion is taking place. After the convulsion subsides and
the mouth relaxes, keep the jaw up and forward to maintain a clear airway until the
diver regains consciousness. Breathing almost invariably resumes spontaneously.
Management of CNS oxygen toxicity during recompression therapy is discussed
fully in Volume 5.

If a convulsing diver is prevented from drowning or causing other injury to himself,

full recovery with no lasting effects can be expected within 24 hours. Susceptibility
to oxygen toxicity does not increase as a result of a convulsion, although divers

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-45

 may be more inclined to notice warning symptoms during subse­quent exposures
to oxygen.

3‑9.2.2.4 Prevention of CNS Oxygen Toxicity. The actual mechanism of CNS oxygen
toxicity remains unknown in spite of many theories and much research. Preventing
oxygen toxicity is important to divers. When use of high pressures of oxygen is
advantageous or necessary, divers should take sensible precautions, such as being
sure the breathing apparatus is in good order, observing depth-time limits, avoiding
excessive exertion, and heeding abnormal symptoms that may appear. Interruption
of oxygen breathing with peri­odic “air” breaks can extend the exposure time to
high oxygen partial pressures significantly. Air breaks are routinely incorporated
into recompression treatment tables and some decompression tables.

3-9.3 Decompression Sickness (DCS). A diver’s blood and tissues absorb additional
nitrogen (or helium) from the lungs when at depth. If a diver ascends too fast this
excess gas will separate from solu­tion and form bubbles. These bubbles produce
mechanical and biochemical effects that lead to a condition known as decompres-
sion sickness.

3‑9.3.1 Absorption and Elimination of Inert Gases. The average human body at sea level
contains about 1 liter of nitrogen. All of the body tissues are saturated with nitro­
gen at a partial pressure equal to the partial pressure in the alveoli, about 0.79 ata.
If the partial pressure of nitrogen changes because of a change in the pressure or
composition of the breathing mixture, the pressure of the nitrogen dissolved in
the body gradually attains a matching level. Additional quantities of nitrogen are
absorbed or eliminated, depending on the partial pressure gradient, until the partial
pressure of the gas in the lungs and in the tissues is equal. If a diver breathes he­
lium, a similar process occurs.

As described by Henry’s Law, the amount of gas that dissolves in a liquid is almost
directly proportional to the partial pressure of the gas. If one liter of inert gas is
absorbed at a pressure of one atmosphere, then two liters are absorbed at two atmo­
spheres and three liters at three atmospheres, etc.

The process of taking up more inert gas is called absorption or saturation. The pro­
cess of giving up inert gas is called elimination or desaturation. The chain of events
is essentially the same in both processes even though the direction of exchange is
opposite.

Shading in diagram (Figure 3‑16) indicates saturation with nitrogen or helium un­
der increased pressure. Blood becomes saturated on passing through lungs, and
tissues are saturated in turn via blood. Those with a large supply (as in A above) are
saturated much more rapidly than those with poor blood supply (C) or an unusually
large capacity for gas, as fatty tissues have for nitrogen. In very abrupt ascent from
depth, bubbles may form in arterial blood or in “fast” tissue (A) even through the

3-46 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 SATURATION OF TISSUES
Lung
Capillary
Bed Venous Return

Right A B C
Heart
Pump

Arterial Supply
Left
Heart
Pump
Lung
Capillary
Bed Venous Return

Right A B C
Heart
Pump

Arterial Supply
Left
Heart
Pump
Figure 3-16. Saturation of Tissues. Shading in diagram indicates saturation with nitrogen
or helium under increased pressure. Blood becomes saturated on passing through lungs,
and tissues are saturated in turn via blood. Those with a large supply (as in A above) are
saturated much more rapidly than those with poor blood supply (C) or an unusually large
capacity for gas, as fatty tissues have for nitrogen. In very abrupt ascent from depth,
bubbles may form in arterial blood or in “fast” tissue (A) even through the body as a whole
is far from saturation. If enough time elapses at depth, all tissues will become equally
saturated, as shown in lower diagram.

body as a whole is far from saturation. If enough time elapses at depth, all tissues
will become equally saturated, as shown in lower diagram.

3‑9.3.1.1 Saturation of Tissues. The sequence of events in the process of saturation can be
illustrated by consid­ering what happens in the body of a diver taken rapidly from
the surface to a depth of 100 fsw (Figure 3‑16). To simplify matters, we can say
that the partial pressure of nitrogen in his blood and tissues on leaving the surface
is roughly 0.8 ata. When the diver reaches 100 fsw, the alveolar nitrogen pressure
in his lungs will be about 0.8 × 4 ata = 3.2 ata, while the blood and tissues remain
temporarily at 0.8 ata. The partial pressure difference or gradient between the al­
veolar air and the blood and tissues is thus 3.2 minus 0.8, or 2.4 ata. This gradient
is the driving force that makes the molecules of nitrogen move by diffusion from
one place to another. Consider the following 10 events and factors in the diver at
100 fsw:

1. As blood passes through the alveolar capillaries, nitrogen molecules move from
the alveolar air into the blood. By the time the blood leaves the lungs, it has reached
equilibrium with the new alveolar nitrogen pressure. It now has a nitrogen tension

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-47

 (partial pressure) of 3.2 ata and contains about four times as much nitrogen as
before. When this blood reaches the tissues, there is a similar gradient and nitrogen
molecules move from the blood into the tissues until equilibrium is reached.

2. The volume of blood in a tissue is relatively small compared to the volume of the
tissue and the blood can carry only a limited amount of nitrogen. Because of this,
the volume of blood that reaches a tissue over a short period of time loses its excess
nitrogen to the tissue without greatly increasing the tissue nitrogen pressure.

3. When the blood leaves the tissue, the venous blood nitrogen pressure is equal to
the new tissue nitrogen pressure. When this blood goes through the lungs, it again
reaches equilibrium at 3.2 ata.

4. When the blood returns to the tissue, it again loses nitrogen until a new equilibrium
is reached.

5. As the tissue nitrogen pressure rises, the blood-tissue gradient decreases, slowing
the rate of nitrogen exchange. The rate at which the tissue nitrogen partial pres­
sure increases, therefore, slows as the process proceeds. However, each volume
of blood that reaches the tissue gives up some nitrogen which increases the tissue
partial pressure until complete saturation, in this case at 3.2 ata of nitrogen, is
reached.

6. Tissues that have a large blood supply in proportion to their own volume have
more nitrogen delivered to them in a certain amount of time and therefore approach
complete saturation more rapidly than tissues that have a poor blood supply.

7. All body tissues are composed of lean and fatty components. If a tissue has an
unusually large capacity for nitrogen, it takes the blood longer to deliver enough
nitrogen to saturate it completely. Nitrogen is about five times as soluble (capable
of being dissolved) in fat as in water. Therefore, fatty tissues require much more
nitrogen and much more time to saturate them completely than lean (watery)
tissues do, even if the blood supply is ample. Adipose tissue (fat) has a poor blood
supply and therefore saturates very slowly.

8. At 100 fsw, the diver’s blood continues to take up more nitrogen in the lungs and
to deliver more nitrogen to tissues, until all tissues have reached saturation at a
pressure of 3.2 ata of nitrogen. A few watery tissues that have an excellent blood
supply will be almost completely saturated in a few minutes. Others, like fat with
a poor blood supply, may not be completely saturated unless the diver is kept at
100 fsw for 72 hours or longer.

9. If kept at a depth of 100 fsw until saturation is complete, the diver’s body contains
about four times as much nitrogen as it did at the surface. Divers of average size
and fatness have about one liter of dissolved nitrogen at the surface and about
four liters at 100 fsw. Because fat holds about five times as much nitrogen as lean
tissues, much of a diver’s nitrogen content is in his fatty tissue.

10. An important fact about nitrogen saturation is that the process requires the same
length of time regardless of the nitrogen pressure involved. For example, if the

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 DESATURATION OF TISSUES
Lung
Capillary
Bed Venous Return

Right A B C
Heart
Pump

Arterial Supply
Left
Heart
Pump
Lung
Capillary
Bed Venous Return

Right A B C
Heart
Pump

Arterial Supply
Left
Heart
Pump

Figure 3-17. Desaturation of Tissues. The desaturation process is essentially the reverse
of saturation. When pressure of inert gas is lowered, blood is cleared of excess gas as
it goes through the lungs. Blood then removes gas from the tissues at rates depending
on amount of blood that flows through them each minute. Tissues with poor blood supply
(as in C in upper sketch) or large gas capacity will lag behind and may remain partially
saturated after others have cleared (see lower diagram).

diver had been taken to 33 fsw instead of 100, it would have taken just as long to
saturate him completely and to bring his nitrogen pressures to equilibrium. In this
case, the original gradient between alveolar air and the tissues would have been
only 0.8 ata instead of 2.4 ata. Because of this, the amount of nitrogen delivered
to tissues by each round of blood circulation would have been smaller from the
beginning. Less nitrogen would have to be delivered to saturate him at 33 fsw, but
the slower rate of delivery would cause the total time required to be the same.

When any other inert gas, such as helium, is used in the breathing mixture, the
body tissues become saturated with that gas in the same process as for nitrogen.
However, the time required to reach saturation is different for each gas. This is
because the blood and tissue solubilities are different for the different inert gases.
Helium, for example, is much less soluble in fat than nitrogen is.

3‑9.3.1.2 Desaturation of Tissues. The process of desaturation is the reverse of saturation

(Figure 3‑17). If the partial pressure of the inert gas in the lungs is reduced, either
through a reduction in the diver’s depth or a change in the breathing medium, the
new pressure gradient induces the nitrogen to diffuse from the tissues to the blood,
from the blood to the gas in the lungs, and then out of the body with the expired
breath. Some parts of the body desaturate more slowly than others for the same

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-49

 reason that they saturate more slowly: poor blood supply or a greater capacity
to store inert gas. Washout of excess inert gas from these “slow” tissues will lag
behind washout from the faster tissues.

3‑9.3.2 Bubble Formation. Inert gas may separate from physical solution and form bub­
bles if the partial pres­sure of the inert gas in blood and tissues exceeds the ambient
pressure by more than a critical amount. During descent and while the diver is on
the bottom, blood and tissue inert gas partial pressures increase significantly as
tissue saturation takes place, but the inert gas pressure always remains less than
the ambient pres­sure surrounding the diver. Bubbles cannot form in this situation.
During ascent the converse is true. Blood and tissue inert gas pressures fall as the
tissues desatu­rate, but blood and tissue inert gas pressures can exceed the ambient
pressure if the rate of ascent is faster than the rate at which tissues can equilibrate.
Consider an air diver fully saturated with nitrogen at a depth of 100 fsw. All body
tissues have a nitrogen partial pressure of 3.2 ata. If the diver were to quickly as­
cend to the surface, the ambient pressure surrounding his tissues would be reduced
to 1 ata. Assuming that ascent was fast enough not to allow for any tissue desatura­
tion, the nitrogen pressure in all the tissues would be 2.2 ata greater than the ambi­
ent pres­sure (3.2 ata - 1 ata). Under this circumstance bubbles can form.

Bubble formation can be avoided if the ascent is controlled in such a way that the
tissue inert gas pressure never exceeds the ambient pressure by more than the crit­
ical amount. This critical amount, called the allowable supersaturation, varies from
tissue to tissue and from one inert gas to another. A decompression table shows the
time that must be spent at various decompression stops on the way to the surface
to allow each tissue to desaturate to the point where its allowable supersaturation
is not exceeded.

3‑9.3.3 Direct Bubble Effects. Bubbles forming in the tissues (autochthonous bubbles)
and in the bloodstream (circulating bubbles) may exert their effects directly in
several ways:

„„ Autochthonous bubbles can put pressure on nerve endings, stretch and tear
tissue leading to hemorrhage, and increase pressure in the tissue leading to
slowing or cessation of incoming blood flow. These are thought to be the
primary mechanisms for injury in Spinal Cord, Musculoskeletal, and Inner Ear
DCS.

„„ Venous bubbles can partially or completely block the veins draining various
organs leading to reduced organ blood flow (venous obstruction). Venous
obstruction in turn leads to tissue hypoxia, cell injury and death. This is one of
the secondary mechanisms of injury in Spinal Cord DCS.

„„ Venous bubbles carried to the lung as emboli (called venous gas emboli or
VGE) can partially block the flow of blood through the lung leading to fluid
build up (pulmonary edema) and decreased gas exchange. The result is systemic
hypoxia and hypercarbia. This is the mechanism of damage in Pulmonary DCS.

„„ Arterial bubbles can act as emboli blocking the blood supply of almost any

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 tissue leading to hypoxia, cell injury and death. Arterial gas embolism and
autochotonous bubble formation are thought be the primary mechanisms of
injury in Cerebral (brain) DCS.

The damage done by the direct bubble effect occurs within a relatively short
period of time (a few minutes to hours). The primary treatment for these effects
is recompression. Recompression will compress the bubble to a smaller diameter,
restore blood flow, decrease venous congestion, and improve gas exchange in
the lungs and tissues. It also increases the speed at which the bubbles outgas and
collapse.

3‑9.3.4 Indirect Bubble Effects. Bubbles may also exert their effects indirectly because a
bubble acts like a foreign body. The body reacts as it would if there were a cinder
in the eye or a splinter in the hand. The body’s defense mechanisms become alerted
and try to eliminate the foreign body. Typical reactions include:

„„ Blood vessels become “leaky” due to damage to the endothelial lining cells and
chemical release. Blood plasma leaks out while blood cells remain inside. The
blood becomes thick and more difficult to pump. Organ blood flow is reduced.

„„ The platelet system becomes active and the platelets gather at the site of the
bubble causing a clot to form.

„„ The injured tissue releases fats that clump together in the bloodstream. These
fat clumps act as emboli, causing tissue hypoxia.

„„ Injured tissues release histamine and histamine-like substances, causing edema,

which leads to allergic-type problems of shock and respiratory distress.

Indirect bubble effects take place over a longer period of time than the direct
bubble effects. Because the non-compressible clot replaces a compressible bubble,
recompression alone is not enough. To restore blood flow and relieve hypoxia,
hyperbaric treatment and other therapies are often required.

3‑9.3.5 Symptoms of Decompression Sickness. Decompression sickness is generally

divided into two categories. Type I decom­ pression sickness involves the
skin, lymphatic system, muscles and joints and is not life threatening. Type II
decompression sickness (also called serious decom­pression sickness) involves the
nervous system, respiratory system, or circulatory system. Type II decompression
sickness may become life threatening. Because the treatment of Type I and Type
II decompression sickness may be different, it is important to distinguish between
these two types. Symptoms of Type I and Type II decompression sickness may be
present at the same time.

When the skin is involved, the symptoms are itching or burning usually accompa­
nied by a rash. Involvement of the lymphatic system produces swelling of regional
lymph nodes or an extremity. Involvement of the musculoskeletal system produces
pain, which in some cases can be excruciating. Bubble formation in the brain can
produce blindness, dizziness, paralysis and even unconsciousness and convulsion.

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-51

 When the spinal cord is involved, paralysis and/or loss of feeling occur. Bubbles
in the inner ear produce hearing loss and vertigo. Bubbles in the lungs can cause
coughing, shortness of breath, and hypoxia, a condition referred to as “the chokes.”
This condition may prove fatal. A large number of bubbles in the circula­tion can
lead to cardiovascular collapse and death. Unusual fatigue or exhaustion after a
dive is probably due to bubbles in unusual locations and the biochemical changes
they have induced. While not attributable to a specific organ system, unusual
fatigue is a definite symptom of decompression sickness.

3‑9.3.5.1 Time Course of Symptoms. Decompression sickness usually occurs after surfacing.
If the dive is particularly arduous or decompression has been omitted, however, the
diver may experience decompression sickness before reaching the surface.

After surfacing, there is a latency period before symptoms appear. This may be as
short as several minutes to as long as several days. Long, shallow dives are gener­
ally associated with longer latencies than deep, short dives. For most dives, the
onset of decompression sickness can be expected within several hours of surfacing.

3‑9.3.6 Treating Decompression Sickness. Treatment of decompression sickness is

accomplished by recompression. This involves putting the victim back under
pressure to reduce the size of the bubbles to cause them to go back into solution and
to supply extra oxygen to the hypoxic tissues. Treatment is done in a recompression
chamber, but can sometimes be accomplished in the water if a chamber cannot
be reached in a reasonable period of time. Recompression in the water is not
recommended, but if undertaken, must be done following specified procedures.
Further discussion of the symptoms of decompression sickness and a complete
discussion of treatment are presented in Volume 5.

3‑9.3.7 Preventing Decompression Sickness. Prevention of decompression sickness

is generally accomplished by following the decompression tables. However,
individual susceptibility or unusual conditions, either in the diver or in connection
with the dive, produces a small percentage of cases even when proper dive
procedures are followed meticulously. To be abso­lutely free of decompression
sickness under all possible circumstances, the decompression time specified would
have to be far in excess of that normally needed. On the other hand, under ideal
circumstances, some individuals can ascend safely in less time than the tables
specify. This must not be taken to mean that the tables contain an unnecessarily
large safety factor. The tables represent the minimum workable decompression
time that permits average divers to surface safely from normal working dives
without an unacceptable incidence of decom­pression sickness.

3-10 THERMAL PROBLEMS IN DIVING

The human body functions effectively within a relatively narrow range of internal
temperature. The average, or normal, core temperature of 98.6°F (37°C) is main­
tained by natural mechanisms of the body, aided by artificial measures such as the
use of protective clothing or environmental conditioning when external conditions
tend toward cold or hot extremes.

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 Thermal problems, arising from exposure to various temperatures of water, pose
a major consideration when planning operational dives and selecting equipment.
Bottom time may be limited more by a diver’s intolerance to heat or cold than his
exposure to increased oxygen partial pressures or the amount of decompression
required.

The diver’s thermal status affects the rate of inert gas uptake and elimination.
Divers who are warm on the bottom will absorb more inert gas than divers who
are cold. No-decompression dives in warm water, therefore, may carry a greater
risk of DCS than comparable dives in cold water. Given identical exposures on the
bottom, divers who are warm during decompression stops will lose more inert gas
and have a lower risk of DCS than divers who are cold.

3-10.1 Regulating Body Temperature. The metabolic processes of the body constantly
generate heat. If heat is allowed to build up inside the body, damage to the cells can
occur. To maintain internal temperature at the proper level, the body must lose heat
equal to the amount it produces.

Heat transfer is accomplished in several ways. The blood, while circulating through
the body, picks up excess heat and carries it to the lungs, where some of it is lost
with the exhaled breath. Heat is also transferred to the surface of the skin, where
much of it is dissipated through a combination of conduction, convection, and
radiation. Moisture released by the sweat glands cools the surface of the body as it
evaporates and speeds the transfer of heat from the blood to the surrounding air. If
the body is working hard and generating greater than normal quantities of heat, the
blood vessels nearest the skin dilate to permit more of the heated blood to reach the
body surfaces, and the sweat glands increase their activity.

Maintaining proper body temperature is particularly difficult for a diver working

underwater. The principal temperature control problem encountered by divers is
keeping the body warm. The high thermal conductivity of water, coupled with
the normally cool-to-cold waters in which divers operate, can result in rapid and
excessive heat loss.

3-10.2 Excessive Heat Loss (Hypothermia). Hypothermia is a lowering of the core

temperature of the body. Immersion hypoth­ermia is a potential hazard whenever
diving operations take place in cool to cold waters. A diver’s response to
immersion in cold water depends on the degree of thermal protection worn and
water temperature. A water temperature of approxi­mately 91°F (33°C) is required
to keep an unprotected, resting man at a stable temperature. The unprotected diver
will be affected by excessive heat loss and become chilled within a short period of
time in water temperatures below 72°F (23°C).

3‑10.2.1 Causes of Hypothermia. Hypothermia in diving occurs when the difference

between the water and body temperature is large enough for the body to lose
more heat than it produces. Exer­cise normally increases heat production and body
temperature in dry conditions. Paradoxically, exercise in cold water may cause
the body temperature to fall more rapidly. Any movement that stirs the water in
contact with the skin creates turbu­lence that carries off heat (convection). Heat loss

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-53

 is caused not only by convection at the limbs, but also by increased blood flow into
the limbs during exercise. Continual movement causes the limbs to resemble the
internal body core rather than the insulating superficial layer. These two conflicting
effects result in the core temperature being maintained or increased in warm water
and decreased in cold water.

3‑10.2.2 Symptoms of Hypothermia. In mild cases, the victim will experience uncontrolled
shivering, slurred speech, imbalance, and/or poor judgment. Severe cases of
hypothermia are characterized by loss of shivering, impaired mental status,
irregular heartbeat, and/or very shallow pulse or respirations. This is a medical
emergency. The signs and symp­toms of falling core temperature are given in Table
3‑1, though individual responses to falling core temperature will vary. At extremely
low temperatures or with prolonged immersion, body heat loss reaches a point at
which death occurs.

Table 3‑1. Signs and Symptoms of Dropping Core Temperature.

Core Temperature
°F °C Symptoms
98 37 Cold sensations, skin vasoconstriction, increased muscle tension,
increased oxygen consumption
97 36 Sporadic shivering suppressed by voluntary movements, gross
shivering in bouts, further increase in oxygen consumption,
uncontrollable shivering
95 35 Voluntary tolerance limit in laboratory experiments, mental
confusion, impairment of rational thought, possible drowning,
decreased will to struggle
93 34 Loss of memory, speech impairment, sensory function impairment,
motor performance impairment
91 33 Hallucinations, delusions, partial loss of consciousness, shivering
impaired
90 32 Heart rhythm irregularities, motor performance grossly impaired

88 31 Shivering stopped, failure to recognize familiar people

86 30 Muscles rigid, no response to pain
84 29 Loss of consciousness
80 27 Ventricular fibrillation (ineffective heartbeat), muscles flaccid
79 26 Death

3‑10.2.3 Treatment of Hypothermia. To treat mild hypothermia, passive and active

rewarming measures may be used and should be continued until the victim is
sweating. Rewarming techniques include:

Passive:
„„ Remove all wet clothing.

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 „„ Wrap victim in a blanket (preferably wool).

„„ Place in an area protected from wind.

„„ If possible, place in a warm area (i.e. galley).

Active:
„„ Warm shower or bath.

„„ Place in a very warm space (i.e., engine room).

To treat severe hypothermia avoid any exercise, keep the victim lying down,
initiate only passive rewarming, and immediately transport to the nearest medical
treatment facility.

CAUTION Do not institute active rewarming with severe cases of hypothermia.

WARNING CPR should not be initiated on a severely hypothermic diver unless it can
be determined that the heart has stopped or is in ventricular fibrillation.
CPR should not be initiated in a patient that is breathing.

3‑10.2.4 Prevention of Hypothermia. The body’s ability to tolerate cold environments is

due to natural insulation and a built-in means of heat regulation. Temperature is
not uniform throughout the body. It is more accurate to consider the body in terms
of an inner core where a constant or uniform temperature prevails and a superficial
region through which a tempera­ture gradient exists from the core to the body
surface. Over the trunk of the body, the thickness of the superficial layer may be
1 inch (2.5 cm). The extremities become a superficial insulating layer when their
blood flow is reduced to protect the core.

Once in the water, heat loss through the superficial layer is lessened by the reduc­tion
of blood flow to the skin. The automatic, cold-induced vasoconstriction (narrowing
of the blood vessels) lowers the heat conductance of the superficial layer and acts
to maintain the heat of the body core. Unfortunately, vasoconstric­tive regulation of
heat loss has only a narrow range of protection. When the extremities are initially
put into very cold water, vasoconstriction occurs and the blood flow is reduced to
preserve body heat. After a short time, the blood flow increases and fluctuates up
and down for as long as the extremities are in cold water. As circulation and heat
loss increase, the body temperature falls and may continue falling, even though
heat production is increased by shivering.

Much of the heat loss in the trunk area is transferred over the short distance from
the deep organs to the body surface by physical conduction, which is not under any
physiological control. Most of the heat lost from the body in moderately cold water
is from the trunk and not the limbs.

Hypothermia can be insidious and cause problems without the diver being aware
of it. The diver should wear appropriate thermal protection based upon the water
temperature and expected bottom time (See Chapter 6). Appropriate dress can

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-55

 greatly reduce the effects of heat loss and a diver with proper dress can work in
very cold water for reasonable periods of time. Acclimatization, adequate hydra­
tion, experience, and common sense all play a role in preventing hypothermia.
Provide the diver and topside personnel adequate shelter from the elements.
Adequate predive hydration is essential.

Heat loss through the respiratory tract becomes an increasingly significant factor
in deeper diving. Inhaled gases are heated in the upper respiratory tract and more
energy is required to heat the denser gases encountered at depth. In fact, a severe
respiratory insult can develop if a diver breathes unheated gas while making a deep
saturation dive in cold water. Respiratory gas heating is required in such situations.

3-10.3 Other Physiological Effects of Exposure to Cold Water. In addition to hypothermia,

other responses to exposure to cold water create poten­tial hazards for the diver.

3‑10.3.1 Caloric Vertigo. The eardrum does not have to rupture for caloric vertigo to occur.
Caloric vertigo can occur simply as the result of having water enter the external ear
canal on one side but not the other. The usual cause is a tight fitting wet suit hood
that allows cold water access to one ear, but not the other. It can also occur when
one external canal is obstructed by wax. Caloric vertigo may occur suddenly upon
entering cold water or when passing through thermoclines. The effect is usually
short lived, but while present may cause significant disorientation and nausea.

3‑10.3.2 Diving Reflex. Sudden exposure of the face to cold water or immersion of the whole
body in cold water may cause an immediate slowing of the heart rate (bradycardia)
and intense constriction of the peripheral blood vessels. Sometimes abnormal
heart rhythms accompany the bradycardia. This response is known as the diving
reflex. Removing or losing a facemask in cold water can trigger the diving reflex.
It is still not known whether cardiac arrhythmias associated with the diving reflex
contribute to diving casualties. Until this issue is resolved, it is prudent for divers
to closely monitor each other when changing rigs underwater or buddy breathing.

3‑10.3.3 Uncontrolled Hyperventilation. If a diver with little or no thermal protection is

suddenly plunged into very cold water, the effects are immediate and disabling.
The diver gasps and his respiratory rate and tidal volume increase. His breathing
becomes so rapid and uncontrolled that he cannot coordinate his breathing and
swimming movements. The lack of breathing control makes survival in rough
water very unlikely.

3-10.4 Excessive Heat Gain (Hyperthermia). Hyperthermia is a raising of the core

temperature of the body. Hyperthermia should be considered a potential risk
any time air temperature exceeds 90°F or water temperature is above 82°F. An
individual is considered to have developed hyperthermia when core temperature
rises 1.8°F (1°C) above normal (98.6°F, 37°C). The body core temperature should
not exceed 102.2°F (39°C). By the time the diver’s core temperature approaches
102°F noticeable mental confusion may be present.

3‑10.4.1 Causes of Hyperthermia. Divers are susceptible to hyperthermia when they are
unable to dissipate their body heat. This may result from high water temperatures,

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 protective garments, rate of work, and the duration of the dive. Predive heat
exposure may lead to signifi­cant dehydration and put the diver at greater risk of
hyperthermia.

3‑10.4.2 Symptoms of Hyperthermia. Signs and symptoms of hyperthermia can vary among
individuals. Since a diver might have been in water that may not be considered
hot, support personnel must not rely solely on classical signs and symptoms of
heat stress for land exposures. Table 3‑2 lists commonly encountered signs and
symptoms of heat stress in diving. In severe cases of hyperthermia (severe heat
exhaustion or heat stroke), the victim will experience disorientation, tremors, loss
of consciousness and/or seizures.

Table 3‑2. Signs of Heat Stress.

Least Severe High breathing rate

Feeling of being hot, uncomfortable
Low urine output
Inability to think clearly
Fatigue
Light-headedness or headache
Nausea
Muscle cramps
Sudden rapid increase in pulse rate
Disorientation, confusion
Exhaustion
Collapse
Most Severe Death

3‑10.4.3 Treatment of Hyperthermia. The treatment of all cases of hyperthermia shall

include cooling of the victim to reduce the core temperature. In mild to moderate
hyperthermia cooling should be started immediately by removing the victim’s
clothing, spraying him with a fine mist of lukewarm-to-cool water, and then fanning.
This causes a large increase in evaporative cooling. Avoid whole body immersion
in cold water or packing the body in ice as this will cause vasoconstriction which
will decrease skin blood flow and may slow the loss of heat. Ice packs to the neck,
armpit or groin may be used. Oral fluid replacement should begin as soon as the
victim can drink and continue until he has urinated pale to clear urine several
times. If the symptoms do not improve, the victim shall be transported to a medical
treatment facility.

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-57

 Severe hyperthermia is a medical emergency. Cooling measures shall be started
and the victim shall be transported immediately to a medical treatment facility.
Intravenous fluids should be administered during transport.

3‑10.4.4 Prevention of Hyperthermia. Acclimatization, adequate hydration, experience, and

common sense all play a role in preventing hyperthermia. Shelter personnel from
the sun and keep the amount of clothing worn to a minimum. Adequate predive
hydration is essential. Alcohol or caffeine beverages should be avoided since they
can produce dehydra­tion. Medications containing antihistamines or aspirin should
not be used in warm water diving. Physically fit individuals and those with lower
levels of body fat are less likely to develop hyperthermia. Guidelines for diving in
warm water are contained in Chapter 6.

Acclimatization is the process where repeated exposures to heat will reduce

(but not eliminate) the rise in core temperature. At least 5 consecutive days of
acclima­tization to warm water diving are needed to see an increased tolerance
to heat. Exercise training is essential for acclimation to heat. Where possible,
acclimatiza­tion should be completed before attempting long duration working
dives. Acclimatization should begin with short exposures and light workloads. All
support personnel should also be heat acclimatized. Fully acclimatized divers can
still develop hyperthermia, however. Benefits of acclimatization begin to disap­pear
in 3 to 5 days after stopping exposure to warm water.

3-11 SPECIAL MEDICAL PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH DEEP DIVING

3-11.1 High Pressure Nervous Syndrome (HPNS). High Pressure Nervous Syndrome
(HPNS) is a derangement of central nervous system function that occurs during
deep helium-oxygen dives, particularly satura­tion dives. The cause is unknown. The
clinical manifestations include nausea, fine tremor, imbalance, incoordination, loss
of manual dexterity, and loss of alertness. Abdominal cramps and diarrhea develop
occasionally. In severe cases a diver may develop vertigo, extreme indifference
to his surroundings and marked confusion such as inability to tell the right hand
from the left hand. HPNS is first noted between 400 and 500 fsw and the severity
appears to be both depth and compres­sion rate dependent. With slow compression,
depth of 1000 fsw may be achieved with relative freedom from HPNS. Beyond
1000 fsw, some HPNS may be present regardless of the compression rate. Attempts
to block the appearance of the syndrome have included the addition of nitrogen
or hydrogen to the breathing mixture and the use of various drugs. No method
appears to be entirely satisfactory.

3-11.2 Compression Arthralgia. Most divers will experience pain in the joints during
compression on deep dives. This condition is called compression arthralgia.
The shoulders, knees, writs, and hips are the joints most commonly affected.
The fingers, lower back, neck, and ribs may also be involved. The pain may be a
constant deep ache similar to Type I decompression sickness, or a sudden, sharp,
and intense but short-lived pain brought on my movement of the joint. These pains
may be accompanied by “popping” or “cracking” of joints or a dry “gritty” feeling
within the joint.

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 The incidence and intensity of compression arthralgia symptoms are dependent on
the depth of the dive, the rate of compression, and individual susceptibility. While
primarily a problem of deep saturation diving, mild symptoms may occur with
rapid compression on air or helium-oxygen dives as shallow as 100 fsw. In deep
helium saturation dives with slower compression rates, symptoms of compression
arthralgia usually begins between 200 and 300 fsw, and increase in intensity as
deeper depths are attained. Deeper than 600 fsw, compression pain may occur even
with extremely slow rates of compression.

Compression joint pain may be severe enough to limit diver activity, travel rate, and
depths attainable during downward excursion dives from saturation. Improve­ment
is generally noted during the days spent at the saturation depth but, on occasion,
these pains may last well into the decompression phase of the dive until shallower
depths are reached. Compression pain can be distinguished from decompression
sickness pain because it was present before decompression was started and does
not increase in intensity with decreasing depth.

The mechanism of compression pain is unknown, but is thought to result from the
sudden increase in inert gas tension surrounding the joints causing fluid shifts that
interfere with joint lubrication.

3-12 OTHER DIVING MEDICAL PROBLEMS

3-12.1 Dehydration. Dehydration is a concern to divers, particularly in tropical zones. It is

defined as an excessive loss of water from the body tissues and is accompanied by a
distur­bance in the balance of essential electrolytes, particularly sodium, potassium,
and chloride.

3‑12.1.1 Causes of Dehydration. Dehydration usually results from inadequate fluid intake
and/or excessive perspi­ration in hot climates. Unless adequate attention is paid
to hydration, there is a significant chance the diver in a hot climate will enter the
water in a dehydrated state.

Immersion in water creates a special situation that can lead to dehydration in its
own right. The water pressure almost exactly counterbalances the hydrostatic pres­
sure gradient that exists from head to toe in the circulatory system. As a result,
blood which is normally pooled in the leg veins is translocated to the chest, causing
an increase central blood volume. The body mistakenly interprets the increase
in central blood as a fluid excess. A reflex is triggered leading to an increase in
urination, a condition called immersion diuresis. The increased urine flow leads to
steady loss of water from the body and a concomitant reduction in blood volume
during the dive. The effects of immersion diuresis are felt when the diver leaves
the water. Blood pools once again in the leg veins. Because total blood volume is
reduced, central blood volume falls dramatically. The heart may have difficulty
getting enough blood to pump. The diver may experience light­headness or faint
while attempting to climb out of the water on a ladder or while standing on the
stage. This is the result of a drop in blood pressure as the blood volume shifts to the
legs. More commonly the diver will feel fatigued, less alert, and less able to think
clearly than normal. His exercise tolerance will be reduced.

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-59

 3‑12.1.2 Preventing Dehydration. Dehydration is felt to increase the risk of decompression
sickness. Divers should monitor their fluid intake and urine output during diving
operations to insure that they keep themselves well hydrated. During the dive
itself, there is nothing one can do to block the effects of immersion diuresis. Upon
surfacing they should rehydrate themselves as soon as the opportunity presents
itself.

3-12.2 Immersion Pulmonary Edema. Immersion in water can cause fluid to leak out of
the circulation system and accu­mulate first in the interstitial tissues of the lungs
then in the alveoli themselves. This condition is called immersion pulmonary
edema. The exact mechanism of injury is not know, but the condition is probably
related to the increase in central blood volume that occurs during immersion (see
description above). Contributing factors include immersion in cold water, negative
pressure breathing, and overhy­dration pre-dive, all of which enhance the increase
in central blood volume with immersion. Heavy exercise is also a contributor.

Symptoms may begin on the bottom, during ascent, or shortly after surfacing and
consist primarily of cough and shortness of breath. The diver may cough up blood
tinged mucus. Chest pain is notably absent. A chest x-ray shows the classic pattern
of pulmonary edema seen in heart failure.

A diver with immersion pulmonary edema should be placed on surface oxygen and
transported immediately to a medical treatment facility. Signs and symptoms will
usually resolve spontaneously over 24 hours with just bed rest and 100% oxygen.

Immersion pulmonary edema is a relatively rare condition, but the incidence

appears to be increasing perhaps because of an over-emphasis on the need to
hydrate before a dive. Adequate pre-dive hydration is essential, but overhydration
is to be avoided. Beyond avoiding overhydration and negative pressure breathing
situations, there is nothing the diver can do to prevent immersion pulmonary
edema.

3-12.3 Carotid Sinus Reflex. External pressure on the carotid artery from a tight fitting
neck dam, wet suit, or dry suit can activate receptors in the arterial wall, causing
a decrease in heart rate with possible loss of consciousness. Using an extra-tight-
fitting dry or wet suit or tight neck dams to decrease water leaks increase the
chances of activation of the carotid reflex and the potential for problems.

3-12.4 Middle Ear Oxygen Absorption Syndrome. Middle ear oxygen absorption
syndrome refers to the negative pressure that may develop in the middle ear
following a long oxygen dive. Gas with a very high percentage of oxygen enters
the middle ear cavity during an oxygen dive. Following the dive, the tissues of
the middle ear slowly absorb the oxygen. If the eustachian tube does not open
spontaneously, a negative pressure relative to ambient may result in the middle ear
cavity. Symptoms are often noted the morning after a long oxygen dive. Middle
ear oxygen absorption syndrome is difficult to avoid but usually does not pose a
significant problem because symp­toms are generally minor and easily eliminated.
There may also be fluid (serous otitis media) present in the middle ear as a result of
the differential pressure.

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 3‑12.4.1 Symptoms of Middle Ear Oxygen Absorption Syndrome. The diver may notice
mild discomfort and hearing loss in one or both ears. There may also be a sense of
pressure and a moist, cracking sensation as a result of fluid in the middle ear.

3‑12.4.2 Treating Middle Ear Oxygen Absorption Syndrome. Equalizing the pressure in the
middle ear using a normal Valsalva maneuver or the diver’s procedure of choice,
such as swallowing or yawning, will usually relieve the symptoms. Discomfort
and hearing loss resolve quickly, but the middle ear fluid is absorbed more slowly.
If symptoms persist, a Diving Medical Technician or Diving Medical Officer shall
be consulted.

3-12.5 Underwater Trauma. Underwater trauma is different from trauma that occurs at
the surface because it may be complicated by the loss of the diver’s gas supply
and by the diver’s decompression obligation. If possible, injured divers should be
surfaced immedi­ately and treated appropriately. If an injured diver is trapped, the
first priority is to ensure sufficient breathing gas is available, then to stabilize the
injury. At that point, a decision must be made as to whether surfacing is possible.
If the decom­pression obligation is great, the injury will have to be stabilized until
sufficient decompression can be accomplished. If an injured diver must be surfaced
with missed decompression, the diver must be treated as soon as possible, realizing
that the possible injury from decompression sickness may be as severe or more
severe than that from the other injuries.

3-12.6 Blast Injury. Divers frequently work with explosive material or are involved in
combat swim­ming and therefore may be subject to the hazards of underwater
explosions. An explosion is the violent expansion of a substance caused by the
gases released during rapid combustion. One effect of an explosion is a shock wave
that travels outward from the center, somewhat like the spread of ripples produced
by drop­ping a stone into a pool of water. This shock wave moving through the
surrounding medium (whether air or water) passes along some of the force of the
blast.

A shock wave moves more quickly and is more pronounced in water than in air
because of the relative incompressibility of liquids. Because the human body is
mostly water and incompressible, an underwater shock wave passes through the
body with little or no damage to the solid tissues. However, the air spaces of the
body, even though they may be in pressure balance with the ambient pressure, do
not readily transmit the overpressure of the shock wave. As a result, the tissues
that line the air spaces are subject to a violent fragmenting force at the interface
between the tissues and the gas.

The amount of damage to the body is influenced by a number of factors. These

include the size of the explosion, the distance from the site, and the type of explo­
sive (because of the difference in the way the expansion progresses in different
types of explosives). In general, larger, closer, and slower-developing explosions
are more hazardous. The depth of water and the type of bottom (which can reflect
and amplify the shock wave) may also have an effect. Under average conditions, a
shock wave of 500 psi or greater will cause injury to the lungs and intestinal tract.

CHAPTER 3 — Underwater Physiology and Diving Disorders 3-61

 The extent of injury is also determined in part by the degree to which the diver’s
body is submerged. For an underwater blast, any part of the body that is out of
the water is not affected. Conversely, for an air blast, greater depth provides more
protection. The maximum shock pressure to which a diver should be exposed is 50
psi. The safest and recommended procedure is to have all divers leave the water if
an underwater explosion is planned or anticipated. A diver who anticipates a nearby
underwater explosion should try to get all or as much of his body as possible out
of the water. If in the water, the diver’s best course of action is to float face up,
presenting the thicker tissues of the back to the explosion.

3-12.7 Otitis Externa. Otitis externa (swimmer’s ear) is an infection of the ear canal caused
by repeated immersion. The water in which the dive is being performed does not
have to be contaminated with bacteria for otitis externa to occur. The first symptom
of otitis externa is an itching and/or wet feeling in the affected ear. This feeling
will progress to local pain as the external ear canal becomes swollen and inflamed.
Local lymph nodes (glands) may enlarge, making jaw movement painful. Fever
may occur in severe cases. Once otitis externa develops, the diver should discon­
tinue diving and be examined and treated by Diving Medical Personnel.

Unless preventive measures are taken, otitis externa is very likely to occur during
diving operations, causing unnecessary discomfort and restriction from diving.
External ear prophylaxis, a technique to prevent swimmer’s ear, should be done
each morning, after each wet dive, and each evening during diving operations.
External ear prophylaxis is accomplished using a 2 percent acetic acid in aluminum
acetate (e.g., Otic Domboro) solution. The head is tilted to one side and the
external ear canal gently filled with the solution, which must remain in the canal
for 5 minutes. The head is then tilted to the other side, the solution allowed to run
out and the procedure repeated for the other ear. The 5-minute duration shall be
timed with a watch. If the solution does not remain in the ear a full 5 minutes, the
effectiveness of the procedure is greatly reduced.

During prolonged diving operations, the external ear canal may become occluded
with wax (cerumen). When this happens, external ear prophylaxis is ineffective and
the occurrence of otitis externa will become more likely. The external ear canal can
be examined periodically with an otoscope to detect the presence of ear wax. If the
eardrum cannot be seen during examination, the ear canal should be flushed gently
with water, dilute hydrogen peroxide, or sodium bicarbonate solu­tions to remove
the excess cerumen. Never use swabs or other instruments to remove cerumen;
this is to be done only by trained medical personnel. Otitis externa is a particular
problem in saturation diving if divers do not adhere to prophylactic measures.

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 3-12.8 Hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia is an abnormally low blood sugar (glucose) level.
Episodes of hypoglycemia are common in diabetics and pre-diabetics, but may
also occur in normal individuals. Simply missing a meal tends to reduce blood
sugar levels. A few individuals who are otherwise in good health will develop
some degree of hypoglycemia if they do not eat frequently. Severe exercise on an
empty stomach will occasionally bring on symptoms even in an individual who
ordinarily has no abnormality in this respect.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia include unusual hunger, excessive sweating, numb­

ness, chills, headache, trembling, dizziness, confusion, incoordination, anxiety,
and in severe cases, loss of consciousness.

If hypoglycemia is present, giving sugar by mouth relieves the symptoms promptly

and proves the diagnosis. If the victim is unconscious, glucose should be given
intravenously.

The possibility of hypoglycemia increases during long, drawn out diving opera­
tions. Personnel have a tendency to skip meals or eat haphazardly during the
operation. For this reason, attention to proper nutrition is required. Prior to long,
cold, arduous dives, divers should be encouraged to load up on carbohydrates. For
more information, see Naval Medical Research Institute (NMRI) Report 89-94.

3-12.9 Use of Medications while Diving. There are no hard and fast rules for deciding
when a medication would preclude a diver from diving. In general, topical
medications, antibiotics, birth control medication, and decongestants that do not
cause drowsiness would not restrict diving. Diving medical personnel should be
consulted to determine if any drugs preclude diving.

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 PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY

3-64 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 CHAPTER 4

Dive Systems

4-1 INTRODUCTION

4-1.1 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to promulgate general policy for
maintaining diving equipment and systems.

4-1.2 Scope. This chapter provides general guidance applicable to maintaining all
diving equipment and diving systems. Detailed procedures for maintaining diving
equipment and systems are found in applicable military and manufacturer’s
operating and maintenance (O&M) manuals and Planned Maintenance System
(PMS) Maintenance Requirement Cards (MRC).

4-1.3 References.

Authorized for Military Use Program. NAVSEAINST 10560.2 (series).

U.S. Navy Diving and Manned Hyperbaric System Safety Certification Manual.
SS52-­AA-MAN-010.

Compressed Air, Breathing. FED SPEC BB­A­1034 Grade A.

Oxygen, Aviators Breathing. MIL-PRF-27210H.

Respirable Helium, Type I Gaseous Grade B. MIL-PRF-27407D.

Nitrogen, High Purity, Special Purpose. MIL-PRF-27401 Grade B Type 1.

Navy Diving Program. OPNAVINST 3150.27 (series).

Shipboard Gauge Calibration Program. NAVSEAINST 4734.1 (series).

Industrial Gases, Generating, Handling and Storage, NAVSEA Technical Manual

S9086­SX­STM­000/CH­550.

American and Canadian Standard Compressed-Gas Cylinder Valve Outlet and

Inlet Connections (ANSI­B57.1 and CSA­B96).

American National Standard Method of Marking Portable Compressed-Gas

Containers to Identify the Material Contained (Z48.1).

Guide to the Preparation of Precautionary Labeling and Marking of Compressed

Gas Cylinders (CGA Pamphlet C­7).

OPNAV 4790 (series) Ship’s Maintenance and Material Management (3-M)

CHAPTER 4 — Dive Systems 4-1

4-2 GENERAL INFORMATION

4-2.1 Document Precedence. If a conflict arises between documents containing diving

equipment and systems maintenance procedures:

1. PMS/MRC and supporting system drawings take precedence.

2. If PMS/MRC is inadequate or incorrect, the applicable military O&M manual

takes precedence. Report inadequate or incorrect PMS via a PMS feedback report
in accordance with current PMS instructions.

3. If PMS/MRC and applicable military O&M manual are inadequate or incorrect,

the manufacturer’s technical manual takes precedence. Report inadequate or
incorrect military technical manual information in accordance with procedures in
the affected technical manual.

NOTE For OEM technical manuals that are found to be deficient, contact
NAVSEA 00C3 for guidance.

Contact the applicable certification authority prior to disregarding any required

maintenance procedures on certified diving equipment. Failure to do so may
compromise certification.

4-2.2 Authorization For Navy Use (ANU). Equipment used to conduct diving operations
shall be authorized for use by NAVSEA/00C in accordance with NAVSEAINST
10560.2 (series) or hold a current NAVSEA or NAVFAC system safety
certification. ANU diving equipment shall be used in the as tested configuration
(e.g., SCUBA first and second stage regulator of different manufacturers shall not
be interchanged).

Diving and related equipment authorized for military use is listed on NAVSEA/
00C ANU list and may be found on http://www.supsalv.org website. Director of
Diving Programs (Code 00C3) is the cognizant authority for the NAVSEA/00C
ANU list. Refer to the common access card (CAC) enabled secure SUPSALV
website (https://secure.supsalv.org) to provide feedback to the ANU program
manager. For a complete description of the ANU program refer to NAVSEAINST
10560.2 (series):

The ANU list addresses two categories of equipment.

n Category I. Life support diving equipment that provides a safe, controlled

environment for a diver by satisfying life support requirements of the intended
diving operation.

n Category II. Non-life support equipment which enhances the mission capability
and is not essential for diver life support.

Surface supplied diving systems, hyperbaric chamber systems, and select underwater
breathing apparatus (e.g., MK-16, MK-25) shall be certified in accordance with

4-2 U.S. Navy Diving Manual­— Volume 1

 U.S. Navy Diving and Manned Hyperbaric System Safety Certification Manual
(SS521-AA-MAN-010).

4-2.3 System Certification Authority (SCA). NAVSEA 00C Code 00C4 is SCA for all
afloat and portable diving and hyperbaric systems. Naval Facilities Engineering
Command Code OFP-­ SCA is SCA for all shore­ based diving and hyperbaric
systems. Naval Sea Systems Command Code 07Q is SCA for deep submergence
systems.

4-2.4 Planned Maintenance System. Diving equipment shall be maintained in

accordance with the applicable PMS package. Failure to maintain equipment in
accordance with current PMS guidance reduces the equipment reliability and may
void the system safety certification for certified systems.

NOTE Only white virgin Teflon tape that is made in accordance with MILSPEC
A-A 58093 is authorized for use on Navy Dive Life Support Systems
(DLSS).

NOTE Only use properly mixed Non Ionic Detergent (NID) to clean exterior
DLSS. Do not flood console case or gauges with water and cleaner.

4-2.5 Alteration of Diving Equipment. Diving equipment shall not be modified or altered
from approved configuration unless prior approval has been granted in accordance
with OPNAVINST 3150.27 (series).

4‑2.5.1 Diving Equipment and Systems Program Managers. Program managers are
responsible for the development, acquisition, and fielding of diving equipment and
systems. The following offices manage the systems and equipment listed:

n All fixed shore based systems - NAVFAC (OFP-SCA)

n All portable and afloat diving equipment and systems (except as noted below)
- NAVSEASYSCOM (SEA 00C3)

n MK 16 MOD 1 and the Fly Away Recompression Chamber (FARCC) -

NAVSEASYSCOM (PMS-408)

n MK 25 - NAVSEASYSCOM (PMS 340)

4-2.6 Operating and Emergency Procedures. Operating procedures (OPs) are detailed
check sheets for operating the diving system. All diving and recompression
chamber systems shall be operated in accordance with NAVSEA or NAVFAC
approved operating procedures and Emergency Procedures (EPs).

Dive systems are aligned, secured, or modified in a step by step fashion IAW the
OP and two person integrity. One person reads the steps and the other performs the
action.

CHAPTER 4 — Dive Systems 4-3

 The operator executing the procedure shall perform the required action, and the
second operator shall initial that it was performed. Any material condition issue
(loose handwheels, missing tags, or labels, etc.) shall be indicated in the remarks
section at the end of the OP, and a check placed in the “note” column for the step
to which it applies, indicating that a remark has been made.

Emergency procedures are memorized and immediate actions are executed when
required. The emergency procedure is then verified from the written procedures
after the immediate action to resolve the emergency is complete.

4‑2.6.1 Standard Dive Systems/Equipment. Standard diving equipment such as the MK

3 Light Weight Diving System (LWDS), Transportable Recompression Chamber
System (TRCS), and the MK 16 and MK 25 Underwater Breathing Apparatus
shall be operated per a single set of standard OP/EPs that are included as part of
the system O&M Manual or on the 00C website.

Proposed changes/updates to OP/EPs for standardized diving equipment shall be

submitted as a formal change proposal to the respective technical program manager.

4‑2.6.2 Non-Standard Systems. Non-standard dive systems and recompression chambers

shall be operated in accordance with a single set of standard OPs/EPs that are
developed at the command level and approved for use after validation by
NAVSEA 00C3 or NAVFAC OFP-SCA. Proposed changes/updates to OPs/EPs
shall be submitted to the applicable approval authority. The following addresses
are provided to assist in submitting proposed OP/EP changes and updates:

COMNAVSEASYSCOM (Code 00C3)

1333 Isaac Hull Ave., SE
Washington Navy Yard, DC 20376-1070

COMNAVFACENGCOM (OFP-SCA)
1322 Patterson Ave., SE
Suite 1000
Washington Navy Yard, DC 20374-5065

4‑2.6.3 OP/EP Approval Process. Submission of OPs/EPs for approval (if required)
must precede the requested on-site survey date by 90 calendar days. Follow these
procedures when submitting OPs/EPs for approval:

n The command shall validate in the forwarding letter that the OPs/EPs are
complete and accurate.

n The command must verify that drawings are accurate. Accurate drawings are
used as a guide for evaluating OPs/EPs. Fully verified system schematics/
drawings with components, gas consoles, manifolds, and valves clearly labeled
shall be forwarded with the OPs/EPs.

n Approved OPs/EPs shall have the revision date listed on each page and not
have any changes without written NAVSEA/NAVFAC approval.

4-4 U.S. Navy Diving Manual­— Volume 1

 n The command shall retain system documentation pertaining to DLSS approval,
i.e., PSOBs, supporting manufacturing documentation, and OPs/EPs.

4‑2.6.4 Format. The format for OPs/EPs is as follows:

n System: (Name or description, consistent with drawings)

n Step, Component, Description, Procedure, Location, Initials, Note (read in

seven columns)

4‑2.6.5 Example. System: High Pressure Air

Step Component Description Procedure Location Initials Note

Reducer
1 ALP-15 Open Salvage Hold
Outlet
Reducer Record
2 ALP-GA-7 Salvage Hold
Outlet Pressiure

Once NAVSEA or NAVFAC has approved the system OPs/EPs, they shall not be
changed without specific written approval from NAVSEA or NAVFAC.

4-3 DIVER’S BREATHING GAS PURITY STANDARDS

4-3.1 Diver’s Breathing Air. Diver’s air shall meet the U.S. Navy’s Diving Breathing Air
Standards contained in Table 4-1.

Table 4‑1. U.S. Navy Diving Breathing Air Requirements.

Constituent Specification

Percent Oxygen, Balance Predominately Nitrogen 20–22%

Carbon Dioxide (ppm) 1,000 ppm (max)

Carbon Monoxide (ppm) 10 ppm (max)

Odor and taste Not objectionable

Water (Notes 1,2)
by dew point (degrees F at 1 ATM ABS) or -65°F
by moisture content (ppm or mg/L) 24 ppm or .019 mg/L (max)

Total Volatile Organic Compounds (in methane

25 ppm (max)
equivalents), ppm (Notes 3, 4, 5)

Condensed Oil and other Particulates, mg/L 0.005 mg/L or 5 mg/m3 (max)

CHAPTER 4 — Dive Systems 4-5

 Constituent Specification

Notes:
1. The water content of compressed air can vary with the intended use from saturated to very
dry. For breathing air used in conjunction with a U.S. Navy Diving Life Support System
(DLSS) in a cold environment (<50°F), where moisture can condense and freeze causing
system malfunction, the verification of the dew point is paramount and shall not exceed
-65°F or 10°F lower than the coldest temperature expected in the area, whichever is lower.
2. Dew points of -40°F are acceptable for submarine diver life support systems, including
the Dry Deck Shelter (DDS), the VA Class Lockout Trunk (LOT), and the SSGN Lockout
Compartment (LOC).
3. Specification is 25 ppm in methane equivalents when measured by a laboratory-based
flame ionization detector (FID) calibrated with methane and methane excluded.
4. Specification is 5 ppm in n-hexane equivalents when measured by a laboratory-based (FID)
calibrated with n-hexane and methane excluded.
5. Specification is 10 ppm as measured by other portable photoionization detector (PID)
containing a 10.6 electron volt lamp and calibrated with isobutylene (includes GEOTECH
Dive Air 2 Portable Air Monitor).

Diver’s breathing air may be produced by a certified air compressor, ANU approved
air compressor or procured from a commercial or foreign military source. Diver’s
air procured from a commercial or foreign military source shall be certified in
writing by the vendor as meeting the purity standards listed in Table 4-1.

U.S. Military air compressors used to produce diver’s breathing air shall be listed
on the ANU list or be part of a certified system. In addition, they shall be maintained
in accordance with the PMS card(s) applicable to the compressor and air samples
shall be in accordance with paragraph 4-4.

NOTE: A compressor log shall be maintained with the compressor at all times.
It shall record date, start/stop hour-meter readings, corrective/preventive
maintenance accomplished, the component the compressor is charging,
pressures not within parameters.

Air generated by non-U.S. Navy owned compressors (commercially supplied air)

may be utilized for all diving operations with the Commanding Officer’s permission
when the commercial air supplier provides documentation that the air meets the
requirements of Table 4-1.

When a commercial air supplier is unable to provide documentation that air meets
the air purity standards of Table 4-1 the Commanding Officer may authorize use
of the commercial air for an individual mission, not to exceed 30 days, utilizing
DP surface augmented diving apparatus or SCUBA in water 38 degrees F and
above. The air source shall be evaluated against the requirements of the Non-Navy
Compressors Check Sheet. The compressor check sheet is available on the secure
SUPSALV website at 00C3/diving publications.

4-3.2 Diver’s Breathing Oxygen. Oxygen used for breathing at 100-percent concentra­
tions and for mixing of diver’s breathing gases shall meet Military Specification
MIL-PRF-27210G, Oxygen, Aviators Breathing, Liquid and Gaseous. The purity
standards are contained in Table 4-2.

4-6 U.S. Navy Diving Manual­— Volume 1

 Table 4‑2. Diver’s Compressed Oxygen Breathing Purity Requirements.

Constituent Specification
General Note: Gaseous and liquid oxygen shall contain not less than 99.5% by volume. The
remain­der, except for moisture and minor constituents specified below, shall be Argon and Ni­
trogen.
Type I Gaseous

Oxygen (percent by volume) 99.5%

Carbon dioxide (by volume) 10 ppm (max)

Methane (CH4 by volume) 50 ppm (max)

Acetylene (C2H2) 0.1 ppm (max)

Ethylene (C2H4) 0.4 ppm (max)

Ethane (C2H6 and other hydrocarbons) 6.0 ppm (max)

Nitrous Oxide (N2O by volume) 4.0 ppm (max)

Halogenated Compounds (by volume):

Refrigerants 2.0 ppm (max)

Solvents 0.2 ppm (max)

Moisture (water vapor measured by ppm or 7 ppm (max)
measured by dew point) <-82°F
Odor Odor free

Type II Liquid

Oxygen (percent by volume) 99.5%

Carbon dioxide (by volume) 5 ppm (max)

Methane (CH4 by volume) 25 ppm (max)

Acetylene (C2H2) 0.05 ppm (max)

Ethylene (C2H4) 0.2 ppm (max)

Ethane (C2H6 and other hydrocarbons) 3.0 ppm (max)

Nitrous Oxide (N2O by volume) 2.0 ppm (max)

Halogenated Compounds (by volume):

Refrigerants 1.0 ppm (max)

Solvents 0.10 ppm (max)

Moisture (water vapor measured by ppm or 7 ppm (max)
measured by dew point) <-82°F
Odor Odor free

Reference: Military Specification MIL-PRF-27210G

4-3.3 Diver’s Breathing Helium. Helium used for diver’s breathing gas shall meet
Military Specification, MIL-PRF-27407D Propellant Pressurizing Agent Helium,
Type I Gaseous Grade B, Respirable Helium. The purity standards are contained
in Table 4-3.

CHAPTER 4 — Dive Systems 4-7

 Table 4‑3. Diver’s Compressed Helium Breathing Purity Requirements.

Constituent Specification

Helium (percent by volume) 99.997%

Moisture (water vapor) 9 ppm (max)

Dew Point (not greater than) -78°F

Hydrocarbons (as Methane) 1 ppm (max)

Oxygen 3 ppm (max)

Nitrogen + Argon 5 ppm (max)

Neon 23 ppm (max)

Hydrogen 1 ppm (max)

Reference: Military Specification MIL-PRF-27407D

4-3.4 Diver’s Breathing Nitrogen. Nitrogen used for divers breathing gas shall meet
Federal Specification A-A-59155 Nitrogen, High Purity, Special Purpose. The
purity standards are contained in Table 4-4.

Table 4‑4. Diver’s Compressed Nitrogen Breathing Purity Requirements.

Class I Oil Free, Type I Gaseous & Type II Liquid

Specification/Grade

Constituent A B
Nitrogen 99.95% 99.50%

Oxygen 0.05% 0.50%

Moisture (water vapor) .02 mg/l .02 mg/l

Total Hydrocarbons 50 ppm 50 ppm

(as meth­ane by volume)
Oil Oil Free Oil Free

Odor None None

Note: Type I Nitrogen shall not contain any solid particles whose dimensions are greater than
50 microns. A 10 micron or better nominal filter at or close to the cylinder charging manifold will
be used.
Reference: Federal Specification A-A-59155

4-4 DIVER’S AIR SAMPLING PROGRAM

NAVSEA Code 00C3 manages, but does not fund, the diver’s breathing air sampling
program in accor­dance with OPNAVINST 3150.27 (series). The purpose of the air
sampling program is to:

n Provide technical support for the operation and maintenance of diver’s breathing
air compressors and diving air storage systems.

4-8 U.S. Navy Diving Manual­— Volume 1

 n Provide general guidance concerning use of the Defense Compressed Air
Sampling (DCAT) program that establishes standards for testing facilities.

n Provide guidance and assistance for qualifying local commercial air analysis
facilities, including the evaluation of air sampling capabilities and equipment.

n Perform program management for centrally funded air sampling services as

directed by CNO Code N97 and coordinate support at the echelon II or III level
for diving commands use of the DCAT program.

n Collaborate with other government agencies and commercial industry on gas

purity standards and sampling procedures related to diver’s breathing gases.

4-4.1 Sampling Requirements. Periodic air samples are required in accordance with
PMS applicable to the compressor producing diver’s breathing air. Each diver
breathing­air source in service must be sampled approximately every 6 months
(within the interval between 4 and 8 months following the last accomplishment),
when contamination is suspected, and after system overhaul.

Do not use a compressor that is suspected of producing contaminated air or that

has failed an air sample analysis until the cause of the problem has been corrected
and a satisfactory air sample analysis has been obtained validating the production
of acceptable air.

Air drawn from submarine or submarine tender HP air storage banks for use as diver’s
breathing air shall be sampled in accordance with the PMS maintenance requirement
card applicable to the system, i.e., dry deck shelter system, submarine escape trunk,
SCUBA charging station. See paragraph 4-4.5 for additional information on system
line­up for sampling compressors where a sampling connection cannot be made
immediately downstream from the last air filtration device.

NOTE The most recent air sample analysis report shall be maintained on file
for each air compressor (by compressor serial number) used to produce
diver’s breathing air.

4-4.2 NSWC-PC Air Sampling Services. NSWC-PC coordinates air sampling services
with a commercial gas analysis laboratory, under the Defense Compressed Air
Testing Program. Commands are not authorized to communicate directly with
the laboratory and are directed to the Defense Compressed Air Testing (DCAT)
website (https://military.airtesting.com/login.php) to request air sampling services
and retrieve results. NSWC-PC telephone number is listed in Appendix 1C.

Commands will be notified by quickest means possible if any samples do not meet
minimum purity requirements. The user will discontinue use of the air source
until cause of contamination is corrected. Corrective action must be taken prior to
laboratory retest.

CHAPTER 4 — Dive Systems 4-9

 4-4.3 Local Air Sampling Services. Commands may use local government air analysis
facilities (e.g., shipyards, ship repair facilities, government research laboratories)
to analyze diver’s air samples.

Units may use local commercial air analysis facilities to analyze diver’s air samples
only after the facility has been certified by NAVSEA Code 00C. Commands
interested in using local commercial facilities must contact NAVSEA 00C3 to
arrange a quality survey at the facility. Commands may be required to bear the cost
of certifying the commercial air analysis facility.

4-4.4 Portable Air Monitor (PAM). The ANU approved PAM is a compact air monitor
capable of field testing diver’s air for oxygen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide,
and volatile organic compounds. The PAM cannot test for water vapor, oil mist,
or particulates. For this reason, the PAM is not a substitute for periodic sampling
under the Diver’s Air Sampling Program.

The PAM may be used to perform continuous on-line sampling or periodic

verification of an ANU compressor’s output and to sample non-U.S. Navy owned
air sources IAW paragraph 4-3.1 and the Non-Navy Compressors Checklist. The
Portable Air Monitor must be calibrated prior to use and safeguarded from rough
handling.

4-4.5 General Air Sampling Procedures. The following general guidance is provided to
obtain air samples:

n Follow the procedures on applicable air sample MRC card and those included
with the air sampling kit.

n Prior to taking air samples ensure all applicable PMS has been completed on
the compressor and associated filtration system.

n Ensure that the compressor being sampled has reached full operating condition
(proper operating temperature, oil pressure, and air pressure) and is properly
lined up to deliver air to the sample kit.

n Ensure that the compressor’s intake is clear of any potential sources of

contamination (including consideration of ambient smog levels in areas where
smog is a problem).

n Take separate samples from each compressor supplying the system. Samples
from the compressors should be taken as close to the compressor as possible
but down stream of the last compressor-mounted air treatment device (moisture
separator, filter, etc.).
1. Some HP systems do not have fittings that allow samples to be taken from the
system at a location other than the charging connection. In this case, the storage
flasks should be isolated from the system, the system purged with air from the
compressor to be sampled and the sample taken at the charging connection.

4-10 U.S. Navy Diving Manual­— Volume 1

 2. Some LP systems do not have fittings that allow samples to be taken at
connections other than the diver’s manifold. In this case, isolate any HP
source(s) from the LP system and purge the system with air from the LP
compressor. Obtain the sample from the diver’s manifold.

NOTE Failure to purge the system of air produced from other compressors or
storage flasks will lead to an invalid air sample for the compressor being
sampled.

4-5 DIVE SYSTEM COMPONENTS

4-5.1 Diving Compressors. Many air systems used in Navy diving operations include at
least one air compressor as a source of air. It is essential that the operators of these
compressors have an understanding of compressor components and principles
of gas compression as described in this section. Compressors used to supply air
for diving or as drive air to transfer oxygen or mixed gases shall be listed in the
NAVSEA/00C Authorized for Navy Use (ANU) list or be included in the scope of
certification a certified diving system (except as noted in paragraph 4-3.1).

There are many different designs of air compressors. Reciprocating air compressors
are the only compressors authorized for use in Navy air diving operations. Low
pressure (LP) compressors can provide rates of flow sufficient to support surface-
supplied air diving or recompression chamber operations. High-pressure (HP)
models can charge high- pressure air banks and SCUBA cylinders.

Normally, Reciprocating compressors have their rating (capacity in cubic feet per
minute and delivery pressure in psig) stamped on the manufacturer’s identification
plate. If not provided directly, capacity will be provided and may be determined by
conducting a compressor output test (see Topside Tech Notes).

The compressor rating is usually based on inlet conditions of 70°F (21.1°C), 14.7
psia barometric pressure, and 36 percent relative humidity (an air density of 0.075
pound per cubic foot). If inlet conditions vary, the actual capacity either increases
or decreases from rated values. Since the capacity is the volume of air at defined
atmospheric conditions, compressed per unit of time, it is affected only by the first
stage, as all other stages only increase the pressure and reduce temperature.

All compressors are stamped with a code, consisting of at least two, but usually
four to five, numbers that specify the bore and stroke of the pistons. The bore
(piston diameter) and stroke (length the piston moves through a cycle) determines
the displacement and therefore the capacity.

The actual capacity of the compressor will always be less than the displacement
because of the clearance volume of the cylinders. This is the volume above the
piston that does not get displaced by the piston during compression.

Any diving air compressor not permanently installed must be firmly secured in
place. Most portable compressors are provided with lashing rings for this purpose.

CHAPTER 4 — Dive Systems 4-11

 4-5.1.1 Lubrication. Compressors used to produce military diver’s breathing air are
normally of oil-lubricated, two-to-five-stage reciprocating type. Oil lubrication:

n Prevents wear between friction surfaces

n Seals close clearances

n Protects against corrosion

n Transfers heat away from heat-producing surfaces

n Transfers minute particles generated from normal system wear to the oil sump
or oil filter if so equipped

A malfunctioning oil-lubricated compressor poses a contamination risk to the

diver’s air supply. Contamination may occur due to excess oil mist being passed
out of the compressor due to excess clearances, broken parts, or overfilling the oil
sump.

Gaseous hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide may also be produced should a

compressor overheat to the point of causing combustion of the lubricating oil and/
or gaskets and other soft goods found in the compressor. Compressor overheating
may be caused by a number of events including, but not limited to: loss of cooling
water or air flow, low lube oil level, malfunction of stage unloader or relief valves,
friction from broken or excessively worn parts, and/or compressor operation at an
RPM above its rated capacity.

Diver’s air filtration systems are designed to work with compressors operating
under normal conditions, and cannot be relied on to filter or purify air from a
malfunctioning compressor.

WARNING Do not use a malfunctioning compressor to pump diver’s breathing air or

charge diver’s air storage flasks as this may result in contamination of
the diver’s air supply.

4-5.1.1.1 Lubrication Specifications. Compressor oil shall be changed IAW PMS.

Lubricants used in diver’s air compressors shall conform to MIL-PRF-17331
(2190 TEP) for normal operations, or MIL-PRF-17672 (2135TH) for cold weather
operations. Where the compressor manufacturer specifically recommends the
use of a synthetic base oil in their compressor for production of breathing air,
that manufacturer recommended synthetic base oil may be used in lieu of MIL-
PRF-17331 or MIL-PRF-17672 oil.

4-5.1.2 Maintaining an Oil‑Lubricated Compressor. Proper maintenance is vital when

using an oil-lubricated compressor to limit the amount of oil introduced into the
diver’s air (see Topside Tech Notes). When using any oil lubricated compressor
for diving, the air must be checked for oil contamination. Diving operations shall
be aborted at the first indication that oil is in the air being delivered to the diver.
An immediate air analysis must be conducted to determine whether the amount of

4-12 U.S. Navy Diving Manual­— Volume 1

 oil present exceeds the maximum permissible level in accordance with table Table
4-1.

It should be noted that air in the higher stages of a compressor has a greater amount
of lubricant injected into it than in the lower stages. Compressors selected for a
diving operation should provide as close to the required pressure for that operation
as possible. A system that provides excessive pressure contributes to the buildup of
lubricant in the air supply.

4-5.1.3 Water Vapor Control. A properly operated air supply system should never permit
the air supplied to the diver to reach its dewpoint. Dewpoint is the temperature that
water condenses out of air. The lower the dewpoint, the lower amount of water
vapor present in the air. Controlling the amount of water vapor in the supplied air
is normally accomplished by one or both of the following methods:

n Compression/Expansion. As high-pressure air expands across a pressure

reducing valve, the partial pressure of the water vapor in the air is decreased.
Since the expansion takes place at essentially a constant temperature
(isothermal), the partial pressure of water vapor required to saturate the air
remains unchanged. Therefore, the relative humidity of the air is reduced.

n Cooling. Cooling the air prior to expanding it raises its relative humidity,
permitting some of the water to condense. The condensed liquid may then be
drained from the system.

Cooling of the air occurs in intercoolers. Intercoolers are heat exchangers that
are placed between the stages of a compressor to control the air temperature.
Water, flowing through the heat exchanger counter to the air flow, serves both to
remove heat from the air and to cool the cylinder walls. Intercoolers are frequently
air cooled. During the cooling process, water vapor is condensed out of the air
into condensate collectors. The condensate must be drained periodically during
operation of the compressor, either manually or automatically.

4-5.1.4 Volume Tank. A volume tank is required when operating directly from a low
pressure air compressor. The volume tank maintains the air supply should the
primary supply source fail, providing time to actuate a secondary air supply. It also
absorbs pressure pulsations resulting from the compressor operation. A volume
tank may also be required when the volume tank is an integral part of the system
design such as a Lightweight Dive System. When operating from a high-pressure
air source, a volume tank is not required if the pressure reducer has been proven to
withstand significant pressure cycling caused by use of UBA demand regulators.

4-5.1.5 Pressure Regulators. A back-pressure regulator will be installed downstream

of the compressor discharge. A compressor only compresses air to meet the
supply pressure demand. If no demand exists, air is simply pumped through the
compressor at atmospheric pressure. Systems within the compressor, such as
the intercoolers, are designed to perform with maximum efficiency at the rated
pressure of the compressor. Operating at any pressure below this rating reduces
the efficiency of the unit. Additionally, compression reduces water vapor from the

CHAPTER 4 — Dive Systems 4-13

 air. Reducing the amount of compression increases the amount of water vapor in
the air supplied to the diver.

The air supplied from the compressor expands across the pressure regulator and
enters the air banks or volume tank. As the pressure builds up in the air banks or
volume tank, it eventually reaches the relief pressure of the compressor, at which
time the excess air is simply discharged to the atmosphere. Some electrically-
driven compressors are controlled by pressure switches installed in the volume
tank or HP flask. When the pressure reaches the upper limit, the electric motor is
shut off. When sufficient air has been drawn from the volume tank or HP flask to
lower its pressure to some lower limit, the electric motor is restarted.

4-5.1.6 Air Filtration System. Military diving compressors shall be equipped with an air
filtration system that is listed in the NAVSEA/00C ANU list or be an element of
a certified diving system. The term air filtration system as used here is inclusive,
referring collectively to compressed gas system filters, moisture separators, air
purification, air cooling, and dehydration equipment.

NOTE Only white virgin Teflon tape that is made in accordance with MILSPEC
A-A 58093 is authorized for use on Navy Diving Life Support Systems
(DLSS).

NOTE Do not use commercial cleaning products/agents, only utilize properly

mixed Non Ionic Detergent (NID) to clean exterior of Navy Diving Life
Support Systems. Do not flood console case or the gauges with water
and cleaner.

4-5.2 High-Pressure Air Cylinders and Flasks. HP air cylinders and flasks are vessels
designed to hold air at pressures over 600 psi. Any HP vessel to be used as
a diving air supply unit must bear appropriate Department of Transportation
(DOT), American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), or military symbols
certifying that the cylinders or flasks meet high-pressure requirements.

A complete air supply system includes the necessary piping and manifolds, HP
filter, pressure reducing valve, and a volume tank. An HP gauge must be located
ahead of the reducing valve and an LP gauge must be connected to the pressure
reducing valve and a volume tank (when required).

NOTE All valves and electrical switches that directly influence the air supply
shall be labeled: “DIVER’S AIR SUPPLY - DO NOT TOUCH” Banks of
flasks and groups of valves require only one central label at the main
stop valve.

In using this type of system, one section must be kept in reserve. The divers take air
from the HP air flask or volume tank and is regulated to conform to the air supply
requirements of the dive.

As in SCUBA operations, the quantity of air that can be supplied by a system using
cylinders or flasks is determined by the initial capacity of the cylinders or flasks

4-14 U.S. Navy Diving Manual­— Volume 1

 and the depth of the dive. The duration of the air supply must be calculated in
advance and must include a provision for decompression. Sample calculations for
dive duration, based on bank air supply, are presented in Chapter 8.

The secondary air system must be able to provide air in the event of a failure
of the primary system. The secondary air supply must be sized to be able to
support recovery of all divers (including standby) should the failure occur at the
worst possible time (per General Specification for the Design, Construction, and
Repair of Diving and Hyperbaric Equipment, NAVSEA TS500-AU-SPN-010). An
additional requirement must be considered if the same air system is to support
a recompression chamber. Refer to Chapter 18 for information on the additional
capacity required to support a recompression chamber.

4-5.2.1 Compressed Gas Handling and Storage. Compressed gas shall be transported in
cylinders meeting Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations applicable to
the compressed gas being handled. DOT approved cylinders bear a serial number,
DOT inspection stamp, a pressure rating, the date of last hydrostatic test, are
equipped with applicable cylinder valve, and are appropriately color coded.

Refer to the following references for more detailed information on compressed gas
handling and storage:

n Industrial Gases, Generating, Handling and Storage, NAVSEA Technical

Manual S9086­SX­STM­000/CH­550.

n American and Canadian Standard Compressed-Gas Cylinder Valve Outlet and

Inlet Connections (ANSI-B57.1 and CSA-B96).

n American National Standard Method of Marking Portable Compressed-Gas

Containers to Identify the Material Contained (Z48.1).

n Guide to the Preparation of Precautionary Labeling and Marking of Compressed

Gas Cylinders (CGA Pamphlet C­7).

4-5.3 Diving Gauges.

4-5.3.1 Selecting Diving System Gauges. Select a gauge whose full scale reading
approximates 130 percent to 160 percent of the maximum operating pressure of
the system. Following this guideline, a gauge with a full scale reading of 4,000
or 5,000 psi would be satisfactory for installation in a system with a maximum
operating pressure of 3,000 psi.

Selecting gauge accuracy and precision should be based on the type of system and
how the gauge will be used. For example, a high level of precision is not required
on air bank pressure gauges where only relative values are necessary to determine
how much air is left in the bank or when to shut down the charging compressor.
However, considerable accuracy (¼ of 1 percent of full scale for saturation diving
operations and 1 percent of full scale for surface supplied operations) is required
for gauges that read diver depth (pneumofathometers and chamber depth gauges).

CHAPTER 4 — Dive Systems 4-15

 Depth gauge accuracy is critical to selecting the proper decompression or treatment
table.

Many gauges are provided with a case blowout plug on the rear surface. The
blowout plug protects the operator in the event of Bourdon tube failure, when case
overpressurization could otherwise result in explosion of the gauge lens. The plug
must not be obstructed by brackets or other hardware.

All diving system gauges should be provided with gauge isolation valves and
calibration fittings. If a gauge fails during an operation, the isolation valve closes
to prevent loss of system pressure.

4-5.3.2 Calibrating and Maintaining Gauges. All installed gauges and portable gauges
(tank pressure gauges, submersible tank pressure gauges, and gauges in small
portable test sets) in use must be calibrated or compared in accordance with PMS
by a certified METCAL facility unless a malfunction requires repair and calibration
sooner. Programs such as the Shipboard Gauge Calibration Program as outlined
in the NAVSEA Instruction 4734.1 (series) provide authority for a command to
calibrate its own gauges. Calibrated gauges not in use should be kept in a clean,
dry, vibration­free environment.

Calibration and comparison data must include the date of the last satisfactory check,
the date the next calibration is due, and the activity accomplishing the calibration.

Gauges are delicate instruments and can be damaged by vibration, shock, or impact.
They should be mounted in locations that minimize these factors and should always
be mounted to gauge boards, panels, or brackets. The piping connection should
not be the sole support for the gauge. A gauge can be severely damaged by rapid
pulsations of the system when the fluid pressure is being measured. When this
condition exists, a gauge snubber should be installed between the isolation valve
and the gauge to protect the instrument. Most gauges are not waterproof and are
not designed for use in a marine environment. Enclosures of transparent acrylic
plastic, such as lucite, can be used to protect the gauges from water and salt spray.
However, the enclosure must have vent passages to allow the atmospheric pressure
to act on the gauge sensing element.

4-5.3.3 Helical Bourdon Tube Gauges. Manufacturers make two basic types of helical
Bourdon tube gauges for use on recompression chambers and for surface-supplied
diving systems. One is a caisson gauge with two ports on the back. The reference
port, which is capped, is sealed with ambient air pressure or is piped to the exterior
of the pressure chamber. The sensing port is left open to interior pressure. The
other gauge is the standard exterior gauge.

Both are direct-drive instruments employing a helical Bourdon tube as the sensing
element. The gauges are accurate to ¼ of 1 percent of full scale pressure at all
dial points. With no gears or linkages, the movement is unaffected by wear, and
accuracy and initial calibration remains permanent.

4-16 U.S. Navy Diving Manual­— Volume 1

 A comparative check in lieu of recalibration should be made in accordance with
the Planned Maintenance System. A dial adjustment screw on the front face of the
gauge provides for zero-­point adjustment and special set pressure. Dial readout
units of measure can be in pounds per square inch (psi) and/or feet of seawater
(fsw).

4-5.3.4 Pneumofathometer. A pneumofathometer is a remote depth sensing system used

in surface supplied diving to monitor the divers depth from the surface. The
pneumofathometer consists of: a valve that allows air from the diver’s manifold
into the system, a gauge mounted in the divers control console after the valve, and
a hose that is connected to the gauge married to the diver’s umbilical.

The diver’s end of the hose is secured to the diver at chest height. As the diver
descends in the water column (and while on the bottom) the console operator uses
the valve to force water out of the hose until a generally constant reading over the
expected maximum depth is noted on the gauge (taking care not to over pressurize
the gauge). The valve is then secured and the diver’s depth (equal to the height of
the water column displaced by the air) is read on the gauge.

The pneumofathometer is given a final purge just before leaving bottom and not
purged while on ascent.

CHAPTER 4 — Dive Systems 4-17

 PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY

4-18 U.S. Navy Diving Manual­— Volume 1

 CHAPTER 5

Dive Program Administration

5-1 INTRODUCTION

5-1.1 Purpose. This chapter promulgates general policy pertaining to command dive
logs, personal dive logs, diving mishap reports, HAZREPS, and failure analysis
reports within U.S. Navy diving activities.

5-1.2 Scope. The record keeping and reporting instructions outlined in this chapter
pertain to command diving logs, individual diving logs, personal diving records,
diving mishap and near-mishap reports, and failure analysis reports.

5-2 OBJECTIVES OF THE RECORD KEEPING AND REPORTING SYSTEM

There are five objectives in the diving record keeping and reporting system.
1. Establish a comprehensive record of diving activity for each command engaged in
diving. The Command chamber and DJRS Logs are a collection of standardized
diving records that establishes the dive history for each diving command and
constitutes the minimum documentation required for all uneventful dives.

2. Gather data for safety and trend analysis. Information about current Navy diving
operations (including manned use of recompression chambers) is provided to the
Naval Safety Center (NAVSAFCEN) through the Dive/Jump Reporting System
(DJRS). Hyperbaric Treatments and diving mishaps are reported via the Web
Enabled Safety System (WESS) per OPNAVINST 5102.1 (series). This information
enables the Safety Center to identify safety related problems associated with
operating procedures and training.

3. Prevent mishaps. Information about diving hazards and mishaps is disseminated to

the Fleet (in redacted form) by Naval Safety Center to provide timely, complete,
and accurate information that enables commands to take appropriate action to
prevent similar mishaps.

4. Report information about equipment deficiencies to the responsible technical

agencies via NAVSEA 00C through the Failure Analysis Reporting (FAR) system.

5. Provide records for a personal log.

5-3 RECORD KEEPING AND REPORTING DOCUMENTS

The documents established to meet the objectives of the record keeping and
reporting system are:

n Command Dive Log

n Recompression Chamber Log

CHAPTER 5 — Dive Program Administration 5-1

 n Dive/Jump Reporting System (DJRS)

n Personal Dive Log (electronic or hard copy)

n Failure Analysis Report (FAR) for ANU diving systems and equipment and
certified Diver’s Life Support Systems (DLSS)

n Diving Mishaps/Hyperbaric Treatments reports (WESS)

n Diving Hazard (near mishap) reports (WESS)

n Equipment Mishap Information Sheet (Figure 5‑1)

5-4 COMMAND DIVE LOG

The Command Dive Log is a chronological collection of all dive records conducted
at a diving activity. It contains information on dives by personnel permanently and
temporarily attached to the activity.

Dives conducted while temporarily assigned to another diving command shall be

recorded in DJRS under the host command Unit Identification Code (UIC), and in
the Command Dive Log of the host command.

OPNAVINST 3150.27 (series) requires retention of the Command Dive Log for 3
years. DJRS is an acceptable method of maintaining a Command Dive Log. The
minimum data items in the Command Diving Log include:

n Date of dive

n Purpose of the dive

n Identification of divers and standby divers

n Times left and reached surface, bottom time

n Depth

n Decompression time

n Air and water temperature

n Signatures of Diving Supervisor or Diving Officer/Master Diver

5-5 RECOMPRESSION CHAMBER LOG

The Recompression Chamber Log is a legal record of procedures and events for
an entire dive. All U.S. Navy activities operating recompression chamber systems
shall maintain a recompression chamber log.

Recompression chamber logs shall be kept in real time and maintained in a legible
narrative. The Diving Supervisor, Master Diver and/or Diving Officer shall

5-2 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 review and sign the log daily or at the end of their watches. Upon conclusion of
any treatments the attending Diving Medical Officer (DMO) or senior medical
representative should place an entry at the end of the log prior to closeout signatures
with a summary of the patient’s condition prior to treatment, response during
treatment, and condition after treatment.

Recompression Chamber Logs shall not be loose leaf. Logs may be printed and
bound commercially, through Defense Printing Service, or blank bound log books
may be adapted for use. Adherence to standard Navy practice for making entries
and corrections to entries (one line errors and initial, late entries…) ensures clarity
while preserving a legal record of treatment. Logs shall be retained for 3 years after
the date of the dive.

The minimum data items in the Recompression Chamber Log include:

n Date of dive

n Purpose of the dive

n Identification of diver(s)/patients(s)

n Identification of tender(s)

n Time left surface

n Time reached treatment depth

n Time reached stop

n Time left stop

n Depth/time of relief

n Time on oxygen and time off oxygen

n Change in symptoms, including time of complete relief of symptom(s)

n Recompression chamber inside air temperature

n Medicine administered

n Fluid administered

n Fluid void

n Signatures of Diving Officer, Master Diver, or Diving Supervisor

CHAPTER 5 — Dive Program Administration 5-3

5-6 U.S. NAVY DIVE/JUMP REPORTING SYSTEM (DJRS)

DJRS is a computer based method of recording and reporting dives as required

by the OPNAVINST 3150.27 (series). The computer software provides diving
commands with a computerized record of dives.

DJRS enables commands to submit diving data to the Naval Safety Center. The
computer software allows users to enter dive data, transfer data to the Naval Safety
Center, and to generate individual diver and command reports. The DJRS was
designed for all branches of the U.S. Armed Services and can be obtained through:

Commander, Naval Safety Center

Attention: Code 37
375 A Street
Norfolk, VA 23511-­4399

5-7 PERSONAL DIVE LOG

Each Navy trained diver shall maintain a record of dives in accordance with
OPNAVINST 3150.27 (series). One way for each diver to accomplish this is
to keep a copy of each Diving Log Form in a binder or folder. The Diving Log
Form is generated by the DJRS software. These forms, when signed by the Diving
Supervisor and Diving Officer, are an acceptable record of dives that may be
required to justify special payments and may help substantiate claims made for
diving related illness or injury. If an individual desires a hard copy of the dives, the
diver’s command can generate a report using DJRS. If a complete individual dive
history is desired, the diving activity must submit a written request to the Naval
Safety Center.

5-8 EQUIPMENT FAILURE OR DEFICIENCY REPORTING

The Failure Analysis Reporting system provides the means for reporting, tracking
and resolving material failures or deficiencies in ANU/DLSS equipment and
systems. The FAR provides a rapid method to communicate failures or deficiencies
to the configuration manager, engineers, and technicians who are qualified to
resolve the deficiency. The system can be accessed at https://secure.supsalv.org
00C3 Diving, or through PMS-EOD and SPECWAR quick links at http://supsalv.
org for Naval Special Warfare/EOD managed systems. Anyone that discovers an
equipment failure or deficiency shall notify the Master Diver, Diving Supervisor,
work center supervisor, or other responsible person who shall ensure that a FAR is
properly submitted.

5-9 DIVE MISHAP/NEAR MISHAP/HAZARD REPORTING

5-9.1 Mishap/Near-mishap/Hazard. A mishap is an unplanned or unexpected event that

causes death, injury, occupational illness (including days away from work, job
transfer or work restriction), or loss of, or serious damage to equipment. A near-
mishap is an act or event where injury or equipment damage was avoided by mere
chance. A hazard is an unsafe act or condition that degrades safety and increases

5-4 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 the probability of a mishap. Dive mishaps, near mishaps, and hazards shall be
reported IAW OPNAVINST 5102.1 (series) and the 3150.27(series). Activities
without reliable internet access may obtain an offline version of WESS through
NAVSAFECEN for uploading via email when a connection becomes available.

NOTE In the interest of creating and maintaining a learning organization, to

the greatest extent possible, the reporting of safety issues or concerns
shall be handled so that persons reporting or individuals involved in the
reported event are not subject to punishment or censure.

5-9.2 Judge Advocate General (JAG Investigation). JAG Manual provides instructions
for investigation and reporting procedures required in instances when the mishap
may have occurred as a result of procedural or personnel error. Per OPNAVINST
5202.1, a JAG investigation must remain separate from any Naval Safety
Investigation, and the Safety Investigation Board (SIB) shall be granted access to
all evidence collected by the JAGMAN.

5-9.3 Reporting Criteria. Reportable diving mishaps include all class A, B, C, and D
mishaps involving diving or support of diving missions. All on-duty diving cases
involving the following specific conditions shall be reported to NAVSAFECEN:

n All recompression treatments,

n Any incidence of Type I or II DCS

n All cases of pulmonary over-inflation syndromes

n Any case of loss of consciousness

n CNS or pulmonary oxygen toxicity

NOTE NOTIFY NAVSEA at [email protected] and [email protected] or

(202) 781-1731 (available 24hrs) with non-privileged information of any
reportable mishap as soon as possible. Immediate contact may prevent
loss of evidence vital to the evaluation of the equipment or prevent
unnecessary shipment of equipment to NEDU.

5-9.4 HAZREPS. Hazards and near-mishaps that do not warrant submission of a Safety
Investigation Report (SIREP) are reported as HAZREPS IAW OPNAVINST
5102.1 (series). Submission of HAZREPS ensures safety information is collected
and analyzed for trends to identify training, qualification, procedural, or equipment
issues that may lead to mishaps. Self-evaluation and self-reporting of near mishaps
is a key measure of professionalism and demonstrates concern for the greater
diving community.

The following are examples of diving hazards and near-mishaps:

1. Execution of an emergency procedure, examples include, but are not limited to:

n Unplanned shift to secondary air.

CHAPTER 5 — Dive Program Administration 5-5

 n Aborted dive due to unexpected issue/event.

n Trapped/Fouled diver where standby or buddy diver was required.

n Lost diver where stand-by diver was required.

2. Exceeding prescribed limits, including, but not limited to:

n Maximum depth.

n Bottom time.

n Omitted decompression.

n Oxygen exposures above allowed pulmonary oxygen limits.

3. Any abnormal condition discovered after equipment and systems are prepared for
use that could result in an injury, examples include, but are not limited to:

n CO2 canister installed or filled improperly.

n CO2 canister not installed.

n Exhaust valves installed improperly.

n Dive system aligned improperly.

4. Any external (Port Operations, tended or adjacent units…) systems, equipment, or

conditions that may adversely affect or impair diver safety, examples include,
but are not limited to:

n Ship’s equipment operated or tags cleared without proper authorization

before, during, or after divers enter the water.

n Unauthorized cranes operated overhead of divers.

n Small boat/craft operations conducted over/in the vicinity of divers.

n Unauthorized discharges/SONAR while divers are in the water.

5-10 ACTIONS REQUIRED

U.S. Navy diving units shall perform the following procedure for all reportable
diving mishaps in accordance with Section 5-9.
1. Immediately secure and safeguard from tampering all diver­-worn and ancillary/
support equipment that may have contributed to the mishap. This equipment
should also include, but is not limited to, the compressor, regulator, depth gauge,
submersible pressure gauge, diver dress, buoyancy compensator/life preserver,
weight belt, and gas supply (SCUBA, emergency gas supply, etc.).

5-6 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 2. Expeditiously report circumstances of the mishap via WESS. Commands without
WESS access should report by message (see OPNAVINST 5102.1 (series) for
format requirements) to:

n NAVSAFECEN NORFOLK VA//JJJ// with information copies to CNO

WASHINGTON DC//N773// COMNAVSEASYSCOM WASHINGTON
DC//00C// and NAVXDIVINGU PANAMA CITY FL//JJJ//.

n If the mishap is MK 16 MOD 1 related, also send information

copies to PEO LMW WASHINGTON DC//PMS-­EOD//
NAVSURFWARCENIHEODTECHDIV INDIAN HEAD MD, and
NAVSURFWARCENIHEODTECHDIV TECHSUPP DET INDIAN
HEAD MD.

n If the mishap is MK 16 MOD 0 related, also send information copies to

COMNAVSEASYSCOM WASHINGTON DC//NSW//

n If the mishap occurs at a shore­based facility, contact NAVFAC SCA, also

send information copies to NFESC EAST COAST DET WASHINGTON
DC//55//.

3. Equipment may need to be shipped to NEDU for further investigation. Contact

NAVSEA 00C3 for determination.

4. Expeditiously prepare a separate, written report of the mishap. The report shall
include:

n A completed Equipment Mishap Information Sheet (Figure 5­-1)

n A sequential narrative of the mishap including relevant details that might

not be apparent in the data sheets

5. The data sheets and the written narrative shall be mailed by traceable registered
mail to:
Commanding Officer
Navy Experimental Diving Unit
321 Bullfinch Road
Panama City, Florida 32407-7015
Attn: Code 03, Test & Evaluation

6. Package a certified copy of all pertinent 3M records and deliver to NAVSEA/00C3

on­-scene representative.

5-10.1 Equipment Mishap Information Sheet. The equipment mishap sheet is submitted
with reports of all diving mishaps when malfunction or inadequate equipment
performance, or unsound equipment operating and maintenance procedures may
be a factor. A copy of the form shall be submitted with any equipment sent to Navy
Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU) for testing related to a mishap.

CHAPTER 5 — Dive Program Administration 5-7

 The primary purpose of this requirement is to identify any material deficiency that
may have contributed to the mishap. Any suspected malfunction or deficiency of
life support equipment will be thoroughly investigated by controlled testing at
NEDU. NEDU has the capability to perform engineering investigations and full
unmanned testing of all Navy diving equipment under all types of pressure and
environmental conditions. Depth, water turbidity, and temperature can be duplicated
for all conceivable U.S. Navy dive scenarios. In many instances submission of a
FAR may also be required.

Contact NAVSEA/00C3 to assist diving units with investigations and data collection
following a diving mishap. 00C3 will assign a representative to inspect the initial
condition of equipment and to pick up or ship all pertinent records and equipment
to NEDU for full unmanned testing. Upon receipt of the equipment, NEDU will
conduct unmanned tests as rapidly as possible and will then return the equipment
to the appropriate activity.

NOTE: Do not tamper with equipment without first contacting NAVSEA/00C3 for
guidance.

5-10.2 Shipment of Equipment. To expedite delivery, SCUBA, MK 16 and EGS bottles

shall be shipped separately in accordance with current DOT directives and
command procedures for shipment of compressed gas cylinders. Cylinders shall
be forwarded in their exact condition of recovery (e.g., empty, partially filled,
fully charged). If the equipment that is believed to be contributory to the accident/
incident is too large to ship economically, contact NEDU to determine alternate
procedures.

5-8 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 EQUIPMENT MISHAP INFORMATION SHEET

GENERAL
Unit point of contact_________________________________ Position__________________________
Command UIC__________________ Date_______________ Time of occurrence_________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
EQUIPMENT (indicate type of all equipment worn/used) Contributing factor________________________
UBA: SCUBA_________________ MK21__________________ MK20__________________
MK 16_________________ MK 25 MOD 2_______________ KM37______________
Other (specify)________________________________________________________
Suit type: Dry________________ Wet________________ Hot water______________________
Other dress: Gloves_____________ Booties______________ Fins__________________________
Mask______________ Snorkel_____________ Knife__________________________
Weight belt (indicate weight)_____________________________________________
Navy Dive Computer _____________ Files from NDC Downloaded ______________
Depth gauge___________________ Last calibration date_______________________
Buoyancy compensator/life preserver:_________________________________________________
Inflated at scene:______________ Partially______________ Operational ____________________
Inflation mode: Oral____________ CO2 __________________ Independent supply______________
Cylinders: Number worn_________ Size (cu ft)__________ Valve type_____________________
Gas mix______________ Aluminum__________ Steel_________________________
Surface pressure: Before____________________ After______________________
Regulator:__________________ Last PMS date____________ Functional at scene?_______________
Submersible pressure gauge:___________________________ Functional at scene?_______________
CONDITIONS Location_____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
Depth__________fsw Visibility__________ft. Current__________Knots sea state____________(0-9)
Air temp______________°F Water temp: at surface_______________°F at depth______________°F
Bottom type (mud, sand, coral, etc.)______________________________________________________
DIVE TIME
Bottom________________ Decompression_________________ Total dive time_________________
Was equipment operating and maintenance procedure a contributing factor?
(Explain):________________________________________________________________________
Is there contributory error in O&M Manual or 3M System?
(Explain):________________________________________________________________________
OTHER CONTRIBUTING FACTORS________________________________________________________

Figure 5-1. Equipment Accident/Incident Information Sheet. (sheet 1 of 2).

CHAPTER 5 — Dive Program Administration 5-9

 EQUIPMENT MISHAP INFORMATION SHEET
Pertaining to UBA involved, fill in blanks with data required by items 1 through 9.

KM 37 NS MK 20 SCUBA MK 16 MK 25 OTHER
     
1. Number of turns to secure topside gas umbilical supply:
N/A N/A N/A
2. Number of turns to secure valve on emergency gas supply (EGS):
Reserve N/A N/A
Up/Down
3. Number of turns to secure gas supply at mask/helmet:
N/A Mouthpiece Mouthpiece
Valve: Surface Valve: Surface
________ ________
Dive Dive
________ _________

4. Number of turns to secure gas bottle:

N/A N/A Air O2 O2
Bottle ________ Bottle
________ Diluent ________
________
5. Bottle Pressure:
EGS EGS _____ psig O2 _____ psig
_____ psig _____ psig _____ psig
Diluent
_____ psig
6. Gas Mixture:
Primary N/A Diluent N/A
% ______
EGS N2O2 _____
% ______ HeO2 _____
7. Data/color of electronic display:
N/A N/A N/A Primary N/A
________
Secondary
________

________
8. Battery voltage level:
N/A N/A N/A Primary N/A
________
Secondary
________
9. Condition of canister:
N/A N/A N/A
Note: If UBA involved is not listed above, provide information on separate sheet.

Figure 5‑1. Equipment Accident/Incident Information Sheet. (sheet 2 of 2).

5-10 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 APPENDIX 1A

Safe Diving Distances from

Transmitting Sonar

1A-1 INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this appendix is to provide guidance regarding safe diving distances
and exposure times for divers operating in the vicinity of ships transmit­ting with
sonar. Table 1A‑1 provides guidance for selecting Permissible Exposure Limits
Tables; Table 1A‑2 provides additional guidance for helmeted divers. Tables 1A‑3
through 1A‑5 provide specific procedures for diving operations involving AN/
SQS-23, -26, -53, -56; AN/BSY-1, -2; and AN/BQQ-5 sonars. Table 1A‑6 provides
procedures for diving operations involving AN/SQQ-14, -30, and -32. Section 1A‑5
provides guidance and precautions concerning diver exposure to low-frequency
sonar (160-320Hz). Contact NAVSEA Supervisor of Diving (00C3B) for guidance
on other sonars. This appendix has been substantially revised from Safe Diving
Distances from Transmitting Sonar (NAVSEAINST 3150.2 Series) and should be
read in its entirety.

1A-2 BACKGROUND

Chapter 18 of OPNAVINST 5100.23 Series is the basic instruction governing

hearing conservation and noise abatement, but it does not address exposure to
waterborne sound. Tables 1A‑3 through 1A‑6 are derived from experimental and
theoretical research conducted at the Naval Submarine Medical Research Labora­
tory (NSMRL) and Naval Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU). This instruction
provides field guidance for determining safe diving distances from transmitting
sonar. This instruction supplements OPNAVINST 5100.23 Series, and should be
implemented in conjunction with OPNAVINST 5100.23 Series by commands that
employ divers.

The Sound Pressure Level (SPL), not distance, is the determining factor for estab­
lishing a Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL). The exposure SPLs in Tables 1A‑3
through 1A‑6 are based upon the sonar equation and assume omni-directional sonar
and inverse square law spreading. Any established means may be used to estimate
the SPL at a dive site, and that SPL may be used to determine a PEL. When the
exposure level is overestimated, little damage, except to working sched­ules, will
result. Any complaints of excessive loudness or ear pain for divers require that
corrective action be taken. Section 1A‑5 provides guidance for diver exposure to
low-frequency active sonar (LFA), which should be consulted if expo­sure to LFA
is either suspected or anticipated.

This appendix does not preclude the operation of any sonar in conjunction with
diving operations, especially under operationally compelling conditions. It is based
upon occupational safety and health considerations that should be imple­mented for

APPENDIX 1A — Safe Diving Distances from Transmitting Sonar 1A-1

 routine diving operations. It should be applied judiciously under special operational
circumstances. The guidance in Tables 1A‑3 through 1A‑6 is intended to facilitate
the successful integration of operations.

1A-3 ACTION

Commanding Officers or Senior Officers Present Afloat are to ensure that diving
and sonar operations are integrated using the guidance given by this appendix.
Appropriate procedures are to be established within each command to effect coor­
dination among units, implement safety considerations, and provide efficient
operations using the guidance in Tables 1A‑3 though 1A‑6.

1A-4 SONAR DIVING DISTANCES WORKSHEETS WITH DIRECTIONS FOR USE

1A-4.1 General Information/Introduction. Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL) in minutes

for exposure of divers to sonar transmissions are given in Tables 1A-3 through
1A-6.

1A‑4.1.1 Effects of Exposure. Tables 1A‑3 through 1A‑5 are divided by horizontal double
lines. Exposure conditions above the double lines should be avoided for routine
operations. As Sound Pressure Level (SPL) increases above 215 dB for hooded
divers, slight visual-field shifts (probably due to direct stimulation of the semi­
circular canals), fogging of the face plate, spraying of any water within the mask,
and other effects may occur. In the presence of long sonar pulses (one second
or longer), depth gauges may become erratic and regulators may tend to free-
flow. Divers at Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory experienc­ing
these phenomena during controlled research report that while these effects are
unpleasant, they are tolerable. Similar data are not available for un-hooded divers
but visual-field shifts may occur for these divers at lower levels. If divers need
to be exposed to such conditions, they must be carefully briefed and, if feasible,
given short training exposures under carefully controlled conditions. Because
the probability of physiological damage increases markedly as sound pressures
increase beyond 200 dB at any frequency, exposure of divers above 200 dB is
prohibited unless full wet suits and hoods are worn. Fully protected divers (full
wet suits and hoods) must not be exposed to SPLs in excess of 215 dB at any
frequency for any reason.

1A‑4.1.2 Suit and Hood Characteristics. There is some variation in nomenclature and
characteristics of suits and hoods used by divers. The subjects who partici­pated
in the Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory experiments used 3/8-inch
nylon-lined neoprene wet suits and hoods. Subsequent research has shown that
3/16-inch wet suit hoods provide about the same attenuation as 3/8-inch hoods.
Hoods should be well fitted and cover the skull completely includ­ing cheek and
chin areas. The use of wet-suit hoods as underwater ear protec­tion is strongly
recommended.

1A‑4.1.3 In­-Water Hearing vs. In-Gas Hearing. A distinction is made between in-water
hearing and in-gas hearing. In-water hearing occurs when the skull is directly in
contact with the water, as when the head is bare or covered with a wet-suit hood.

1A-2 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 In-gas hearing occurs when the skull is surrounded by gas as in the KM 37 diving
helmet. In-water hearing occurs by bone conduction—sound incident anywhere
on the skull is transmitted to the inner ear, bypassing the external and middle ear.
In-gas hearing occurs in the normal way—sound enters the external ear canal and
stimulates the inner ear through the middle ear.

1A-4.2 Directions for Completing the Sonar Diving Distances Worksheet. Follow the
steps listed below to determine Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) for the case
when the actual dB Sound Pressure Level (SPL) at the dive site is unknown. Figure
1A-1 is a worksheet for computing the safe diving distance/exposure time. Figures
1A-2 through 1A-5 are completed worksheets using example problems. Work
through these example problems before applying the work­sheet to your particular
situation.

Step 1. Diver Dress. Identify the type of diving equipment—wet-suit un-hooded; wet-suit
hooded; helmeted. Check the appropriate entry on step 1 of the worksheet.

Step 2. Sonar Type(s). Identify from the ship’s Commanding Officer or representative the
type(s) of sonar that will be transmitting during the period of time the diver is
planned to be in the water. Enter the sonar type(s) in step 2 of the worksheet.

Step 3. PEL Table Selection. Use the Table 1A‑1 to determine which PEL table you will
use for your calculations. For swimsuit diving use wet suit un-hooded tables.
Check the table used in step 3 of the worksheet.

Table 1A‑1. PEL Selection Table.

SONAR

All except
AN/SQQ AN/SQQ Unknown
DIVER DRESS: -14, - 30, -32 -14, -30, -32 Sonar

Wet suit - Un-hooded Table 1A‑3 Table 1A‑6 Start at 1000 yards and move in to
diver comfort

Wet suit - Hooded Table 1A‑4 Table 1A‑6 Start at 600 yards and move in to
diver comfort

Helmeted Table 1A‑5 No restriction Start at 3000 yards and move in to

diver comfort

For guidance for sonars not addressed by this instruction, contact NAVSEA
(00C32).

NOTE If the type of sonar is unknown, start diving at 600–3,000 yards, depending
on diving equipment (use greater distance if helmeted), and move in to
limits of diver comfort.

Step 4. Distance to Sonar. Determine the distance (yards) to the transmitting sonar from
place of diver’s work. Enter the range in yards in step 4 of the worksheet.

APPENDIX 1A — Safe Diving Distances from Transmitting Sonar 1A-3

 SONAR SAFE DIVING DISTANCE/EXPOSURE TIME WORKSHEET

1. Diver dress: Wet Suit - Un-hooded

Wet Suit - Hooded
Helmeted  

2. Type(s) of sonar:  

3. PEL Table 1A-3 ; 1A-4 ; 1A-5 ; 1A-6

4. Range(s) to sonar (yards):  

5. Estimated SPL at range(s) in step 3 (from table/column in step 3):

Reminder: If range is between two values in the table, use the shorter range.
If the SPL is measured at the dive site, use the measured value.

6. Depth Reduction dB

Reminder: 0 if not helmeted, see table in instructions if helmeted.

7. Corrected SPL (Step 5 minus Step 6)  

8. Estimated PEL at SPL (from table/column in step 3 of the appendix):  

9. Duty Cycle Known: Yes (do step 9); No (stop)

Adjusted PEL for actual duty cycle

Actual DC % = 100 × sec. (pulse length / sec. (pulse repetition period)

Actual DC % =
Adjusted PEL = PEL (from step 8) min. × 20 / actual duty cycle (%) = min.

PEL1 = minutes; PEL2 = minutes

Reminder: Do not adjust the PEL if duty cycle is unknown.

10. Multiple Sonars: Yes (do step 10); No (stop)

Sonar 1: DT1 = (Desired dive duration)

PEL1 = (from Step 8 or 9, as applicable)

DT1/PEL1 = .

Sonar 2: DT1 = (Desired dive duration)

PEL1 = (from Step 8 or 9, as applicable)

DT1/PEL1 = .

ND = + = (This is less than 1.0, so dive is acceptable and may proceed.)

Reminder: The Noise Dose must not exceed a value of 1.0. 

Figure 1A-1. Sonar Safe Diving Distance/Exposure Time Worksheet.

1A-4 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1
 NOTE If range is between two values in the table, use the shorter range.
This will insure that the SPL is not underestimated and that the PEL is
conservative.

Step 5. Estimated SPL. In the PEL selection table (Table 1A‑1) determined in step 3 of
the worksheet (Figure 1A‑1), locate the diving distance (range) in the appropriate
sonar equipment column. Read across to the leftmost column to find the SPL in
dB. For ranges intermediate to those shown use the shorter range. Enter this SPL
value in step 5 of the worksheet. If the SPL value in dB can be determined at the
dive site, enter the measured SPL value in step 5.

Step 6. Helmeted Dive Depth Reduction.

If the diver dress is not helmeted, enter 0 in step 6 of the worksheet and go to step
7 of these instructions.

Helmeted divers experience reduced sensitivity to sound pressure as depth

increases. The reductions listed in Table 1A‑2 may be subtracted from the SPLs for
helmeted divers in Table 1A‑5. Enter the reduction in step 6 of the worksheet. If the
depth is between two values in the table, use the lesser reduction since that value
will produce a conservative PEL.

Table 1A‑2. Depth Reduction Table.

Depth (FSW) Reduction (dB) Depth (FSW) Reduction (dB)

9 1 98 6
19 2 132 7

33 3 175 8

50 4 229 9

71 5 297 10

Step 7. Corrected SPL. The corrected SPL equals the Estimated SPL from step 5 minus
the reduction in dB from step 6. Enter the corrected SPL in step 7 of the worksheet.

Step 8. PEL Determination. Go to the SPL in the appropriate table and read one column
right to find the PEL for the SPL shown in step 7 of the worksheet. Enter in step 8
of the worksheet.

Step 9. Duty Cycle/Adjusted PEL Calculation. Tables 1A‑3 through 1A‑6 assume
a transmit duty cycle of 20 percent. Duty cycle (DC) is the percentage of time
in a given period that the water is being insonified (sonar transmitting). Sonar
operators may use various means of computing DC that are valid for the purpose
of this instruction. If the actual duty cycle is different from 20 percent, PELs may
be extended or shortened proportionally. Use step 9 of the worksheet to calculate
and enter the corrected PEL.

APPENDIX 1A — Safe Diving Distances from Transmitting Sonar 1A-5

 The formula for duty cycle is:
DC = 100 × Pulse length (sec.) / Pulse Repetition Period (sec.)

The formula for the adjusted PEL is:

Adjusted PEL = PEL × 20 / actual duty cycle; Equation 1

Example Problem.  An un-hooded wet suited diver is 16 yards from an AN/SQQ-14

sonar transmitting a 500 msec pulse (.5 seconds) every 10 seconds.

Solution. The actual duty cycle (DC) % is:

Actual DC % = 100 × .5 / 10 = 5 percent.

Locate the PEL from the table (which is for a 20% duty cycle). Compute the
adjusted PEL as:

Using worksheet step 9, Adjusted PEL = PEL (from step 8) 170 × 20/5=680 minutes.

If variable duty cycles are to be used, select the greatest percent value.

Step 10. Multiple Sonar/Noise Dose Calculation. When two or more sonars are operating
simultaneously, or two or more periods of noise exposure from different SONARs
occur, the combined effects must be considered.

The formula to calculate Noise Dose (ND) from multiple SONARS is:

Pr = DT/PEL

ND = Pr1 + Pr2…

Where:

Pr is the PEL ratio of the desired or actual dive times

DT is the dive (exposure) time(s) (left surface to reach surface).

PEL is the Permissible Exposure Limit for each SONAR in use.

ND is the daily noise dose and must not exceed a value of 1.0.

NOTE Use DT1/PEL1 for the first sonar, DT1/PEL2 for the second sonar, up to
the total number of sonars in use. Noise dose may be computed for future
repetitive dives from different SONAR by using the planned dive time of
the repetitive dives (DT2, DT3…)

1A-6 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 Example Problem.  A hooded wet suited diver is 100 yards from a transmitting AN/
SQS-53A sonar and a transmitting AN/SQS-23 sonar for fifteen minutes.

Solution.
DT1 = 15 minutes
PEL1 (for SQS-53A) = 50 minutes
DT1/PEL1 = 15/50 = .3

DT2 = 15 minutes
PEL2 (for SQS-23) = 285 minutes
DT2/PEL2 = 15/285 = .05

ND = .3 + .05 = .35
This is less than 1.0 and therefore is acceptable.

APPENDIX 1A — Safe Diving Distances from Transmitting Sonar 1A-7

 Example 1: You are planning a routine dive for 160 minutes using wet-suited divers without hoods at a
dive site 17 yards from an AN/SQQ-14 sonar. The duty cycle for the AN/SQQ-14 sonar is unknown. Is
this dive permitted? Provide justification for your decision.

SONAR SAFE DIVING DISTANCE/EXPOSURE TIME WORKSHEET

1. Diver dress: Wet Suit - Un-hooded X

Wet Suit - Hooded
Helmeted ______

2. Type(s) of sonar: AN/SQQ-14

3. PEL Table 1A-3 __; 1A-4 ; 1A-5 __; 1A-6 X

4. Range(s) to sonar (yards): 17

5. Estimated SPL at range(s) in step 3 (from table/column in step 3): SPL = 198 dB

Reminder: If range is between two values in the table, use the shorter range.
If the SPL is measured at the dive site, use the measured value.

6. Depth Reduction 0 dB

Reminder: 0 if not helmeted, see table in instructions if helmeted.

7. Corrected SPL (Step 5 minus Step 6) SPL1 198 – 0 = 198 dB

8. Estimated PEL at SPL (from table/column in step 3 of the appendix): PEL1 = 170 minutes 

9. Duty Cycle Known: Yes ______ (do step 9); No X (stop)

Adjusted PEL for actual duty cycle
Actual DC % = 100 × _____ sec. (pulse length / _____ sec. (pulse repetition period)
Actual DC % = ______
Adjusted PEL = PEL (from step 8) ___ min. × 20 / actual duty cycle (%) ___ = ___ min.

Reminder: Do not adjust the PEL if duty cycle is unknown.

10. Multiple Sonars: Yes _____ (do step 10); No X (stop)

Sonar 1: DT1 = (Desired dive duration)

PEL1 = (from Step 8 or 9, as applicable)
DT1/PEL1 = .

Sonar 2: DT1 = (Desired dive duration)

PEL1 = (from Step 8 or 9, as applicable)
DT1/PEL1 = .

ND = ____ + _____ = ____ (This is less than 1.0, so dive is acceptable and may proceed.)

Reminder: The Noise Dose must not exceed a value of 1.0.

The dive time of 160 minutes is permitted because the PEL is 171 minutes.

Figure 1A‑2. Sonar Safe Diving Distance/Exposure Time Worksheet (Completed Example).

1A-8 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 Example 2: You are planning a routine dive for 75 minutes using wet-suited divers without hoods at a
dive site which is 1000 yards from an AN/SQQ-23 sonar. The SPL was measures at 185 dB. The duty
cycle for the AN/SQS-23 sonar is unknown. Is this dive permitted? Provide justification for your decision.

SONAR SAFE DIVING DISTANCE/EXPOSURE TIME WORKSHEET

1. Diver dress: Wet Suit - Un-hooded X

Wet Suit - Hooded
Helmeted ______

2. Type(s) of sonar: AN/SQS-23

3. PEL Table 1A-3 X ; 1A-4 ; 1A-5 __; 1A-6

4. Range(s) to sonar (yards): 1000

5. Estimated SPL at range(s) in step 3 (from table/column in step 3): SPL = 185 dB

Reminder: If range is between two values in the table, use the shorter range.
If the SPL is measured at the dive site, use the measured value.

6. Depth Reduction 0 dB

Reminder: 0 if not helmeted, see table in instructions if helmeted.

7. Corrected SPL (Step 5 minus Step 6) SPL1 185 – 0 = 185 dB

8. Estimated PEL at SPL (from table/column in step 3 of the appendix): PEL1 = 170 minutes 

9. Duty Cycle Known: Yes ______ (do step 9); No X (stop)

Adjusted PEL for actual duty cycle
Actual DC % = 100 × _____ sec. (pulse length / _____ sec. (pulse repetition period)
Actual DC % = ______
Adjusted PEL = PEL (from step 8) ___ min. × 20 / actual duty cycle (%) ___ = ___ min.

Reminder: Do not adjust the PEL if duty cycle is unknown.

10. Multiple Sonars: Yes _____ (do step 10); No X (stop)

Sonar 1: DT1 = (Desired dive duration)

PEL1 = (from Step 8 or 9, as applicable)
DT1/PEL1 = .

Sonar 2: DT1 = (Desired dive duration)

PEL1 = (from Step 8 or 9, as applicable)
DT1/PEL1 = .

ND = ____ + _____ = ____ (This is less than 1.0, so dive is acceptable and may proceed.)
Reminder: The Noise Dose must not exceed a value of 1.0.. 

The dive time of 75 minutes is permitted because the PEL is 170 minutes.

Figure 1A-3. Sonar Safe Diving Distance/Exposure Time Worksheet (Completed Example).

APPENDIX 1A — Safe Diving Distances from Transmitting Sonar 1A-9

 Example 3: You are planning a 98 fsw dive for 35 minutes using the KM 37 at a dive site which is 3000
yards from an AN/SQS-53C sonar. The duty cycle for the AN/SQS-53C sonar is unknown. Is this dive
permitted? Provide justification for your decision.

SONAR SAFE DIVING DISTANCE/EXPOSURE TIME WORKSHEET

1. Diver dress: Wet Suit - Un-hooded

Wet Suit - Hooded
Helmeted X  

2. Type(s) of sonar: AN/SQS-53C

3. PEL Table 1A-3 ; 1A-4 ; 1A-5 X ; 1A-6

4. Range(s) to sonar (yards): 3000

5. Estimated SPL at range(s) in step 3 (from table/column in step 3): SPL1 = 181 dB

Reminder: If range is between two values in the table, use the shorter range.
If the SPL is measured at the dive site, use the measured value.

6. Depth Reduction 6 dB

Reminder: 0 if not helmeted, see table in instructions if helmeted.

7. Corrected SPL (Step 5 minus Step 6) SPL1 181 – 6 = 175 dB

8. Estimated PEL at SPL (from table/column in step 3 of the appendix): PEL1 = 50 minutes 

9. Duty Cycle Known: Yes ______ (do step 9); No X (stop)

Adjusted PEL for actual duty cycle
Actual DC % = 100 × _____ sec. (pulse length / _____ sec. (pulse repetition period)
Actual DC % = ______
Adjusted PEL = PEL (from step 8) ___ min. × 20 / actual duty cycle (%) ___ = ___ min.

Reminder: Do not adjust the PEL if duty cycle is unknown.

10. Multiple Sonars: Yes _____ (do step 10); No X (stop)

Sonar 1: DT1 = (Desired dive duration)

PEL1 = (from Step 8 or 9, as applicable)
DT1/PEL1 = .

Sonar 2: DT1 = (Desired dive duration)

PEL1 = (from Step 8 or 9, as applicable)
DT1/PEL1 = .

ND = ____ + _____ = ____ (This is less than 1.0, so dive is acceptable and may proceed.)
Reminder: The Noise Dose must not exceed a value of 1.0.

The dive time of 35 minutes is permitted because the PEL is 50 minutes.

Figure 1A‑4. Sonar Safe Diving Distance/Exposure Time Worksheet (Completed Example).

1A-10 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 Example 4: You are planning a routine dive for 120 minutes using wet-suited divers with hoods at a dive
site which is 200 yards from an AN/SQS-53A sonar and 120 yards from an AN/SQS-23 sonar. The AN/
SQS-53A sonar is transmitting an 800 msec pulse (0.8 sec) every 20 seconds. The duty cycle for the
AN/SQS-23 sonar is unknown. Is this dive permitted? Provide justification for your decision.

SONAR SAFE DIVING DISTANCE/EXPOSURE TIME WORKSHEET

1. Diver dress: Wet Suit - Un-hooded

Wet Suit - Hooded X  
Helmeted

2. Type(s) of sonar: AN/SQS-53A and AN/SQS-23 

3. PEL Table 1A-3 ; 1A-4 X ; 1A-5 ; 1A-6

4. Range(s) to sonar (yards): 200 (from SQS-53A); 120 (from SQS-23) 

5. Estimated SPL at range(s) in step 3 (from table/column in step 3): SPL1 = 201; SPL2 = 196
(per reminder, use SPL for 112 yard range)

Reminder: If range is between two values in the table, use the shorter range.
If the SPL is measured at the dive site, use the measured value.

6. Depth Reduction 0 dB

Reminder: 0 if not helmeted, see table in instructions if helmeted.

7. Corrected SPL (Step 5 minus Step 6) SPL1 201 – 0 = 201 dB; SPL2 196 – 0 = 196 dB;  

8. Estimated PEL at SPL (from table/column in step 3 of the appendix): PEL1 = 143 min; PEL 2 = 339 min 

9. Duty Cycle Known: Yes X (do step 9); No (stop)

Adjusted PEL for actual duty cycle
Actual DC % = 100 × 0.8 sec. (pulse length / 20 sec. (pulse repetition period)
Actual DC % = 4
Adjusted PEL = PEL (from step 8) 143 min. × 20 / actual duty cycle (%) 4 = 715 min.
PEL1 = 715 minutes; PEL2 = 339 minutes

Reminder: Do not adjust the PEL if duty cycle is unknown.

10. Multiple Sonars: Yes X (do step 10); No (stop)

Sonar 1: DT1 = 120 (Desired dive duration)

PEL1 = 715 (from Step 8 or 9, as applicable)
DT1/PEL1 = 120/715 = 0.17 .

Sonar 2: DT1 = 120 (Desired dive duration)

PEL1 = 339 (from Step 8 or 9, as applicable)
DT1/PEL1 = 120/339 = .35 .

ND = 0.17 + 0.35 = 0.52 (This is less than 1.0, so dive is acceptable and may proceed.)
Reminder: The Noise Dose must not exceed a value of 1.0.

The dive time of 120 minutes is permitted because the ND is less than 1.0.

Figure 1A‑5. Sonar Safe Diving Distance/Exposure Time Worksheet (Completed Example).

APPENDIX 1A — Safe Diving Distances from Transmitting Sonar 1A-11

Table 1A‑3. Wet Suit Un-Hooded.

Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) within a 24-hour period for exposure to AN/SQS-23, -26, -53, -56,
AN/BSY-1, -2 and AN/BQQ-5 sonars, including versions and upgrades. Exposure conditions shown
above the double line should be avoided except in cases of compelling operational necessity.

Estimated Ranges in yards for given SPL and PEL for sonar.

BQQ-5
BSY-2 SQS-23
SQS-26CX(U) SQS-26AX SPL PEL
BSY-1 SQS-53A, SQS-53B SQS-26BX, SQS-26CX
SQS-53C SQS-56(U) SQS-56 (dB) (MIN)

316 224 71 200 13 A

355 251 79 199 15 V E
398 282 89 198 18 O X
447 316 100 197 21 I P
501 355 112 196 25 D O
562 398 126 195 30 S
631 447 141 194 36 T U
708 501 158 193 42 H R
794 562 178 192 50 I E
891 631 200 191 60 S

1,000 708 224 190 71

1,122 794 251 189 85
1,259 891 282 188 101
1,413 1,000 316 187 120
1,585 1,122 355 186 143
1,778 1,259 398 185 170
1,995 1,413 447 184 202
2,239 1,585 501 183 240
2,512 1,778 562 182 285
2,818 1,995 631 181 339
3,162 2,239 708 180 404
3,548 2,512 794 179 480
3,981 2,818 891 178 571
4,467 3,162 1,000 177 679
5,012 3,548 1,122 176 807
5,623 3,981 1,259 175 960

All ranges and SPLs are nominal.

*SPL is measured in dB/1 µPA at the dive site. To convert SPL for sound levels referenced to mbar,
subtract 100 dB from tabled levels.

(U) = upgrade

1A-12 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

Table 1A‑4. Wet Suit Hooded.

Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) within a 24-hour period for exposure to AN/SQS-23, -26, -53, -56,
AN/BSY-1, -2, and AN/BQQ-5 sonar, including versions and upgrades. Exposure conditions shown
above the double line should be avoided except in cases of compelling operational necessity.

Estimated Ranges in yards for given SPL and PEL for sonar.
 
BQQ-5
BSY-2 SQS-23
SQS-26CX(U) SQS-26AX SPL PEL
BSY-1 SQS-53A, SQS-53B SQS-26BX, SQS-
SQS-53C SQS-56(U) 26CX SQS-56 (dB) (MIN)

56 40 13 215 13 A
63 45 14 214 15 V E
71 50 16 213 18 O X
79 56 18 212 21 I P
89 63 20 211 25 D O
100 71 22 210 30 S
112 79 25 209 36 T U
126 89 28 208 42 H R
141 100 32 207 50 I E
158 112 35 206 60 S

178 126 40 205 71

200 141 45 204 85
224 158 50 203 101
251 178 56 202 120
282 200 63 201 143
316 224 71 200 170
355 251 79 199 202
398 282 89 198 240
447 316 100 197 285
501 355 112 196 339
562 398 126 195 404
631 447 141 194 480
708 501 158 193 571
794 562 178 192 679
891 631 200 191 807
1,000 708 224 190 960

 
All ranges and SPLs are nominal.

*SPL is measured in dB/1 µPA at the dive site. To convert SPL for sound levels referenced to mbar,
subtract 100 dB from tabled levels.

(U) = upgrade

APPENDIX 1A — Safe Diving Distances from Transmitting Sonar 1A-13

Table 1A‑5. Helmeted.

Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) within a 24-hour period for exposure to AN/SQS-23, -26, -53, -56,
AN/BSY-1, -2, and AN/BQQ-5 sonar, including versions and upgrades. Exposure conditions shown
above the double line should be avoided except in cases of compelling operational necessity.

Estimated Ranges in yards for given SPL and PEL for sonar.
 
BQQ-5
BSY-2 SQS-23
SQS-26CX(U) SQS-26AX SPL PEL
BSY-1 SQS-53A, SQS-53B SQS-26BX, SQS-
SQS-53C SQS-56(U) 26CX SQS-56 (dB) (MIN)

2,239 1,585 501 183 13 A

2,512 1,778 562 182 15 V E
2,818 1,995 631 181 18 O X
3,162 2,239 708 180 21 I P
3,548 2,512 794 179 25 D O
3,981 2,818 891 178 30 S
4,467 3,162 1,000 177 36 T U
5,012 3,548 1,122 176 42 H R
5,623 3,981 1,259 175 50 I E
6,310 4,467 1,413 174 60 S

7,079 5,012 1,585 173 71

7,943 5,623 1,778 172 85
8,913 6,310 1,995 171 101
10,000 7,079 2,239 170 120
11,220 7,943 2,512 169 143
12,589 8,913 2,818 168 170
14,125 10,000 3,162 167 202
15,849 11,220 3,548 166 240
17,783 12,589 3,981 165 285
19,953 14,125 4,467 164 339
22,387 15,849 5,012 163 404
25,119 17,783 5,623 162 480
28,184 19,953 6,310 161 571
31,623 22,387 7,079 160 679
35,481 25,119 7,943 159 807
39,811 28,184 8,913 158 960

 
 

All ranges and SPLs are nominal.

*SPL is measured in dB/1 µPA at the dive site. To convert SPL for sound levels referenced to mbar,
subtract 100 dB from tabled levels.

(U) = upgrade

1A-14 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

Table 1A‑6. Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) Within a 24-hour Period for Exposure to AN/SQQ-14, -30,
‑32 Sonars.

Estimated Ranges in yards for given SPL and PEL for sonar.
 
 
WET SUIT UN-HOODED

SPL PEL Range

(dB) (MIN) (yards)

200 120 13
199 143 14
198 170 16
197 202 18
196 240 20
195 285 22
194 339 25
193 404 28
192 480 32
191 571 35
190 679 40
189 807 45
188 960 50

WET SUIT HOODED

SPL PEL Range

(dB) (MIN) (yards)

215 120 2
214 143 3
213 170 3
212 202 3
211 240 4
210 285 4
209 339 4
208 404 5
207 480 6
206 571 6
205 679 7
204 807 8
203 960 9

Dry suit helmeted divers: no restriction for these sonars. All ranges and SPLs are nominal.

*SPL is measured in dB/1 µPA at the dive site. To convert SPL for sound levels referenced to mbar,
subtract 100 dB from tabled levels.

APPENDIX 1A — Safe Diving Distances from Transmitting Sonar 1A-15

1A-5 GUIDANCE FOR DIVER EXPOSURE TO LOW-FREQUENCY SONAR (160–320 Hz)

If possible, you should avoid diving in the vicinity of low-frequency sonar (LFS).
LFS generates a dense, high-energy pulse of sound that can be harmful at higher
power levels. Because a variety of sensations may result from exposure to LFS, it
is necessary to inform divers when exposure is likely and to brief them regarding
possible effects; specifically, that they can expect to hear and feel it. Sensations
may include mild dizziness or vertigo, skin tingling, vibratory sensations in the
throat and abdominal fullness. Divers should also be briefed that voice communi­
cations are likely to be affected by the underwater sound to the extent that line pulls
or other forms of communication may become necessary. Annoyance and effects
on communication are less likely when divers are wearing a hard helmet (KM
37) diving rig. For safe distance guidance, contact NAVSEA (00C3). Tele­phone
numbers are listed in Volume 1, Appendix C.

1A-6 GUIDANCE FOR DIVER EXPOSURE TO ULTRASONIC SONAR (250 KHz AND
GREATER)

The frequencies used in ultrasonic sonars are above the human hearing threshold.
The primary effect of ultrasonic sonar is heating. Because the power of ultrasonic
sonar rapidly falls off with distance, a safe operating distance is 10 yards or greater.
Dive operations may be conducted around this type of sonar provided that the
diver does not stay within the sonar’s focus beam. The diver may finger touch
the transducer’s head momentarily to verify its operation as long as the sonar is
approached from the side.

1A-16 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 APPENDIX 1B

References

References Subject
BUMEDINST 6200.15 Suspension of Diving During Pregnancy

BUMEDINST 6320.38 Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment in Navy Recompression

Chambers

Manual of the Medical Department, Article 15-66 Medical Examinations

MILPERSMAN Article 1220 Military Personnel Manual

NAVEDTRA 10669-C Hospital Corpsman 3 & 2

NAVFAC P-992 UCT Arctic Operations Manual

NAVMED P-5010 Manual of Naval Preventive Medicine

NAVSEA 10560 ltr UBA Canister Duration

NAVSEA/00C ANU Authorization for Navy Use

http://www.supsalv.org/00c3_anu.asp

NAVSEA (SS521-AA-MAN-010) U.S. Navy Diving and Manned Hyperbaric System Safety
Certification Manual

NAVSEA Technical Manual (S0600-AA-PRO-010) Underwater Ship Husbandry Manual

NAVSEA Technical Manual (SS500-HK-MMO-010) MK 3 MOD 0 Light Weight Diving System Operating and
Maintenance

NAVSEA Technical Manual (SS500-AW-MMM-010) MK 6 MOD 0 Transportable Recompression Chamber System

Operating and Maintenance

NAVSEA Technical Manual (SS600-AA-MMA-010) MK 16 MOD 0 Operating and Maintenance

NAVSEA Technical Manual (SS600-AQ-MMO-010) MK 16 MOD 1 Operating and Maintenance

NAVSEA Technical Manual (SS-600-A3-MMO-010) MK 25 MOD 2 UBA Operating and Maintenance

NAVSEA Technical Manual (S9592-B1-MMO-010) Fly Away Dive System (FADS) III Air System Operating and
Maintenance

NAVSEA Technical Manual (SS9592-B2-MMO-010) Fly Away Dive System (FADS) III Mixed Gas System (FMGS)
Operating and Maintenance

NAVSEA Technical Manual (S9592-AN-MMO-010) Emergency Breathing System Type I Operating and Maintenance

NAVSEA Technical Manual (0938-LP-011-4010) Nuclear Powered Submarine Atmosphere Control Manual

NAVSEA Technical Manual (S9592-AY-MMO-020) MK 5 MOD 0 Flyaway Recompression Chamber (FARCC)

NAVSEA Technical Manual (SS500-B1-MMO-010) Standard Navy Double-Lock Recompression Chamber System

NAVSEA Technical Manual (SH700-A2-MMC-010) Emergency Hyperbaric Stretcher Operations and Maintenance

NAVSEA Technical Manual (SS521-AJ-PRO-010) Guidance for Diving in Contaminated Waters

Naval Ships Technical Manual, Chapter 74, Vol. 1 Welding and Allied Processes
(S9086-CH-STM-010)

APPENDIX 1B — References Change A  1B-1

Naval Ships Technical Manual, Chapter 74, Vol. 3 Gas Free Engineering
(S9086-CH-STM-030)

Naval Ships Technical Manual, Chapter 262 Lubricating Oils, Greases, Specialty Lubricants, and Lubrication
(S9086-H7-STM-010) Systems

Naval Ships Technical Manual, Chapter 550 Industrial Gases, Generating, Handling, and Storage
(S9086-SX-STM-010)

NAVSEA Operation & Maintenance Instruction Fly Away Diving System Filter/Console
(0910-LP-001-6300)

NAVSEA Operation & Maintenance Instruction Fly Away Diving System Diesel Driven Compressor Unit EX 32
(0910-LP-001-1500) MOD 0, PN 5020559

Naval Safety Center Technical Manual Guide to Extreme Cold Weather

NAVSEA Technical Manual (S0300-A5-MAN-010) Polar Operations Manual

Office of Naval Research Technical Manual Guide to Polar Diving

ASTM G-88-90 Standard Guide for Designing Systems for Oxygen Service

ASTM G-63-92 Standard Guide for Evaluating Nonmetallic Materials for Oxygen
Service

ASTM G-94-92 Standard Guide for Evaluating Metals for Oxygen Service

FED SPEC BB-A-1034 B Diver’s Compressed Air Breathing Standard

FED SPEC A-A-59503 Compressed Nitrogen Standard

MIL-D -16791 Detergents, General Purpose (Liquid, Nonionic)

MIL-PRF-27210G Oxygen, Aviators Breathing, Liquid and Gaseous

MIL-PRF-27407D Propellant Pressurizing Agent Helium, Type I Gaseous Grade B

MIL-STD-438 Schedule of Piping, Valves and Fittings, and Associated Piping

Components for Submarine Service

MIL-STD-777 Schedule of Piping, Valves and Fittings, and Associated Piping

Components for Naval Surface Ships

MIL-STD-1330 Cleaning and Testing of Shipboard Oxygen, and Nitrogen

Systems Helium, Helium - Oxygen

MIL-STD-882 U.S. Department of Defense Standard Practice for System

Safety

OPNAVINST 3120.32C CH-1 Equipment Tag-Out Bill

OPNAVINST 3150.27 Series Navy Diving Program

OPNAVINST 5100.19C, Appendix A-6 Navy Occupational Safety and Health (NAVOSH) Program
Manual for Forces Afloat

OPNAVINST 5100.23 Navy Occupational Safety and Health (NAVOSH) Afloat Program
Manual

OPNAVINST 5102.1C CH-1 Mishap Investigation and Reporting

OPNAVINST 8023.2C CH-1 U.S. Navy Explosives Safety Policies, Requirements, and
Procedures (Department of the Navy Explosives Safety Policy
Manual)

OSHA 29 CFR Part 1910 Commercial Diving Operations

MIL-PRF-17331 Lubricant (2190 TEP)

MIL-PRF-17672 Lubricant (2135 TH)

1B-2 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

ANSI-B57.1 and CSA-B96 American and Canadian Standard Compressed-Gas Cylinder
Valve Outlet and Inlet Connections

Z48.1 American National Standard Method of Marking Portable

Compressed-Gas Containers to Identify the Material Contained

CGA Pamphlet C-7 Guide to the Preparation of Precautionary Labeling and Marking
of Compressed Gas Cylinders

APPENDIX 1B — References 1B-3

 PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY

1B-4 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 APPENDIX 1C

Telephone Numbers

Command Department Telephone Fax

Naval Surface Warfare Diver Life Support (Fleet Support (850) 234-4482 (850) 234-4775
Center -Panama City, Florida & Air Sampling DSN: 436-4482
(NSWC-PC)

BUMED M95 (202) 762-3444 (202) 762-0931

National Oceanic and Atmospheric HAZMAT (206) 526-6317 (206) 526-6329

Administration (NOAA)

Naval Sea Systems Command (202) 781-XXXX (202) 781-4588

(COMNAVSEASYSCOM) DSN: 326-XXXX

00C Director (202) 781-0731

00C1 Finance (202) 781-0648
00C2 Salvage (202) 781-2736
00C3 Diving (202) 781-0934
00C4 Certification (202) 781-0927
00C5 Husbandry (202) 781-3453

Naval Sea Systems Command Code Deep Submergence Systems (202) 781-1467
07Q Certification (202) 781-1336

NAVFAC Ocean Facilities Program (Code OFP) (202) 433-5596 (202) 433-2280
DSN 288-5596

APPENDIX 1C — Telephone Numbers Change A  1C-1

 PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY

1C-2 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 APPENDIX 1D

List of Acronyms

ABS Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene

ACF Actual Cubic Feet

ACFM Actual Cubic Feet per Minute

ACGIH American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists

ACLS Advanced Cardiac Life Support

ADS Advance Diving System

AGE Arterial Gas Embolism

ALSS Auxiliary Life-Support System

AM Amplitude Modulated

ANU Authorization for Navy Use/Authorized for Navy Use

AQD Additional Qualification Designator

ARD Audible Recall Device

AS Submarine Tender

ASDS Advanced SEAL Delivery System

ASRA Air Supply Rack Assembly

ASME American Society of Mechanical Engineers

ATA Atmosphere Absolute

ATP Ambient Temperature and Pressure

ATS Active Thermal System

BC Buoyancy Compensator

BCLS Basic Cardiac Life Support

BIBS Built-In Breathing System

BPM Breaths per Minute

APPENDIX 1D — List of Acronyms Change A  1D-1

 BTPS Body Temperature, Ambient Pressure

BTU British Thermal Unit

CDO Command Duty Officer

CCTV Closed-Circuit Television

CGA Compressed Gas Association

CNO Chief of Naval Operations

CNS Central Nervous System

CONUS Continental United States

COSAL Coordinated Shipboard Allowance List

CPR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

CRS Chamber Reducing Station

CSMD Combat Swimmer Multilevel Dive

CUMA Canadian Underwater Minecountermeasures Apparatus

CWDS Contaminated Water Diving System

DATPS Divers Active Thermal Protection System

DC Duty Cycle

DCS Decompression Sickness

DDC Deck Decompression Chamber

DDS Deep Diving System

DDS Dry Deck Shelter

DHMLS Divers Helmet Mounted Lighting System

DLSE Diving Life-Support Equipment

DLSS Divers Life Support System

DMO Dive Medical Officer

DMS Dive Monitoring System

DMT Diving Medical Technician

1D-2 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 DOT Department of Transportation

DRS Dive Reporting System

DSI Diving Systems International

DSM Diving System Module

DSRG Deep Submergence Review Group

DSRV Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle

DSSP Deep Submergence System Project

DT Dive Time or Descent Time

DT/DG Dive Timer/Depth Gauge

DUCTS Divers Underwater Color Television System

DV Diver

DPV Diver Propulsion Vehicle

EAD Equivalent Air Depth

EBA Emergency Breathing Apparatus

EBS I Emergency Breathing System I

EDWS Enhanced Diver Warning System

EEHS Emergency Evacuation Hyperbaric Stretcher

EGS Emergency Gas Supply

ENT Ear, Nose, and Throat

EOD Explosive Ordnance Disposal

EPs Emergency Procedures

ESDS Enclosed Space Diving System

ESDT Equivalent Single Dive Time

ESSM Emergency Ship Salvage Material

FADS III Flyaway Air Dive System III

FAR Failure Analysis Report

APPENDIX 1D — List of Acronyms 1D-3

 FARCC Flyaway Recompression Chamber

FED SPEC Federal Specifications

FFM Full Face Mask

FFW Feet of Fresh Water

FMGS Flyaway Mixed-Gas System

FPM Feet per Minute

FSW Feet of Sea Water

FV Floodable Volume

GFI Ground Fault Interrupter

GPM Gallons per Minute

HBO2 Hyperbaric Oxygen

HOSRA Helium-Oxygen Supply Rack Assembly

HP High Pressure

HPNS High Pressure Nervous Syndrome

HSU Helium Speech Unscrambler

ICCP Impressed-Current Cathodic Protection

IDV Integrated Divers Vest

IL Inner Lock

ILS Integrated Logistics Support

ISIC Immediate Senior in Command

JAG Judge Advocate General

J/L Joules per Liter, Unit of Measure for Work of Breathing

KwHr Kilowatt Hour

LB Left Bottom

LCM Landing Craft, Medium

LFA Low Frequency Acoustic

1D-4 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 LFS Low Frequency Sonar

LP Low Pressure

LPM Liters per Minute

LS Left Surface

LSS Life Support System or Life Support Skid

LWDS Light Weight Diving System

MBC Maximal Breathing Capacity

MCC Main Control Console

MD Maximum Depth

MDSU Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit

MDV Master Diver

MEFR Maximum Expiratory Flow Rate

MEV Manual Exhaust Valve

MFP Minimum Flask Pressure

MGCCA Mixed-Gas Control Console Assembly

MIFR Maximum Inspiratory Flow Rate

MIL-STD Military Standard

MMP Minimum Manifold Pressure

MP Medium Pressure

MRC Maintenance Requirement Card

MSW Meters of Sea Water

MVV Maximum Ventilatory Volume

NAVEDTRA Naval Education Training

NAVFAC Naval Facilities Engineering Command

NAVMED Naval Medical Command

NAVSEA Naval Sea Systems Command

APPENDIX 1D — List of Acronyms 1D-5

 ND Noise Dose

NDSTC Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center

NEC Navy Enlisted Classification

NEDU Navy Experimental Diving Unit

NEURO Neurological Examination

NID Non-Ionic Detergent

NITROX Nitrogen-Oxygen

NMRI Navy Medical Research Institute

NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NO-D No Decompression

NPC Naval Personnel Command

NRV Non Return Valve

NSMRL Navy Submarine Medical Research Laboratory

NSN National Stock Number

NSTM Naval Ships Technical Manual or NAVSEA Technical Manual

NSWC-PC Naval Surface Warfare Center - Panama City

O&M Operating and Maintenance

OBP Over Bottom Pressure

OCEI Ocean Construction Equipment Inventory

OIC Officer in Charge

OJT On the Job Training

OL Outer Lock

OOD Officer of the Deck

OPs Operating Procedures

OSF Ocean Simulation Facility

OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration

1D-6 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 PEL Permissible Exposure Limit

PMS Planned Maintenance System

PNS Peripheral Nervous System

PP Partial Pressure

PPCO2 Partial Pressure Carbon Dioxide

PPM Parts per Million

PPO2 Partial Pressure Oxygen

PSI Pounds per Square Inch

PSIA Pounds per Square Inch Absolute

PSIG Pounds per Square Inch Gauge

PSOB Pre-Survey Outline Booklet

PTC Personnel Transfer Capsule

PTS Passive Thermal System

QA Quality Assurance

RB Reached Bottom

RCC Recompression Chamber

REC Re-Entry Control

RMV Respiratory Minute Ventilation

RNT Residual Nitrogen Time

ROV Remotely Operated Vehicle

RQ Respiratory Quotient

RS Reached Surface

RSP Render Safe Procedure

SAD Safe Ascent Depth

SCA System Certification Authority

SCF Standard Cubic Feet

APPENDIX 1D — List of Acronyms 1D-7

 SCFM Standard Cubic Feet per Minute

SCFR Standard Cubic Feet Required

SCSCs System Certification Survey Cards

SCUBA Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus

SDRW Sonar Dome Rubber Window

SDS Saturation Diving System

SDV SEAL Delivery Vehicle

SEAL Sea, Air, and Land

SET Surface Equivalent Table

SEV Surface Equivalent (percent or pressure)

SI Surface Interval or System International

SLED Sea Level Equivalent Depth

SLM Standard Liters per Minute (short version used in formulas)

SLPM Standard Liters per Minute

SNDB Standard Navy Dive Boat

SOC Scope of Certifications

SPL Sound Pressure Level

SRDRS Submarine Rescue and Diver Recompression System

SSB Single Side Band

SSDS Surface Supplied Diving System

STEL Safe Thermal Exposure Limits

STP Standard Temperature and Pressure

STPD Standard Temperature and Pressure, Dry Gas

SUR D Surface Decompression

SUR D AIR Surface Decompression Using Air

SUR D O2 Surface Decompression Using Oxygen

1D-8 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

 T-ARS Auxiliary Rescue/Salvage Ship

T-ATF Fleet Ocean Tug

TBT Total Bottom Time

TDCS Tethered Diver Communication System

TDT Total Decompression Time

TL Transfer Lock

TLC Total Lung Capacity

TLD Thermal Luminescence Dosimeter

TLV Threshold Limit Values

TM Technical Manual

TMDER Technical Manual Deficiency Evaluation Report

TRC Transportable Recompression Chamber

TRCS Transportable Recompression Chamber System

TTD Total Time of Dive

UBA Underwater Breathing Apparatus

UCT Underwater Construction Team

UDM Underwater Decompression Monitor

UQC Underwater Sound Communications

UWSH Underwater Ship Husbandry

VENTIDC Vision Ear Nausea Twitching Irritability Dizziness

Convulsions

VTA Volume Tank Assembly

VVDS Variable Volume Dry Suit

WOB Work of Breathing

YDT Diving Tender

APPENDIX 1D — List of Acronyms 1D-9

 PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY

1D-10 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 1

VOLUME 2

Air Diving
Operations

6 Operational Planning
and Risk Management
7 SCUBA Air Diving
Operations
8 Surface Supplied Air
Diving Operations
9 Air Decompression
10 Nitrogen-Oxygen
Diving Operations
11 Ice and Cold Water
Diving Operations
Appendix 2A Optional Shallow Water
Diving Tables

Appendix 2B U.S. Navy Dive Computer

Appendix 2C Environmental and

Operational Hazards
Appendix 2D Guidance for U.S. Navy
Diving on a Dynamic
Positioning Vessel

U.S. NAVY DIVING MANUAL

PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
 Volume 2 - Table of Contents
Chap/Para Page

6 OPERATIONAL PLANNING AND RISK MANAGEMENT

6-1 INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

6-1.1 Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
6-1.2 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
6-1.3 Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

6-2 MISSION ANALYSIS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

6-2.1 Mission Analysis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
6‑2.1.1 Underwater Ship Husbandry (UWSH). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
6‑2.1.2 Search Missions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
6‑2.1.3 Salvage/Object Recovery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
6‑2.1.4 Harbor Clearance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
6-2.1.5 Security Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
6-2.1.6 Explosive Ordnance Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
6-2.1.7 Underwater Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
6-2.1.8 Battle Damage Assessment and Repair (BDA/R) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
6-2.1.9 Combat Diver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
6-2.1.10 Dive Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
6-2.1.11 Free Ascent/Escape Training and Operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
6-2.2 Analyze Available Forces and Assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
6‑2.2.1 Dive Techniques. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
6‑2.2.2 Diving Craft and Platforms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9
6-2.3 Commanders Intent and Planning Guidance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12

6-3 COURSE OF ACTION DEVELOPMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12

6-3.1 Analyze Unit Strengths and Weaknesses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12
6-3.2 Generate Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12
6-3.3 Develop Planning Assumptions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12

6-4 COURSE OF ACTION ANALYSIS/RISK ASSESSMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13

6-4.1 COA Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13
6-4.2 Risk Assessment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13
6‑4.2.1 Levels of ORM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-14

6-5 TASK PLANNING AND EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-17

6-5.1 Task Planning and Scheduling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-17
6‑5.1.1 Task Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-17
6‑5.1.2 Work-up Dives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-17
6‑5.1.3 Emergency Assistance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-18

Table of Contents­—Volume 2 2–i

 Chap/Para Page

6-6 TRANSITION (EXECUTION) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-21

6-6.1 Mission Brief. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-21
6-6.2 Dive Brief. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-22
6-6.3 Responsibilities While Operation is Underway. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-23
6‑6.3.1 Situational Awareness (SA). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-24
6‑6.3.2 Decision Making. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-25
6‑6.3.3 Fatigue. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-26
6‑6.3.4 Stress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-27
6-6.4 Post Dive/Post Mission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-27
6‑6.4.1 Post-dive/Post Mission Debrief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-28

7 SCUBA AIR DIVING OPERATIONS

7-1 INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

7-1.1 Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
7-1.2 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
7-1.3 References. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

7-2 OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

7-2.1 Operational Limits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
7-2.2 Manning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
7‑2.2.1 SCUBA Diving Supervisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
7‑2.2.2 SCUBA Diver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
7‑2.2.3 Buddy Diver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
7‑2.2.4 Standby SCUBA Diver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
7‑2.2.5 Tenders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
7‑2.2.6 Other Personnel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7

7-3 MINIMUM EQUIPMENT FOR SCUBA OPERATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7

7-3.1 Open-Circuit SCUBA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7
7‑3.1.1 Demand Regulator Assembly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8
7‑3.1.2 Cylinders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11
7-3.2 Face Mask. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13
7-3.3 Life Preserver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14
7-3.4 Buoyancy Compensator (BC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14
7-3.5 Weight Belt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-15
7-3.6 Knife . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-16
7-3.7 Swim Fins. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-16
7-3.8 Wrist Watch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-16
7-3.9 Depth Gauge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-16

7-4 OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT FOR SCUBA OPERATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-17

7-4.1 Protective Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-17
7‑4.1.1 Wet Suits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-17

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7‑4.1.2 Variable Volume Dry Suits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-18

7‑4.1.3 Gloves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-19
7‑4.1.4 Writing Slate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-19
7‑4.1.5 Signal Flare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-19
7‑4.1.6 Acoustic Beacons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-19
7‑4.1.7 Lines and Floats. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-19
7‑4.1.8 Snorkel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-20
7‑4.1.9 Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-20
7‑4.1.10 Dive Computers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-20
7‑4.1.11 Independent Secondary Air Source. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-20

7-5 AIR SUPPLY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-21

7-5.1 Duration of Air Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-21
7-5.2 Methods for Charging SCUBA Cylinders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-23
7-5.3 Operating Procedures for Charging SCUBA Tanks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-25
7‑5.3.1 Topping off the SCUBA Cylinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-25
7-5.4 Safety Precautions for Charging and Handling Cylinders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-26

7-6 PREDIVE PROCEDURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-27

7-6.1 Equipment Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-27
7‑6.1.1 Air Cylinders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-27
7‑6.1.2 Harness Straps and Backpack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-28
7‑6.1.3 Breathing Hoses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-28
7‑6.1.4 Regulator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-28
7‑6.1.5 Life Preserver/Buoyancy Compensator (BC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-28
7‑6.1.6 Face Mask . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29
7‑6.1.7 Swim Fins. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29
7‑6.1.8 Dive Knife. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29
7‑6.1.9 Snorkel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29
7‑6.1.10 Weight Belt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29
7‑6.1.11 Submersible Wrist Watch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29
7‑6.1.12 Depth Gauge and Compass. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29
7‑6.1.13 Miscellaneous Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-30
7-6.2 Dive Brief. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-30
7-6.3 Donning Gear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-30
7-6.4 Predive Inspection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-31

7-7 WATER ENTRY AND DESCENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-32

7-7.1 Water Entry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-32
7‑7.1.1 Step-In Method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-32
7‑7.1.2 Rear Roll Method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-36
7‑7.1.3 Front Roll Method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-36
7‑7.1.4 Side Roll Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-36
7‑7.1.5 Entering the Water from the Beach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-36

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7-7.2 In-Water Checks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-37

7-7.3 Surface Swimming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-38
7-7.4 Descent. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-38

7-8 UNDERWATER PROCEDURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-39

7-8.1 Breathing Technique. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-39
7-8.2 Mask Clearing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-39
7-8.3 Regulator Clearing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-39
7-8.4 Swimming Technique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-40
7-8.5 Diver Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-40
7‑8.5.1 Through-Water Communication Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-40
7‑8.5.2 Hand and Line-Pull Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-43
7-8.6 Working with Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-43
7-8.7 Adapting to Underwater Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-44
7-8.8 Emergency Assistance/Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-44
7‑8.8.1 Emergency Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-45
7‑8.8.2 Emergency Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-45
7‑8.8.3 Actions Following an Emergency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-49

7-9 ASCENT PROCEDURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-49

7-9.1 Ascent Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-49
7‑9.1.1 Buddy Breathing Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-49
7‑9.1.2 Emergency Free-Ascent Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-50
7-9.2 Ascent From Under a Vessel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-50
7-9.3 Decompression. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-51
7-9.4 Surfacing and Leaving the Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-52

7-10 POSTDIVE PROCEDURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-52

8 SURFACE SUPPLIED AIR DIVING OPERATIONS

8-1 INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

8-1.1 Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
8-1.2 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
8-1.3 References. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

8-2 KM-37 NS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

8-2.1 Operational Limits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
8-2.2 Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
8‑2.2.1 Watchstation Diving Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
8‑2.2.2 Master Diver Responsibilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
8‑2.2.3 Dive Supervisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4

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8‑2.2.4 Console/Rack Operator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4

8‑2.2.5 Standby Diver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5
8‑2.2.6 Divers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5
8‑2.2.7 Diver Tender. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6
8‑2.2.8 Log Keeper. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6
8‑2.2.9 Other Support Personnel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7

8-3 KM-37 NS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7

8-3.1 Operation and Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
8-3.2 Air Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
8‑3.2.1 Pressure Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
8‑3.2.2 Air Available Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
8‑3.2.3 Emergency Gas Supply Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11

8-4 MK 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14
8-4.1 Operation and Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14
8-4.2 Air Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14
8‑4.2.1 Emergency Gas Supply Requirements for MK 20 ESD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14
8‑4.2.2 Additional EGS Guidance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15

8-5 PORTABLE SURFACE-SUPPLIED DIVING SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15

8-5.1 Divator DP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15
8‑5.1.1 DP Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-16
8-5.2 MK 3 Lightweight Dive System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-18
8-5.3 Flyaway Dive System (FADS) III. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-19
8-5.4 Oxygen Regulator Console Assembly (ORCA). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-20

8-6 SURFACE-SUPPLIED DIVING ACCESSORY EQUIPMENT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-21

8-7 DIVER COMMUNICATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-23

8-7.1 Diver Intercommunication Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-23
8-7.2 Line-Pull Signals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-23

8-8 PREDIVE PROCEDURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25

8-8.1 Setting a Moor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25
8-8.2 Dive Station Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25
8-8.3 Air Supply Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25
8-8.4 Line Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-26
8-8.5 Verify Environmental Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-26
8-8.6 Recompression Chamber Inspection and Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-26
8-8.7 Predive Inspection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-26
8-8.8 Donning Gear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-26
8-8.9 Diving Supervisor Predive Checklist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-26

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8-9 WATER ENTRY AND DESCENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-26

8-9.1 Predescent Surface Check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-26
8-9.2 Descent. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-27

8-10 UNDERWATER PROCEDURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-30

8-10.1 Adapting to Underwater Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-30
8-10.2 Movement on the Bottom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-30
8-10.3 Searching on the Bottom. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-31
8-10.4 Working Around Corners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-32
8-10.5 Working Inside a Wreck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-32
8-10.6 Working with or Near Lines or Moorings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-32
8-10.7 Bottom Checks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-33
8-10.8 Working with Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-33
8-10.9 Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-33
8‑10.9.1 Fouled Umbilical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-34
8‑10.9.2 Fouled Descent Lines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-34
8‑10.9.3 Loss of Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-34
8‑10.9.4 Loss of Gas Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-35
8‑10.9.5 Falling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-35
8‑10.9.6 Damage to Helmet and Diving Dress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-35
8-10.10 Tending the Diver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-35
8-10.11 Monitoring the Diver’s Movements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-36

8-11 ASCENT PROCEDURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-36

8-12 SURFACE DECOMPRESSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-38

8-12.1 Surface Decompression Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-38

8-13 POSTDIVE PROCEDURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-38

8-13.1 Personnel and Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-38
8-13.2 Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-39

9 AIR DECOMPRESSION

9-1 INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

9-1.1 Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1
9-1.2 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

9-2 THEORY OF DECOMPRESSION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

9-3 AIR DECOMPRESSION DEFINITIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

9-3.1 Descent Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

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9-3.2 Bottom Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

9-3.3 Total Decompression Time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9-3.4 Total Time of Dive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9-3.5 Deepest Depth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9-3.6 Maximum Depth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9-3.7 Stage Depth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9-3.8 Decompression Table. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
9-3.9 Decompression Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
9-3.10 Decompression Stop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
9-3.11 No-Decompression (No “D”) Limit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
9-3.12 No-Decompression Dive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
9-3.13 Decompression Dive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
9-3.14 Surface Interval. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
9-3.15 Residual Nitrogen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
9-3.16 Single Dive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
9-3.17 Repetitive Dive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
9-3.18 Repetitive Group Designator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
9-3.19 Residual Nitrogen Time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
9-3.20 Equivalent Single Dive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4
9-3.21 Equivalent Single Dive Time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4
9-3.22 Surface Decompression. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4
9-3.23 Exceptional Exposure Dive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4

9-4 DIVE CHARTING AND RECORDING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4

9-5 THE AIR DECOMPRESSION TABLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6

9-6 GENERAL RULES FOR THE USE OF AIR DECOMPRESSION TABLES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
9-6.1 Selecting the Decompression Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
9-6.2 Descent Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
9-6.3 Ascent Rate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
9-6.4 Decompression Stop Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
9-6.5 Last Water Stop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8
9-6.6 Eligibility for Surface Decompression. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8

9-7 NO-DECOMPRESSION LIMITS AND REPETITIVE GROUP DESIGNATION TABLE

FOR NO-DECOMPRESSION AIR DIVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8
9-7.1 Optional Shallow Water No-Decompression Table. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-9

9-8 THE AIR DECOMPRESSION TABLE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-9

9-8.1 In-Water Decompression on Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-9
9-8.2 In-Water Decompression on Air and Oxygen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-11

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9-8.2.1 Procedures for Shifting to 100% Oxygen at 30 or 20 fsw. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-13

9-8.2.2 Air Breaks at 30 and 20 fsw. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-13
9-8.3 Surface Decompression on Oxygen (SurDO2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-15
9-8.3.1 Surface Decompression on Oxygen Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-16
9-8.3.2 Surface Decompression from 30 and 20 fsw. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-19
9-8.4 Selection of the Mode of Decompression. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-21

9-9 REPETITIVE DIVES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-21

9-9.1 Repetitive Dive Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-23
9-9.2 RNT Exception Rule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-29
9-9.3 Repetitive Air to Nitrogen-Oxygen EC-UBA or Nitrogen-Oxygen EC-UBA to Air Dives. 9-30
9-9.4 Order of Repetitive Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-30

9-10 EXCEPTIONAL EXPOSURE DIVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-30

9-11 VARIATIONS IN RATE OF ASCENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-31

9-11.1 Travel Rate Exceeded. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-31
9-11.2 Early Arrival at the First Decompression Stop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-31
9-11.3 Delays in Arriving at the First Decompression Stop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-31
9.11.4 Delays in Leaving a Stop or Between Decompression Stops. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-32

9-12 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-35

9-12.1 Bottom Time in Excess of the Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-35
9-12.2 Loss of Oxygen Supply in the Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-36
9-12.3 Contamination of Oxygen Supply with Air. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-37
9-12.4 CNS Oxygen Toxicity Symptoms (Non-convulsive) at 30 or 20 fsw Water Stop. . . . . . 9-37
9-12.5 Oxygen Convulsion at the 30- or 20-fsw Water Stop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-38
9-12.6 Surface Interval Greater than 5 Minutes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-39
9-12.7 Decompression Sickness During the Surface Interval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-40
9-12.8 Loss of Oxygen Supply in the Chamber. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-41
9-12.9 CNS Oxygen Toxicity in the Chamber. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-42
9-12.10 Asymptomatic Omitted Decompression . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-43
9-12.10.1 No-Decompression Stops Required. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-44
9-12.10.2 Omitted Decompression Stops at 30 and 20 fsw. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-44
9-12.10.3 Omitted Decompression Stops Deeper than 30 fsw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-45
9-12.11 Decompression Sickness in the Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-45
9-12.11.1 Diver Remaining in the Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-45
9-12.11.2 Diver Leaving the Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-46

9-13 DIVING AT ALTITUDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-46

9-13.1 Altitude Correction Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-47
9-13.1.1 Correction of Dive Depth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-47
9-13.1.2 Correction of Decompression Stop Depth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-47
9-13.2 Need for Correction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-49

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9-13.3 Depth Measurement at Altitude. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-49

9-13.4 Equilibration at Altitude. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-49
9-13.5 Diving at Altitude Worksheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-52
9-13.5.1 Corrections for Depth of Dive at Altitude and In-Water Stops . . . . . . . . . . . 9-52
9-13.5.2 Corrections for Equilibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-52
9-13.6 Repetitive Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-53

9-14 ASCENT TO ALTITUDE AFTER DIVING / FLYING AFTER DIVING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57

9-15 DIVE COMPUTER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-58

10 NITROGEN-OXYGEN DIVING OPERATIONS

10-1 INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

10-1.1 Advantages and Disadvantages of NITROX Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

10-2 EQUIVALENT AIR DEPTH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

10-2.1 Equivalent Air Depth Calculation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2

10-3 OXYGEN TOXICITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2

10-3.1 Selecting the Proper NITROX Mixture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3

10-4 NITROX DIVING PROCEDURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3

10-4.1 NITROX Diving Using Equivalent Air Depths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
10-4.2 SCUBA Operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5
10-4.3 Special Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5
10-4.4 Omitted Decompression. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5
10-4.5 Dives Exceeding the Normal Working Limit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5

10-5 NITROX REPETITIVE DIVING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5

10-6 NITROX DIVE CHARTING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5

10-7 FLEET TRAINING FOR NITROX. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-7

10-8 NITROX DIVING EQUIPMENT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-7

10-8.1 Open-Circuit SCUBA Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-7
10‑8.1.1 Regulators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-7
10‑8.1.2 Bottles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-8
10-8.2 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-8
10-8.3 Surface-Supplied NITROX Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-8

10-9 EQUIPMENT CLEANLINESS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-8

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10-10 BREATHING GAS PURITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-9

10-11 NITROX MIXING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-9

10-12 NITROX MIXING, BLENDING, AND STORAGE SYSTEMS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12

11 ICE AND COLD WATER DIVING OPERATIONS

11-1 INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

11-1.1 Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1
11-1.2 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1
11-1.3 References. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

11-2 OPERATIONS PLANNING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

11-2.1 Planning Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1
11-2.2 Navigational Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-2
11-2.3 SCUBA Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-2
11-2.4 SCUBA Regulators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3
11‑2.4.1 Special Precautions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4
11‑2.4.2 Redundant Air Sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4
11-2.5 Life Preserver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-5
11-2.6 Face Mask. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-5
11-2.7 SCUBA Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-5
11-2.8 Surface-Supplied Diving System (SSDS) Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-5
11‑2.8.1 Advantages and Disadvantages of SSDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-6
11‑2.8.2 Effect of Ice Conditions on SSDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-6
11-2.9 Suit Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-7
11‑2.9.1 Wet Suits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-7
11‑2.9.2 Variable Volume Dry Suits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-7
11‑2.9.3 Extreme Exposure Suits/Hot Water Suits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-8
11-2.10 Clothing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-8
11-2.11 Ancillary Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-9
11-2.12 Dive Site Shelter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-9

11-3 PREDIVE PROCEDURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-10

11-3.1 Personnel Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-10
11-3.2 Dive Site Selection Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-10
11-3.3 Shelter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-10
11-3.4 Entry Hole. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-10
11-3.5 Escape Holes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12
11-3.6 Navigation Lines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12
11-3.7 Lifelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12
11-3.8 Equipment Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12

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11-4 OPERATING PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-13

11-4.1 General Precautions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-13
11-4.2 Ice Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-13
11-4.3 Dressing Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-14
11-4.4 On-Surface Precautions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-14
11-4.5 In-Water Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-15
11-4.6 Postdive Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-15

11-5 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-15

11-5.1 Lost Diver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-15
11-5.2 Searching for a Lost Diver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-16
11-5.3 Hypothermia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-16

2A OPTIONAL SHALLOW WATER DIVING TABLES

2A-1 INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2A-1

2B U.S. NAVY DIVE COMPUTER

2B-1 INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-1

2B-1.1 Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-1
2B-1.2 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-1

2B-2 PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-1

2B-2.1 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-2
2B-2.2 Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-2
2B-2.3 Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-3
2B-2.4 Advantages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-3
2B-2.5 Disadvantages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-3
2B-2.6 Use. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-4

2B-3 DIVING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-5

2B-3.1 Pre-Dive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-5
2B-3.2 Dive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-5
2B-3.3 Ascent. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-6
2B-3.4 Decompression. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-6
2B-3.5 Post-Dive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-6
2B-3.6 Time to Fly/Ascent to Altitude. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-7
2B-3.7 Repetitive Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-7

2B-4 DIVING ISSUES/EPS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-7

2B-4.1 Loss of NDC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-7

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2B-4.2 Asymptomatic Omitted Decompression . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-7

2B‑4.2.1 In Water Stops Missed Without Surfacing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-8
2B‑4.2.2 Inadvertent Surfacing with Missed Last or Only Stop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-8
2B‑4.2.3 Inadvertent Surfacing with Multiple Missed Stops. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-9
2B-4.3 In-Water DCS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-9
2B-4.4 Exceeds Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-9

2C ENVIRONMENTAL AND OPERATIONAL HAZARDS

2C-1 ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2C-1

2C-2 OPERATIONAL HAZARDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2C-11

2D GUIDANCE FOR U.S. NAVY DIVING ON A DYNAMIC POSITIONING VESSEL

2D-1 INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-1

2D-2 DYNAMIC POSITIONING (DP) CAPABILITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-1

2D-2.1 DP Advantages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-2
2D-2.2 DP Disadvantages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-2
2D-2.3 DP Classification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-3
2D-2.3.1 Classification Societies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-3
2D-2.4 DP System Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-3
2D-2.4.1 Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-4
2D-2.4.2 Thrusters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-4
2D-2.4.3 Control Stations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-5
2D-2.4.4 Computers and Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-6
2D-2.4.5 Failure Modes and Effects Analysis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-6
2D-2.4.6 DP Trials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-6
2D-2.4.7 DP Status Lights and Alarms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-6
2D-2.4.8 DP Vessel Communications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-7
2D-2.4.9 Operations Plot and Emergency Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-7
2D-2.4.10 Authority and Responsibility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-7
2D-2.4.11 DP Casualties.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-8

2D-3 GUIDELINES TO DETERMINE THE SUITABILITY OF A DP VESSEL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-8

2D-3.1 VOO Selection.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-8
2D-3.1.1 Vessel Suitability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-8

2D-4 GUIDELINES FOR ESTABLISHING AN OPERATIONAL PLAN FOR THE DP VESSEL. . . . 2D-10

2D-5 SPECIFIC GUIDELINES FOR SURFACE SUPPLIED DIVING WHILE OPERATING FROM A
VESSEL IN THE DP MODE.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-10

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2D-5.1 Surface Supplied Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-11

2D-5.2 Umbilical Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-11
2D-5.3 Surface Diving Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-12
2D-5.3.1 Additional Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-15
2D-5.4 Selection of DP Vessels of Opportunity for Diving Operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-16

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 Chap/Para Page

PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY

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 Volume 2 - List of Illustrations
Figure Page

6-1 Underwater Ship Husbandry Diving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

6-2 Salvage Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

6-3 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6

6-4 Underwater Construction Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

6‑5 Dive Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-11

6‑6 Planning Data Sources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13

6-7 Link Between Time Critical and Deliberate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-17

6‑8 Emergency Assistance Checklist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-29

6‑9 Diving Planning ORM Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-30

6‑10 Ship Repair Safety Checklist for Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-33

7-1 Normal and Maximum Limits for SCUBA Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

7-2 SCUBA General Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3

7-3 Minimum Manning Levels for SCUBA Diving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4

7-4 Schematic of Demand Regulator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9

7-5 Full Face Mask . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10

7-6 Typical Gas Cylinder Identification Markings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11

7-7 Life Preserver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-15

7-8 Protective Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-18

7-9 Cascading System for Charging SCUBA Cylinders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-25

7-10 SCUBA Entry Techniques. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-33

7-11 SCUBA Diving Operations Setup Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-34

7-12 Dive Supervisor Pre-Dive Checklist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-37

7-13 Clearing a Face Mask. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-40

7-14 SCUBA Hand Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-41

8-1 Normal and Maximum Limits for Surface Supplied Air Diving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

8-2 Minimum Qualified Divers for Surface Supplied Air Diving Stations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

8-3 KM-37 NS SSDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6

8-4 KM-37 NS General Characteristics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9

8-5 MK 20 General Characteristics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13

8-6 MK 20 MOD 0 UBA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15

8-7 Divator DP General Characteristics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-17

8‑8 MK 3 Lightweight Dive System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-19

8-9 Flyaway Dive System (FADS) III. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-20

List of Illustrations—Volume 2 2–xv

 Figure Page

8-10 Oxygen Regulator Control Assembly (ORCA) II. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-21

8-11 Oxygen Regulator Control Assembly (ORCA) II Schematic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-22

8-12 Communicating with Line-Pull Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-22

8-13 Surface Supplied Diving Station Setup Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-28

8-14 Surface Decompression . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-37

9-1 Diving Chart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5

9‑2 Graphic View of a Dive with Abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6

9‑3 Completed Air Diving Chart: No-Decompression Dive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10

9‑4 Completed Air Diving Chart: In-water Decompression on Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-12

9‑5 Completed Air Diving Chart: In-water Decompression on Air and Oxygen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-14

9‑6 Completed Air Diving Chart: Surface Decompression on Oxygen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-18

9‑7 Decompression Mode Selection Flowchart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20

9‑8 Repetitive Dive Flow Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22

9‑9 Repetitive Dive Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-24

9‑10 Completed Air Diving Chart: First Dive of Repetitive Dive Profile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-26

9‑11 Completed Repetitive Dive Worksheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-27

9‑12 Completed Air Diving Chart: Second Dive of Repetitive Dive Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28

9‑13 Completed Air Diving Chart: Delay in Ascent deeper than 50 fsw. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-33

9‑14 Completed Air Diving Chart: Delay in Ascent Shallower than 50 fsw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-34

9‑15 Diving at Altitude Worksheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-51

9‑16 Completed Diving at Altitude Worksheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-54

9‑17 Completed Air Diving Chart: Dive at Altitude. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-55

9‑18 Repetitive Dive at Altitude Worksheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-56

9‑19 Completed Repetitive Dive at Altitude Worksheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-59

9‑20 Completed Air Diving Chart: First Dive of Repetitive Dive Profile at Altitude. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-60

9‑21 Completed Air Diving Chart: Second Dive of Repetitive Dive Profile at Altitude. . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-60

10‑1 NITROX Diving Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-6

10‑2 NITROX SCUBA Bottle Markings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-8

10‑3 NITROX O2 Injection System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-10

10‑4 LP Air Supply NITROX Membrane Configuration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12

10‑5 HP Air Supply NITROX Membrane Configuration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13

11‑1 Two SCUBA Cylinders Fitted with Two Actual Redundant First Stage Regulators. . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3

11-2 Ice Diving with SCUBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-8

11-3 DRASH Brand 10-man Tent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-9

11-4 Typical Ice Diving Worksite. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-11

2–xvi U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 2

 Figure Page

2B-1 Navy Dive Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-1

2B-2 NDC Ascent Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-6

2C‑1 Water Temperature Protection Chart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2C-8

2C‑2 Environmental Assessment Worksheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2C-10

2C‑3 International Code Signal Flags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2C-16

2D‑1 DP Diving Vessel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-1

2D‑2 DP Component Terminology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-5

2D‑3 DP Pilot Seat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-5

2D‑4 Alarm Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-6

2D‑5 Safe Distance Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-12

2D‑6 Illustration of Maximum Umbilical Lengths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-16

2D‑7 Illustration of Maximum Umbilical Lengths.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2D-18

2D‑8 Vessel Section Checklist for Navy Surface Supplied Diving Operations from a DP Vessel.. . . 2D-21

2D‑9 Pre Dive Check List for Navy Surface Supplied Diving Operations from a DP Vessel. . . . . . . 2D-22

List of Illustrations—Volume 2 2–xvii

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2–xviii U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 2

 Volume 2 - List of Tables
Table Page

6‑1 Navy Recompression Chamber Support Levels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-20

6‑2 Air Diving Recompression Chamber Recommendations (Bottom Time in Minutes). . . . . . . . . . 6-20

7‑1 Sample SCUBA Cylinder Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12

8‑1 KM-37 NS Overbottom Pressure Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8

8‑2 Line-Pull Signals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-24

9‑1 Pneumofathometer Correction Factors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7

9‑2 Management of Extended Surface Interval and Type I Decompression

Sickness during the Surface Interval. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-41

9‑3 Management of Asymptomatic Omitted Decompression. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-43

9‑4 Sea Level Equivalent Depth (fsw). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-48

9‑5 Repetitive Groups Associated with Initial Ascent to Altitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-50

9‑6 Required Surface Interval Before Ascent to Altitude After Diving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-62

9‑7 No-Decompression Limits and Repetitive Group Designators for

No-Decompression Air Dives.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-63

9‑8 Residual Nitrogen Time Table for Repetitive Air Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-64

9‑9 Air Decompression Table. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-65

10‑1 Equivalent Air Depth Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4

10‑2 Oil Free Air. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11

2A‑1 No-Decompression Limits and Repetitive Group Designators for Shallow Water
Air No-Decompression Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2A-2

2A‑2 Residual Nitrogen Time Table for Repetitive Shallow Water Air Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2A-3

2B‑1 NDC Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-4

2B‑2 Initial Management of Asymptomatic Omitted Decompression for NDC Dives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2B-8

2C-1 Equivalent Wind Chill Temperature Chart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2C-2

2C-2 Sea State Chart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2C-4

2C-3 Bottom Conditions and Effects Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2C-6

List of Tables—Volume 2 2–xix

 Chap/Para Page

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2–xx U.S. Navy Diving Manual—Volume 2

 CHAPTER 6

Operational Planning
and Risk Management

6-1 INTRODUCTION

6-1.1 Purpose. This chapter outlines a process to plan and execute diving operations that
integrates Operational Risk Management (ORM) and the Navy Planning Process
(NPP).

6-1.2 Scope. Navy diving units plan dive missions IAW the Navy Planning Process
(NWP 5-01) or ISIC guidance. ORM shall be applied to dive operations and train-
ing in accordance with OPNAV INSTRUCTION 3500.39 (series). This chapter is
focused on planning at the unit level and ORM at the point of execution.

The worksheets and checklists contained in this chapter are examples of U.S. Navy
material. They may be used as provided or modified locally to suit specific needs.

References cited in this chapter:

n Navy Planning Process. NWP 5-01.

n Operational Risk Management. OPNAVINST 3500.39(series).

n NAVSEA Underwater Ship Husbandry Manual. S0600-­AA­-PRO-­010.

n U.S. Navy Salvage Manual. S0300-A6-MAN-010 (010 – 040).

n Emergency Ships Salvage Material Catalog. NAVSEA S0300-BV-CAT (Vol

I - II)

n Conventional Underwater Construction and Repair Techniques NTRP

4-04.2.8

n Expedient Underwater Repair Techniques. NTRP 4-04.2.9

n UCT Arctic Operations Manual. NAVFAC P-992.

n Multi Service Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Military Diving

Operations. NTTP 3-07.7.

n Navy Diving Program. OPNAVINST 3150.27 (series).

n Navy Mission Essential Task List.

n Guidance for Diving in Contaminated Waters. SS521-AJ-PRO-010.

n Radiological Control Manual for Ships. S9123-33-MMA-000-V.

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-1

 n Shipyard Radiological Control Manual. NAVSEA 389-0288.

n A Navy Diving Supervisor’s Guide to the Non-technical Skills Required for

Safe and Productive Diving. NEDU TR 05-09.

6-1.3 Planning. The Navy Planning Process consists of six steps:

n Mission Analysis

n Course of Action Development

n COA Analysis/Risk Assessment

n COA Comparison and Decision (not discussed - see NWP 5-01)

n Task Planning/Emergency Assistance (Modified from NPP’s Plans and

Orders Development)

n Transition (Execution)

When tasked with a dive mission, leaders must resist the urge to jump ahead to a
presumed course of action (COA) without the benefits of deliberate planning.

6-2 MISSION ANALYSIS

6-2.1 Mission Analysis. Mission analysis drives the planning process and is tailored to
the situation, time available, and the commander’s guidance. It gives an overall
assessment of the situation and takes into account the area of operations and the
operating environment.

A common failure when planning an operation is to place excessive emphasis on the

actual diving phases, while not fully considering pre-dive and post-dive activities
(transit to and from operating area, habitability issues, resupply...).

All dive planning must take into account that bottom time is at a premium. Planning
efforts that reduce the required bottom time and increase diver effectiveness are
critical (e.g., use of tools to limit underwater searching by divers such as underwater
imaging systems and sidescan SONAR).

Diving tasks/missions involve the following:

6-2.1.1 Underwater Ship Husbandry (UWSH). UWSH is the inspection, maintenance, and
repair of ship and submarine hulls and appendages while the vessel is waterborne
(Figure 6-1). The objective of UWSH is to produce a permanent repair without
drydocking the vessel.

NAVSEA 00C is the technical warrant holder for UWSH procedures and equipment.
Divers performing UWSH tasks shall be trained and qualified for the work they
are performing IAW NAVSEA Underwater Ship Husbandry Manual (S0600-AA-
PRO-010) and Personnel Qualification Standards (PQS). Divers shall follow strict
Quality Assurance (QA) procedures IAW the Joint Fleet Maintenance Manual

6-2 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 and NAVSEA Underwater Ship Husbandry Manual and work closely with the
maintenance activity QA department and planners to ensure repairs comply with
ship design specifications.

If divers do not have a NAVSEA 00C approved procedure with which to accomplish
a repair, they shall contact NAVSEA 00C to obtain technical approval prior to
commencement of the repair. Dive Units shall not permit use of equipment in the
water unless it is included on the ANU list or listed in the NAVSEA UWSH manual.

NAVSEA 00C5 provides maintenance activities with onsite technical representatives

to assist in complex repairs or new procedures. NAVSEA 00C5 can be reached at
the contact information listed on SUPSALV’s website (http://www.supsalv.org/).

Figure 6-1. Underwater Ship Husbandry Diving.

6-2.1.2 Search Missions. Underwater searches are conducted to locate underwater objects
or subsurface geological formations. Searches can be performed by various
methods depending on the undersea terrain and purpose of the mission. Because
using divers for an unaided visual search over a large area is time consuming
and labor intensive, this type of search operation should incorporate the use of
sidescan sonar and other search equipment whenever possible. Remotely Operated
Vehicles (ROVs) may be used to extend searches into deep waters and areas that
are particularly dangerous for a diver.

6-2.1.3 Salvage/Object Recovery. Divers work to recover sunken or wrecked naval

craft, submersibles, downed aircraft, and human remains (Figure 6-2). Salvaged
items may include classified or sensitive materials. Although they share common

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-3

 aspects, no two salvage efforts are alike and the hazards from these operations
must never be taken for granted.

Figure 6-2. Salvage Diving. Surface-supplied divers on an aircraft recovery mission.

Operations involving the recovery of an object from the bottom require knowledge
of the dimensions and weight of the object. Other useful information includes
floodable volume, established lifting points, construction material, length of time
on the bottom, probable degree of embedment in mud or silt, and the nature and
extent of damage. This data helps determine the type of lift to be used (e.g., boom,
floating crane, lifting bags, pontoons), indicates whether mud suction may be
an issue (high-pressure hoses may be needed to jet away mud or silt) and helps
determine the disposition of the object after it is brought to the surface. Preliminary
planning may find the object too heavy to be placed on the deck of the support ship,
indicating the need for a barge and heavy lifting equipment. Planning resources
include the U.S. Navy Salvage manuals, Emergency Ships Salvage Material
(ESSM) catalog and the salvage experts at NAVSEA 00C2.

6-2.1.4 Harbor Clearance. Harbor clearance involves port/harbor facilities opening,

construction, clearance, and rehabilitation. Port facilities are fundamental to the
movement of personnel and material for any military operation. Port facilities
can either be improved for friendly forces or modified to deny use by the enemy.
Harbor clearance may involve:
1. Planning and Inspection. Divers assist in the planning of any port operation
to help determine priorities of work or prepare work estimates. A completed
inspection can provide the terminal commander with a report of existing
conditions of underwater port facility structures.
2. Hydrographic/Bathymetric Survey. Hydrographic surveys of the proposed area
are conducted to determine water depths, sea-bottom contours, and the location

6-4 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 of shipping channels and underwater obstacles. Divers conduct surveys to
depict water depths and obstruction locations to determine the size of ship the
port can support.

3. Clearance. Clearance operations are undertaken to neutralize or reduce

obstacles blocking the shipping channels in ports, loading facilities, mooring
sites, marine railways, dry-dock facilities, lock and dam structures, and other
navigable waterways.

4. Repair. Repairing port facilities is more desirable than initial construction

because it requires far less time and fewer resources. The repair may involve
both underwater and surface operations and will depend on the close integration
of both divers and general engineer assets. The inspection and repair of these
structures may require specialized equipment.

6-2.1.5 Security Dives. Security dives are conducted to search for underwater explosives
or other devices that may have been attached to ships or piers. All qualified divers
may conduct security dives. If an explosive device is found, the area shall be
quarantined. Only EOD personnel may attempt to handle or dispose of underwater
explosives devices.

6-2.1.6 Explosive Ordnance Disposal. Explosive Ordnance Disposal divers perform tasks
including recovering, identifying, disarming, and disposing of explosive devices
from harbors, ships, and sea-lanes (Figure 6-3). Diving in the vicinity of ordnance
combines the hazards of diving and ordnance. EOD divers shall accomplish diving
to investigate, render safe, or dispose of explosive ordnance found underwater,
regardless of type or fusing.

Figure 6-3. Explosive Ordnance Disposal Diving. An EOD diver using handheld sonar to
locate objects underwater.

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-5

 6-2.1.7 Underwater Construction. Underwater construction is the construction, inspection,
repair, and removal of in-water facilities in support of military operations. An in-
water facility can be defined as a structure, system, device, or utility adjacent to,
floating upon, or submerged in a freshwater or marine environment to include in
shore rivers and lakes. Pipelines, cables, sensor systems, and fixed/advanced­base
structures are examples of in-water facilities (Figure 6-4). More information on
ocean construction may be obtained from NAVFAC Ocean Facilities Program
managers. Underwater construction planning resources can be found in:

n UCT Conventional Inspection and Repair Techniques Manual NTRP

4-04.2.8

n Expedient Underwater Repair Techniques NTRP 4-04.2.9

n UCT Arctic Operations Manual NAVFAC P-992

6-2.1.8 Battle Damage Assessment and Repair (BDA/R). BDA/R involves UWSH in a
remote, semi-permissive/permissive operating environment, which may require
UWSH units to be prepared for immediate worldwide deployment.

6-2.1.9 Combat Diver. Combat divers conduct reconnaissance and neutralization of

enemy ships, shore-based installations, and personnel. Some missions may require
an underwater approach to reach coastal
installations undetected. Reconnaissance
missions and raids may expose the combat
divers to additional risk but may be necessary
to advance broader warfare objectives.

6-2.1.10 Dive Training. Initial dive training occurs

at Naval Diving Salvage Training Center
(NDSTC), Panama City Florida and Basic
Underwater Demolition School (BUDS),
Coronado California. Advanced dive
training occurs throughout the Fleet in
various locations and by Type Commander
(TYCOM) specific training units. Training
is also conducted by unit level personnel and
with foreign divers during Theater Security
Cooperation exercises (TSCs). Planning for
training conducted outside of formal venues
is vital since it represents a high degree of
risk. OPNAVINST 1500.75(series) governs
the conduct of high risk training.

6-2.1.11 Free Ascent/Escape Training and

Operations. Free ascent operations are
conducted by trained and qualified divers.
Free ascent/escape training is conducted by Figure 6-4. Underwater
Construction Diving.

6-6 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 qualified high risk instructors under approved training plans IAW OPNAVINST
1500.75 (series).

No ascent training may be conducted unless fully qualified instructors are present, a
recompression chamber is available within 5 minutes, a Diving Medical Technician
is on station, and a Diving Medical Officer is able to provide immediate response
to a mishap.

6-2.2 Analyze Available Forces and Assets. An initial analysis of forces available
to complete the identified tasks is conducted and any modifications to the task
organization and support relationships are considered. This step should also
identify any critical shortfalls in subject matter expertise.

Some examples of available forces and assets (in addition to organic forces and
assets) include an underwater hydrographic survey team, pollution response
team, light weight diving system, deep diving saturation system, EOD team,
Mobile Diving and Salvage Company (MDS CO), or a port security team. The
Multi Service Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Military Diving Operations
(MDO) (NTTP 3-07.7) is a valuable resource in determining what resources may
be available from other services and their capabilities.

6-2.2.1 Dive Techniques. (Figure 6-5) A dive mission may be accomplished with one or
more dive techniques. Selection of diving technique may depend upon:

n Timeliness of the mission

n Availability of equipment

n Availability of trained personnel

Techniques may have more than one mode of operation (ex. Surface Supplied
Diving conducted with air or helium/oxygen mix). Planners should be familiar
with the equipment and modes being considered and may refer to the applicable
chapters in this manual for detailed manning requirements, operational limits,
and additional information. Depth limits shall not be exceeded without specific
approval in accordance with the OPNAVINST 3150.27 (series). Diving techniques
include self contained apparatus, surface supplied diving, saturation diving, and
breath-hold diving.
1. Self-Contained Apparatus. Free swimming self-contained apparatus available
to diving units encompass open and closed circuit underwater breathing
apparatus. Self-contained apparatus are best suited for short no-decompression
dives, in relatively warm water, and in depths shallower than 100fsw where
light work or inspection is anticipated. Each condition outside of these norms
increases risk. Self-contained apparatus may employ air, NITROX, 100 percent
oxygen, or mixed gas (HEO2) modes of operation.

The portability and ease in which Self-Contained Apparatus can be employed are
distinct advantages. Self-contained equipment can be transported easily and put
into operation with minimum delay. Self-contained apparatus offers flexible and

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-7

 economical methods for accomplishing a range of tasks. However, bottom time
may be limited by the fixed breathing gas supply or absorbent canister duration,
which is depleted more rapidly when diving deep or working hard.

2. Surface Supplied Diving. Surface supplied diving involves a full face or

helmeted diving apparatus, an air or gas supply system, and an umbilical that
allows for communications and carries the breathing medium from the supply
system to the diver.

Surface-supplied diving systems can be divided into two major categories:

lightweight gear (MK 20 with DP or MK III LWDS), and deepsea gear (KM-37
NS with FADS III or FMGS).

The primary use for surface supplied gear is bottom work in depths up to 190fsw,
UWSH on ships and submarines, and bottom work in depths up to 300fsw.

Deep sea gear should be used for jobs involving underwater rigging, heavy work,
during use of pneumatic or hydraulic powered underwater tools, diving in areas
with strong currents, and any situations where more physical protection is desired.
3. Saturation Diving. Saturation diving is employed in deep salvage and submarine
rescue/recovery and is designed to support diving up to 1000fsw for extended
periods of time. Saturation diving offers a high return on bottom time verses
decompression. However, saturation diving requires substantial resources,
planning, and coordination. Saturation Diving may be a better choice over SSD
even at shallower depths for long duration missions or operations requiring
extended bottom times.
4. Breath-hold Diving. Breath-hold diving is a dangerous practice that may lead
to unconsciousness and death and shall be limited to operations and training
that cannot be effectively accomplished with UBA such as, free ascent and
escape training, SCUBA confidence training, shallow water inspections or
object recovery, and obstacle/ordnance clearance.

WARNING. The practice of hyperventilating for the purpose of “blowing off” carbon
dioxide, (as differentiated from taking two or three deep breaths) prior to
a breath-hold dive is a primary cause of unconsciousness and may lead
to death. Breath-hold divers shall terminate the dive and surface at the
first sign of the urge to breathe. See paragraph 3-5.5 for more information
about hyperventilation and unconsciousness from breath-hold diving.

Breath-hold diving shall be supervised by a qualified Diving Supervisor and the

breath-hold diver(s) shall be tended where practical. ORM, dive briefs, emergency
action plans, and notifications relevant to Navy dives apply to breath-hold diving.
Breath-hold mishaps and near-misses during authorized operations, involving
personnel qualified as Navy Divers in any capability, are deemed diving incidents
and shall be reported as such.

6-2.2.2 Diving Craft and Platforms. Support craft are often required to support diving
operations. Typical diving platforms / Vessels of Opportunity (VOO):

6-8 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 1. Auxiliary Rescue/Salvage Ship (T-ARS) (Safeguard Class). T-ARSs are
operated by the Military Sealift Command. The mission of the T-ARS ship is
to assist disabled ships, debeach stranded vessels, fight fires alongside other
ships, lift heavy objects, recover submerged objects, tow other vessels, and are
outfitted with a recompression chamber and diving system to support manned
diving operations. The T-ARS class ships may carry a complement of divers
to perform underwater ship husbandry tasks and salvage operations as well as
underwater search and recovery.
2. Ocean Tugs. Ocean tugs make excellent diving platforms due to their large
open deck space but do not have many of the capabilities of the T-ARS vessels
such as the lifting capabilities to retrieve heavy wreckage onto their decks.
Fleet ocean tugs (T-ATF) operated by the Military Sealift Command have
civilian crews and are augmented with military communications detachments
but do not have any organic diving capability. In addition to towing, these large
ocean-going tugs can also rig debeaching gear.
3. Diving Tender (YDT). YDTs are used to support shallow-water diving
operations. Additionally, a wide variety of Standard Navy Dive Boats (SNDB),
LCM-8, LCM-6, 50-foot work boats, and other yard craft have been fitted with
surface-supplied dive systems.
4. Submarine Tender (AS). Submarine tenders are designed specifically for
servicing nuclear-powered submarines. Submarine tenders support underwater
ship husbandry and are equipped with a recompression chamber.
5. Small Craft. Open and closed circuit free swimming diving operations are
typically conducted from small craft. Small craft can range from an inflatable
rubber raft with an outboard engine to a small landing craft. Small boat operators
(coxswains) must understand diving procedures and be aware of the location of
divers/swimmers at all times.

Diving Supervisors must understand the limitations of their craft and avoid
underestimating the vulnerabilities of operating small craft in open seas. The
difficulties of launching and recovering divers and transiting in increased sea states
can hamper the ability to operate safely.
6. Other Support Craft. Support craft, including barges, tugs, floating cranes, or
vessels and aircraft for area search may be needed, depending on the scope of
the operation. The need for additional equipment should be anticipated as far
in advance as possible to allow time for leases/contracts and scheduling.

Regardless of the ownership or size, all craft used for diving operations shall:

n Be seaworthy

n Include Coast Guard required lifesaving and other safety gear

n Have a reliable engine (unless it is a moored platform or barge)

n Provide ample room for the divers to dress

n Be able to carry all diving safety equipment required for the operation

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-9

 n Have a well-trained crew

n Carry other safety equipage as required by the unit SOP. (Binoculars, water,
charts, etc.)

NOTE: Dynamic Positioning (DP) Capability. Some vessels possess dynamic

positioning (DP) capability. DP uses the ship’s propulsion systems
(thrusters, main propulsion, and rudders) to maintain a fixed position.
Surface-supplied diving and saturation diving, dynamic positioning (DP)
ships shall meet International Maritime Organization (IMO) Class 2 or 3
standards. IMO Equipment Class 2 or 3 will maintain automatic or manual
position and heading control under specified maximum environmental
conditions, during and following any single-point failure of the DP
system. See Appendix 2D, Guidance for U.S. Navy Diving on a Dynamic
Positioning Vessel, for conducting diving operations from a DP vessel.

6-10 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

Figure 6‑5. Dive Techniques

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-11

 6-2.3 Commanders Intent and Planning Guidance. The Commander’s Intent is a broad
expression of:

n Purpose of the mission.

n Methods of the operation.

n Desired end state.

The Commander’s Intent is important because the commander may require a quick
removal of a vessel blocking a valuable pier with little concern for preservation
of the vessel, or the priority may be protection of the marine environment. The
Commander’s Intent focuses leaders on a common goal and allows flexibility and
freedom of action.

The Commander’s intent frames planning guidance. Planning guidance focuses

COA development.

6-3 COURSE OF ACTION DEVELOMENT

A COA is any concept of operation that accomplishes the mission. When possible,
the entire team should be involved in COA development.

6-3.1 Analyze Unit Strengths and Weaknesses. Planners gain insight into capabilities
relative to the operation by analyzing unit strengths and weaknesses and identify
what additional resources may be required to execute the mission. To determine
capability planners evaluate:

n Personnel levels.

n Training and proficiency.

n Equipment readiness.

n Human factors.

6-3.2 Generate Options. The goal of COA development is to develop several

appropriate COAs. COAs must look at possibilities created by attachments, such
as a hydrographic survey team or an area search detachment (Figure 6-6). Planners
should avoid the pitfall of presenting one good COA among several throwaway
COAs. Brainstorming requires time and imagination but produces the greatest
range of options. Remaining open minded in generating options avoids bias.

6-3.3 Develop Planning Assumptions. Assumptions are made in areas over which there
is no control. Assumptions should be validated prior to the mission execution.
Unvaildated assumptions become part of the inherent risk of the operation and the
dive supervisor must have a plan to deal with them.

6-12 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 PLANNING DATA SOURCES
 Aircraft Drawings  Light Lists  Ship’s Personnel
 Cargo Manifest  Local Yachtsmen/Fishermen  Ships Drawings (including docking
plan)
 Coastal Pilot Publications  LORAN Readings
 Side-Scan Sonar Plots
 Cognizant Command  Magnetometer Plots
 SINS Records
 Communications Logs  Navigation Text
(Dutton's/Bowditch)  SITREP
 Construction Drawings
 Navigational Charts  Sonar Readings and/or Charts
 Current Tables
 NAVOCEANO Data  TACAN Readings
 Diving Advisory Messages
 Notices to Mariners  Technical Reference Books
 DRT Tracks
 OPORDERS  Test Records
 DSV/DSRV Observations
 Photographs  Tide Tables
 Electronic Analysis
 Radar Range and Bearings  Underwater Work Techniques
 Equipment Operating Procedures
(OPs)  RDF Bearings  USN Diving Manual Reference List
 Equipment Operation and Mainte-  ROV Video and Pictures  USN Instructions
nance Manuals
 Sailing Directions  USN Ship Salvage Manual
 Eyewitnesses
 Salvage Computer Data  Visual Bearings
 Flight or Ship Records
 Ship’s Curves of Forms  Weather Reports
 Flight Plan
 Ship’s Equipment
 Hydrographic Publications
 Ship’s Logs and Records

Figure 6‑6. Planning Data Sources.

6-4 COURSE OF ACTION ANALYSIS/RISK ASSESSMENT

6-4.1 COA Analysis. COA analysis:

n Anticipates the operational environment.

n Determines conditions and resources required for success.

n Assesses the degree of flexibility for each COA.

6-4.2 Risk Assessment. A risk assessment shall be conducted and documented for each
diving mission. The Planning and ORM worksheet (Figure 6-9) may be used to
document efforts. Additional resources are available on the Naval Safety Center
website.

Four principles of ORM:

n Accept risk when you KNOW the facts, and the benefits outweigh the cost.

n Accept no unnecessary risk.

n Anticipate and manage risk by planning. Risk is best managed in the planning
stage of an operation.

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-13

 n Make risk decisions at the right level. The greater the risk, the higher the
authority required to approve taking the risk.

NOTE Operational necessity is only invoked when mission’s success is

more important to the nation than the lives and/or equipment of those
undertaking it. Operational necessity does not apply to training.

6-4.2.1 Levels of ORM.

ORM levels include: in-depth, deliberate, and time critical.

6-4.2.1.1 In-depth ORM. In-depth risk management is used before a project is implemented,
when there is plenty of time to plan and prepare. Examples of in-depth methods
include training and drafting instructions. In-depth ORM is typically conducted by
Fleet commanders and Type commands.

6-4.2.1.2 Deliberate ORM. Deliberate risk management is used at routine periods through the
implementation of a project or process. Examples include quality assurance, on-
the-job training, safety briefs, performance reviews, and safety checks. Deliberate
ORM is typically conducted at the Group or squadron level.

The five steps of deliberate ORM are:

1. Identify hazards. A common mistake is to list an effect as a hazard. For example,
listing DCS as a hazard when the real hazard is diving deep in warm water
and working hard. DCS is the effect of a failure to manage the hazard. It is
important to distinguish a hazard from the effects it causes to be able to apply
proper controls. See Appendix 2C, Environmental and Operational Hazards,
for hazards in diving.
2. Assess Hazards. Determine the associated degree of risk in terms of probability
and severity for the hazards identified for the mission. The risk assessment
produces a prioritized list of hazards.
3. Make Risk Decisions. Two actions ultimately lead to making informed risk
decisions:

n Identifying control options. Options include rejecting the risk, avoiding the
risk, delaying an action, transferring the risk and compensating for the risk.
Types of controls are: administrative, engineering, and physical controls.

n Determine Control Effects. With controls identified, the hazard should be

re-assessed, taking into consideration the effect the control will have on
the severity and or probability. This refined risk assessment determines
the residual risk for the hazard, assuming the implementation of selected
controls. At this point, it is also appropriate to consider the cost (personnel,
equipment, money, time, etc.) of the control and the possible interaction
between controls. Do they work together?
4. Implement Controls. Implementing controls relies on communicating to all
involved personnel, establishing accountability, and providing necessary
support.

6-14 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 5. Supervise. Supervision is focused on determining effectiveness of controls.
Supervisors determine the need for further assessment and capture lessons
learned.

6-4.2.1.3 Time Critical Risk Management (TCRM). Time critical risk management requires
a high degree of situational awareness by supervisors. TRCM is the effective use
of all available resources by individuals, crews, and teams to safely and effectively
accomplish the mission or task using risk management concepts when time and
resources are limited.

The U.S. Navy summarizes the time critical risk management process in a four-
step A-B-C-D model (Figure 6-7).

1. Assess the situation.

The three conditions to Assess:

Task loading - the negative effect on performance of basic tasks due to

n
additional tasking.

Human factors - the limitations of the ability of the human body and mind
n
to adapt to the work environment (e.g. stress, fatigue, impairment, lapses of
attention, confusion, and willful violations of regulations).

Additive factors - the cumulative effect of variables.

n

Task loading represents an elevated risk when a new activity is undertaken

by an inexperienced diver. A diver learning how to use a dry suit will need to
dedicate considerably more attention to the proper functioning of the new and
unfamiliar piece of equipment which leads to the elevated risk of neglect of other
responsibilities. Those risks will normally diminish with experience.

Examples:

n Underwater photography or videography

n Diving in environments requiring use of lights or guide reels (such as night

diving, wreck diving and cave diving) or other additional equipment

n Driving a diver propulsion vehicle (DPV)

Common examples of routine functions that can be overlooked as a result of task

loading are:

n Monitoring air supply properly

n Monitoring depth and time

n Monitoring oxygen partial pressure in a rebreather

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-15

 Task loading is often identified as a key component in diving accidents, although
statistically it is difficult to monitor because divers of differing levels of experience
can cope with a more complex array of tasks and equipment. While simply getting
used to using a drysuit can call for great levels of attention in an inexperienced
diver, it might be a routine piece of equipment for an experienced cold water diver.

2. Balance resources.

Resources are balanced in three different ways:

n Resources and options available.

n Resources verses hazards.

n Individual verses team effort. This means observing individual risk warning
signs. It also means observing how well the team is communicating, knows
the roles that each member is supposed to play, and the stress level and
participation level of each team member.

3. Communicate risks and intentions.

n Communicate hazards and intentions to mitigate.

n Communicate to the right people.

n Use the right communication style; Asking questions is a technique to open

lines of communication, whereas a direct and forceful style of communication
gets a specific result from a specific situation.

4. Do and debrief. (Take action and monitor for change.)

Supervisors shall be specifically wary of “optimism bias” or unrealistic optimism.

Optimism bias causes a person to believe that they are less at risk of experiencing
a mishap compared to others. There are four factors that cause a person to be
optimistically biased:

n Their desired end state

n Their cognitive mechanisms

n The information they have about themselves versus others,

n Overall mood.

Optimism bias is avoided through legitimate mission analysis, planning and ORM.

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 The Link Between Time Critical and Deliberate

Time Critical Process 5 Step Deliberate Process

and Mnemonic:

A Assess the situation 1. Identify Hazards

(your potential for error)

B Balance your resources 2. Assess Hazards

(to prevent and trap
errors)
3. Make Risk Decisions
C Communicate
(risks and intentions)
4. Implement Controls
D Do and Debrief
(take action and monitor
for change) 5. Supervise
(watch for changes)

Figure 6‑7. The Link Between Time Critical and Deliberate.

6-5 TASK PLANNING AND EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE

6-5.1 Task Planning and Scheduling. Dive plans and schedules should organize
personnel and work objectives so that experienced personnel will always be
available on site.

6-5.1.1 Task Schedule. The following points should be considered when developing
detailed task-by-task schedules for an operation:

n Allow sufficient time for preparation, transit to the site, rendezvous with
other vessels or units, establishing a secure mooring, or setting up and testing
a Dynamic Positioning system.

n The number and profile of repetitive dives in a given time period are limited.

n Plans may include the option to work night and day; however, this may pose
an increased risk.

n The level of personnel support depends on the diving techniques selected.

n Any schedule must be flexible to accommodate unexpected complications,

delays, and changing conditions.

6-5.1.2 Work-up dives. Work up dives shall be conducted if divers have been inactive,
will be working with unfamiliar equipment (dredges, dry suits, MK-16, etc), or

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-17

 diving deep. Work up dives are performed with the goal of acclimating the divers
to the environment and their equipment. Adequate work up dives result in divers
who are focused on the mission and the tasks at hand and not on their gear or the
environment.

Work up dives in a recompression chamber may be conducted to expose divers to

the effects of nitrogen narcosis in a safe environment. However, chamber work up
dives are not an adequate substitute for actual dives in the water with the equipment
that will be used for the mission.

6-5.1.3 Emergency Assistance. It is critical to coordinate emergency assistance before

an operation begins. Three types of assistance may be required in any diving
operation:

n Additional equipment, personnel, supplies, or services.

n Clarification, authorization, or decisions from higher command.

n Emergency assistance in the event of a diving related illness or a physical

illness/injury.

The location of the nearest recompression chamber shall be identified and the
chamber operators notified before the operation begins. The location of the nearest
Diving Medical Officer and medical facility shall be located and notified. Sources
of emergency transportation, military or civilian, shall be established and verified.

If emergency transportation is required by civilian Emergency Medical Services

(EMS) sources, such as air evacuation or ambulance, a Memorandum of Agreement
or Diving Protocol should be established in advance and those casualty response
agreements incorporated into the Command Diving Bill if of a reoccuring nature.

1. Emergency Equipment. The following minimum emergency equipment shall

be available on every dive station and be maintained in the highest state of
readiness:

n Communications equipment capable of reaching help in the event of an

emergency

n A fully stocked first aid kit

n Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

n Portable oxygen supply with sufficient capacity to reach either the

recompression chamber or the planned evacuation location listed in the
Emergency Assistance Checklist (Figure 6-8)

n Bag-valve mask with a means to connect 100% oxygen.

n Means of immobilizing an injured diver (e.g., litter, stretcher, mesh stretcher,

backboard)

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 n A means of extracting a stricken/unconscious diver from the water.
Supervisors should consider an extraction line (and harnesses for SCUBA
divers) where significant freeboard or pier height would prevent expeditious
recovery of a casualty.

If unable to comply due to operational restrictions (limited space, DDS operations,

saturation diving), this equipment will be as close as practical to the diving
operations and ready for immediate use.

NOTE A towel and razor is not required but highly recommended when using an
Automated External Defibrillator (AED).

WARNING Rescue strops are not appropriate for rescue of unconscious divers.

If space restrictions limit equipment from being available on the dive station, this
equipment shall be as close as practical.

2. Recompression Chamber. The level of risk of a dive mission determines the

need to have a chamber at the dive side or if a nearby chamber will suffice.
The closest available recompression chamber and a backup must always be
identified during dive planning.

Use of a U.S. Navy certified chamber should be planned whenever possible.

U.S. Navy chambers are engineered to provide the maximum degree of safety
and reliability to ensure that the chamber is capable of delivering the full range
of treatments. A non-U.S. Navy chamber may be used as specified in Table 6-1
provided it is inspected, deemed to offer comparable treatment capability, safety,
and accessibility, and authorized by the Commanding Officer or first Flag Officer.
A check sheet for evaluating a non-Navy Level III recompression chamber is
provided on the secure supsalv.org website under 00C3 publications.

A recompression chamber:

n Decreases the severity of DCS and POIS by allowing rapid treatment of post
dive symptoms.

n May mitigate the probability of DCS/POIS when used to conduct surface

decompression.

n Enables resolution of omitted decompression in a safe and controlled

environment.

Table 6-1 defines three Navy recompression support levels. These levels are
arranged according to the recommended proximity of the recompression chamber
to the dive side according to the planned depth and bottom time of the dives. ORM
may indicate the need to have a chamber closer than the recommended levels and
operational requirements may require the chamber to be farther away. However,
operational necessity does not exist in training dives. Dives conducted for training
may carry more risk. Table 6-2 provides further recommendations to support ORM.

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-19

 RCC Support Level Definition
A U.S. Navy certified recompression chamber close enough to the dive
Level I site to support surface decompression with a surface interval of 5 minutes.
(Note 1, 2)
A U.S. Navy certified recompression chamber accessible within one hour of
Level II
the casualty. (Note 2)
A U.S. Navy certified recompression chamber accessible within six hours of
Level III
the casualty. (Note 3, 4)
Note 1: The Commanding Officer may authorize an extension of the surface interval to a maximum of 7
minutes (requirements of paragraph 9-12.6 and 12-5.14 apply)
Note 2: A non-Navy chamber may be used if if authorized in accordance with the OPNAVINST 3150.27C.
Note 3: A non-Navy chamber may be used if it is evaluated utilizing the NAVSEA non-Navy recompression
chamber check sheet, and authorized in writing by the Commanding Officer.
Note 4: During extreme circumstances when a chamber cannot be reached within 6 hours the Commanding
Officer (or designated individual) can give authorization to use the nearest recompression facility.

Table 6‑1. Navy Recompression Chamber Support levels.

Depth
Level I Chamber Level II Chamber Level III Chamber
(fsw)
20 0 - unlimited
25 372 - 720 0 - 371
30 270 - 720 0 - 269
35 207 - 720 0 - 206
40 >540 191 - 540 0 - 190
45 >360 171 - 360 0 - 170
50 >300 161 - 300 0 - 160
55 >240 141 - 240 0 - 140
60 >220 131 - 220 0 - 130
70 >160 111 - 160 0 - 110
80 >120 91 - 120 0 - 90
90 >90 61 - 90 0 - 60
100 >70 56 - 70 0 - 55
110 >70 51 - 70 0 - 50
120 >55 46 - 55 0 - 45
130 >50 41 - 50 0 - 40
140 >45 31 - 45 0 - 30
150 >40 31 - 40 0 - 30
160 >40 26 - 40 0 - 25
170 >35 26 - 35 0 - 25
180 >35 21 - 35 0 - 20
190 >30 21 - 30 0 - 20
Table 6-2. Air Diving Recompression Chamber Recommendations (Bottom Time in Minutes)

6-20 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 3. Medical/Critical Care Facility. It is important for planners to determine the
location of the closest medical facility and its capabilities. Not all medical
facilities may be capable of dealing with the most serious emergencies. If
the nearest medical facility is inadequate, the location of the facility with a
necessary capability must also be determined.

In rare instances, the severity of a medical casualty while diving may dictate
bypassing recompression therapy in the designated recompression chamber for
medical care in a critical care facility. Examples include:

n Near-drowning (even with possible POIS or DCS).

n Major/severe trauma (even with possible POIS or DCS).

n Rapid onset of paralysis with inability to breathe.

In the event of one of the situations above, the Dive Supervisor, with consultation
with the DMT or DMO if available, must make an early and definitive decision
about whether to bypass recompression therapy and evacuate a casualty to a
facility capable of providing the needed care. This decision should be based on
the likelihood that an affected diver will die or suffer permanent total disability if
treatment in a critical care facility is delayed due to recompression therapy.

6-6 TRANSITION (EXECUTION)

The transition from planning to execution begins with briefing the entire team
involved in the operation. Two briefs are delivered; the mission brief, and the dive
brief.

6-6.1 Mission Brief. The mission brief provides an overview of the mission, the
Commander’s Intent, and task organization. The briefing ensures that all actions
necessary to accomplish the mission are known and understood. The mission brief
may be conducted well ahead of the commencement of diving and includes:

n Commander’s Critical Information Requirements.

n Decision points.

n Time factors.

n An overview of hazards and controls.

n Premishap plan. The mission brief shall inform the team of actions in the
event of the following:

n Emergency extraction of injured diver.

n Treatment, and transportation of injured/affected divers or team members.

n Lost diver.

n Fouled/Trapped diver.

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-21

 n Loss of air.

n Loss of communications.

n Dive station norms and standards.

An emergency assistance checklist shall be completed and posted at the diving

station to provide emergency contact information. Team members shall be notified
of the location of the emergency assistance checklist and how to make notifications
or request assistance (Figure 6-8 is a suggested format).

Mission briefs shall be repeated in as much detail as required at the beginning of

each diving day. All personnel involved in the execution of the mission should be
present, including topside support personnel (eg., boat coxswains, boom operators).

The Diving Planning and ORM Worksheet (Figure 6-9) and the Ship Repair Safety
Checklist for Diving (Figure 6-10) support control of diving operations and may be
useful in conducting the mission brief. These checklists may be tailored to specific
missions and local requirements.

6-6.2 Dive brief. The dive brief ensures that the dive plan is understood by all personnel
in the operation and any questions or doubts are addressed. Any information,
situations, or conditions that have changed since the mission brief must be relayed
to the dive team prior to each dive. Each dive brief shall address the following:

n Dive objective/tasks. Brief the dive objective, considerations, and current

state of conditions (including results or issues from previous dives). Diving
and work procedures for the immediate tasks shall be reviewed during the
briefing. Example: Objective - Recover flight data recorder. Tasks - Cut
away aircraft fuselage, remove black box, place recorder in recovery basket.

n Hazards. Specific hazards of the dive shall be briefed to the divers. Ensure the
divers and the dive team understand the hazards and mitigations necessary
for safe diving.

n Limits and restraints. (ex., Max depth/bottom time, search no farther than..,
do not enter wreckage...)

n Station Assignments. Review and verify assignments to ensure personnel

understand their roles and responsibilities. Ensure a chamber/evacutation
team is assigned. The primary (and possibly secondary) diver and standby
diver assigned to a significantly hazardous dive, or the first dive of the day,
should be experienced divers. No changes to dive station positions should be
made without the permission of the Diving Supervisor and then only after a
thorough turnover.

The Diving Supervisor shall assess the fitness of each diver and inside tender
immediately before a dive (with assistance from medical personnel if available).
Any symptom or condition such as cough, nasal congestion, apparent fatigue,
pregnancy, emotional stress, skin or ear infection is sufficient reason to be removed

6-22 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 from diving rotation and be referred to medical personnel (BUMEDINST 6200.15
(series) provides guidance regarding pregnancy and diving).

The Diving Supervisor shall determine if any divers or inside tenders are taking
any medications that may preclude diving. There are no hard and fast rules for
deciding when a medication would preclude a diver from diving. In general, topical
medications, antibiotics, birth control medication, and decongestants that do not
cause drowsiness would not restrict diving. A DMT or DMO shall be consulted to
determine if the use of specific drugs or the condition requiring their use preclude
diving.

The Diving Supervisor shall verify the diver’s willingness and ability to complete
assigned tasks. No diver shall be forced to make a dive. A diver who regularly
declines diving assignments shall be disqualified as a diver.

n Assistance and Emergencies. Review assistance and actions in case of an

emergency for the first dive of the day according to the mission brief.

Emergencies may be accompanied by confusion. In the event of a diving casualty

or mishap on dive station, calm must be maintained. Maintain silence on the side,
follow the mishap plan, and take orders from the Diving Supervisor.

6-6.3 Responsibilities While Operation is Underway. The Diving Supervisor monitors

progress, debriefs divers, updates instructions to subsequent divers, and ensures
the chain of command is kept apprised of progress of the operation and of any
changes to the original plan. The Diving Supervisor should not hesitate to call
upon the Master Diver for technical advice and expertise during the conduct of the
mission.

Divers shall maintain situational awareness and keep topside personnel informed
of conditions on the bottom, progress of the task, and of any developing problems
that may indicate the need for changes to the plan. The diver shall always obey a
signal from the surface and repeat all commands from the surface.

Additionally, Dive Supervisors maintain situational awareness, exercise good

decision making, and manage the fatigue and stress of the team to conduct
safe diving. The Diving Supervisor must be aware of the cumulative effects of
these factors on his, and the team’s, ability to operate safely and mitigate them
accordingly. NEDU Report TR-05-09 details these skills and they are summarized
in this section.

6-6.3.1 Situational Awareness (SA). Maintaining good SA is critical. Loss of SA is the

greatest of all the causes of mishaps. Situational awareness involves:

n The detection of elements in the environment within a volume of space and

time.

n The comprehension of their meaning.

n The projection of their status in the near future.

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-23

 Failures in acquiring good SA undermine the quality of decisions and performance.
Complacency stems from a lack of SA.

Situational awareness progresses through three levels:

n Basic. An awareness of key elements of the situation (e.g., depth of the

divers, bottom time, stage of the dive, weather, repet group of available
divers).

n Intermediate. A comprehension and integration of the elements in light of

current goals (e.g, understanding that divers are having difficulty completing
their task, and that there are insufficient clean divers available to continue
diving).

n Advanced. The ability to use the current information to predict what will
happen in the future (e.g., the schedule will slip, and upcoming spring tides
will produce greater currents that will increase risk to divers).

6-6.3.1.1. One misconception about SA is the Dive Supervisor needs to know everything
that is going on. However, overloading the Dive Supervisor can contribute to loss
of SA. For this reason divers shall be thoroughly trained in all aspects of diving to
aid understanding and comprehension of complex factors to avoid giving irrelevant
or untimely information to the dive supervisor, especially in an emergency.

Maintaining good SA:

n Monitor progression of the dive.

n Make extra efforts to get relevant information during decent, ascent, and
abnormal situations.

n After an interruption or distraction, back up several steps, or double check

all steps if possible.

n Be aware of environmental and cumulative effects on the divers and the

team.

n Stand back and look at the problem and double check assumptions with the
rest of the team.

n Stay focused on the goal but avoid tunnel vision.

n Verbalize decisions to the team.

6-6.3.2 Decision Making. The most appropriate decision making strategy for a given
situation is determined by the amount of time available, the level of risk involved,
and the expertise of the decision maker.

To optimize decision making during operations:

n Voice concerns early.

6-24 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 n Avoid unnecessarily rushed decisions.

n Use the most appropriate decision making strategy for the problem based on
time and risk.

n Communicate with the team and be aware of overloading individual team

members.

n Avoid complacency by keeping a questioning attitude.

6-6.3.2.1 A misconception about decision making is that there is always a rule or

procedure that can be followed in nearly every situation. Although there are
procedures for most emergency situations, it is impossible to plan for every
possible situation. This is why divers must conduct detailed planning, be
thoroughly trained and technically competent, and conduct challenging emergency
drills. There are three decision making techniques used in high risk environments:
analytical, rule-based, and recognition-primed.

1. Analytical decision making. Used in the planning stage of a mission when there
is sufficient time available to determine the best solution or strategy through
analysis of courses of action. This method generally produces the best solution
and is especially valuable in solving new problems.

2. Rule-based decision making. Used to solve familiar problems where there are
written rules or procedures. Once a problem is known and the rule that governs
it is identified, a diver simply follows the rule or procedure.
One risk of rule-based decision making is that familiarity can cause complacency
and steps in written procedures can be missed (e.g., missing the step to install
absorbent in a CO2 scrubber canister, or not installing the canister).

3. Recognition-primed decision making (experienced based). This technique is

used by experts to make decisions in high-workload, time limited situations.

This is how leaders make decisions rapidly. One negative aspect of this method
is that a person applying this method may only look for evidence to support their
assumptions (confirmation bias), another is that requisite experience may be
lacking within the decision maker or on the team. This method is characterized by:

n Actions and reactions based on past experience.

n Emphasis on an experienced reading of a situation, rather than gathering

complete information and generating different courses of action.

n Generating a workable solution even though it may not necessarily be the

best.

6-6.3.3 Fatigue. Divers are often required to work long days, carry out tasks outside
normal working hours, or work continuously for a period of days without a break.
In NEDU TR 05-09, Navy divers identified fatigue as the second most common
cause of diving mishaps. Furthermore, when compared to aviation personnel,

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-25

 Navy divers are less aware of the effects of fatigue on their performance. The
causes of fatigue include long hours of work as well as a lack of sleep. Factors
such as stress, temperature extremes, noise (>80 dB), hyperbaric pressure, and
physical work vibration also induce fatigue. Thus, a combination of cold or hot
water, greater depth, and long work hours combine to create a fatigue-inducing
environment.

The effects of fatigue can be compared to the effects of alcohol consumption. Even
a loss of two hours sleep produces a performance decrement equivalent to two or
three alcoholic beverages. Effects of fatigue may include:

1. Degradation in ability to think:

n Inflexible decision making and loss of innovative thinking.

n Reduced ability to cope with unforeseen rapid changes.

n Inability to adjust plans when new information becomes available.

n Tendency to adopt more ridgid thinking.

2. Reduced coordination in motor skills and timing.

3. Inhibited ability to communicate.

4. Social degradations:

n Irritable or withdrawn.

n Less tolerant of others and more acceptance of own errors.

n Neglect of smaller tasks (inattention to detail).

n Increasingly distracted by discomfort.

5. Increase in risk of decompression sickness.

The Dive Supervisor must maintain an awareness of the effects of fatigue on the
dive team and mitigate the condition to avoid mishaps. All team members should
have a minimum of four to five hours of continuous sleep prior to diving. Divers
performing particularly hazardous dives, or dives that expose them to higher risk
of DCS, should obtain more sleep if possible. Rotating dive station positions,
obtaining short 10-minute intervals of sleep, and performing short bouts of exercise
may improve functioning if obtaining adequate sleep is not possible. The Dive
Supervisor may need to halt diving operations during sustained missions to rest,
recuperate, and restore individual and team functioning.

6-6.3.4 Stress. A certain amount of stress is normal and even beneficial to motivation
and performance. The Dive Supervisor’s concern is when stress adversely affects
performance that may lead to mishaps.

6-26 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 6-6.3.4.1 Chronic and Acute Stress. Stress is important to Navy Divers because both
chronic and acute stresses are potential problems to divers. Chronic stress may
result from any long periods of work such as ship’s husbandry, in which there
are continual deadlines and constant pressure to complete tasks over time. Acute
stress, by contrast, may occur during an emergency in the water or on the dive
side, or during shorter periods of high workload and production pressure.

Indicators of chronic stress include:

n Apathy n Irritability

n Reduced productivity n Health complaints

n Absenteeism n Decline in physical appearance

n Alcohol/Drug Abuse n Impaired decision making

n Hostility n Lack of concentration

n Anxiety

Indicators of acute stress include:

n Fight or flight response n Jumpiness

n Fear, anxiety, or panic n Memory impairment

n Surge of energy n Reduced concentration

n Loss of control n Difficulty making a decision

Once symptoms of stress are present, they can adversely affect the health and
performance of the individual and the team. Acute stress can result in a failure to
manage a situation effectively and can end in equipment damage, injury, or loss of
life. Chronic stress left untreated, may predispose a team member to mistakes, or
affect the rest of the team, and lead to mishaps.

6-6.4 Post Dive/Post Mission. A dive mission is completed when the objective has been
met, the diving team demobilized, and records and reports are filed. Time shall be
allocated to:

n Debrief the dive team

n Analyze the operation, compared the plan to how it was actually carried out
for lessons learned.

n Recover, clean, inspect, maintain, repair, and stow all equipment

n Dispose of materials brought up during the operation

n Prepare records and reports

n Restock expended materials

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-27

 n Ensure the readiness of the team to respond to the next assignment

6-6.4.1 Post-dive/Post Mission Debrief. Prompt debriefing of divers returning to the

surface provides the Diving Supervisor with information that may influence or alter
the next phase of the operation. Divers should be questioned about the progress of
the work, bottom conditions, anticipated problems, and asked for suggestions for
immediate changes.

After the diving day is complete (or after a shift has finished work, if the operation
is being carried on around the clock), all members of the diving team should be
brought together for a short debriefing of the day’s activities. This offers the team
a chance to provide feedback to the Diving Supervisor and other members of the
team. This group interaction can help clarify any confusion that may have arisen
because of faulty communications, lack of information, or misunderstandings from
the initial briefing.

When the mission is complete, the Diving Supervisor gathers appropriate

data, analyzes the results of the mission, and ensures that required records
are completed. These records may include a Failure Analysis Report
(FAR) if any equipment malfunctions were experienced, mishap or near mishap
report (HAZREP), smooth logs, equipment operating logs, and after action reports.
See Chapter 5 for information or diving records and reports). Capturing lessons
learned and best practices in post dive post mission reports is vital to assist in
planning the next similar operation.

6-28 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

Figure 6-8. Emergency Assistance Checklist

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-29

 DIVING PLANNING ORM WORKSHEET
(Sheet 1 of 3)

A. CONDUCT RISK ASSESSMENT: Operational Mission or Training?

Note: There is no such thing as operational necessity in a training environment.

1. Identify and Assess Hazards

Insert a Severity and Probability code for each applicable hazard and the resulting RAC:

Environmental Hazards:
1. Weather: ____+____=____ 2. Sea State: ____+____=____
3. Surface Visibility: ____+____=____ 4. Underwater Visibility: ____+____=____
5. Depth: ____+____=____ 6. Bottom Type: ____+____=____
7. Tides/Currents: ____+____=____ 8. Water Temp: ____+____=____
9. Contaminated Water: ____+____=____ 10. Altitude: ____+____=____
11. Dangerous Marine Life: ____+____=____ 12. Other: ____+____=____

Operational Hazards:
1. Fouling/Entrapment: ____+____=____ 2. Enclosed Space Diving: ____+____=____
3. Electric Shock: ____+____=____ 4. Explosions: ____+____=____
5. SONAR: ____+____=____ 6. Nuclear Radiation: ____+____=____
7. Surface Traffic: ____+____=____ 8. Equipment Failure: ____+____=____
9. Loss of Depth Control: ____+____=____ 10 Other: (i.e. fatigue, experience) ____+____=____

Severity:
Category Description

Loss of the ability to accomplish the mission. Death or permanent total disability. Loss of
I Mission-critical system or equipment. Major facility damage. Sever environmental damage.
Loss of a Mission-critical security failure. Unacceptable collateral damage.

Significantly degraded mission capability or unit readiness. Permanenet partial disability or

II severe injury or illness. Extensive damage to equipment or systems. Significant damage to
property or environment. Security failure. Significant collateral damage.

Degraded mission capability or unit readiness. Minor damage to equipment, systems, property,
III
or the environment. Minor injury or illness.

Little or no adverse impact on the mission capability or unit readiness. Minimal threat to
IV personnel, safety, or health. Slight equipment or systems damage, but fully functional and
serviceable. Little or no property or environmental damage.

Probability:
Category Description

Likely to occur, immediately or within a short period of time. Expected to occur frequently to an
A
individual item or person; or continuously over a service life for an inventory of items or group.

Probably will occur in time. Expected to occur several times to an individual item or person; or
B
frequently over a service life for an inventory of items or group.

May occur in time. Can reasonably be expected to occur some time to an individual item or
C
person; or several times over a service life for an inventory of items or group.

D Unlikely to occur, but not impossible.

Figure 6-9. Diving Planning ORM Worksheet (sheet 1 of 3).

6-30 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 DIVING PLANNING ORM WORKSHEET
(Sheet 2 of 3)

2. Identify Control Options

Environmental Hazards:
1. Weather: ______________ 2. Sea State: ______________
3. Surface Visibility: ______________ 4. Underwater Visibility: ______________
5. Depth: ______________ 6. Bottom Type: ______________
7. Tides/Currents: ______________ 8. Water Temp: ______________
9. Contaminated Water: ______________ 10. Altitude: ______________
7. Dangerous Marine Life: ______________ 8. Other: ______________

Operational Hazards:
1. Fouling/Entrapment: ______________ 2. Enclosed Space Diving: ______________
3. Electric Shock: ______________ 4. Explosions: ______________
5. SONAR: ______________ 6. Nuclear Radiation: ______________
7. Surface Traffic: ______________ 8. Equipment Failure: ______________
9. Loss of Depth Control: ______________ 10: Other: ______________

Probability

Frequency of Occurrence Over Time

Risk Assessment Matrix
A B C D
Likely Probable May Unlikely

Loss of Mission Capability, Unit Readiness 1 1 2 3

I
or Asset; Death
Effect of Hazard

Significantly Degraded Mission Capability or

SEVERITY

1 2 3 4
II
Unit Readiness; Severe Injury or Damage

Degraded Mission Capability or Unit 2 3 4 5

III
Readiness; Minor Injury or Damage

Little or No Impact to Mission Capability or 3 4 5 5

IV
Unit Readiness; Minimal Injury or Damage

Risk Assessment Codes

1 - Critical   2 - Serious   3 - Moderate   4 - Minor   5 - Negligible

Note: It is important to remember that severity is independent of probability and reducing probability
does not change mishap severity.

Figure 6-9. Diving Planning ORM Worksheet (sheet 2 of 3).

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-31

 DIVING PLANNING ORM WORKSHEET
(Sheet 3 of 3)

3. Determine Control Effects:

Insert a mitigated probability code for each applicable hazard and the revised RAC.
Note: It is important to remember that hazard severity is independent of mishap probability.
Mitigations only reduce probability and do not change the severity should a mishap occur.

Environmental:
1. Weather: ____+____=____ 2. Sea State: ____+____=____
3. Surface Visibility: ____+____=____ 4. Underwater Visibility: ____+____=____
5. Depth: ____+____=____ 6. Bottom Type: ____+____=____
7. Tides/Currents: ____+____=____ 8. Water Temp: ____+____=____
9. Contaminated Water: ____+____=____ 10. Altitude: ____+____=____
7. Dangerous Marine Life: ____+____=____ 8. Other: ____+____=____

Operational:
1. Fouling/Entrapment: ____+____=____ 2. Enclosed Space Diving: ____+____=____
3. Electric Shock: ____+____=____ 4. Explosions: ____+____=____
5. SONAR: ____+____=____ 6. Nuclear Radiation: ____+____=____
7. Surface Traffic: ____+____=____ 8. Equipment Failure: ____+____=____
9. Loss of Depth Control: ____+____=____ 10: Other: ____+____=____

Residual Risk by COA.: List hazards with moderate and above residual risk for each COA:

COA 1: _____________________ _____________________ _____________________

COA 2: _____________________ _____________________ _____________________
COA 3: _____________________ _____________________ _____________________

Risk of each COA: Critical (1), Serious(2), Moderate(3), Minor(4), or Negligible(5):

COA 1: _____________
COA 2: _____________
COA 3: _____________

COA Decision:

Diving Supervisor (Print)_____________________________ Sign:____________________________

Higher Approval (as Required):__________________________/______________________________

Higher Approval (as Required):__________________________/______________________________

Higher Approval (as Required):__________________________/______________________________

Figure 6-9. Diving Planning ORM Worksheet (sheet 3 of 3).

6-32 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 SHIP REPAIR SAFETY CHECKLIST FOR DIVING
(Sheet 1 of 2)

When diving operations will involve underwater ship repairs, the following procedures and safety mea­sures
are required in addition to the Diving Safety Checklist.

SAFETY OVERVIEW
A. The Diving Supervisor shall advise key personnel of the ship undergoing repair:
1. OOD 4. OODs of ships alongside
2. Engineering Officer 5. Squadron Operations (when required)
3. CDO 6. Combat Systems Officer (when required)
B. The Diving Supervisor shall request that OOD/Duty Officer of ship being repaired ensure that
appropriate equipment is secured and tagged out.
C. The Diving Supervisor shall request that OOD/Duty Officer advise him when action has been
completed and when diving operations may commence.
D. When ready, the diving Supervisor shall request that the ship display appropriate diving signals
and pass a diving activity advisory over the 1MC every 30 minutes. For example, “There are
divers working over the side. Do not operate any equipment, rotate screws, cycle rudder, planes
or torpedo shutters, take suction from or discharge to sea, blow or vent any tanks, activate sonar
or underwater electrical equipment, open or close any valves, or cycle trash disposal unit before
checking with the Diving Supervisor.”
E. The Diving Supervisor shall advise the OOD/Duty Officer when diving operations commence and
when they are concluded. At conclusion, the ship will be requested to pass the word on the 1MC,
“Diving operations are complete. Carry out normal work routine.”
F. Diving within 50 feet of an active sea suction (located on the same side of the keel) that is
maintaining a suc­tion of 50 gpm or more, is not authorized unless considered as an emergency
repair and is authorized by the Commanding Officers of both the repair activity and tended vessel.
When it is determined that the sea suction is maintaining a suction of less than 50 gpm and is
less than 50 feet, or maintaining a suction of more than 50 gpm and is less than 50 feet but on the
opposite side of the keel, the Diving Supervisor shall determine if the sea suction is a safety hazard
to the divers prior to conducting any diving operation. In all cases the Diving Supervisor shall be
aware of the tend of the diver’s umbilical to ensure that it will not cross over or become entrapped
by an active sea suction. Diving on 688 and 774 class submarines does not present a hazard
to divers when ASW and MSW pumps are operating in slow or super slow modes. Diver tag-out
procedures must be completed in accordance with the TUMS and SORM to ensure ASW and MSW
pumps are not operated in fast mode. Divers must be properly briefed on location of suctions and
current status of equipment.

NOTIFY KEY PERSONNEL.

1. OOD ___________________________________________ (signature)
2. Engineering Officer ___________________________________________ (signature)
3. CDO USS_______________________________________ (signature)
4. OOD USS_______________________________________
OOD USS_______________________________________
OOD USS_______________________________________
OOD USS_______________________________________
5. Squadron Operations _______________________________________
6. Port Services Officer _______________________________________
(Diving Supervisor (Signature)

Figure 6-10. Ship Repair Safety Checklist for Diving (sheet 1 of 2).

CHAPTER 6 — Operational Planning and Risk Management 6-33

 SHIP REPAIR SAFETY CHECKLIST FOR DIVING
(Sheet 2 of 2)

TAG OUT EQUIPMENT

TAG OUT SIGNATURE AND RATE 

Rudder ____________________________________________

Anchors ____________________________________________

Planes ____________________________________________

Torpedo tube shutters ____________________________________________

Trash disposal unit ____________________________________________

Tank blows ____________________________________________

Tank vents ____________________________________________

Shaft(s) locked ____________________________________________

Sea suctions ____________________________________________

Sea discharges ____________________________________________

U/W electrical equipment ____________________________________________

Sonars ____________________________________________

Other U/W equipment ____________________________________________

USS________________________________________
(name of ship)

CDO________________________________________
(signature of CDO)

Figure 6‑10. Ship Repair Safety Checklist for Diving (sheet 2 of 2).

6-34 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 CHAPTER 7

SCUBA Air Diving Operations

7-1 INTRODUCTION

7-1.1 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to familiarize divers with standard and
emergency procedures when diving with SCUBA equipment.

7-1.2 Scope. This chapter covers the use of open-circuit SCUBA in operations 380 F and
above. Operations 370 F and colder are discussed in Chapter 11 (Ice Diving).

7-1.3 References:

n NAVSEA 00C Authorized for Navy Use (ANU) List

n U.S. Government Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

Diving Standards. 29 CFR Part 1910 Subpart T.

n Department of Transportation (DOT) specifications (DOT 3AA, DOT 3AL,

DOT SP6498, and DOT E6498)

n Compressed Gas Association (CGA) pamphlets C-1 and C-6

n Compressed Gas Handling. Naval Ships Technical Manual, Chapter 550.

NAVSEA 0901-LP-230-0002.

n Procedures for the Requisitioning, Handling, Storage, and Disposal of Items

Which Contain Radioactive By-Product Material. NAVSUPINST 5101.6
(series)

n U.S. Navy Underwater Ship Husbandry Manual. (NAVSEA S0600- AA-

PRO-010)

7-2 OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

7-2.1 Operational Limits. Figure 7-1 lists operational limits for SCUBA. These limits
are based on a practical consideration of working time versus decompression
time and oxygen-tolerance limits and may not be exceeded except by specific
authorization in accordance with OPNAVINST 3150.27 (series).

Exceptional exposure dives have a significantly higher probability of DCS and

CNS oxygen toxicity. Planned exceptional exposure dives shall not be conducted
except by specific authorization in accordance with OPNAVINST 3150.27 (series).

Increased air consumption at deeper depths, hazards of nitrogen narcosis, and the
exposure to the environment are significant limiting factors in SCUBA. Diving

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-1

 supervisors shall consider employing an independent back-up air source for all
SCUBA dives.

NORMAL AND MAXIMUM LIMITS FOR OPEN CIRCUIT SCUBA DIVING

Depth fsw
(meters) Operational Limit

60 (18) Maximum depth for standby SCUBA diver using a fully charged single cylinder with less
than 100 SCF air available.

130 (40) Normal working limit. Dives deeper than 130fsw may be made with approval of the
Commanding Officer or Officer-in-Charge.

190 (58) Maximum working limit.

Notes:
1. Do not exceed No‑Decompression limits during routine dives. Decompression dives may be made with
approval of the Commanding Officer or Officer-in-Charge. See paragraph 7-9.3 for guidance. Closed-
circuit underwater breathing apparatus is preferred over SCUBA for dives requiring decompression
where a free swimming dive method is required.
2. Officers-in-Charge exercising command authority to include exceptions to above limits must be
designated in writing.
3. 29 CFR Part 1910 and OSHA Directive CPL 02-00-151 provides additional OSHA restrictions for
civilian DOD SCUBA diving. DOD civilian divers are identified as all permanent DOD employees who
have been formally trained at an approved U.S. Navy diving school. Commercial divers contracted by
DOD who are not permanent government employees are subject to these provisions. The following are
some examples of OSHA restrictions for DOD divers:
• The maximum depth for SCUBA diving is 130 fsw. A decompression chamber is required (i.e.,
available within 5 minutes from the dive location) when diving deeper than 100 fsw, or when diving
outside of the no-decompression limits.
• A manual reserve (J valve), or an independent reserve cylinder gas supply with a separate
regulator is required.
• Submersible pressure gauge must be worn by each diver.
• DOD Civilian divers shall remain at the location of the recompression chamber for 1 hour after
surfacing for all dives that require a recompression chamber to be available within 5 minutes of
the dive location.
4. DOD civilian divers are exempt from regulation by OSHA when conducting uniquely military operations.
Commanding Officer shall issue a letter designating military centric diving operations.

Figure 7‑1. Normal and Maximum Limits for SCUBA Diving.

7-2 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 SCUBA General Characteristics Restrictions:

Work limits:

1. Normal 130 fsw

2. Maximum 190 fsw with approval of the
Commanding Officer or Officer-in-Charge.
3. Deeper than 130 fsw for operationally
necessary dives.
4. Standby diver with a minimum of 100
SCF of air available for dives deeper than
Principle of Operation: 60 fsw
5. Within no-decompression limits
Self contained, open-circuit demand system
6. Current - 1 knot maximum. Current greater
than 1 knot, requires ORM analysis. At a
Minimum Equipment:
minimum the divers(s) must be tended or
have a witness float.
1. Open-circuit SCUBA with submersible
pressure gauge
Operational Considerations:
2. Life preserver/buoyancy compensator
3. Weight (if required) 1. Standby diver required.
4. Dive knife 2. Small craft is mandatory for diver recovery
5. Face mask during open-ocean diving, when diving
6. Swim fins off of a large platform or when the diver
7. Submersible wrist watch is untended and may be displaced from
dive site, e.g., during a bottom search in a
8. Depth gauge
strong current or a long duration swim.
Principal Applications: 3. Moderate to good visibility preferred.
4. Dive supervisors shall consider employing
1. Shallow water search an independent back-up air source for all
2. Inspection SCUBA dives.
3. Light repair and recovery

Advantages:

1. Rapid deployment
2. Portability
3. Minimum support requirements
4. Excellent horizontal and vertical mobility
5. Minimum bottom disturbances

Disadvantages:

1. Limited endurance (depth and duration)

2. Limited physical protection
3. Influenced by current
4. Lack of voice communication (unless
equipped with a through-water
communications system or full face mask)

Figure 7‑2. SCUBA General Characteristics.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-3

 7-2.2 Manning. The minimum number of qualified divers required on station is provided
in Figure 7-3.

The minimum SCUBA dive team includes the Diving Supervisor, divers, and
standby diver. Additional members support in roles such as tender, boat crew,
special systems, and equipment operators as required by the nature of the operation.
Personnel levels may need to be increased as necessary to meet the operational
situation.

MINIMUM MANNING LEVELS FOR OPEN CIRCUIT SCUBA DIVING

Single Diver Buddy Pair

Diving Supervisor 1 1

Logs (a) (a)

Diver 1 2

Diver Tender 1(b) (b)

Standby Diver 1 1

Standby Diver Tender (c) (c)

Total 4(d) 4

WARNING
These are the minimum personnel levels allowed.
The Dive Supervisor shall conduct effective mission analysis, mission planning, and
ORM to ensure personnel levels are adequate for safe diving.

NOTES:

(a) The Diving Supervisor may keep logs.

(b) May be a non-diver tender. The Dive Supervisor shall ensure non-diver tenders are thoroughly instructed in the required
duties.

(c) The Diving Supervisor shall tend the standby diver if the standby diver is deployed.

(d) The Diving Supervisor may utilize three qualified divers and one non-diver tender based on operational necessity.

Figure 7-3. Minimum Manning Levels for SCUBA Diving.

7-2.2.1 SCUBA Diving Supervisor. Dive Supervisors are selected based on leadership,
maturity, supervisory ability, and technical expertise and may be any formally
trained U.S. military diver, PQS qualified, and designated in writing by the
Commanding Officer.

The Diving Supervisor is in charge of the diving operation regardless of rank. The
Dive Supervisor shall execute dives in a safe and effective manner and discontinue
diving operations in the event of unsafe diving conditions. The Dive Supervisor
is responsible for knowing and complying with rules, limits, procedures, and
7-4 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2
 for understanding the extent of their authority as delegated by the Commanding
Officer. The Dive Supervisor shall be included in operational planning and shall
conduct and document an adequate ORM assessment for each diving day. Diving
operations shall not be conducted without the presence of the Diving Supervisor.

7-2.2.2 SCUBA Diver. The diver is responsible for:

n Reporting any conditions that may interfere with safe diving.

n Preparation, maintenance, and safe operation of diving equipment.

n Maintaining a high level of health and fitness.

n Maintaining proficiency on systems, equipment, and procedures.

n Obeying a signal from the surface.

n Keeping track of depth and time of the dive.

n Keeping situational awareness (changing bottom conditions, keeping the

tending line/buddy line from becoming snagged or entangled).

n Keeping within depth/time limits as prescribed by the Dive Supervisor.

n Knowing the meaning of all hand and line-pull signals.

n Knowing the symptoms of diving ailments.

n Knowing the emergency procedures for SCUBA diving.

n Monitoring the actions and apparent condition of the dive partner. If at any
time the dive partner appears to be in distress or is acting in an abnormal
manner, determine the cause immediately and take appropriate action.

7-2.2.3 Buddy Diver. The single greatest safety practice in Navy SCUBA operations is the
use of the buddy system. Dive partners operating in pairs are jointly responsible
for the assigned task and each other’s safety. Each diver keeps track of depth and
time during the dive. The basic rules for buddy diving are:

n Always maintain contact with the dive partner.

n Never leave a partner unless the partner has become trapped or entangled
and cannot be freed without additional assistance.

n If partner contact is broken, follow the established lost-diver plan.

n If one member of a dive team aborts a dive, for whatever reason, both divers
must surface.

n Know the proper method of buddy breathing.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-5

 7-2.2.4 Standby SCUBA Diver. Standby diver is a fully qualified and experienced diver
assigned to provide emergency assistance. A standby diver and tender is required
for all SCUBA dives.

Standby SCUBA diver shall:

n Be fully prepared to respond if called upon for assistance.

n Be equipped with an octopus rig.

n Receive the same briefings and instructions as the working divers.

n Avoid distractions and remain fully aware of the progress of the dive.

n Stay informed of any changes in conditions or the dive plan.

n Be outfitted with the equivalent or greater diving dress (wetsuit, drysuit) as

the primary divers.

Standby diver shall don all equipment and tending line, and be checked by the
Diving Supervisor. Standby diver may then remove mask and fins and have them
ready to don immediately. The standby diver may remove the tank at the discretion
of the Diving Supervisor if the hazards of remaining dressed outweigh the need to
have standby immediately ready to deploy. The standby diver need not be equipped
with the same equipment as the primary diver, but shall have equivalent depth and
operational capabilities.

7-2.2.5 Tenders. The Dive Supervisor may elect to use a non-diver tender. The Dive
Supervisor shall ensure any non-diver tenders are thoroughly instructed in the
required duties. The tenders are responsible for:

n Assisting the diver in donning/doffing dive gear, and in getting in and out of
the water.

n Tracking the location of the diver by observing the bubble trail, dive float,
or locating device (such as a pinger or strobe light). When tending with
a surface float, the tender shall continually monitor the float line for pull
signals.

n Exchanging line-pull signals with the diver in accordance with the procedures
given in Table 8-2.

n Keeping full situational awareness of the dive side and any hazards in
the vicinity or changing topside conditions. Tenders shall notify the Dive
Supervisor of any conditions, which may adversely affect diving operations.

n Knowing CPR, first aid procedures, and providing emergency assistance as

directed by the diving Supervisor.

When tending the diver on a line from the surface:

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 n Remain alert for any signs of an emergency (increase/decrease in bubbles on
the surface).

n Keep lines free of slack.

n Signal the diver with a single pull every 2 or 3 minutes to determine if the
diver is all right. If the diver fails to respond to line-pull signals, the standby
diver must investigate immediately.

7-2.2.6 Other Personnel. Other personnel may include small boat operators, winch
operators, crane operators, or special equipment operators. All personnel involved
in the diving operation shall be under the control of the Diving Supervisor.

7-3 MINIMUM EQUIPMENT FOR SCUBA OPERATIONS

Diving equipment used in a Navy dive shall be certified or ANU listed. At a

minimum, each diver must be equipped with the following items (Figure 7-2):

n Open-circuit SCUBA.

n Face mask.

n Life preserver/buoyancy compensator.*

n Weights as required.

n Knife.**

n Swim fins.

n Submersible pressure gauge. **

n Submersible wrist watch. One per pair with a buddy line.**

n Depth gauge. **

n Octopus. ***

* During the problem-solving pool phase of SCUBA training, CO2 cartridges

may be removed and replaced with plugs or expended cartridges that are clearly
marked and identified with international orange.

** These items are not required for the pool phase of SCUBA training.

*** At Commanding Officer’s discretion based on ORM.

7-3.1 Open-Circuit SCUBA. All open-circuit SCUBA employ a demand system

that supplies air each time the diver inhales. The basic open-circuit SCUBA
components are:

n Demand regulator assembly

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-7

 n One or more air cylinders

n Cylinder valve and manifold assembly

n Backpack or harness

7‑3.1.1 Demand Regulator Assembly. The demand regulator assembly delivers breathing
gas at a usable pressure to the diver and is the central component of the open-
circuit system. There are two stages in a typical system (Figure 7-4). The first
stage regulator is mounted to the cylinder valve assembly and the second-stage
regulator is held in the divers mouth by a soft mouthpiece. The two stages are
connected by a length of low-pressure hose (also called the intermediate hose)
which passes over the diver’s right shoulder.

7‑3.1.1.1 First Stage. The first stage regulator reduces high-pressure air from the cylinder to
an intermediate pressure (also called overbottom pressure) that is a predetermined
level over ambient pressure. Refer to the regulator technical manual for the specific
over bottom pressure setting.

The first stage contains a valve, spring, and diaphragm that allows air from the high
pressure cylinder to enter the intermediate chamber based on the spring pressure
and ambient pressure. On the surface, the intermediate pressure will be equal to the
spring pressure on the diaphragm. As ambient pressure is increased (as when the
diver descends) it pushes against the diaphragm which pushes a pin that opens the
valve which allows just enough additional high pressure air to enter the intermediate
chamber to achieve a balance in pressure.

When the diver inhales and causes the intermediate pressure to fall, the external
water pressure pushes the diaphragm inward, opens the valve, and restores pressure
to the intermediate chamber.

7‑3.1.1.2 Second Stage. The second stage regulator reduces the intermediate pressure
from the first stage regulator. The second stage houses a movable diaphragm
that is linked by a lever to a low-pressure valve, which leads to a low-pressure
chamber. Similar to the first stage regulator, when the air pressure in the low-
pressure chamber equals the ambient water pressure, the diaphragm is in the
neutral position and the low-pressure valve is closed. When the diver inhales, the
pressure in the low-pressure chamber is reduced, causing the diaphragm to be
pushed inward by the higher ambient water pressure. The diaphragm actuates the
low-pressure valve, which opens and permits air to flow to the diver. The greater
the demand, the wider the low-pressure valve is opened, thus allowing more air
flow to the diver. When the diver stops inhaling, the pressure on either side of
the diaphragm is again balanced and the low-pressure valve closes. As the diver
exhales, the exhausted air passes through at least one check valve and vents to the
surrounding water.

The second stage has a purge button, which allows manual operation of the low-
pressure valve which can be used to force out any water which may have entered
the regulator. The principal disadvantages of the single-hose unit are an increased

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 First Stage. High pressure air flows through the orifice of the first stage into the intermediate chamber. When the pressure
in the intermediate chamber reaches ambient plus diaphragm balance spring set pressure, the first stage assembly closes.

Second Stage. Upon inhalation the second stage diaphragm moves inward and the horseshoe lever opens the second stage
valve assembly. Intermediate pressure air from the hoses is throttled across the orifice and fills the low pressure chamber to
ambient pressure and flow is provided to the diver. Upon exhalation the diaphragm is pushed outward and the second stage
is closed. Expired air is dumped from the low pressure chamber to the surrounding water through the exhaust valve.

Figure 7-4. Schematic of Demand Regulator.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-9

 tendency to freeze up in cold water and the exhaust of air in front of the diver’s
mask.

The Navy PMS system and the manufacturer’s service manual provides guidance
for repairing and maintaining SCUBA regulators.

7‑3.1.1.4 Full Face Mask. An ANU approved full

face mask may be used with an approved
single-hose first-stage regulator with
an octopus, to the maximum approved
depth of the regulator, as indicated in the
NAVSEA/00C ANU list (Figure 7-5).

7‑3.1.1.5 Mouthpiece. The size and design of

SCUBA mouthpieces differ between
manufacturers, but each mouthpiece
provides relatively watertight
passageways for delivering breathing air
into the diver’s mouth. The mouthpiece
should fit comfortably with slight
pressure from the lips.

7‑3.1.1.6 Octopus. An octopus is an additional

single hose second stage regulator
connected to the diver’s first stage
regulator and may be used in case the
diver’s primary second stage regulator Figure 7-5. MK 20 FFM SCUBA.
fails or for buddy breathing. Hose length
and designation markings are at the discretion of the diving unit. An octopus
is mandatory for standby diver. Use of an octopus is the preferred method to
accomplish buddy breathing (see paragraph 7-9.1).

The octopus shall be secured on or near the diver’s chest to provide easy access
in an emergency and to allow the diver to immediately observe if the octopus free
flows during the dive. During predive inspection, the diver shall breathe the octopus
to ensure it is working properly.

7‑3.1.1.7 Submersible Cylinder Pressure Gauge. The SCUBA regulator assembly shall be
equipped with a submersible pressure gauge to indicate pressure content of the
cylinder.

The submersible cylinder pressure gauge provides the diver with a continuous
read-out of the air remaining in the cylinder(s). Various submersible pressure
gauges suitable for Navy use are commercially available. Most are equipped with
a 2 to 3 foot length of high-pressure rubber hose with standard fittings, and are
secured directly into the first stage regulator. When turning on the cylinder, the
diver should turn the face of the gauge towards the deck to prevent injury in the
event of a blowout. The gauge and hose should be tucked under a shoulder strap or

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 otherwise secured to avoid its entanglement with bottom debris or other equipment.
Submersible pressure gauges must be calibrated in accordance with PMS.

When diving without a reserve, the dive shall be terminated when the cylinder
pressure reaches 500 psi for a single cylinder or 250 psi for twin manifold cylinders.

7‑3.1.2 Cylinders. SCUBA cylinders (tanks or bottles) are designed to hold high pressure
compressed air. Because of the extreme stresses imposed on a cylinder at these
pressures, all cylinders used in SCUBA diving must be inspected and tested
periodically. Seamless steel or aluminum cylinders which meet Department of
Transportation (DOT) specifications (DOT 3AA, DOT 3AL, DOT SP6498, and
DOT E6498) are approved for Navy use. Cylinders used in Navy operations have
identification symbols stamped into the shoulder (Figure 7-6).

DOT3AA2250 DOTSP6498/3000
Z45015 OR DOT3AL/3000
PST Z45015
AB AB
7-90 + 7-90

1. DOT material specification, DOT3AA service 1. DOT material specification, DOTSP6498 or

working pressure 2,250 PSIG. DOT3AL service working pressure 3,000
PSIG.
2. Serial number assigned by manufacturer,
Z45015. 2. Serial number assigned by manufacturer,
Z45015.
3. Identification mark of manufacturer or owner,
PST. 3. Inspector’s stamp, AB.

4. Inspector’s stamp, AB. 4. Month and year of initial qualification test, 7-90.

5. Month and year of qualification test, 7-90.

6. Plus sign (+) indicates air allowable 10% over

service pressure.

STEEL CYLINDERS ALUMINUM CYLINDERS

Figure 7-6. Typical Gas Cylinder Identification Markings.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-11

 7‑3.1.2.1 Size, Volume, and Capacity. Approved SCUBA cylinders are available in several
sizes. One or two cylinders may be worn to provide the required quantity of air for
the dive. The volume of a cylinder, expressed in actual cubic feet or cubic inches,
is a measurement of the internal volume of the cylinder. The capacity of a cylinder,
expressed in standard cubic feet or liters, is the amount of gas (measured at surface
conditions) that the cylinder holds when charged to its rated pressure. Table 7-1
lists the sizes of some standard SCUBA cylinders.

7‑3.1.2.2 Inspection Requirements. Open-circuit SCUBA cylinders shall:

n Be visually inspected at least once every 12 months and every time water or
particulate matter is suspected in the cylinder. Cylinders containing visible
accumulation of corrosion must be cleaned before being placed into service.

n Be hydrostatically tested at least every five years in accordance with DOT

regulations and Compressed Gas Association (CGA) pamphlets C-1 and
C-6.
Table 7‑1. Sample SCUBA Cylinder Data.

Open-Circuit Cylinder Rated Working Pressure Floodable Volume

Description (Note 1) (PSIG) (Cu.Ft.)
Steel 72 2,250 0.420
Steel 100 3,500 0.445
Steel 120 3,500 0.526
Aluminum 50 3,000 0.281
Aluminum 63 3,000 0.319
Aluminum 80 3,000 0.399
Aluminum 100 3,300 0.470
Note 1: Fifty cubic feet is the minimum size SCUBA cylinder authorized as a primary air
source.

7‑3.1.2.3 Guidelines for Handling Cylinders. Because SCUBA cylinders are subject to
continuous handling and the hazards posed by a damaged cylinder are significant,
close adherence to the rules in Section 7-5 and NAVSEA 0901-LP-230-0002,
NSTM Chapter 550, “Compressed Gas Handling.” is mandatory.

7‑3.1.2.4 Cylinder Valves and Manifold Assemblies. Cylinder valves and manifolds make
up the system that passes the high-pressure air from the cylinders to the first-stage
regulator.

The cylinder valve and manifold assembly includes the following:

n Cylinder Valves. The cylinder valve threads into the tank with a straight
male connection that is sealed with an O-ring and serves as an on/off valve.
Cylinder valves that employ a built in air reserve mechanism (J valve) are
preferred over valves without a reserve mechanism (K-valves) when diving
in zero visibility where a gauge may not be able to be read because the
J-valve will provide a warning that air is low.

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 n Manifold Connectors. If two or more cylinders are used together, a connecting
manifold provides the necessary interconnection. Most manifolds use straight
threads and incorporate an O-ring as a seal, but some earlier models may
have a tapered (pipe) thread design. Straight and tapered thread manifold
fittings are not interchangeable.

n Reserve Mechanism. The cylinder valve reserve mechanism retains air in the
cylinder with a spring loaded check valve that is designed to hold back 500
psi. When the reserve lever on the cylinder valve is turned down, the spring
mechanism is compressed and the check valve is lifted (opened) to make
the remaining air available to the diver. Reserve mechanisms on double tank
manifolds retain air in only one of the cylinders so that when the 500 psi is
released from the reserve it is distributed between the two cylinders. The
reserve lever must be turned down (check valve open) to charge the cylinder
because when the reserve lever is in the up position (check valve closed), the
check valve will not let any air into the cylinder.

n Over Pressure Safety Device. The cylinder valve or manifold contains a

high-pressure blowout plug that retains a safety burst disc. Safety burst discs
must be rated at ten percent over the maximum cylinder pressure or at the
manufacturer’s recommended pressure. The burst disc vents pressure in the
event of excessive pressure buildup. Once ruptured by excessive pressure,
the over-pressure safety device does not automatically reset and the entire
content of the cylinder is vented. For this reason, it is advisable to adhere to
safe charging rates, keep cylinders out of direct sun, and keep spare safety
burst discs on hand.

7‑3.1.2.5 Backpack or Harness. The backpack or harness holds the SCUBA on the diver’s
back. The backpack may include a lightweight frame with the cylinder(s) held in
place with clamps or straps. The usual system for securing the cylinder to the diver
uses shoulder and waist straps. All straps must have a quick-release feature, easily
operated by either hand, so that the diver can remove the cylinder and leave it
behind in an emergency.

7‑3.2 Face Mask. The face mask protects the diver’s eyes and nose from the water.
Additionally, it provides maximum visibility by putting a layer of air between the
diver’s eyes and the water.

Face masks are available in a variety of shapes and sizes for diver comfort. To
check for proper fit, hold the mask in place with one hand and inhale gently through
the nose. The suction produced should hold the mask in place. Don the mask with
the head strap properly adjusted and inhale gently through the nose. If the mask
seals, it should provide a good seal in the water.

Some masks are equipped with a one-way purge valve to aid in clearing the mask
of water. Some masks have indentations at the nose or a neoprene nose pad to
allow the diver to block the nostrils to equalize the pressure in the ears and sinuses.
Several models are available for divers who wear eyeglasses. One type provides a
prescription-ground faceplate, while another type has special holders for separate

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-13

 lenses. All faceplates must be constructed of tempered or shatterproof safety glass
because faceplates made of ordinary glass can be hazardous. Plastic faceplates are
generally unsuitable as they fog too easily and are easily scratched.

The size or shape of the faceplate is a matter of personal choice, but the diver
should use a mask that provides a wide, clear range of vision.

7‑3.3 Life Preserver. The principal functions of the life preserver are to assist a diver in
rising to the surface in an emergency and to keep the diver on the surface in a face-
up position (Figure 7-7).

All ANU life preservers shall:

n Have a low pressure inflation device (CO2).

n Have a manual inflation device.

n Have an overpressure valve (OPV) to prevent rupture of the life preserver on

ascent. (with the exception of the UDT (9C-4220-00-276-8929)).

n Have sufficient volume to raise an unconscious diver safely from the

maximum dive depth to the surface.

n Be sturdy enough to resist normal wear and tear.

Most life preservers employ carbon dioxide (CO2) cartridges as the low pressure
inflation device. The cartridges must be the proper size for the life preserver and
must be weighed prior to use, in accordance with PMS.

7‑3.4 Buoyancy Compensator (BC). A buoyancy compensator may be used at the Diving
Supervisor’s discretion. The decision to use a life preserver or a BC balances diver
safety in the event of an emergency with diver comfort while working in the water
column. BCs will maintain a diver in a head up position on the surface but most are
NOT designed to maintain the diver in a face up position without counter weights.

A number of factors must be considered when selecting a BC: type of wet suit,
diving depth, breathing equipment characteristics, nature of diving activity,
accessory equipment, and weight belt.

Buoyancy compensators shall:

n Provide a minimum of 10 pounds of positive buoyancy at the maximum

depth.

n Have jettisonable weights if integrated into the vest.

n Have a power inflator.

n Have an alternate source of inflation (oral).

n Have an over-pressure relief valve.

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 Training and practice under controlled conditions are required to master diving
with a BC. Rapid, excessive inflation can cause an uncontrolled ascent. The diver
must vent air from the compensator during ascent to maintain proper control.

Refer to the appropriate technical manual for complete operations and maintenance
instructions for the equipment. A BC is not required when using a variable volume
dry suit (VVDS).

ANU listed life preservers and buoyancy

compensators must be operated in the
authorized configuration. Additionally,
life preservers and buoyancy
compensators may have specific depth
limits that must be verified with the
ANU.

CAUTION Prior to use of VVDS as a buoyancy

compensator, divers must be
thoroughly familiar with its use.

7‑3.5 Weight Belt. SCUBA is designed to

have near neutral buoyancy. With full
tanks, a unit tends to have negative
Figure 7-7. Life Preserver.
buoyancy, becoming slightly positive
as the air supply is consumed. Most
divers are positively buoyant, even more so when wearing a wet suit, and need to
add extra weight to achieve a neutral or slightly negative status. This extra weight
is furnished by a weighted belt worn outside of all other equipment, and strapped
so that it can easily released in the event of an emergency.

Wearing the proper amount of weight is vital to diver safety. An over weighted
diver will be forced to compensate for the extra weight by adding air to the life
preserver or buoyancy compensator and could result in an uncontrolled ascent if
weight is lost. If a life preserver is used to compensate for buoyancy in the water
column due to being over weighted, it will cause the diver discomfort, as the life
preserver will attempt to rotate to the diver to the face up position and distract the
diver from dive tasks. An underweighted diver will have difficulty descending,
particularly in the first 30fsw, until the wetsuit compresses (if worn). As the dive
progresses the air is depleted and the diver will become lighter. After leaving bottom
the diver may experience an uncontrolled ascent, particularly in the last 30fsw, as
the wetsuit expands and adds more buoyancy. Divers should perform a buoyancy
check before leaving surface and add or remove weight as necessary to maintain
neutral or slightly negative buoyancy (with no air in the life preserver/BC).

Each diver may select the style and size of belt and weights that best suit the diver.
A weight belt shall meet certain basic standards:

n The buckle must have a quick-release feature, easily operated by either hand.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-15

 n The weights (normally made of lead) should have smooth edges so as not to
chafe the diver’s skin or damage any protective clothing.

n The belt should be made of rot- and mildew-resistant fabric, such as nylon
webbing.

7‑3.6 Knife. Several types of knives are available. For EOD and other special missions,
a nonmagnetic knife designed for use when diving near magnetic-influence mines
is used.

Knives may have single- or double-edged blades with chisel or pointed tips. The
most useful knife has one sharp edge and one saw-toothed edge. All knives must
be kept sharp.

The knife must be carried in a suitable scabbard and worn on the diver’s hip,
thigh, or calf. The knife must be readily accessible, must not interfere with
body movement, and must be positioned so that it will not become fouled while
swimming or working. The scabbard should hold the knife with a positive but
easily released lock.

The knife and scabbard must be secured to the diver’s body and not to a piece of
equipment that may be ditched in an emergency.

7‑3.7 Swim Fins. Swim fins increase the efficiency of the diver, permitting faster
swimming over longer ranges with less expenditure of energy. Swim fins are made
of a variety of materials and styles.

Each feature - flexibility, blade size, and configuration - contributes to the relative
power of the fin. A large blade will transmit more power from the legs to the water,
provided the legs are strong enough to use a larger blade. Fins designed for surface
swimming or free diving, fins with small or soft blades, or “split fin” style fins
should not be worn while SCUBA diving since these fins were not designed to
transmit adequate power to propel a diver encumbered with SCUBA. Ultimately,
fin selection is a matter of personal preference based on the diver’s strength and
experience, and the nature of the particular operation.

7‑3.8 Wrist Watch. Analog diver’s watches must be waterproof, pressure proof, and
equipped with a rotating bezel outside the dial that can be set to indicate the elapsed
time of a dive. A luminous dial with large numerals is also necessary. Additional
features such as automatic winding, nonmagnetic components, and stop watch
action are available. Digital watches, with a stop watch feature to indicate the
elapsed time of a dive, are also available, and most are equipped with a maximum
depth indicator.

7-3.9 Depth Gauge. The depth gauge measures the pressure created by the water column
above the diver and is calibrated to provide a direct reading of depth in feet of
sea water. It must be designed to be read under conditions of limited visibility.
The gauge mechanism is delicate and should be handled with care. Accurate depth

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 determination is important to a diver’s safety and must be checked in accordance
with PMS, or whenever a malfunction is suspected.

7-4 OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT FOR SCUBA OPERATIONS

The requirements of a specific diving operation determine which items of optional

diving equipment may be necessary. This section lists some of the equipment that
may be used.

n Protective clothing n Variable volume dry suit

n Wet suit n Acoustic beacons

n Signal flare n Lines and floats

n Gloves n Snorkel

n Hoods n Wrist compass

n Tool bag n Boots or hard-soled shoes

n Whistle n Chem light and strobe light

n Slate and pencil n Dive computer

n Tools and light n Independent air source

7-4.1 Protective Clothing. A diver needs some form of protection from cold water to
counter heat loss during long exposure in water of moderate temperature and from
the hazards posed by marine life and underwater obstacles. Wet suit, or a dry suit
with or without thermal underwear in Figure 7-8 can provide protection.

7‑4.1.1 Wet Suits. The wet suit is a form-fitting suit, usually made of closed-cell neoprene.
Custom-fitted wet suits are recommended since they provide the greatest freedom
of movement, and thermal protection.

The suit traps a thin layer of water next to the diver’s skin, where it is warmed
by the diver’s body. Wet suits are available in a variety of thicknesses and the
thicker the suit the better the insulation (and the greater the buoyancy). A diver
wearing a thicker wetsuit will fatigue more easily and use more air, which must be
accounted for in dive planning. The buoyancy of a wetsuit must be countered by
adding weight to the diver.

Because wet suits are closed-cell construction they will compress in compliance
with Boyle’s law and lose buoyancy and the ability to thermally protect the diver.
The deeper the dive, the greater the effect of Boyle’s Law on the suit. As a diver
ascends at the end of a dive, the wet suit buoyancy is restored and the diver may
lose control of the ascent, particularly in the last 30fsw where the greatest change
in pressure occurs. This effect is compounded if the diver has depleted most of the
air in the tanks and is positively buoyant as a result.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-17

 7‑4.1.2 Variable Volume Dry Suits. The Variable Volume Dry Suit (VVDS) has proven
to be effective in keeping divers warm in near-freezing water. It is typically
constructed of 1/4-inch closed-cell neoprene with nylon backing on both sides.
Boots are provided as an integral part of the suit, but the hood and three finger
gloves are usually separate. The dry suit keeps the diver dry, but it is the thermal
insulation worn under the suit that insulates the diver and provides warmth.

Inflation is controlled using inlet and outlet valves, which are fitted into the suit. Air
is supplied from a pressure reducer on an auxiliary cylinder, from the emergency
gas supply, or the SCUBA bottle. About 0.2 actual cubic foot of air is required for
normal inflation. Because of this inflation, slightly more weight than would be used
with a wet suit must be carried.

Wet or dry suits can be worn with hoods, gloves, boots, or hard-soled shoes
depending upon conditions. If the diver will be working under conditions where the
suit may be easily torn or punctured, the diver should be provided with additional
protection such as coveralls or heavy canvas chafing gear.

Divers must train and be proficient with dry suit use before conducting operational
dives. A thorough understanding of the unique buoyancy characteristics of the
dry suit is critical to operating effectively. Inflation and dump valves must not
be obstructed and the diver must know their location. The diver must understand
that performing head down descents and operating in a horizontal and head down
position will lead to air migrating to the feet and result in blow up.

Wet Suit Dry Suit

Water warmed to Underclothing affords

body temperature insulating air space

Leg Leg

Foam Neoprene Sheet Rubber

(insulator)

Figure 7-8. Protective Clothing.

7-18 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 7‑4.1.3 Gloves. Gloves are an essential item of protective clothing. They can be made
of leather, cloth, or rubber, depending upon the degree and type of protection
required. Gloves shield the hands from cuts and chafing, and provide protection
from cold water. Some styles are designed to have insulating properties but may
limit the diver’s dexterity.

7‑4.1.4 Writing Slate. A rough-surfaced sheet of acrylic makes an excellent writing slate
for recording data, carrying or passing instructions, and communicating between
divers. A grease pencil or graphite pencil should be attached to the slate with a
lanyard.

7‑4.1.5 Signal Flare. A signal flare is used to attract attention if the diver has surfaced
away from the support crew. Any waterproof flare that can be carried and safely
ignited by a diver can be used, but the preferred type is the MK 99 MOD 3
(NSN 1370-01-177-4072; pouch is NSN 1370-01-194-0844). These are day-or-
night flares that give off a heavy orange smoke for day time and a brilliant red
light at night. Each signal lasts for approximately 45 seconds and will withstand
submersion up to depths of 200 fsw without adverse effects. A hexagon shaped
end cap marked SMOKE is threaded into the smoke assembly and a round shaped
end cap with eight grooves marked FLARE is threaded onto the flare assembly.
Also available are the MK 131 MOD 0 (NSN 1370-01-252-0318) and MK 132
MOD 0 (NSN1370-01-252-0317). The MK 131 is for day time distress signaling
while the MK 132 is for night. The only difference between the MK 99 and the
MK 131/132, other than the fact that the MK 99 is a combined day/night signal
flare which gives off yellow smoke and light, is that the MK 99 satisfies magnetic
effect limits of MIL-M-19595 for explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) usage.
Flares should be handled with care. For safety, each diver should carry a maximum
of two flares. All divers/combat divers engaged in submarine Dry Deck Shelter
operations should stow flares in hangar prior to reentering the host submarine.

7‑4.1.6 Acoustic Beacons. Acoustic beacons or pingers are battery-operated devices that
emit high-frequency signals when activated. The devices may be worn by divers to
aid in keeping track of their position or attached to objects to serve as fixed points
of reference. The signals can be picked up by hand-held sonar receivers, which are
used in the passive or listening mode, at ranges of up to 1,000 yards. The hand-
held sonar enables the search diver to determine the direction of the signal source
and swim toward the pinger using the heading noted on a compass.

7‑4.1.7 Lines and Floats. A lifeline is used when it is necessary to exchange signals,
keep track of the diver’s location, or operate in limited visibility. Always attach a
lifeline snugly and securely around the diver’s waist, or to a safety harness worn
under the SCUBA equipment, and never to a piece of equipment that may be
ripped away or may be removed in an emergency. Use of a mechanical connector
(locking carabiner) is authorized provided the connector is securely fastened to a
harness (not a piece of equipment) or around the diver’s waist and back to a loop
in the lifeline which prevents the line from loosening and falling off the diver’s
waist. There are three basic types of lifelines:

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-19

 n Tending line. Required for standby diver and single divers. Required when
direct access to the surface is not available.

n Float line. May be used instead of a tending line only when direct access to
the surface is available. The float line reaches from the diver to a suitable
float on the surface. The surface float should be no smaller than an 11 inch
inflatable buoy, or similar, and be brightly colored to be easily visible in open
seas (international orange is recommended). An inner tube with a diving flag
attached makes an excellent float and provides a hand-hold for a surfaced
diver.

n Buddy line. A buddy line, providing six to ten feet of separation between
divers, may be used to connect dive partners at night or when visibility is
poor. May be used with a tending line or float line. A buddy line may be used
with a tending line or float line but the dive supervisor must evaluate the
possibility of introducing a fouling hazard as a result.

Lifelines should be strong and be sized appropriately for the task. Buddy lines and
float lines are lifelines and as such, shall be secured to the diver as stated above.
Nylon, Dacron, and polypropylene are all suitable materials.

7-4.1.8 Snorkel. A snorkel is a simple breathing tube that allows a diver to swim on the
surface for long or short distances face-down in the water. This permits the diver to
search shallow depths from the surface, conserving the SCUBA air supply. When
snorkels are used for skin diving, they are often attached to the face mask with a
lanyard or rubber connector to the opposite side of the regulator.

7-4.1.9 Compass. Small magnetic compasses are commonly used in underwater

navigation. Such compasses are not highly accurate, but can be valuable when
visibility is poor. Submersible wrist compasses, watches, and depth gauges covered
by NAVSUPINST 5101.6 (series) are items controlled by the Nuclear Regulatory
Commission and require leak testing and reporting every 6 months.

7‑4.1.10 Dive Computers. Dive computers have proven useful in the optimization and
management of dive time and decompression. Only ANU approved dive computers
may be used in lieu of decompression tables. Proper training and strict adherence
to specific guidelines regarding the various dive computers shall be followed.
Dive computers are not a substitute for ORM. Proper planning of the dive remains
the responsibility of the Dive Supervisor. See the ANU and Appendix 2B for more
information regarding dive computers.

7-4.1.11 Independent Secondary Air Source. Dive Supervisors shall consider outfitting
each diver with an independent secondary air source to provide a back-up should
the diver experience an equipment malfunction or be forced to ditch the primary
apparatus.

An independent air source is a DOT specification type 3AA or 3AL cylinder with a
minimum capacity of 19scf and an ANU approved first and second stage regulator.
Independent air source cylinders may be sized from 19scf to 50scf. Independent air

7-20 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 sources may be secured to the diver, the life preserver or B.C. with commercially
available harnesses, packs, or straps.

7-5 AIR SUPPLY

Air used in Navy SCUBA dives shall meet the requirements of Table 4-1 or
paragraph 4-3.1.

Air supply is typically computed during dive planning based on an average

respiratory minute volume (RMV) of 1.4 cubic feet per minute (CFM). During
execution however, the tasks and conditions at the dive site may cause a particular
diver to experience RMV rates much higher than average. Therefore, the Dive
Supervisor shall compute the air supply duration before each SCUBA dive and use
a conservative estimate of RMV based on the factors listed in Paragraph 7-5.1 and
Figure 3-6.

WARNING: When calculating duration of air supply, an adequate safety margin shall
be factored in. The deeper the dive, the more critical it is to ensure divers
have sufficient air to reach the surface in the event of a mishap. Dive
Supervisors shall consider outfitting each diver with an independent
secondary air source to provide a back-up should the diver experience
an equipment malfunction or be forced to ditch the primary apparatus.
Relying solely on a reserve may leave a diver with insufficient air to reach
the surface.

7-5.1 Duration of Air Supply. The duration of the air supply of any given cylinder or
combination of cylinders depends upon:

n The diver’s consumption rate, which varies with the diver’s work rate.

n The depth of the dive.

n The capacity and pressure of the cylinder(s).

n The surface to bottom temperature differential.

Work rate may be influenced by:

n Water temperature

n Thickness of thermal protection

n Currents and visibility

n Nature of tasks and the diver’s experience performing them

n Diver’s physical fitness

n Diver’s actual experience with SCUBA, the environment, and task

n How current the diver’s experience is

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-21

 Temperature correction is usually not performed in calculating air available unless
there is a significant differential in surface cylinder temperatures and bottom
temperatures. Where the possibility of significant temperature differentials may
exist, cylinder and bottom temperatures should be taken to determine if correction
is appropriate in accordance with paragraph 2-11.3.

For example, a dive conducted to 150fsw on twin 80 aluminum cylinders at 3000psi

where the bottom temperature is 45 degrees F and the temperature of the bottles on
surface is 90 degrees F results in a bottom time reduction of 2 minutes.

There are three steps in calculating how long a diver’s air supply will last:
1. Calculate the diver’s consumption rate by using this formula:

D + 33
C= × RMV
33

Where:
C = Diver’s consumption rate, standard cubic feet per minute (scfm)
D = Depth, fsw
RMV = Diver’s Respiratory Minute Volume, actual cubic feet per minute
(acfm) (from Figure 3-6)

2. Calculate the available air capacity provided by the cylinders. The air capacity
must be expressed as the capacity that will actually be available to the diver,
rather than as a total capacity of the cylinder. The formula for calculating the
available air capacity is:

Where:
Pc = Measured cylinder pressure, psig (temperature correction should be
considered)
Pm = Minimum pressure of cylinder, psig
FV = Floodable Volume (scf)
N = Number of cylinders
Va = Capacity available (scf)

3. Calculate the duration of the available capacity (in minutes) by using this
formula:
Va
Duration =
C
Where:
Va = Capacity available, scf
C = Consumption rate, scfm

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 Sample Problem. Determine the duration of the air supply of a diver doing moderate
work at 70 fsw using twin 72-cubic-foot steel cylinders charged to 2,250 psig.

1. Calculate the diver’s consumption rate in scfm. According to Figure 3-6, the
diver’s consumption rate at depth is 1.4 acfm.
D + 33
C= × RMV
33
70 + 33
= × 1.4
33
= 4.37 scfm

2. Calculate the available air capacity provided by the cylinders. Table 7‑1
contains the cylinder data used in this calculation:

n Floodable Volume = 0.420 scf

n Rated working pressure = 2250 psig

n Reserve pressure for twin 72-cubic-foot cylinders = 250 psig

3. Calculate the duration of the available capacity.

Va
Duration =
C
114 scf
=
4.37 scfm
= 26 minutes

The total time for the dive, from initial descent to surfacing at the end of the
dive, is limited to 26 minutes.

7-5.2 Methods for Charging SCUBA Cylinders.

NOTE Paragraph 7-5.4 addresses safety precautions for charging and handling
cylinders.

SCUBA cylinders shall be charged only with air that meets diving air purity
standards. A diving unit can charge its own cylinders by one of two accepted
methods: (1) by cascading or transferring air from banks of large cylinders into

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-23

 the SCUBA tanks; or (2) by using a high-pressure air compressor. Cascading is the
fastest and most efficient method for charging SCUBA tanks. The NAVSEA/00C
ANU list lists approved high-pressure compressors and equipment authorized for
SCUBA air sources.

The normal cascade system consists of supply flasks connected together by a

manifold and feeding into a SCUBA high-pressure whip. This whip consists of a
SCUBA yoke fitting, a pressure gauge, and a bleed valve for relieving the pressure
in the lines after charging a cylinder. A cascade system, with attached whip, is
shown in Figure 7-9.

SCUBA charging lines shall be fabricated using SAE 100R7 hose for 3,000 psi
service and SAE 100R8 hose for 5,000 psi service. The service pressure of the
SCUBA charging lines shall be no greater than the working pressure of the hose
used.

The working pressure of a hose is determined as one-fourth of its burst pressure.

While this criteria for working pressure was developed based on the characteristics
of rubber hose, it has also been determined to be appropriate for use with the plastic
hoses cited above.

Fleet units using charging lines shall not exceed the rated working pressure
of the hose. If the charging line working pressure rating does not meet service
requirements, restrict the service pressure of the hose to its working pressure and
initiate replacement action immediately.

The use of strain reliefs made from cable, chain, 21-thread, or 3/8-inch nylon,
married at a minimum of every 18 inches and at the end of the hose, is a required
safety procedure to prevent whipping in the event of hose failure under pressure.
Marrying cord shall be 1/8-inch nylon or material of equivalent strength. Tie wraps,
tape, and marlin are not authorized for this purpose.

7-24 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Manifold Gauge
Flask Manifold
High Pressure Hose

Gauge
Charging Shut-Off
Valve Valve
Bleed
Valve
On/Off
Valve

Water
Tank

A B C D E F
SCUBA Cylinders
High Pressure Air Flasks

Figure 7-9. Cascading System for Charging SCUBA Cylinders.

7-5.3 Operating Procedures for Charging SCUBA Tanks. Normally, SCUBA tanks are
charged using the following operating procedures (OPs), which may be tailored to
each unit:
1. Determine that the cylinder is within the hydrostatic test date.
2. Check the existing pressure in the SCUBA cylinder with an accurate pressure
gauge.
3. Attach the cylinder to the yoke fitting on the charging whip, and attach the
safety strain relief.
4. For safety and to dissipate heat generated in the charging process, when
facilities are available, immerse the SCUBA cylinder in a tank of water while
it is being filled. A 55-gallon drum is a suitable container for this purpose.
5. Tighten all fittings in the system.
6. Close the bleed valve.
7. Place reserve mechanism lever in the open (lever down) position.
8. Open the cylinder (on/off) valve. This valve is fully opened with about two
turns on the handle, counter-clockwise. However, the valve must not be used
in a fully open position as it may stick or be stripped if force is used to open a
valve that is incorrectly believed to be closed. The proper procedure is to open

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-25

 the valve fully and then close or back off one-quarter to one-half turn. This will
not impede the flow of air.
9. Open the supply flask valve.
10. Slowly open the charging valve. The sound of the air flowing into the SCUBA
cylinder is noticeable. The operator will control the flow so that the pressure
in the cylinder increases at a rate not to exceed 400 psig per minute. If unable
to submerge SCUBA cylinders during charging, the charging rate must not
exceed 200 psig per minute. The rate of filling must be controlled to prevent
overheating; the cylinder must not be allowed to become too hot to touch.
11. Monitor the pressure gauge carefully. When the reading reaches the rated
pressure for the SCUBA cylinder, close the valve on the first cylinder and take
a reading.
12. Close the charging valve.
13. Close the on/off valve on the SCUBA cylinder.
14. Ensure that all valves in the system are firmly closed.
15. Let the SCUBA cylinder cool to room temperature. Once the cylinder is cool,
the pressure will have dropped and you may need to top off the SCUBA
cylinder.

7‑5.3.1 Topping off the SCUBA Cylinder. Follow this procedure to top off a SCUBA
cylinder:
1. Open the on/off valve on the SCUBA cylinder.
2. Select a supply flask with higher pressure than the SCUBA rated limit.
3. Open the supply valve on the flask.
4. Throttle the charging valve to bring the SCUBA cylinder up to the rated limit.
5. Close all valves.
6. Open the bleed valve and depressurize the lines.
7. When air has stopped flowing through the bleed valve, disconnect the SCUBA
cylinder from the yoke fitting.
8. Reset the reserve mechanism (lever in up position).

In the absence of high-pressure air systems, large-volume air compressors can be

used to charge SCUBA cylinders directly. However, few compressors can deliver
air in sufficient quantity at the needed pressure for efficient operation. Small
compressors should be used only if no other suitable source is available.

If a suitable compressor is available, the basic charging procedure will be the same
as that outlined for cascading except that the compressor will replace the bank of
cylinders.

Additional information on using air compressors is found in Chapter 4.

7-26 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 7-5.4 Safety Precautions for Charging and Handling Cylinders. The following safety
rules apply to charging and handling SCUBA cylinders:

n Carry cylinders by holding the valve and body of the cylinder. Avoid carrying
a cylinder by the backpack or harness straps as the quick-release buckle can
be accidentally tripped or the straps may fail.

n Do not attempt to fill any cylinder if the hydrostatic test date has expired or
if the cylinder appears to be substandard. Dents, severe rusting, bent valves,
frozen reserve mechanisms, or evidence of internal contamination (e.g.,
water scales or rust) are all signs of unsuitability. See CGA Pamphlet C-6,
Standards for Visual Inspection of Compressed Gas Cylinders.

n Always use gauges to measure cylinder pressure. Never point the dial of a
gauge to which pressure is being applied toward the operators face.

n Never work on a cylinder valve while the cylinder is charged.

n Make sure that the air reserve mechanism is open (lever down) before
charging.

n Use only compressed air for filling conventional SCUBA cylinders. Never
fill SCUBA cylinders with oxygen. Air is color-coded black, while oxygen
is color-coded green.

n Tighten all fittings before pressurizing lines.

n When fully charged, close the air reserve (lever up). Mark the filled tank to
indicate the pressure to which it was charged.

n Handle charged cylinders with care. If a charged cylinder is damaged or if

the valve is accidentally knocked loose, the cylinder tank can become an
explosive projectile. A cylinder charged to 2,000 psi has enough potential
energy to propel itself for some distance, tearing through any obstructions in
its way.

n Store filled cylinders in a cool, shaded area. Never leave filled cylinders in
direct sunlight.

n Cylinders should always be properly secured aboard ship or in a diving boat.

7-6 PREDIVE PROCEDURES

Predive procedures for SCUBA operations include equipment preparation, dive

brief, donning gear, and a predive inspection before the divers enter the water. The
SCUBA diving operations setup checklist (Figure 7-11), and Dive Supervisor’s
predive checklist (Figure 7-12) presented in this chapter are examples of U.S.Navy
material and may be used as provided or modified locally to suit specific needs.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-27

 7-6.1 Equipment Preparation. Prior to any dive, all divers must carefully inspect their
own equipment for signs of deterioration, damage, or corrosion. The equipment
must be tested for proper operation. Predive preparation procedures must be
standardized, not altered for convenience, and must be the personal concern of
each diver.

7‑6.1.1 Air Cylinders.

n Inspect air cylinder exteriors and valves IAW PMS.

n Inspect cylinder valve for the presence of an O-ring.

n Verify that the reserve mechanism is closed (lever in up position) signifying

a filled cylinder ready for use.

n Gauge the cylinders according to the following procedure:

1. Attach pressure gauge to O-ring seal face of the on/off valve.
2. Close gauge bleed valve and open air reserve mechanism (lever in
down position). Slowly open the cylinder on/off valve, keeping a
cloth over the face of the gauge.
3. Read pressure gauge. The cylinder must not be used if the pressure
is not sufficient to complete the planned dive.
4. Close the cylinder on/off valve and open the gauge bleed valve.
5. When the gauge reads zero, remove the gauge from the cylinder.
6. Close the air reserve mechanism (lever in up position).
7. If the pressure in cylinders is 50 psi or greater over rating, open the
cylinder on/off valve to bleed off excess and regauge the cylinder.

7‑6.1.2 Harness Straps and Backpack.

n Check for signs of rot and excessive wear.

n Adjust straps for individual use and test quick-release mechanisms.

n Check backpack for cracks and other unsafe conditions.

7‑6.1.3 Breathing Hoses.

n Check the hoses for cracks and punctures.

n Test the connections of each hose at the regulator and mouthpiece assembly
by attempting to unscrew the fittings by hand.

n Check the clamps for corrosion, damage, and signs of separation; replace as
necessary and in accordance with PMS procedures.

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 7‑6.1.4 Regulator.
1. Ensure over-bottom pressure of first stage regulator has been set IAW PMS.
2. Attach regulator to the cylinder manifold, ensuring that the O-ring is properly
seated.
3. Crack the cylinder valve open and wait until the hoses and gauges have
equalized.
4. Next open the cylinder valve completely and then close (back off) one-quarter
turn.
5. Check for any leaks in the first stage regulator by listening for the sound of
escaping air. If a leak is suspected, determine the exact location by submerging
the valve assembly and the regulator in a tank of water and watch for escaping
bubbles. Frequently the problem can be traced to an improperly seated regulator
and is corrected by closing the valve, bleeding the regulator, detaching and
reseating. If the leak is at the O-ring and reseating does not solve the problem,
replace the O-ring and check again for leaks.

7‑6.1.5 Life Preserver/Buoyancy Compensator (BC).

n Orally inflate preserver to check for leaks and then squeeze out all air. The
remaining gas should be removed after entry into the water by rolling onto
the back and depressing the oral inflation tube just above the surface. Never
suck the air out, as it may contain excessive carbon dioxide.

n Inspect the carbon dioxide cartridges to ensure they have not been used
(seals intact) and are the proper size for the vest being used and for the depth
of dive.

n The cartridges shall be weighed in accordance with the Planned Maintenance

System.

n The firing pin should not show wear and should move freely.

n The firing lanyards and life preserver straps must be free of any signs of
deterioration.

n When the life preserver inspection is completed, place it where it will not be
damaged. Life preservers should never be used as a buffer, cradle, or cushion
for other gear.

7‑6.1.6 Face Mask.

n Check the seal of the mask and the condition of the head strap.

n Check for cracks in the skirt and faceplate.

7‑6.1.7 Swim Fins.

n Check straps for signs of cracking.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-29

 n Inspect blades for signs of cracking.

7-6.1.8 Dive Knife.

n Ensure knife is sharp.

n Ensure the knife is fastened securely in the scabbard.

n Verify that the knife can be removed from the scabbard without difficulty,
but will not fall out.

7-6.1.9 Snorkel.

n Inspect the snorkel for obstructions.

n Check the condition of the mouthpiece.

7-6.1.10 Weight Belt.

n Check the condition of the weight belt.

n Make sure that the proper number of weights are secure and in place.

n Verify that the quick-release buckle is functioning properly.

7‑6.1.11 Submersible Wrist Watch.

n Ensure wrist watch is set to the correct time.

n Inspect the pins and strap of the watch for wear.

7‑6.1.12 Depth Gauge and Compass.

n Inspect pins and straps.

n If possible, check compass with another compass.

n Make comparative checks on depth gauges to ensure depth gauges read zero
fsw on the surface.

n Zero the maximum depth indicator if so equipped.

7‑6.1.13 Miscellaneous Equipment.

n Inspect any other equipment that will be used on the dive as well as any spare
equipment that may be needed during the dive including spare regulators,
cylinders, and gauges.

n Check all protective clothing, lines, tools, flares, and other optional gear.

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 7-6.2 Dive Brief. When the divers have inspected and tested their equipment, they report
to the Diving Supervisor. The divers shall be given a predive briefing of the dive
plan. Mission brief and dive brief are discussed in Section 6-6.

When the Diving Supervisor determines that all requirements for the dive are met,
the divers may dress for the dive.

7-6.3 Donning Gear. Although SCUBA divers should be able to put on all gear
themselves, the assistance of a tender is encouraged. Dressing sequence is
important as the weight belt must be outside of all backpack harness straps and
other equipment in order to facilitate its quick release in the event of an emergency.
The following is the recommended dressing sequence:
1. Protective clothing. Ensure adequate protection is worn. Coveralls may provide
protection from abrasions in warm waters.
2. Booties, and hood if required.
3. Dive knife. Attached in a manner so it cannot be jettisoned.
4. Life preserver, with inflation tubes in front and the actuating lanyards exposed
and accessible.
5. SCUBA. Most easily donned with the tender holding the cylinders in position
while the diver fastens and adjusts the harness. The SCUBA should be worn
centered high on the diver’s back but not so high as to interfere with head
movement. All quick-release buckles must be positioned so that they can be
reached by either hand. All straps must be pulled snug so the cylinders are
held firmly against the body. The ends of the straps must hang free so the
quick-release feature of the buckles will function. If the straps are too long,
they should be cut and the ends whipped with small line or a plastic sealer. At
this time, the cylinder on/off valve should be opened fully and then backed
off one-quarter to one-half turn, and the reserve mechanism should be cycled
to the down position and back up. Ensure the buoyancy compensator whip is
connected to the buoyancy compensator.
6. Accessory equipment (diving wrist watch, pressure/depth gauge, snorkel).
7. Weight belt.
8. Gloves.
9. Swim fins.
10. Lifeline snugly secured around the diver’s waist, or attached to a harness.
11. Mask.

7-6.4 Predive Inspection. The divers report to the Diving Supervisor for a final
inspection. During this final predive inspection the Diving Supervisor shall:
1. Ensure that the divers are physically and mentally ready to enter the water.
2. Verify that all divers have all minimum required equipment.
3. Verify and record the cylinder pressure and that the volume of available air is
sufficient for the planned duration of the dive.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-31

 4. Ensure that all quick-release buckles and fastenings can be reached and are
properly rigged for quick release.
5. Verify weights are installed in the proper BC prockets, or that the weight belt is
outside of all other belts, straps, and equipment, and will not become pinched
under the bottom edge of the cylinders.
6. Verify that the life preserver or buoyancy compensator is not constrained and
free to expand, and that all air has been evacuated.
7. Check position of the knife to ensure that it will remain with the diver no matter
what equipment is left behind.
8. Ensure that the cylinder valve is open fully and backed off one-quarter to one-
half turn.
9. Ensure that the hose supplying air passes over the diver’s right shoulder.
10. With mouthpiece or fullface mask in place, breathe in and out for several
breaths, ensuring that the demand regulator and check valves are working
correctly.
11. Depress and release the purge button at the mouthpiece and listen for any sound
of leaking air. Breathe in and out several times ensuring valves are working
correctly.
12. Give the breathing hose and mouthpiece a final check; ensure that none of the
connections have been pulled open during the process of dressing.
13. Check that the air reserve mechanism lever is up (closed position).
14. Conduct a brief final review of the dive plan.
15. Verify that dive signals are displayed and personnel and equipment are ready to
signal other vessels in the event of an emergency.

7-7 WATER ENTRY AND DESCENT

7-7.1 Water Entry. There are several ways to enter the water, with the choice usually
determined by the nature of the diving platform (Figure 7-10). Whenever possible,
entry should be made by ladder, especially in unfamiliar waters. Several basic
rules apply to all methods of entry:

n Look before jumping or pushing off from the platform or ladder.

n Tuck chin into chest and hold the cylinders with one hand to prevent the
manifold from hitting the back of the head.

n Hold the mask in place with the fingers and the mouthpiece in place with the
heel of the hand.

7‑7.1.1 Step-In Method. The step-in method is the most frequently used, and is best used
from a stable platform or vessel. The divers should simply take a large step out
from the platform, keeping legs in an open stride. They should try to enter the
water with a slightly forward tilt of the upper body so that the force of entry will
not cause the cylinder to hit the back of the head.

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 Front jump or step-in. On edge of platform, one Rear roll. The diver, facing inboard, sits on the
hand holding face mask and regulator, the other gunwale. With chin tucked in, holding his mask,
holding the cylinders, the diver takes a long step mouthpiece, and cylinders, the diver rolls backwards.
forward, keeping his legs astride.

Side roll. Tender assists diver in taking a seated Front roll. Diver sits on edge of platform with
position. Tender stabilizes the diver as diver holds a slight forward lean to offset the weight of the
mask and cylinders and rolls into the water. cylinders. Holding his mask and cylinders, the diver
leans forward.

Figure 7-10. SCUBA Entry Techniques.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-33

 SCUBA DIVING OPERATIONS SETUP CHECKLIST
(Sheet 1 of 2)

A. INITIAL PREPARATION:
o Conduct mission brief (if not part of dive brief)
o Verify that a recompression chamber is ready and notified of diving operations.
o Ensure that all personnel concerned, and in the vicinity, are informed of diving operations.
o Ensure completion of Ship Repair Safety Checklist for Diving if required.
o Post emergency Assistance Checklist
o Alpha/ Diver down flags / Day shapes

B. DIVE EQUIPMENT:
Assemble and lay out all dive equipment and spares.

Minimum equipment
o  SCUBA regulator assemblies o  SCUBA cylinders
o  Octopus for standby o  Submersible pressure gauge
o  Life preserver / buoyance compensator o Knife
o  Weight belt/Weights as required o Watch
o  Depth Gauge o Mask
o  Fins o  Standby diver tending line

o  Predive checks completed in accordance with PMS, or manufacture’s technical manual?

Additional equipment
o  Tending/float lines/buddy lines - adequate length for depth/job
o  Lights and batteries o  Lift bags
o  Working lines o Tools
o Wetsuit/Drysuit o  Spares kit (o-rings, fin straps, etc)
o  Primary egress; ladder, small boat, etc.

C. ASSEMBLE EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT:

o  Dive site specific method to extract unconscious diver from the water. (Extraction line and harness or
stage may be required. Rescue strops are not designed for unconscious victims.)
o  Recall device. Charged/tested?
o  Lost Diver kit
o  Clump. Weight sufficient for size of float.
o  Line. Length sufficient for depth of water (polypropylene recommended)
o  Buoy (11 inch minimum diameter)
o  Circling line. (25 feet minimum length.)
o 
First Aid kit o  AED with towel and razor. Charged?
o  Portable oxygen supply. psi____________ o  Bag Valve mask (AMBU)
o  Emergency communication o  Stretcher/backboard
o  SAT phone/Cell phone
o  VHF radio

Figure 7‑11. SCUBA Diving Operations Setup Checklist (Sheet 1 of 2).

7-34 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 SCUBA DIVING OPERATIONS SETUP CHECKLIST
(Sheet 2 of 2)

D. SMALL BOAT:
o  Operating condition: Motor, steering, battery, bilge pumps, lights.
o  Working VHF marine radio or handheld o  Support for flags o  GPS / compass
o  Adequate fuel o Paddles o  Life jackets
o  Tool kit o  Radar reflector o  Fire extinguisher
o  Boat capacity not exceeded o Binoculars o  Anchor and line

E. SCUBA CYLINDERS AND CHARGING STATION:

General.
o  Charging area is segregated from personnel.
o  Sufficient cylinder storage to prevent loose cylinders.
o  Charging area/cylinder storage area is shaded from the sun.
o  Method to cool cylinders while charging.
o  Charging procedure posted.

Cylinders.
o  Hydrostatic test dates are current.
o  Visual inspection within last year.
o  Valves and reserve mechanisms operate without binding.
o  Gauge all cylinders, segregate and charge cylinders as required.

Compressors.
o  Compressor is ANU listed.
o  Air sample on compressor within periodicity?
o  Compressors prepared for use IAW posted operating procedures and PMS?
o  Sufficient fuel, lubricants and coolant available?
o  Compressor operating log available.
o  Compressor secure in diving craft and not subject to operating angles exceeding 15 degrees.
o  Compressor exhaust is vented away from work areas and, does not foul the compressor intake.
o  Charging whips have proper leads, do not pass near heat sources, are free of kinks and bends, and are
not exposed on deck in such a way that they can be rolled over, damaged, or severed.
o  Verify that charging whips have safety lines and strain reliefs properly attached.

F. FINAL PREPARATIONS.
o  Verify that all necessary records, logs, and decompression tables are on the dive station.
o  Conduct communications check with boat crew, recompression chamber, ship’s personnel, and
command.
o  Verify that proper signals indicating underwater operations are displayed. Rigid Alpha/Code-Alpha,
Civilian “Diver Down”, displayed a minimum of 3 feet off the water.
o  Conduct Dive Brief. Assemble all members of the diving team for a predive briefing.

Figure 7‑11. SCUBA Diving Operations Setup Checklist (Sheet 2 of 2).

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-35

 7‑7.1.2 Rear Roll Method. The rear roll is the preferred method for entering the water
from a small boat because it is the most stable for the diver. A fully outfitted diver
standing on the edge of a boat would upset the stability of the craft and would
be in danger of falling either into the boat or into the water. To execute a rear
roll, the diver sits on the gunwale of the boat, facing inboard. With chin tucked
in and one hand holding the mask and mouthpiece in place, the diver slides back
on the gunwale and into the water posterior first and avoids moving through a full
backward somersault.

7‑7.1.3 Front Roll Method. The front roll method is only appropriate when the freeboard
of the platform is minimal. Divers should not perform this method if there is more
than one or two feet distance between the platform and the water surface. In the
front roll, the diver sits on the edge of the platform with a slight forward lean to
offset the weight of the cylinders. Holding the mask and cylinders, the diver leans
forward and enters the water.

7-7.1.4 Side Roll Method. The side roll method, like the front roll, is only appropriate
when the freeboard of the platform is minimal. The side roll method exposes the
diver to destabilizing forces as the boat rocks side to side in open seas and may not
be appropriate when there are insufficient tenders to assist in stabilizing the divers.
In the side roll, the diver sits on the edge of the platform with assistance from the
tender. Holding the mask and cylinders, the diver leans forward and enters the
water.

7-7.1.5 Entering the Water from the Beach. Divers working from the beach choose their
method of entry according to the condition of the surf and the slope of the bottom.
If the water is calm and the slope gradual, the divers can walk out carrying their
swim fins until they reach water deep enough for swimming. In a moderate to
high surf, the divers, wearing swim fins, should walk backwards into the waves
until they have enough depth for swimming. They should gradually settle into the
waves as the waves break around them.

7-36 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 DIVE SUPERVISORS PRE-DIVE CHECKLIST
PROCEDURES DV 1 DV2 STBY
Minimum Equipment:
Tank
Regulator
Life Jacket or BC
Depth Gauge
Mask, Fins
Pressure Gauge
Knife
Watch
Weights as Required
Fully Open Cylinder Valve / Back 1/4 Turn Cycle Reserve / Leave in
up Position
Cylinder Pressures
Quick Releases /Buckles properly rigged:
C02 Cartridges weighed and installed (if used):
Check Life Jacket/BC
Not Constrained
Manual Inflator
Power Inflator
Dump Valves
Weights properly installed or Weight Belt outside all other straps and
equipment
Lifeline attached around waist or to harness - not attached to equip-
ment
Ensure knife cannot be jettisoned
Tuck Submersible Pressure Gauge:
Zero the Maximum Depth Indicator:
Set Watches in Stopwatch Mode:
Purge and Breathe all Regulators
Octopus Secured on or near Divers Chest
Conduct Supervisor Hands On Checks
Dive Supervisor Signature Date

Figure 7-12. Dive Supervisor Pre-Dive Checklist.

7-7.2 In-Water Checks. Once in the water, and before descending the divers make a final
check of their equipment. They must:

n Make a breathing check of the SCUBA. There should be little breathing

resistance and no evidence of water leaks.

n Visually check dive partner’s equipment for leaks, especially at all connection
points (i.e., cylinder valve, hoses at regulator and mouthpiece).

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-37

 n Check partner for loose or entangled straps.

n Check face mask seal. A small amount of water may enter the mask upon
the diver’s entry into the water. The mask may be cleared through normal
methods (see paragraph 7-8.2).

n Check buoyancy. SCUBA divers should strive for neutral buoyancy. Extra
equipment or heavy tools should be lowered and raised on a line if possible
to avoid adversely affecting the divers buoyancy.

n If wearing a dry suit, check for leaks. Adjust suit inflation for proper
buoyancy.

n Orient position with the compass or other fixed reference points.

When ready to descend, the divers report to the Diving Supervisor. The Diving
Supervisor directs the divers to zero their watches and bottom time begins. The
Diving Supervisor gives the signal to descend and the divers descend below the
surface.

7-7.3 Surface Swimming. The diving boat should be moored, or stationed, as near to
the dive site as possible. While swimming, dive partners must keep visual contact
with each other and other divers in the group. They should be oriented to their
surroundings to avoid swimming off course. The most important factor in surface
swimming with SCUBA is to maintain a relaxed pace to conserve energy. The
divers should keep their masks on and breathe through the snorkel. When surface
swimming with a SCUBA regulator, hold the mouthpiece so that air does not free-
flow from the system.

Divers should use only their legs for propulsion and employ an easy kick from the
hips without lifting the swim fins from the water. Divers can rest on their backs and
still make headway by kicking. Swimming assistance can be gained by partially
inflating the life preserver or buoyancy compensator. However, the preserver must
be deflated again before the dive begins.

7-7.4 Descent. The divers may swim down or they may use a descending line to pull
themselves down. If either diver experiences difficulty in clearing, both divers
must stop and ascend until the situation is resolved. If the problem persists, or if
the problem is sinus related, the dive shall be aborted and both divers shall return
to the surface. The rate of descent will generally be governed by the ease with
which the divers will be able to equalize the pressure in their ears and sinuses, but
it should never exceed 75 feet per minute.

Upon reaching the operating depth, the divers must orient themselves to their
surroundings, verify the site, and check the underwater conditions. If conditions
appear to be radically different from those anticipated or if they call for a significant
change in the dive plan, the dive should be aborted and the conditions reported to
the Diving Supervisor. The divers should discuss the situation with the Diving
Supervisor and the dive plan should be modified or the mission aborted if warranted.

7-38 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

7-8 UNDERWATER PROCEDURES

In a SCUBA dive, bottom time is at a premium because of a limited supply of

air. Divers must pace their work, conserve their energy, and take up each task or
problem individually. At the same time they must be flexible. They must be ready
to abort the dive at any time they feel that they can no longer progress toward the
completion of their mission or when conditions are judged unsafe. The divers must
be alert for trouble at all times and must monitor the condition of their dive partner
constantly.

7-8.1 Breathing Technique. A novice diver is likely to breathe deeper and more rapid
than normal, and thereby deplete their air supply faster than an experienced diver.
The diver must learn to breathe in an easy, slow rhythm at a steady pace. The rate
of work should be paced to the breathing cycle, rather than changing the breathing
to support the work rate. If a diver is breathing too hard, he should pause in the
work until breathing returns to normal. If normal breathing is not restored, the
affected diver signals the dive partner to abort the dive.

A diver may be tempted to skip-breath when they have a limited supply to conserve
air. Skip breathing occurs when a long unnatural pause is inserted between each
breath and shall not be practiced.

WARNING Skip-breathing may lead to hypercapnia, unconsciousness, and death.

Increased breathing resistance results from the design of the equipment and increased
air density. For normal diving, a marked increase of breathing resistance should
not occur until the primary air supply has been almost depleted. This increase in
breathing resistance is a signal to the diver to activate the reserve air supply and to
begin an ascent with their partner immediately. The diver shall monitor air supply
pressure and must terminate the dive whenever bottle pressure is reduced to 500 psi
for a single bottle or 250 psi for a set of double bottles.

7-8.2 Mask Clearing. Some water seepage into the face mask is a normal condition and
is often useful in defogging the lens. From time to time the quantity may build to
a point that it must be removed. On occasion, a mask may become dislodged and
flooded. To clear a flooded mask not equipped with a purge valve, the diver should
roll to the side or look upward, so that the water will collect at the side or bottom
of the mask. Using either hand, the diver applies a firm direct pressure on the
opposite side or top of the mask and exhales firmly and steadily through the nose.
The water will be forced out under the skirt of the mask. When the mask has a
purge valve, the diver tilts his head so that the accumulated water covers the valve,
then presses the mask against the face and exhales firmly and steadily through the
nose. The increased pressure in the mask will force the water through the valve.
Occasionally, more than one exhalation will be required (see Figure 7-13).

7-8.3 Regulator Clearing. The second stage regulator will flood if removed from the
mouth while submerged. This is not a serious problem since the regulator can be
cleared quickly by exhaling into the regulator or by depressing the purge button as
the mouthpiece is being replaced.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-39

 Head-Up Method

Side-Tilt Method

Figure 7-13. Clearing a Face Mask. To clear a flooded face mask, push gently on the
upper or side portion of the mask and exhale through the nose into the mask. As water is
forced out, tilt the head backward or sideway until the mask is clear.

7-8.4 Swimming Technique. In underwater swimming, all propulsion comes from the
action of the legs. The hands are used for maneuvering. The leg kick should be
through a large, easy arc with main thrust coming from the hips. The knees and
ankles should be relaxed. The rhythm of the kick should be maintained at a level
that will not unduly tire the legs or bring on muscle cramps.

7-8.5 Diver Communications. Some common methods of diver communications are:

through-water communication systems, hand signals, slate boards, and line-pull
signals. Communication between the surface and a diver can be best accomplished
with through-water voice communications. However, when through-water
communications are not available, hand signals or line-pull signals can be used.

7‑8.5.1 Through-Water Communication Systems. Presently, several types of through-

water communication systems are available for SCUBA diving operations. Acoustic
systems provide one-way, topside-to-diver communications. The multidirectional
audio signal is emitted through the water by a submerged transducer. Divers can
hear the audio signal without signal receiving equipment. Amplitude Modulated
(AM) and Single Sideband (SSB) systems provide diver-to-diver, diver-to-topside,
and topside-to-diver communications. Both the AM and SSB systems require
transmitting and receiving equipment worn by the divers. AM systems provide a
stronger signal and better intelligibility, but are restricted to line-of-sight use. SSB
systems provide superior performance in and around obstacles. Through-water
communication systems are listed on the ANU list.

7-40 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Meaning/Signal Comment
STOP
Clenched fist.

SOMETHING IS WRONG This is the opposite of Okay. The

Hand flat, fingers together, palm out, thumb signal does not indicate an emer­
down then hand rocking back and forth on gency.
axis of forearm.

I AM OKAY or ARE YOU OKAY? Divers wearing mittens may not

Thumb and forefinger making a circle with be able to extend three remaining
three remaining fingers extended (if possible). fingers distinctly. Short range use.

OKAY ON THE SURFACE (CLOSE) Given when diver is close to pickup

Right hand raised overhead giving Okay boat.
signal with fingers.
OKAY ON THE SURFACE (DISTANT) Given when diver is at a distance
Both hands touching overhead with both arms from the pickup boat.
bent at 45° angle.
DISTRESS or HELP or PICK ME UP Indicates immediate aid is required.
Hand waving overhead (diver may also thrash
hand in water).

WHAT TIME? or WHAT DEPTH? When indicating time, this signal

Diver points to either watch or depth gauge. is commonly used for bottom time
remaining.

GO DOWN or GOING DOWN

Two fingers up, two fingers and thumb against
palm.

GO UP or GOING UP
Four fingers pointing up, thumb against palm.

I’M OUT OF AIR Indicates signaler is out of air.

Hand slashing or chopping at throat.

I NEED TO BUDDY BREATHE Signaler’s regulator may be in or out

Fingers pointing to mouth or regulator. of mouth.

Figure 7-14. SCUBA Hand Signals (page 1 of 3).

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-41

 Meaning/Signal Comment
COME HERE
Hand to chest, repeated.

ME or WATCH ME
Finger to chest, repeated.

OVER, UNDER, or AROUND Diver signals intention to move over,

Fingers together and arm moving in and over, under, or around an object.
under, or around movement.

LEVEL OFF or HOW DEEP?

Fingers and thumb spread out and hand
moving back and forth in a level position.

GO THAT WAY Indicates which direction to swim.

Fist clenched with thumb pointing up, down,
right, or left.

WHICH DIRECTION?
Fingers clenched, thumb and hand rotating
right and left.

EAR TROUBLE Divers should ascend a few feet. If

Diver pointing to either ear. problem continues, both divers must
surface.

I’M COLD
Both arms crossed over chest.

TAKE IT EASY OR SLOW DOWN

Hand extended, palm down, in short up-and-
down motion.

YOU LEAD, I’LL FOLLOW

Index fingers extended, one hand forward of
the other.

Figure 7-14. SCUBA Hand Signals (page 2 of 3).

7-42 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 7‑8.5.2 Hand and Line-Pull Signals. Navy divers use common hand signals to ensure
universal understanding. Figure 7-14 presents the U.S. Navy approved hand
signals. Under certain conditions, special signals applicable to a specific mission
may be devised and approved by the Diving Supervisor. If visibility is poor, the
dive partners may be forced to communicate with line-pull signals on a buddy
line. Line-pull signals are discussed in Table 8-2. Hand signals and line-pull
signals should be delivered in a forceful, exaggerated manner so that there is no
ambiguity and no doubt that a signal is being given. If a signal is given, it shall
be acknowledged immediately. Failure of a diver to respond to a signal is an
emergency.

NIGHT DIVING SIGNALS

(Buddy at Distance)

When buddy is near, use regular hand

signals in front of light.

Something is wrong.
I require assistance.
(Large, rapid up-and-down
motions with arm extended.)

I am Okay.
Are you Okay?
(Large, slow circles with
light.)

Figure 7-14. SCUBA Hand Signals (page 3 of 3).

7-8.6 Working with Tools. The near-neutral buoyancy of a SCUBA diver poses certain
problems when working with tools. A diver is at a disadvantage when applying
leverage with tools. When applying force to a wrench, for example, the diver
is pushed away and can apply very little torque. If both sides of the work are
accessible, two wrenches (one on the nut and one on the bolt) should be used. By
pulling on one wrench and pushing on the other, the counter-force permits most of
the effort to be transmitted to the work. When using any tool that requires leverage
or force (including pneumatic power tools), the diver should be braced with feet, a
free hand, or a shoulder.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-43

 NOTE When using externally powered tools with SCUBA, the diver must have
voice communications with the Diving Supervisor.

Tools should be organized in advance. The diver should carry as few items as
possible. If many tools are required, a canvas tool bag should be used to lower them
to the diver as needed. Further guidelines for working underwater are provided
in the U.S. Navy Underwater Ship Husbandry Manual (NAVSEA S0600- AA-
PRO-010). Authorized power tools are listed in the NAVSEA/00C ANU list.

7-8.7 Adapting to Underwater Conditions. Through careful and thorough planning, the
divers can be properly prepared for the underwater conditions at the diving site
and be provided with appropriate auxiliary equipment, protective clothing, and
tools. However, the diver may have to employ the following techniques to offset
the effects of certain underwater conditions:

n Stay 2 or 3 feet above a muddy bottom; use a restricted kick and avoid
stirring up the mud. A diver should be positioned so that the current will
carry away any clouds of mud.

n Avoid coral or rocky bottoms, which may cause cuts and abrasions.

n Avoid abrupt changes of depth.

n Do not make excursions away from the dive site unless the excursions have
been included in the dive plan.

n Be aware of the peculiar properties of light underwater. Depth perception is

altered so that an object appearing to be 3 feet away is actually 4 feet away,
and objects appear larger than they actually are.

n Be aware of unusually strong currents, particularly rip currents near a

shoreline.

n If caught in a rip current, relax and ride along with it until it diminishes
enough to swim clear.

n If practical, swim against a current to approach a job site. The return swim
with the current will be easier and will offset some of the fatigue caused by
the job.

n Stay clear of lines or wires that are under stress.

7-8.8 Emergency Assistance/Procedures. The safest teams are well trained, conduct
detailed planning, and challenging emergency drills. Pre-operation emergency
drills validate planning assumptions and prepare the team to respond in the event of
an actual emergency. The most effective emergency drills are those that challenge
the entire team and exercise standby diver to the full depth of the operation.

A diver in trouble underwater should relax, avoid panic, carefully think through the
possible solutions to the situation, and communicate the problem to their buddy or

7-44 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 the surface if possible. The Diving Supervisor must ensure calm, orderly execution
of preplanned topside emergency procedures, and should ensure that common
sense and good seamanship prevail to safely resolve an emergency.

7-8.8.1 Emergency Equipment. In addition to the emergency equipment required in

paragraph 6-5.1.3, a diver recall device and a lost diver kit shall be available
and ready for use on all SCUBA dive stations. The diver recall device may be
any acoustic generating device or method that is clearly audible to the divers for
recalling the divers or initiate an emergency recall. The preferred device is an
electronic acoustic unit capable of sending voice or variable underwater tones to
recall divers. Authorized electronic recall devices are listed on the ANU.

A lost diver kit shall include:

n A clump with sufficient weight to avoid being dragged by a searching diver.

n Line of sufficient length for the depth of water (polypropylene is recommended

due to its buoyant properties).

n A buoy of sufficient size to avoid being pulled underwater (minimum 11

inch buoy).

n A circling line of at least 25 feet attached to the clump (usually wound on

an”H” board).

The SCUBA Predive Checklist (Figure 7-11) lists emergency equipment for
SCUBA dive stations.

7-8.8.2 Emergency Procedures. Emergencies may occur despite detailed planning,

thorough training, and ORM. Effective execution of emergency procedures gives
the divers the best opportunity for an acceptable outcome should an emergency
occur. The following procedures provide diver and Dive Supervisor actions for
lost diver, trapped diver, a loss of air, and unconscious diver on the bottom.

7-8.8.2.1 Lost Diver. Losing contact with a SCUBA diver can be the first sign of a serious
problem. Each situation may be different based on whether the diver is tended or
untended, buddy paired or single diver. Time is of the essence and decisive action
must be taken at the first sign of a lost diver.

Diver actions if loss of contact with buddy while conducting paired diving:

n Perform a 360 degree visual search from current position.

n Note max depth and bottom time.

n Ascend to the surface at 30fpm while tapping in 4 tap intervals on tanks.

n Continue a 360 degree visual search for the lost diver or bubbles while on
ascent.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-45

 n Upon reaching the surface, perform another 360 degree surface search for
the lost diver or bubble trail.

n Immediately inflate the life preserver or BC and signal the support craft with
hand signals, whistle, or flare. Once in contact with the Diving Supervisor,
report the lost diver, your maximum depth, bottom time, and air remaining.

n If a bubble column is located while on ascent follow the bubbles down to the
lost diver.
n If the diver is trapped follow procedure for trapped diver.
n If the diver is unconscious follow procedures for unconscious diver.

A lost diver is often disoriented and confused and may have left the operating area.
Nitrogen narcosis or other complications involving the breathing mixture, which
can result in confusion, dizziness, anxiety, or panic, are common in recovered lost
divers. The diver may harm the rescuers unknowingly. When the diver is located,
the rescuer should approach with caution to prevent being harmed and briefly
analyze the stricken diver’s condition.

Diving Supervisor actions for lost diver:

n Sound the recall and post lookouts. The best chances of spotting bubbles or a
surfaced diver are obtained from a higher vantage point. Continue to sound
the recall in frequent intervals.

n Lower the lost diver clump and buoy, hand over hand, at the last known
location of the lost diver.

n Initiate a search with standby diver in the area of the lost diver’s last known
location. A surfacing buddy diver may be used in lieu of the standby diver,
if he displays sufficient composure, has adequate air, and no-decompression
time remaining.

n Activate the emergency assistance plan to alert medical personnel and to

have emergency transportation standing by.

n Notify the command or pre-planned resource (other dive unit, fire department,
Coast Guard, etc.) to allow gathering of additional resources to aid in the
search.

n Continue searching and sounding the recall until the lost diver is found, all
resources are exhausted, or competent authority calls off the search.

7-8.8.2.2 Trapped/Fouled Diver. Fouling can be a serious emergency or a momentary

inconvenience depending on the diver’s reaction to the condition. Inexperienced
divers have a higher risk of becoming fouled, but no diver is immune. Divers must
maintain situational awareness to avoid becoming fouled or trapped when working
with lines, hoses, and cables, especially in reduced visibility.

Diver actions in case of entrapment/fouling:

7-46 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 n The first and most important action that a trapped diver can take is to stop
and think. Panic and overexertion are the greatest dangers to the trapped
diver.

n The diver shall remain calm, analyze the situation, and carefully try to work
free.

n Help should be obtained through line pull signals or the buddy diver if the
situation cannot be resolved.

n The buddy diver should attach a tending line, if equipped, to the trapped
diver.

n Verify the trapped diver’s remaining air and depth. Determine what aid is
needed before surfacing for help.

n The diver may have no other recourse but to remove the SCUBA and shift to
an alternate air source (pony bottle), buddy breath, or make a free ascent.

Dive Supervisors actions:

n Dive supervisors should anticipate situations where a significant possibility

of fouling or entrapment exists and have appropriate resources ready to
deploy to resolve the situation (wire cutters, bolt cutters, hack saw, extra
SCUBA rigs/bottles, etc.).

n Upon learning of a trapped diver, ascertain if the diver has sufficient air and
what assistance is required.

n Launch standby diver to provide required assistance. For example, stand-by

diver may deliver a new apparatus and assist cutting the trapped diver free.

n A surfacing buddy diver may be used in lieu of stand-by for a rescue if the
buddy displays sufficient composure, has adequate air, and is in a favorable
decompression status.

7-8.8.2.3 Loss of Air. Careful planning (which includes calculating duration of air supply),
diver control of breathing/work rate, and situational awareness should preclude
a diver from running out of air. However, equipment malfunction, task fixation,
or being trapped may place the diver in a situation where the diver is without
air. Shifting to an alternate air source, buddy breathing, or a free ascent may be
necessary.

If a diver experiences a loss of air:

n Notify buddy.

n Check that the bottle valve is fully opened.

n Open reserve by turning the reserve lever to the down position.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-47

 n If primary regulator failed, switch to the secondary regulator or independent
air source if equipped.

n Abort dive. Buddy breathe or conduct a free ascent if necessary.

CAUTION: Do not ditch the apparatus unless absolutely necessary as more air
may be available as the diver ascends due to the decreasing ambient
pressure.

7-8.8.2.4 Unconscious Diver on the Bottom. An unconscious diver on the bottom in

SCUBA is a serious emergency. If a diver is found unconscious on the bottom
perform the following actions:

Rescue Diver actions:

n Approach with caution.

n Insert regulator in mouth if not already there and open airway. Do not purge
the regulator.

n Maintain the affected diver’s head in a chin up position to keep the airway
open.

n Ensure cylinder valve is on, check bottle pressure, and reserve position.

n Maintain positive physical control of the affected diver.

n Ditch the affected diver’s weights.

n Swim the affected diver to the surface, or signal to be hauled up if tended.

n If the rescue diver encounters difficulty in trying to swim the affected diver
to the surface, the rescuer should slowly inflate the affected diver’s buoyancy
compensator or actuate the CO2 of the life preserver. Do not lose direct
contact with the affected diver.

n Once on the surface, fully inflate the affected diver’s life preserver or BC,
gain the attention of the Dive Supervisor, and report the situation (diver
breathing/not breathing, diver found with regulator in/out of mouth).

Dive Supervisor direct the following actions when an unconscious diver is brought
to the surface:

n Inflate the affected diver’s life preserver/BC if not already inflated.

n Rescue diver to inflate his own life preserver/BC if not already inflated.

n Maintain an open airway of the victim.

n Give two rescue breaths if unconscious diver is not breathing.

7-48 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 n Extract the divers in accordance with the pre-mishap plan.

n Begin basic life support measures and transport the diver to the recompression
chamber or medical facility

Surfacing divers may be suffering from POIS, hypoxia, hypercapnia, missed

decompression, or a combination of the four, and should be treated accordingly.
However, medical treatment for drowning as specified in 3-5.4, and 20-2.3 shall
take precedence when a surfacing diver has no pulse.

7-8.8.3 Actions following an Emergency. Divers that have experienced one or more of the
situations above must be treated appropriately. Dive Supervisors shall consider the
following for any diver that has experienced an emergency:

n The diver may be tired and emotionally exhausted.

n The diver may be suffering from or approaching hypothermia.

n The diver may have a physical injury.

n If a free ascent has been made, POIS may have developed.

n Significant decompression time may have been missed.

7-9 ASCENT PROCEDURES

7-9.1 Ascent Procedures. When it is time to return to the surface, either diver may
signal the end of the dive. When the signal has been acknowledged, the divers
shall ascend to the surface together at a rate not to exceed 30 feet per minute. For
a normal ascent, the divers will breathe steadily and naturally. Divers must never
hold their breath during ascent because of the danger of an air embolism. While
ascending, divers must keep an arm extended overhead to watch for obstructions
and should spiral slowly while rising to obtain a full 360 degree scan of the water
column.

NOTE Buddy breathing and free ascent may be required as a result of one or
more emergency situation.

7-9.1.1 Buddy Breathing Procedure. The preferred method of buddy breathing is the use
of an octopus. As an alternative, the two divers may face each other and alternately
breathe from the same mouthpiece while ascending. Buddy breathing may be
used in an emergency and must be practiced so that each diver will be thoroughly
familiar with the procedure. The buddy breathing procedure without an octopus is:
1. The distressed diver should remain calm and signal “out of air” to the dive
partner and give the signal “I need to buddy breathe” by pointing to the second
stage regulator.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-49

 2. The partner and the distressed diver should hold on to each other by grasping
a strap or the free arm. The divers must be careful not to drift away from each
other.

3. The partner must make the first move by taking a breath and passing the
regulator to the distressed diver. The distressed diver must not grab for the dive
partner’s regulator. The dive partner guides it to the distressed diver’s mouth.
Both divers maintain direct hand contact on the regulator.

4. The regulator may have flooded during the transfer. In this case, clear the
regulator by exhaling into the mouthpiece or using the purge button if needed
before taking a breath.

5. The distressed diver should take two full breaths (exercising caution in the
event that all of the water has not been purged) and guide the regulator back to
the partner. The partner should then clear the regulator as necessary and take
two breaths.

6. The divers should repeat the breathing cycle and establish a smooth rhythm. No
attempt should be made to surface until the cycle is stabilized and the proper
signals have been exchanged.

Note: Exhaling forcefully into the regulator is the preferred method to clear a
flooded regulator while buddy breathing. With two divers breathing off
one SCUBA the air supply will be depleted more rapidly. Using the purge
button to clear the regulator needlessly uses the limited supply of air.

7-9.1.2 Emergency Free-Ascent Procedures. If a diver has no other options but to make a
free ascent, the following guidelines are provided:
1. Drop any tools or objects being carried by hand.
2. Ditch the weight belt.
3. Actuate the life preserver or inflate the B.C. to surface immediately. Do not
ditch the SCUBA unless it is absolutely necessary.
4. If the SCUBA has become entangled and must be abandoned, actuate the quick-
release buckles to ditch the apparatus. SCUBA ditch and don refresher should
be included in work-up training dives under controlled conditions.

WARNING During a free ascent or buddy breathing, the affected diver, or the diver
without the mouthpiece must exhale continuously to prevent a POIS due
to expanding air in the lungs.

7-9.2 Ascent From Under a Vessel. When underwater ship husbandry tasks are required,
surface-supplied lightweight equipment is preferred. SCUBA diving is permitted
under floating hulls, however, a tending line to the SCUBA diver must be provided.
Ships are often moored against closed-face piers or heavy camels and care must
be exercised to ensure that the tending line permits a clear path for emergency
surfacing of the diver.

7-50 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Due to the unique nature of EOD operations involving neutralization of live limpet
mines, the use of tending lines is not practical or required. During limpet mine
search training, the use of tending lines is required.

SCUBA dive plans on deep-draft ships should restrict diving operations to one
quadrant of the hull at a time. This theoretical quartering of the ship’s hull will
minimize potential diver disorientation caused by multiple keel crossings or fore
and aft confusion.

Predive briefs must include careful instruction on life preserver use when working
under a hull to prevent panic blowup against the hull. Life preservers should not be
fully inflated until after the diver passes the turn of the bilge.

7-9.3 Decompression. Open-circuit SCUBA dives are normally planned as no-

decompression dives. Open-circuit SCUBA dives requiring decompression
may be made only when considered absolutely necessary and authorized by the
Commanding Officer or Officer in Charge (OIC). Under this unique situation, the
following provides guidance for SCUBA decompression diving.

The Diving Supervisor shall determine the required bottom time for each dive.
Based upon the time and depth of the dive, the required decompression profile from
the tables presented in Chapter 9 shall be computed. The breathing supply required
to support the total time in the water must then be calculated. If the air supply is not
sufficient, a backup SCUBA shall be made available to the divers. The backup unit
can be strapped to a stage or tied off on a descent line, which also has been marked
to indicate the various decompression stops to be used.

When the divers have completed the assigned task, or have reached the maximum
allowable bottom time prescribed in the dive plan, they must ascend to the stage
or the marked line and signal the surface to begin decompression. With the stage
being handled from the surface, the divers will be taken through the appropriate
stops while the timekeeper controls the progress. Before each move of the stage,
the tender will signal the divers to prepare for the lift and the divers will signal back
when prepared. When using a marked line, the tender will signal when each stop
has been completed, at which point the divers will swim up, signaling their arrival
at the next stop. Stop times will always be regulated by the Dive Supervisor.

In determining the levels for the decompression stops, the sea state on the surface
must be taken into consideration. If large swells are running, the stage or marker
line will be constantly rising and falling with the movements of the surface-support
craft. The depth of each decompression stop should be calculated so that the
divers’ chests will never be brought above the depths prescribed for the stops in the
decompression tables.

In the event of an accidental surfacing or an emergency, the Diving Supervisor will

have to determine if decompression should be resumed in the water or if the services
of a recompression chamber are required. The possibility of having to make such a
choice should be anticipated during the planning stages of the operation.

CHAPTER 7 — SCUBA Air Diving Operations 7-51

 7-9.4 Surfacing and Leaving the Water. When approaching the surface, divers must
not come up under the support craft or any other obstruction. They should
listen for the sound of propellers and delay surfacing until satisfied that there
is no obstruction. Once on the surface, the diver should scan immediately in all
directions and check for hazards (e.g., approaching surface vessels) and for the
location of the support craft and other divers. After the area is deemed clear of
hazards, immediately inflate the life preserver or BC and signal the support craft
with hand signals, whistle, or flare. Once in contact with the Diving Supervisor,
divers report their maximum depth attained, bottom time, air remaining, and any
problems encountered.

As the divers break the surface, the tender and other personnel in the support craft
must keep them in sight constantly and be alert for any signs of trouble. While one
diver is being taken aboard the support craft, attention must not be diverted from
the remaining divers in the water.

Usually, getting into the boat will be easier if the divers first remove the weight
belts, then the SCUBA, and hand them to the tenders. If the boat has a ladder, swim
fins should also be removed. Without a ladder, the swim fins will help to give the
diver an extra push to get aboard. A small boat may be boarded over the side or
over the stern depending on the type of craft and the surface conditions.

7-10 POSTDIVE PROCEDURES

The Diving Supervisor should debrief each returning diver while the experience of
the dive is still fresh. The Diving Supervisor should determine if the assigned tasks
were completed, if any problems were encountered, if any changes to the overall
dive plan are indicated and if the divers have any suggestions for the next team.

The diver shall remain within under the direct observation of the Dive Supervisor,
or a competent representative, for 10 minutes post dive and 30 minutes’ travel
time of the diving unit for at least 2 hours after surfacing. When satisfied with
their physical condition, the divers’ first responsibility after the dive is to check
their equipment for damage and get it properly cleaned and stowed. Each diver
is responsible for the immediate postdive maintenance and proper disposition of
the equipment used during the dive. The Planned Maintenance System provides
direction for postdive maintenance.

7-52 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 CHAPTER 8

Surface Supplied Air

Diving Operations

8-1 INTRODUCTION

8-1.1 Purpose. Surface supplied air diving includes those forms of diving where air is
supplied from the surface to the diver by a flexible hose. Surface Supplied Diving
(SSD) is used primarily for operations to 190 fsw.

8-1.2 Scope. This chapter identifies the equipment, personnel, and operational limits
and procedures for conducting surface supplied diving.

8-1.3 References. References cited in this chapter:

n 29 CFR Part 1910 Subpart T. U.S. Government Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) Diving Standards.

n Military Divers Personnel Qualification Standard. NAVEDTRA 43910 Series.

n Navy Diving Program. OPNAV 3150.27 (Series).

n Naval Military Personnel Manual. MILPERSMAN 1220.

n KM-37NS Surface Supported Diving System. T6560-AC-OMP-010

n MK 20 MOD 0/1 Operations and Maintenance Manual. NAVSEA SS600-AK-

MMO-010.

n MK 3 Lightweight Dive System Operating and Maintenance Manual. SS500-

HK-MMO-010.

n Fly Away Dive System (FADS) III Air System Operation and Maintenance
Manual. S9592-B1-MMO-010.

n U.S. Navy Diving and Manned Hyperbaric Systems Safety Certification

Manual. SS521-AA-MAN-010.

8-2 OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

8-2.1 Operational Limits. Operational limits are based on a practical consideration of

working time verses decompression time and oxygen tolerance limits. Depth
limits are listed in Figure 8-1. Maximum depth limits shall not be exceeded except
as authorized in OPNAVINST 3150.27 (series). Due to a significantly higher risk
of DCS and CNS oxygen toxicity, planned exceptional exposure dives shall not be
conducted except by specific authorization. Planned exceptional exposure dives or

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-1

 dives where maximum depth limits are exceeded require the presence of a DMO
on the side.

NORMAL AND MAXIMUM LIMITS FOR SURFACE SUPPLIED AIR DIVING

Depth fsw
(meters) Limit for Equipment

60 (18) MK 20. Maximum working limit with surface supplied systems other than Divator DP

60 (18) KM‑37 NS. Maximum limit without Emergency Gas Supply (EGS)

60 (18) Divator DP configuration 2 (Egress manifold)

190 (58) Divator DP Configuration 1 (Surface augmented) and 3 (SCUBA). Maximum depth
limit. No decompression.

190 (58) KM-37 NS. Normal working limit. Deeper than 190fsw requires specific authorization in
accordance with OPNAVINST 3150.27 (series)..

285 (87) KM-37 NS. Maximum depth limit

Notes:
1. Officers-in-Charge exercising command authority to include exceptions to above limits must be
designated in writing.
2. When diving in an enclosed space, EGS must be used by each diver. EGS shall be considered for all
surface supplied dives during the dive planning and ORM processes and utilized effectively to benefit
the safety of the diver.
3. 29 CFR Part 1910 and OSHA Directive CPL 02-00-151 provides additional OSHA restrictions for
civilian DOD Surface Supplied Air diving. DOD civilian divers are identified as all permanent DOD
employees who have been formally trained at an approved U.S. Navy diving school. Commercial divers
contracted by DOD who are not permanent government employees are subject to these provisions.
The following are some examples of OSHA restrictions for DOD divers:
a. The maximum depth for surface-supplied air diving is 190 fsw, except that surface-supplied air dives
with bottom times of less than 30 minutes may be conducted to a maximum depth of 220 fsw.
b. A decompression chamber is required (available within 5 minutes from the dive location) for dives
deeper than 100 fsw, or any dive that requires planned decompression.
c. A emergency gas supply (come-home bottle) is required for all planned decompression dives
regardless of depth.
d. DOD Civilian divers shall remain at the location of the recompression chamber for 1 hour after surfacing
for all dives that require a recompression chamber to be available within 5 minutes of the dive location.
4. DOD civilian divers are exempt from regulation by OSHA when conducting uniquely military operations.
Commanding Officer shall issue a letter designating military centric diving operations.

Figure 8‑1. Normal and Maximum Limits for Surface Supplied Air Diving.

8-2.2 Personnel. The size of the diving team will vary depending upon the scope and
duration of the mission, and other factors. The minimum number of qualified
divers required on station for each particular type of diving equipment is provided
in Figure 8-2. Personnel levels may need to be increased as necessary to satisfy

8-2 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 specific operational conditions and situations to maintain safe and effective
dive sides. For example an optimum dive side for a typical Underwater Ship’s
Husbandry (UWSH) tasks is 10-14 personnel.

The dive team may include the Diving Officer, Master Diver, Diving Medical
Officer, divers qualified in various techniques and equipment, recorder, and medical
personnel. Other members provide support in varying degrees in roles such as boat
crew, winch operators, special systems and equipment operators, and line handlers.

MINIMUM PERSONNEL FOR DIVATOR DP SURFACE AUGMENTED

AND SURFACE SUPPLIED AIR DIVING

Diving Supervisor 1 (a)

Comms and Logs (a, b)

Console/DP Operator 1(b)

Diver 1

Standby Diver (b) 1 (c)

Diver Tender 1(d)

Standby Diver Tender 1

Total 6(e, f)

WARNING
These are the minimum qualified divers required. ORM may require increases
to these levels for safe diving operations.

NOTES:

(a) Diving Supervisor may perform Comms/Logs as required.

(b) Console operator may also serve as Comms/Logs.

(c) SCUBA shall not be used for the standby diver for surface-supplied diving with the exception of the
DP surface augmented diving apparatus.

(d) One tender per diver. The Dive Supervisor may elect to use a non-diver tender. The Dive
Supervisor shall ensure any non-diver tenders thoroughly instructed in the required duties.

(e) Six is the minimum number of qualified divers for surface supplied air diving and Divator DP
operations (configurations 1 and 2), seven or more is highly recommended based on mission
requirements and ORM.

(f) All divers must be CPR qualified.

Figure 8‑2. Minimum Qualified Divers for Surface Supplied Air Diving Stations.

8-2.2.1 Watchstation Diving Officer. The Watchstation Diving Officer provides overall
supervision of diving operations and ensures strict adherence to procedures and
precautions and is present on the side as the scope of the operation dictates. The
Watchstation Diving Officer provides backup to the Diving Supervisor and may be
called upon to assume the side to assist in an emergency.

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-3

 The Watchstation Diving Officer shall be a formally trained and PQS qualified diver.
The Watchstation Diving Officer is responsible to the Commanding Officer for
the safe and successful conduct of a particular diving operation. The Watchstation
Diving Officer must be designated in writing by the Commanding Officer.

8-2.2.2 Master Diver Responsibilities. The Master Diver provides advice, technical
expertise, and oversight of the Diving Supervisor. The Master Diver advises the
chain of command on matters pertaining to diving and recommends divers to the
Commanding Officer for appointment as Diving Supervisors.

The Master Diver is a graduate of the Master Diver Evaluation Course (CIN
A-433-0019) and is the most qualified person to supervise diving operations and
recompression treatments. The Master Diver is responsible to the Commanding
Officer, via the Diving Officer, for the safe conduct of all phases of diving operations.

8-2.2.3 Dive Supervisor. The Diving Supervisor is in charge of an individual dive,

or series of dives, regardless of rank. Dive Supervisors are selected based on
leadership, maturity, supervisory ability, and technical expertise and may be any
formally trained U.S. military diver, PQS qualified, and designated in writing by
the Commanding Officer.

The Dive Supervisor shall execute dives in a safe and effective manner and
discontinue diving operations in the event of unsafe diving conditions. The Dive
Supervisor is responsible for knowing and complying with rules, limits, procedures,
and for understanding the extent of their authority as delegated by the Commanding
Officer. The Dive Supervisor shall be included in operational planning and shall
conduct and document an ORM assessment for each diving day. Diving operations
shall not be conducted without the presence of the Diving Supervisor.

8-2.2.4 Console/Rack Operator. The console operator is a critical member of the surface
supplied dive team and must be thoroughly trained and proficient on the systems
for which they are qualified.

The console operator is responsible for:

n Monitoring/charging gas supply racks.

n Maintaining required air pressure to the divers.

n Monitoring primary and secondary supply pressure.

n Monitoring divers depth.

n Executing emergency procedures.

The console operator is responsible for ensuring minimum manifold pressure(MMP)

is maintained at a pressure that is 10fsw ahead of the divers while on decent and
monitors MMP throughout the dive. The console operator obtains the stage
depth when divers reach the bottom and monitors the deepest depth throughout
the dive. When divers are ready to leave the bottom, the console operator purges

8-4 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 the pneumofathometer and obtains the final stage depth. The console operator
monitors depth while the divers are ascending, adjusts MMP, and reports depths to
the Diving Supervisor as directed.

On large dive systems the duties of rack operator may be assigned to a separate
operator.

8-2.2.5 Standby Diver. The standby diver is a fully qualified and experienced diver
assigned to provide emergency assistance. A standby diver is required for all diving
operations. The standby diver need not be equipped with the same equipment as
the primary diver, but shall have equivalent depth and operational capabilities.
SCUBA shall not be used for standby diver for surface-supplied dives with the
exception of the DP surface augmented diving apparatus.

The standby diver receives the same briefings and instructions as the working
diver, monitors the progress of the dive, and is fully prepared to respond if called
upon for assistance. The standby diver shall have equivalent depth and operational
capabilities as the primary divers and be seated with strain relief connected to the
harness. Under certain conditions, the Diving Supervisor may require that the
helmet be worn.

The SSD standby diver may be deployed as a working diver provided all of the
following conditions are met:

n No-decompression dive of 60fsw or less.

n Same job/location, e.g., working on port and starboard propellers on the vessel.

n Prior to deploying the standby diver, the work area shall be determined to be
free of hazards (i.e., suctions, discharges) by the first diver on the job site.

n UWSH or UCT work. Salvage not authorized.

The standby diver may deploy outside an enclosed or confined space to tend the
working divers.

NOTE The standby diver shall remain on deck and be ready for deployment
during salvage operations and as indicated by ORM.

8-2.2.6 Divers. The dive team selected for an operation shall be trained and qualified for
the diving technique used, the positions manned, and the equipment involved
in accordance with NAVEDTRA 43910 Series, OPNAV 3150.27 (Series) and
MILPERSMAN 1220. Divers are responsible for:

n Reporting any conditions that may interfere with safe diving.

n Preparation, maintenance, and safe operation of diving and ancillary equipment

and systems.

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-5

 n Maintaining proficiency on systems, equipment, and procedures in which they
are qualified

n Keeping the Diving Supervisor informed of conditions on the bottom, progress

of the task, and of any developing problems that may indicate a need for
changes to the plan.

n Obeying a signal from the surface and repeating all commands.

8-2.2.7 Diver Tender. The tenders are responsible for:

n Assisting the diver in donning/doffing the dive gear.

n Continuously tending the umbilical to eliminate excess slack or tension (certain

UWSH tasks may preclude this requirement, e.g., working in submarine ballast
tanks, shaft lamination, dry habitat welding, etc.).

n Exchanging line-pull signals with the diver and keeping the Dive Supervisor
informed of the line pull signals and amount of umbilical over the side.

n Remaining alert for any signs of an emergency.

n Knowing CPR and first aid.

n Rendering aid to a stricken diver on the surface as directed by the diving

supervisor (extraction, first aid/CPR, administering 100% oxygen,
evacuation...).

8-2.2.8 Log Keeper. The log keeper shall be a qualified diver. The log keeper is responsible
for:

n Having on hand the U.S. Navy Decompression

Table being used.

n Maintaining worksheets and the diving log for

the operation.

n Recording the depth of dive, bottom time, and

significant events of the dive.

n Recording the schedule selected by the Diving

Supervisor.

n Reporting to the Diving Supervisor the

required ascent time, first stop, and time
required at the decompression stop.
Figure 8-3. KM 37 SSDS.
n Keeping all members of the team advised
of the decompression requirements of the
divers.

8-6 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 The log keeper is often assigned the task of handling communications to and
from the divers. When handling communications, the log keeper shall relay all
communications to and from the divers as directed by the Dive Supervisor.

8-2.2.9 Other Support Personnel. Support personnel are vital members of the surface
supplied dive team. Support personnel may include small boat operators, winch
operators, crane operators, or special equipment operators. Support personnel,
such as winch operators or deck crew that interact with the operation directly, shall
be under the control of the Diving Supervisor.

8-3 KM-37 NS

The KM-37 NS is an open circuit, demand, diving helmet (Figure 8-3 and Figure
8-4).

8-3.1 Operation and Maintenance. To ensure safe and reliable service, all surface
supplied UBAs must be maintained and repaired in accordance with PMS and the
operation and maintenance manual.

The following is the Navy technical manual used with the surface supplied UBA
KM-37 NS:

n KM-37 NS, T6560-AC-OMP-010, Operation and Maintenance Manual.

8-3.2 Air Supply. Air for the KM 37 NS system is supplied from the surface by either an
air compressor or (more often) a bank of high pressure air. Any air source used for
surface supplied diving shall:

n Provide air for the duration of the dive at an average sustained flow of 1.4 acfm.

n Provide an emergency back-up supply.

n Meet purity standards listed in Chapter 4.

The diver’s air consumption using KM 37 varies between .75 and 1.5 acfm when
used in a demand mode and can be greater than 8 acfm when used in a free flow
mode (steady flow open).

8‑3.2.1 Pressure Requirements. Because the KM-37 NS helmet is a demand type UBA,
the regulators have an optimum pressure that ensures the lowest possible breathing
resistance and reduces the possibility of over breathing the regulator (demanding
more air than is available). To determine the optimal pressure to send to the divers,
the appropriate over bottom pressure for the depth of the divers from Table 8-1 is
added to the bottom pressure of the divers. This becomes the minimum pressure
allowable on the diver’s air supply manifold, Minimum Manifold Pressure (MMP).
MMP ensures air overcomes bottom pressure, and the pressure drop that occurs as
air flows through the dive hose and valves of the mask, and reaches the diver at a
high enough pressure to provide a sufficient flow rate.

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-7

 Table 8‑1. KM-37 NS Overbottom Pressure Requirements.
Dive Depth Pressure in psig
Minimum Desired Maximum
0-60 fsw 90* 135 165

61-130 fsw 135 135 165

131-190 fsw 165** 165 165

* Not approved for use with a double exhaust kit installed. Instead use a minimum of 135 psig.

** 135 psig is authorized for diver life support systems not capable of sustaining 165 psig over bottom
due to system design limitations.

8‑3.2.2 Air Available Requirements. Sufficient air in storage (compensated for minimum
flask pressure and MMP) must be available to support a given dive for both the
primary divers and standby diver. When planning dive missions, flow calculations
are based on 1.4 acfm for decent and bottom phases and 0.75 acfm for ascent and
decompression phases.

Sample Problem 1. Determine the number of dives a bank of high pressure flasks is
capable of supporting with two KM-37 NS divers and one standby diver at a depth
of 130 fsw for 30 minutes. There are 5 flasks in the bank; only 4 are on line. Each
flask has a floodable volume of 8 cubic feet and is charged to 3,000 psig.

There are 3 steps to calculate air required:

1. First calculate standard cubic feet (scf) of air available in the banks. The
formula for calculating the scf of air available is:
Scf available = Pf – (Pmf + MMP) / 14.7 x FV x N
Where:
Pf = Flask pressure
Pmf = Minimum flask pressure = 200 psig
FV = Floodable volume
N = Number of flasks

n Calculate minimum manifold pressure (MMP):

MMP (psig) = (D x 0.445) + 135 psig
= (130 x 0.445) + 135 psig
= 193 psig (Rounded up)

n Calculate scf available:

8-8 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 KM-37 NS General Characteristics Advantages:

1. Unlimited by air supply

2. Head protection
3. Good horizontal mobility
4. Voice and/or line pull signal capabilities
5. Fast deployment

Disadvantages:

1. Limited mobility

Restrictions:

1. Depth limits: 190 fsw

2. Emergency air supply (EGS) required
deeper than 60 fsw or diving inside a wreck
or enclosed space
3. Current - Above 1.5 knots requires extra
weights

Operational Considerations:

1. Adequate air supply system required

Principle of Operation: 2. Standby diver required

Surface-supplied, open-circuit system

Minimum Equipment:

1. KM-37 NS Helmet
2. Harness
3. Weight belt (if required)
4. Dive knife
5. Swim fins or boots
6. Surface umbilical
7. EGS bottle deeper than 60 fsw

Principal Applications:

1. Search
2. Salvage
3. Inspection
4. Underwater Ships Husbandry and enclosed
space diving

KM-37 NS Helmet.

Figure 8-4. KM-37 NS General Characteristics.

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-9

 = 5675.10 = 5675 scf (Rounded down)

2. The second step is to calculate total amount of air required to make the dive.
To do this, calculate the air required for the bottom time, the air required for
each decompression stop, and the air required for the ascent. The formula to
calculate air required is:
Scf required = ata x C x N x T
Where:
ata = D + 33 / 33
C = Consumption rate in acfm
N = Number of divers
T = Time at depth in minutes

n Air required on decent and the bottom:

scf = ata x C x N x T
= ((130fsw+ 33)/33) x 1.4 x 3 x :30
= 622.36 = 623 scf (Round up)

n Air required at decompression stop:

The 130/:30 schedule has a single 34 minute stop at 20 fsw

Scf required = ata x C x N x T

= ((20fsw+33)/33)) x .75 x 3 x 34
= 122.86 = 123 scf (Round up)

n Scf required for ascent:

Scf required = average ata x C x N x T
Average depth = 130 fsw + 0 fsw/2 = 65 fsw
= (65fsw + 33)/33 x .75 x 3 x :05
= = 33.40 = 34 scf (Round up)
Where:
Average ata = based on the average depth from the bottom to the surface
C = Consumption rate in acfm
N = Number of divers
T = Time is the total ascent time rounded up to the nearest whole minute

n Add all air required for total air requirement:

623scf on bottom + 123 scf at stop + 34scf on ascent

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 = 780 scf total

3. The third step is to divide air required into air available:

Number of dives = air available / air required

= 5675 scf/ 780 scf

= 7.27 = 7 dives (Rounded down)

The actual number of dives available would be higher since planning calculations
include standby diver for all dives.

NOTE Planned air usage estimates will vary from actual air usage. Dive
Supervisors must note initial bank pressures and monitor consumption
throughout the dive. If actual consumption exceeds planned consumption,
the Diving Supervisor may be required to curtail the dive in order to ensure
there is adequate air remaining in the primary air supply to complete
decompression.

8-3.2.3 Emergency Gas Supply Requirements. An EGS is mandatory at depths deeper

than 60 fsw and when diving inside an enclosed space. An EGS may be required
for dives shallower than 60 fsw based on hazards of the task(s), and shall be
strongly considered during pre-dive planning and the ORM process. The Diving
Supervisor may elect to use an EGS that can be man-carried or located outside the
enclosed space (at or about the same depth as the diver) and connected to the diver
with a 50 to150 foot whip. The EGS cylinder may be located on the surface, if
diving 60fsw or shallower, in this case adjust the first stage regulator to 150 psi.

The EGS system consists of an adequately charged ANU approved SCUBA

cylinder with either a K- or J- valve (with reserve turned down) and a first stage
regulator set at manufacturer’s recommended pressure, but not lower than 135
psig. A relief valve set at 180 ± 5 psig must be installed on the first stage regulator
to prevent rupture of the low pressure hose should the first stage regulator fail.
The emergency supply valve on the helmet side block provides an air supply path
parallel to the non-return valve and is connected to the EGS first stage regulator
with a flexible low pressure hose. A submersible pressure gauge is required on the
first stage regulator.

An adequately charged SCUBA cylinder is defined as the pressure that provides

sufficient air to bring the diver to his first decompression stop or the surface for
no- decompression dives. It is assumed that this will give topside personnel enough
time to perform required emergency procedures to restore umbilical air to the diver.

NOTE An operational risk assessment may indicate EGS use during dives
shallower than 60 fsw.

Sample Problem 1. Determine the minimum EGS cylinder pressure required for a
KM-37 NS dive to 190 fsw for five minutes.

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-11

 1. To calculate the EGS cylinder pressure, you must first determine the amount
of gas required to get the diver back to the stage and leave bottom plus the gas
required for ascent to the first decompression stop. The formula for calculating
gas required is:
Scf required = ata x C x T

Where:
Ata = (Depth + 33) / 33
C = Consumption rate in acfm per diver from Table 8-2
T = Time (minutes)

n Air required while on the bottom: For this example, if the time to get the
diver to the stage and leave bottom is 3 minutes, then:
scf = (190 + 33) / 33 x 1.4 x :03
= 28.38 scf = 29 scf (rounded up)

n Air required for ascent to reach the first stop: For this example, you need to
determine ascent time and average depth. Ascent time is 7 minutes (rounded up
from 6 minutes 20 seconds) from 190 fsw to the surface at 30 feet per minute.
Air required is calculated as follows:
scf = average ata x C x T
Average depth = 190/2 = 95 fsw
Scf = (95 fsw + 33) /33 x 0.75 x :07
Scf = 20.36 = 21 scf (rounded up)
Where:
Average ata is based on the average depth from the bottom to the first stop.

n Determine total air required.

Air required on the bottom 29 scf
Air required on ascent + 21scf
Total scf = 50 scf

2. The next step is to convert the required scf to an equivalent cylinder pressure in
psig. In this example, we are using an 80 ft3 aluminum cylinder to support this
dive. Refer to Table 7-1 for cylinder data used in this calculation:
PSIG required (Pr) = (scf /FV) x 14.7 + Pm
Where:
FV = Floodable Volume (scf) = 0.399 scf
14.7 = Atmospheric Pressure (psi)
Pm = Minimum cylinder pressure (psi)

8-12 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 MK 20 General Characteristics

Advantages:

1. Unlimited by air supply

2. Good horizontal mobility
3. Voice and/or line-pull signal capabilities

Disadvantages:

1. Limited physical protection

Restrictions:

1. Depth limits: 60 fsw

2. Current - Above 1.5 knots requires extra
weights
3. Enclosed space diving requires an
Emergency Gas Supply (EGS) with 50 to
150 foot whip and second-stage regulator.

Operational Considerations:

1. Adequate air supply system required

2. Standby diver required

Principle of Operation:

Surface-supplied, open-circuit lightweight

system

Minimum Equipment:

1. MK 20 MOD 0 mask
2. Harness
3. Weight belt (as required)
4. Dive knife
5. Swim fins or boots
6. Surface umbilical

Principal Application:

Underwater Ships Husbandry

Figure 8-5. MK 20 General Characteristics.

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-13

 Pm = First stage regulator setting + bottom pressure at final stop: 135 psig + (0
fsw x 0.445 psi) = 135 psig
= (50 / .399) X 14.7 +135
= 1977.10 (round up to nearest 100 psi)
= 2000psi

8-4 MK 20

The MK 20 is a surface-supplied UBA consisting of a full face mask, diver

communications components, equipment harness, and an umbilical assembly
(Figure 8-5).

The MK 20 UBA is available in two versions. The MK 20 MOD 0 is a positive

pressure UBA that is best used where protection from water suspected of
contamination is desired. The MK 20 Mod 1 is a non-positive pressure UBA suited
for all other diving.

8-4.1 Operation and Maintenance. NAVSEA SS600-AK-MMO-010, Operation and

Maintenance Manual details specific procedures for the MK 20 UBA. To ensure
safe and reliable service, the MK 20 system must be maintained and repaired
in accordance with PMS procedures and the MK 20 operation and maintenance
manual.

8-4.2 Air Supply. Air for the MK 20 system is supplied from the surface by either an
air compressor or a bank of high-pressure flasks. The MK 20 requires a breathing
gas flow of 1.4 acfm and an overbottom pressure of 90 psig. Flow and pressure
requirement calculations are identical to those for the KM-37 NS (see paragraph
8-3.2.1). Diver’s air must meet purity standards listed in Chapter 4.

8‑4.2.1 Emergency Gas Supply Requirements for MK 20 Enclosed-Space Diving (ESD).

When working in enclosed or confined spaces an EGS assembly must be used. As
a minimum, the EGS assembly consists of:

n An adequately charged ANU approved SCUBA cylinder with either a K- or

J-valve.

n An ANU approved first and second stage SCUBA regulator with the first stage
set at manufacturer’s recommended pressure, but not lower than 135 psi.

n An extended EGS whip 50 to 150 feet in length.

n An approved submersible pressure gauge.

The second stage regulator of the EGS must be securely attached to the diver’s
harness before entering the work space so that the diver has immediate access
to it in an emergency. The EGS whip may be married to the diver’s umbilical
and the SCUBA cylinder may be left on the surface or secured at the opening of
the enclosed space being entered. If the diving scenario dictates leaving the EGS

8-14 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 topside, adjust the first stage regulator to
150 psig.

8‑4.2.2 Additional EGS Guidance. The diving

supervisor may use an ANU approved
cylinder with the DSI sideblock
assembly to attach the emergency gas
source (EGS) when conducting dives
other than in an enclosed space, where
ORM indicates EGS use is desirable, and
strongly recommended. See Appendix
2C for more information on enclosed
space diving.

8-5 PORTABLE SURFACE-SUPPLIED DIVING

SYSTEMS

8-5.1 Divator Dive Panel (DP). Divator DP is a

class-certified portable diving apparatus
for SCUBA and diving operations using Figure 8-6. MK 20 MOD 0 UBA.
surface supplied air. The apparatus is
lightweight and highly portable, which
makes it ideal for rapid deployment to
remote locations from a variety of platforms in support of various missions to
depths up to 190fsw in water temperatures of 29 degrees Fahrenheit and warmer.
(see Chapter 11 for cold or ice covered diving).

Each Divator DP system includes a surface control box, composite flasks, high
pressure interconnecting hoses, high pressure umbilicals, diver worn regulators
with an integrated EGS system, and the MK 20 Mod 0 full face mask.

The DP apparatus utilizes a minimum of two independent ANU authorized

cylinders, one acting as the primary air supply and the other as a secondary. Each
dual composite cylinder pack holds 140 scf of compressed air at 4,350 psi. High
pressure air is reduced by the diver worn P+ regulator to supply the MK-20 full
face mask (FFM). The EGS includes diver worn high pressure composite cylinders
which holds 71 scf of compressed air at 4,350 psi, a MK II regulator to reduce HP
air from the diver worn cylinders (in the event of a loss of surface air), interface
hose, and a balanced weight system (Figure 8-7).

It may be desirable or advantageous to utilize topside approved air supply sources

other than the HP Dual Cylinder Packs when diving Configuration 1 or 2. Divers air
purity must meet U.S. Military Diver’s Breathing Air Standards in accordance with
paragraph 4-3. NAVSEA controlled air sources (i.e., Light Weight Dive System
(LWDS) Flask Rack Assemblies, Fly Away Dive System (FADS) III Air Supply
Rack Assemblies, or other certified air sources) may be utilized, but permission
from NAVSEA 00C3 must be obtained prior to use.

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-15

 Set-up and operating procedures for the DP are found in the Operation and
Maintenance Technical Manual for Divator Self-Contained UBA/Divator Products
(DP) Surface Supply Apparatus, SS510-AC-TMM-010.

8-5.1.1 DP Configurations. Divator DP may be utilized in three configurations and two

modes. Divator DP supports one diver (DP1 mode) and may be modified by the
addition of a T-piece to support an additional diver (DP2 mode). Configurations
1 and 2 can be set up to support either DP1 or DP2 Mode. Divers shall be trained
on proper use of the Divator DP system prior to use. The three Divator DP
configurations are:

n Configuration 1. Divator DP Surface Supply – Configuration 1 is a surface

augmented mode with a diver worn EGS. Authorized for all U.S. Navy
DP trained divers to 190fsw. In DP1 mode the standby diver shall use an
independent DP1 mode surface supply apparatus with an EGS. In DP2 mode
the standby diver may be the second diver in DP2 mode for depths of 60 fsw or
less. For depths greater than 60 fsw, the standby diver shall use an indpendent
DP1 mode surface supply apparatus with EGS.

Configuration 1 shall be supervised by a qualified surface supplied diving supervisor.

Configuration 1 may be used for enclosed space salvage operations by Surface

Supplied Diving (SSD) DP trained divers. During salvage, a diver supported by
DP2 shall tend the primary diver from outside the space and standby diver shall be
supplied by a separate DP1. Divator DP shall be used during salvage only for short
duration operations or as a support rig (e.g., examining items of interest, quick
recovery, underwater photographer, shuttling underwater tools, etc).

n Configuration 2. Divator DP Surface Supply w/ manifold kit. Configuration

2 is a surface augmented mode divided into Configuration 2A, 2B, 2C, and
is intended for open water dives, UWSH enclosed space diving in submarine
ballast tanks and cofferdams, aviation underwater egress training, and other
authorized pool diving scenarios. Configuration 2 uses the DP manifold kit, and
a topside EGS as outlined in paragraph 8-4.2.1. Configuration 2 is authorized
for Surface Supplied Diving (SSD) DP trained divers to 60fsw or shallower.

Configuration 2A is for open water dive missions that have direct access to the
surface. An EGS is not required for 2A, but the Divator SCUBA used as an EGS or
a separate surface-supplied EGS, may be utilized. The standby diver shall require
an independent DP1 mode surface supply apparatus.

Configuration 2B is for enclosed space diving. The standby diver shall require an
independent DP1 mode surface supply apparatus with a separate surface-supplied
EGS.

Configuration 2C is for aviation underwater egress training and other pool diving
scenarios. The standby diver may be the second diver in DP2 mode, or utilize an
independent DP1 mode surface supply apparatus.

8-16 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Divator DP Surface Augmented
Underwater Breathing
Apparatus

Principle Mode of Operation:

Surface augmented, open circuit system

Minimum Equipment:

1. Divator DP surface box with adequate

cylinders per dive plan
2. Divator MK-II regulator with octopus
regulator.
3. MK 20 Full Face Mask
4. HP umbilical with P+ regulator
5. Life Preserver (Configuration 3 only)
6. Weights (if required) Restrictions:
7. Dive knife
Work limits:
8. Swim fins
1. Depth Limits: 190 fsw (Configuration 1,
9. Submersible wrist watch
3); 60 fsw (Configuration 2).
10. Depth Gauge or Navy Dive Computer for
2. Standby diver required.
each diver
3. Within no-decompression limits.
Principal Applications: 4. Current – 1 knot maximum.
5. Diving team – minimum 5 persons.
1. Shallow water search
2. Inspection Open Water Operational Considerations:
3. Light repair and recovery
1. Standby diver required.
Advantages: 2. Float may be added to keep the negative
umbilical off the bottom.
1. Lightweight
2. Rapid deployment CAUTION
3. Portability
When two divers are diving from the same
surface unit (DP 2), if one diver experiences an
4. Minimum support requirements umbilical casualty (cut) the primary air supply
5. Excellent horizontal and vertical mobility for both divers will be lost. Shift to EGS is
6. Greater endurance, air supply not limited automatic. Divers shall abort the dive if surface
to diver worn cylinders air is lost.

Disadvantages:

1. Limited physical protection

2. Influenced by current
3. Negatively buoyant HP umbilical

Figure 8‑7. Divator DP General Characteristics.

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-17

 Configuration 2 shall be supervised by a qualified surface supplied diving supervisor.

n Configuration 3. Divator SCUBA. Non-surface augmented. Operational

guidelines of SCUBA apply. (see Chapter 7). Authorized for all U.S. Navy DP
trained divers to 190fsw.

Configuration 3 shall be supervised, at a minimum, by a qualified SCUBA diving

supervisor.

Divator DP Pre-Dive Checklists are located on the secure SUPSALV website on

the 00C3 publications page. The applicable checklist must be completed prior to
diving.

8-5.2 MK 3 Lightweight Dive System (LWDS). The MK 3 LWDS is a portable, self-

contained, surface-supplied diver life-support system (DLSS) (Figure 8-8). The
MK III LWDS is certified in two configurations and may be deployed pierside
or from a variety of support platforms. Each LWDS includes a control console
assembly, volume tank assembly, and stackable compressed-air rack assemblies,
each consisting of three high-pressure composite flasks (0.935 cu ft floodable
volume each). Each flask holds 191 scf of compressed air at 3,000 psi.

Set-up and operating procedures for the LWDS are found in the Operating and
Maintenance Manual for Lightweight Dive System (LWDS) MK 3 MOD 0, SS500-
HK-MMO-010 and system parameters and limitations are found in the approved
systems pre-survey outline book (PSOB).

8-18 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Figure 8-8. MK 3 Lightweight Dive System.

8-5.3 Flyaway Dive System (FADS) III.

The FADS III is a portable, self-contained, surface-supplied diver life-support

system designed to support dive missions to 190 fsw (Figure 8-9). Compressed
air at 5,000 psi is contained in nine 3.15 cu ft floodable volume composite flasks
vertically mounted in an Air Supply Rack Assembly (ASRA). The ASRA will hold
9671 scf of compressed air at 5,000 psi. Compressed air is provided by a 5,000 psi
air compressor assembly which includes an air purification system. The FADS III
also includes a control console assembly and a volume tank assembly. Three banks
of two, three, and four flasks allow the ASRA to provide primary and secondary
air to the divers as well as air to support chamber operations. Set-up and operating
procedures for the FADS III are found in the Operating and Maintenance Technical
Manual for Fly Away Dive System (FADS) III Air System, S9592-B1-MMO-010.

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-19

 Figure 8-9. Flyaway Dive System (FADS) III.

WARNING Due to increased fire hazard risk, the use of oxygen in air diving systems
is restricted to those systems using ANU Purification Systems and
verified as meeting the requirements of Table 4-1.

CAUTION Personnel conducting oxygen DLSS maintenance shall be qualified in

writing as an oxygen worker and DLSS maintenance Technician or O2 /
mixed-gas UBA Technician for the UBA they are conducting maintenance
on.

8-5.4 Oxygen Regulator Console Assembly (ORCA). The ORCA is designed to be used
with any certified DLSS to provide 100% oxygen to the diver’s umbilical during
in-water decompression (Figure 8-10). It requires a separate oxygen supply and
consists of a valve control system and pressure regulator. The valve control system
contains isolation, bleed, control valves, gauges, and a high-pressure oxygen
pressure regulator to simultaneously provide low-pressure oxygen to up to three
divers. The system piping is installed to allow a straight pass-through of diver’s
breathable gas air from any compatible diver air supply system when not using the
oxygen reducer (Figure 8-11).

8-20 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Figure 8-10. Oxygen Regulator Control Assembly (ORCA) II.

8-6 SURFACE-SUPPLIED DIVING ACCESSORY EQUIPMENT

The following accessory equipment is often useful in surface-supplied diving

operations:

n Lead Line. The lead line is a weighted line that is used to physically measure
depth. Other methods of measuring depth may be used such as handheld
depth sounders or the ships fathometer. If a ships fathometer is used it must be
understood that it measures depth under the keel.

n Descent Line. The descent line guides the diver to the bottom and is used
to pass tools and equipment. A 3-inch double-braid line is recommended, to
prevent twisting and to facilitate easy identification by the diver on the bottom.
The end of the line may be fastened to a fixed underwater object, or it may be
anchored with a weight heavy enough to withstand the current. In the event of
fouling, the decent line shall be able to be cut by the diver.

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-21

Figure 8-11. Oxygen Regulator Control Assembly (ORCA) II Schematic.

WARNING If job conditions call for using

a steel cable or a chain as a
descent line, the Diving Officer
must approve such use.

n Diver’s Stage. Constructed to

carry one or more divers, the
stage is used to put divers into
the water and to bring them to
the surface, especially when
decompression stops must
be made. The stage platform
is made in an open grillwork
pattern to reduce resistance
from the water and may include
seats. A guide for the descent
line, several eyebolts for
attaching tools, and steadying
lines or weights is provided.
The frames of the stages may
be collapsible for easy storage. Figure 8-12. Communicating with Line-Pull
Signals.

8-22 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 NOTE Diver Handling Systems (DHS) must be designed, tested, and installed
in accordance with U.S. Navy Diving and Manned Hyperbaric Systems
Safety Certification Manual (SS521-AA-MAN-010) Appendix C.

WARNING When possible, shackle the lift line directly to the stage with a safety
shackle, or screw-pin shackle seized with wire. If a hook is used it shall
be moused or pinned to prevent loss of the stage and injury to divers.

n Stage Line. The stage line is used to raise and lower the stage and shall be
3-inch double braid, or 3/8-inch wire rope minimum.

n Diving Ladder. The diving ladder may be used to enter or exit the water. The
ladder is most often used as a secondary method of exit from the water. Ladders
used for diving should be of sturdy construction and affixed securely to the
vessel or pier, and in such a manner as to not pose a trip hazard to the diver.

n Weights. Cast iron or lead weights are used to weight the diver, the descent line,
and/or the stage. Weighted harness may be worn by the diver to add additional
weight which will aid the diver in strong currents.

8-7 DIVER COMMUNICATIONS

There are several means for communicating in surface supplied diving. Typically
voice communications are the primary method, but line pull signals are also used.
Line-pull signals are generally used as a backup. Diver-to-diver communications
are available through topside intercom, diver-to-diver hand signals, or slate boards.

8-7.1 Diver Intercommunication Systems. The major components of the

intercommunication system include the diver’s earphones and microphone, the
communication cable to each diver, the surface control unit, and the tender’s
speaker and microphone. The system is equipped with an external power cord and
can accept 115VAC or 12VDC. The internal battery is used for backup power and
should not be used as the primary power source unless an external power source is
not available.

ANU approved diver communication systems are compatible with all surface
supplied UBAs and allow conference (round robin) communications between the
tender and up to three divers. Topside continuously monitors and controls diver
communications on the surface and may isolate one diver from another if required.

To enable clear effective communications divers and topside should use

standard diving terminology, speak slow, lower the pitch of their voice, and keep
communication short and to the point; especially in an emergency.

8-7.2 Line-Pull Signals. A line-pull signal consists of one or a series of sharp, distinct
pulls on the umbilical that are strong enough to be felt by the diver (Figure
8-12). All slack must be taken out of the umbilical before the signal is given.

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-23

Table 8‑2. Line-Pull Signals.
From Tender to Diver Searching Signals (Without Circling Line)
1 Pull “Are you all right?” When diver is descending, 7 Pulls “Go on (or off) searching signals.”
one pull means “Stop.”
2 Pulls “Going Down.” During ascent, two pulls mean 1 Pull “Stop and search where you are.”
“You have come up too far; go back down until
we stop you.”
3 Pulls “Stand by to come up.” 2 Pulls “Move directly away from the tender if given
slack; move toward the tender if strain is taken on
the life line.”
4 Pulls “Come up.” 3 Pulls “Face your umbilical, take a strain, move right.”
2-1 Pulls “I understand” or “Talk to me.” 4 Pulls “Face your umbilical, take a strain, move left.”
3-2 Pulls “Ventilate.”
4-3 Pulls “Circulate.”
From Diver to Tender Searching Signals (With Circling Line)
1 Pull “I am all right.” When descending, one pull 7 Pulls “Go on (or off) searching signals.”
means “Stop” or “I am on the bottom.”
2 Pulls “Lower” or “Give me slack.” 1 Pull “Stop and search where you are.”
3 Pulls “Take up my slack.” 2 Pulls “Move away from the weight.”
4 Pulls “Haul me up.” 3 Pulls “Face the weight and go right.”
2-1 Pulls “I understand” or “Talk to me.” 4 Pulls “Face the weight and go left.”
3-2 Pulls “More air.”
4-3 Pulls “Less air.”
Special Signals From the Diver Emergency Signals From the Diver
1-2-3 Pulls “Send me a square mark.” 2-2-2 Pulls “I am fouled and need the assistance of another
diver.”
5 Pulls “Send me a line.” 3-3-3 Pulls “I am fouled but can clear myself.”
2-1-2 Pulls “Send me a slate.” 4-4-4 Pulls “Haul me up immediately.”

ALL EMERGENCY SIGNALS SHALL BE ANSWERED AS GIVEN EXCEPT 4-4-4

The line-pull signal code (Table 8-2) has been established through many years of
experience. Standard signals are applicable to all diving operations; special signals
may be arranged between the divers and Diving Supervisor to meet particular
mission requirements. Most signals are acknowledged as soon as they are received.
This acknowledgment consists of replying with the same signal. If a signal is not
properly returned by the diver, the signal is sent again. A continued absence of
confirmation is assumed to mean one of three things: the line has become fouled,
there is too much slack in the line, or the diver is in trouble.

If communications are lost, the Diving Supervisor must be notified immediately

and steps taken to identify the problem. The situation is treated as an emergency
(see paragraph 8-10.9.3).

Two line-pull signals are not answered by repeating the line pull. They are from
diver to tender, “haul me up” and “haul me up immediately.” Acknowledgment
consists of initiation of the action. A third signal, “come up”, signaled from the

8-24 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 tender to diver, is not acknowledged until the diver is ready to leave the bottom. If
for some reason the diver cannot respond to the order, the diver must communicate
the reason via the voice intercom system or through the line-pull signal meaning “I
understand,” followed (if necessary) by an appropriate emergency signal.

A special group of searching signals is used by the tender to direct a diver in moving
along the bottom. These signals are duplicates of standard line-pull signals, but
their use is indicated by an initial seven-pull signal to the diver that instructs the
diver to interpret succeeding signals as searching signals. When the tender wants to
revert to standard signals, another seven-pull signal is sent to the diver which means
searching signals are no longer in use. Only the tender uses searching signals; all
signals initiated by the diver are standard signals. To be properly oriented for using
searching signals, the diver must face the line (either the lifeline or the descent line,
if a circling line is being employed).

8-8 PREDIVE PROCEDURES

The predive activities for a surface-supplied diving operation involve many people
and include setting a moor, inspecting and assembling the equipment, preparing the
dive station, activating the air supply systems, and dressing the divers. The surface
supplied dive station setup check list (Figure 8-13) is provided as an aid and may
be locally modified to suit specific needs.

8-8.1 Setting a moor. Any vessel being used to support surface-supplied diving
operations on fixed objects such as the ocean bottom, a wreck, or an underwater
structure shall be secured by at least a two-point moor or use a Dynamic
Positioning vessel IMO Equipment Class 2 or 3. A three, or four-point moor, while
more difficult to set, (or use of a Dynamic Positioning vessel), may be preferred
depending on the size of area to be worked or the existence of known or expected,
dramatic shifts in winds or seas in the area of operations.

Exceptions to diving from a two-point moor or Dynamic Positioning vessel IMO

Equipment Class 2 or 3 may occur when moored alongside a pier or another vessel
that is properly anchored, or when a ship is performing diving during open ocean
transits and cannot moor due to depth. See Appendix 2D, Guidance for U.S. Navy
Diving on a Dynamic Positioning Vessel, for conducting diving operations from a
DP vessel.

8-8.2 Dive Station Preparation. The diving station is neatly organized with all diving
and support equipment placed in an assigned location. Deck space must not be
cluttered with gear; items that could be a trip hazard or become damaged are
placed out of the way (preferably off the deck). A standard layout pattern should
be established and followed.

8-8.3 Air Supply Preparation. The primary and secondary air supply systems are
checked to ensure that adequate air is available. Diver’s air compressors are
started and checked for proper operation. The pressure in the accumulator tanks is
checked. If HP air cylinders are being used, the manifold pressure is checked. If a
compressor is being used as a secondary air supply, it is started and kept running
throughout the dive.

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-25

 8-8.4 Line Preparation. Depth soundings are taken and descent line, stage, stage lines,
and connections are checked, with decompression stops properly marked.

8-8.5 Verify Environmental Conditions. Verify actual, verses assumed, conditions.

Check weather reports, sea state, and expected changes in conditions for the diving
day. Measurements of water temperature at the surface and at the bottom may
reveal unknown thermoclines, and lowering the stage or a weighted line while
observing its behavior in the water may reveal stronger currents that expected.

8-8.6 Recompression Chamber Inspection and Preparation. The recompression

chamber is inspected and all necessary equipment is placed on hand at the chamber
IAW the recompression chamber pre-dive checklist (Figure 18-13). Verify chamber
exhaust valves are closed, adequate air supply for immediate pressurization of
the chamber is available, and the oxygen supply system is charged and ready for
operation in accordance with system operating procedures and Chapter 18.

8-8.7 Predive Inspection. When the Diving Supervisor is satisfied that all equipment is
on station and in good operating condition, the next step is to dress the divers.

8-8.8 Donning Gear. Dressing the divers is the responsibility of the tender.

8-8.9 Diving Supervisor Predive Checklist. The Diving Supervisor must always use
a predive checklist prior to putting divers in the water. This checklist must be
tailored by the unit to the specific equipment and systems being used. Refer to the
appropriate operations and maintenance manual for detailed checklists for specific
equipment.

8-9 WATER ENTRY AND DESCENT

Once the predive procedures have been completed, the divers are ready to enter
the water. There are several ways to enter the water; the divers may step in, climb
down a ladder, or ride a stage. The choice is usually determined by the nature
of the diving platform. Regardless of the method of entry, the divers should look
before entering the water.

8-9.1 Predescent Surface Check. In the water and prior to descending to operating
depth, the diver makes a final equipment check.

n The diver immediately checks for leaks in the suit or air connections.

n If two divers are being employed, both divers perform as many checks as
possible on their own rigs and then check their dive partner’s rig. The tender or
another diver can assist in detecting leaks by looking for any telltale bubbles.

n Conduct diver buoyancy check.

n A communications check is made and malfunctions or deficiencies not

previously noted are reported at this time.

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 When satisfied that the divers are ready in all respects to begin the dive, they notify
the Diving Supervisor and the tenders move the divers to the descent line. When in
position for descent, the diver adjusts for negative buoyancy and signals readiness
to the Diving Supervisor.

8-9.2 Descent. Descent may be accomplished with the aid of a descent line or stage.
Topside personnel must ensure that air is being supplied to the diver in sufficient
quantity and at a pressure sufficient to offset the effect of the steadily increasing
water pressure.

While descending, the diver adjusts the dial-a-breath, so that breathing is easy and
comfortable. The diver continues to equalize the pressure in the ears as necessary
during descent and must be on guard for any pain in the ears or sinuses, or any other
warning signals of possible danger. If any such indications are noted, the descent is
halted. The difficulty may be resolved by ascending a few feet to regain a pressure
balance; after two ineffective attempts, the diver is returned to the surface and
evaluated for a barotrauma. If sinus pain is noted at any point in the decent the dive
shall be aborted.

Some specific guidelines for descent are as follows:

n With a descent line, the diver locks the legs around the line and holds on to the
line with one hand.

n In a current or tideway, the diver descends with back to the flow in order to be
held against the line and not be pulled away. If the current measures more than
1.5 knots, the diver wears additional weights or descends on a weighted stage,
so that descent is as nearly vertical as possible.

n The maximum allowable rate of descent, by any method, normally should not
exceed 75 feet per minute (fpm), although such factors as the diver’s ability
to clear the ears, currents and visibility, and the need to approach an unknown
bottom with caution may render the actual rate of descent considerably less.

n When a stage is used for descent, it is lowered with the aid of a winch or a
diver’s davit and guided to the site by a shackle around the descent line. The
diver keeps watch for the approaching bottom and determines if the stage has a
safe landing area. If the bottom is fouled, stopping the stage five to 10 feet off
the bottom may be needed.

n The diver signals arrival on the bottom and gives a stage report then a bottom
report. A stage report describes the condition of the stage (flat on the bottom,
on top of the the clump etc.) and the lift line catenary (sufficient slack for the
sea state, but not so much as to pose a hazard to the divers). A bottom report
may be a brief statement that confirms conditions are as briefed, or may include
a report of water temperature (cool, comfortable, etc., a subjective measure
based on the thermal protection worn), visibility, current, and bottom type.
Conditions that are different than expected shall be reported. If there is any

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-27

 SURFACE-SUPPLIED DIVING STATION SETUP CHECKLIST
(Sheet 1 of 2)

CAUTION
This checklist is intended for use with the detailed Operating Procedures (OPs) from the appropriate
equipment O&M technical manual.

A. RECOMPRESSION CHAMBER.
__ 1. Recompression chamber prepared IAW OPs and Chamber Pre-Dive Checklist (Fig 21-13)?
__ 2. Chamber Innerlock and outerlock exhaust valves shut?
__ 3. Path to chamber un-obstructed?
__ 4. Off-site non-USN recompression chamber facility inspected and deemed safe for use?
__ 5. Off-site recompression chamber facility notified of commencement of diving operations?
__ 6. Transportation method to off-site recompression chamber facility?
__ 7. Permissions/waivers obtained IAW Figure 6-18 if applicable?

B. EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT.
__ 1. Emergency Assistance Checklist filled out and conspicuously posted.
__ 2. First aid kit on station w/bag valve mask?
__ 3. Portable oxygen kit on station? Psi. ______________.
__ 4. Automated External Defibrillator on station? Charged/Tested
__ 5. Stretcher / backboard available?
__ 6. Means to extract injured diver available?

C. EQUIPMENT PREPARATION.
__ 1. KM-37 NS/MK 20 MOD 0 prepared IAW NAVSEA technical manuals and PMS?
__ 2. Assemble primary and spare dive equipment, umbilicals, accessory equipment, and tools.
__ 3. Check all equipment for damage, wear and tear, dents, distortion, or other discrepancies.

D. GENERAL EQUIPMENT.
__ 1. All accessory equipment in good working order: tools, lights, special systems, spares, etc?
__ 2. Erect diving stage.
__ a. Stage ballast installed?
__ b. Decent line bail in good working order?
__ c. Stage line connection secure? - Screw pin shackle seized with wire, or safety shackle used? If a
hook is used: pinned or wire moused?
__ 3. Portable Divers Handling systems listed in system PSOB?
__ 4. Portable Divers Handling systems installed IAW system drawing?
__ 5. Portable Divers Handling system tested IAW U.S. Navy Diving and Manned Hyperbaric System
Safety Certification Manual (SS521­AA­MAN­010) and PMS?
__ 6. Decent line is 3 inch double braid or similar? Able to be cut if required?
__ 7. Decent line plumbed? Clump adequate for current?
__ 8. Decent line able to be cast off quickly in an emergency?
__ 9. Diving ladder attached securely? Does not pose a trip hazard to a diver coming up and over?

Figure 8‑13. Surface Supplied Diving Station Setup Checklist (Sheet 1 of 2).

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 SURFACE-SUPPLIED DIVING STATION SETUP CHECKLIST
(Sheet 2 of 2)

E. DIVE SYSTEM PREPARATION.

__ 1. System certification current and will not expire during mission?
__ 2. No open re-entry control actions on the system?
__ 3. System aligned IAW approved system operating procedures?
__ 4. Compressors:
__ a. Compressor is ANU listed or within the scope of certification?
__ b. Air sample is within periodicity?
__ c. Compressor is prepared for use IAW posted operating procedures and PMS?
__ d. Sufficient fuel, lubricants, and coolant available?
__ e. All compressor controls are properly marked and any remote valving tagged with
“Divers Air Supply - Do Not Touch” signs?
__ f. Compressor secure in diving craft and not subject to operating angles exceeding 15 degrees?
__ g. Compressor exhaust vented away from work areas?
__ h. Compressor intake obtaining an uncontaminated suction?
__ i. Compressor operating log available?
__ 5. All air supply hoses have proper leads, do not pass near high‑heat areas, are free of kinks and
bends, and are not exposed on deck in such a way that they could be rolled over, damaged, or
severed by machinery or other means?
__ 6. All pressure supply hoses have safety lines and strain reliefs properly attached?
__ 7. Gas status board up to date?

F. ENVIRONMENTAL.
__ 1. Weather conditions/reports verified?
__ 2. Winds and sea state greater than expected? Expected to change?
__ 3. Stable mooring?
__ 4. Affect of changes in wind, sea state, and current on mooring evaluated?
__ 5. Water depth verified by handheld depth sounder or lead line?
__ 6. Water temperature on the bottom?
__ 7. Current assessed? Extra weights on divers, stage, and clump if required?

G. FINAL PREPARATIONS.
__ 1. Records, logs, tables, and charts on station?
__ 2. Diver’s benches reasonably close to the diving ladder or stage?
__ 3. Standby positioned near, or able to hear, comms?
__ 4. Appropriate flags / day shapes / lights, hoisted or lighted?
__ 5. CO, port authority, and others as required, notified of commencement of diving?
__ 6. Assemble all members of the diving team for dive brief.

Figure 8‑13. Surface Supplied Diving Station Setup Checklist (Sheet 2 of 2).

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-29

 doubt about the safety of the diver or the diver’s readiness to operate under the
changed conditions, the dive is aborted.

8-10 UNDERWATER PROCEDURES

8-10.1 Adapting to Underwater Conditions. Through careful and thorough planning, the
divers can be properly prepared for the underwater conditions at the diving site.
The diver will employ the following techniques to adapt to underwater conditions:

n Upon reaching the bottom and before leaving the area of the stage or descent
line, the diver checks equipment and makes certain that the air supply is
adequate.

n The diver becomes oriented to the bottom and the work site using such clues
as the lead of the umbilical, natural features on the bottom, and the direction
of current. However, bottom current may differ from the surface current. The
direction of current flow may change significantly during the period of the
dive. If the diver has any trouble in orientation, the tender can guide the diver
by using the line-pull searching signals.

The diver is now ready to move to the work site and begin the assignment.

8-10.2 Movement on the Bottom. Divers should follow these guidelines for movement
on the bottom:

n Before leaving the descent line or stage, ensure that the umbilical is not fouled.

n The Diving Supervisor must determine if it is advantageous to move the divers

out through the stage or have them back off the stage. Moving through the stage
captures the umbilical allowing the divers to easily find the stage at the end of
the dive but also hampers line pull signals and may affect the divers ability to
move freely on or around the job site.

n Loop one turn of the umbilical over an arm; this acts as a buffer against a
sudden surge or pull on the lines.

n Proceed slowly and cautiously to increase safety and to conserve energy.

n If obstructions are encountered, pass over the obstruction, not under or around.
If you pass around an obstruction, you must return by the same side to avoid
fouling lines.

n When using a Variable Volume Dry Suit, buoyancy adjustments to aid in

movement, avoid bouncing along the bottom; all diver movements are
controlled.

n If the current is strong, stoop or crawl to reduce body area exposed to the
current.

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 n When moving on a rocky or coral bottom, make sure lines do not become fouled
on outcroppings, guarding against tripping and getting feet caught in crevices.
Watch for sharp projections that can cut hoses, diving dress, or unprotected
hands. The tender is particularly careful to take up any slack in the diver’s
umbilical to avoid fouling.

n Avoid unnecessary movements that stir up the bottom and impair visibility.

n A diver should thoroughly ventilate at subsequent intervals as the diver feels

necessary and as directed from the surface. On dives deeper than 100fsw, the
diver may not notice warning symptoms of hypercapnia because of nitrogen
narcosis. It is imperative that the Diving Supervisor monitors the divers
ventilation.

CAUTION When diving with a Variable Volume Dry Suit, avoid overinflation and
be aware of the possibility of blowup when breaking loose from mud.
If stuck, it is better to call for aid from the standby diver than to risk
blowup.

n Mud and silt may not be solid enough to support your weight. Many hours may
be spent working under mud without unreasonable risk. Demand regulators
may not function well when covered by mud or heavy silt. If it is anticipated that
the diver may become covered by mud, as in a jetting or tunneling operations,
the diver should keep the helmet steady-flow valve slightly open. The primary
hazard with mud bottoms comes from the concealment of obstacles and
dangerous debris.

8-10.3 Searching on the Bottom. Bottom time is always at a premium. Electronic visual,
acoustic, or remotely operated equipment should be sought and used whenever
possible to increase search effectiveness. If appropriate electronic searching
equipment is not available, it may be necessary to use unaided divers to conduct
the search. A surface directed diver search of the bottom can be accomplished
using verbal commands or searching signals based on the location of the divers
bubbles. More often, a second diver is deployed to tend the searching diver using
the stage or the descent line as a point of reference.

1. Sweeps are made with the umbilical held taut at a distance determined by the
range of visibility. A starting point is established by a marker, a wrist worn
compass, or the tending diver. Currents may hamper topside’s ability to direct
a bottom search using bubbles as a reference but those same currents can also
be used a reference by the diver.
If it is necessary to search in currents, especially very strong currents, it may
be more effective to begin the search by moving directly into the current, then,
after reaching the appropriate distance from the stage or clump, the diver turns
left or right to effect a clock-wise or counter-clock wise search. The diver then
“rides” the current downstream while keeping the umbilical taut until half the
circle is searched. The diver will then be directly downstream of the tending
diver. The searching diver then moves directly back into the current and back

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-31

 out to the starting point and completes a sweep in the opposite direction to
sweep the other half of the circle.

After a full 360-degree sweep is made, the diver returns to the starting point
and moves out another increment and makes another 360 degree sweep in the
same manner as the first. As more umbilical is let out the current exerts a greater
total force on the exposed umbilical which makes moving more difficult. This
method minimizes the force exerted on the umbilical by the current when it is
exposed sideways to the current because it is far more effective for a diver to
move directly into, and with, the current than across it.

2. If the effective range of the search is reached and the object is not found, the
moor will have to be shifted. An accurate chart of the areas searched should be
kept to avoid unnecessary duplication in the search and to ensure gaps in the
search area are minimized.

3. Once the object of a search is located, it is recovered by the diver or marked.

The tending diver can bring a marker line, lift line, or a buoy line out to the
searching diver to attach to the object. Divers must ensure umbilicals and lines
do not become fouled by following the umbilical back to the stage or decent
line hand-over-hand.

8-10.4 Working Around Corners. When working around corners where the umbilical
is likely to become fouled or line-pull signals may be dissipated, a second
diver (tending diver) may be sent down to tend the lines of the first diver at the
obstruction and to pass along any line-pull signals. Line-pull signals are passed on
the diver’s umbilical to which they pertain.

8-10.5 Working Inside a Wreck. When working inside a wreck, the same procedure
used when working around corners is followed, where each level penetrated may
require a tending diver to relay line pull signals. Ultimately, the number of tending
divers deployed depends on the specific situation, a sound risk assessment of the
hazards, and the good judgment of the Diving Supervisor.

Obviously, an operation requiring penetration through multiple deck levels requires

detailed advanced planning in order to provide for the proper support of the number
of divers required. KM-37 NS is the first choice for working inside of a wreck.
However, use of MK 20 Mod 0 may be used if deemed safe. The diver enters a
wreck feet first and never uses force to gain entry through an opening. Additional
information for enclosed space diving can be found in Appendix 2C.

8-10.6 Working With or Near Lines or Moorings. When working with or near lines or
moorings, observe the following rules:

n Stay away from lines under strain.

n Avoid passing under lines or moorings if at all possible; avoid brushing against
lines or moorings that have become encrusted with barnacles.

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 n If a line or mooring is to be shifted, the diver is brought to the surface and, if
not removed from the water, moved to a position well clear of any hazard.

n If a diver must work with several lines (messengers, float lines, lifting lines,
etc.) each should be distinct in character (size or material) or marking (color
codes, tags, wrapping).

n Never cut a line unless the line is positively identified.

n When preparing to lift heavy weights from the bottom, the lines selected must
be strong enough and the surface platform must be positioned directly over the
object to be raised. Prior to the lift, make sure the diver is clear of the lift area
or leaves the water.

8-10.7 Bottom Checks. Bottom checks are conducted after returning to the stage or
descent line and prior to ascent. The checks are basically the same for each rig.

1. Ensure all tools are ready for ascent.

2. Check that all umbilicals and lines are clear for ascent.

3. Assess and report your condition (level of fatigue, remaining strength, physical
aches or pains, etc.) and mental acuity.

8‑10.8 Working with Tools. Underwater work requires appropriate tools and materials,
such as cement, foam plastic, and patching compounds. Many of these are
standard hand tools (preferably corrosion-resistant) and materials; others are
specially designed for underwater work. Consult the appropriate operations and
maintenance manuals for the use techniques of specific underwater tools. Apply
the following guidelines when working with tools:

n Never use a tool that is not in good repair. If a cutting tool becomes dulled,
return it to the surface for sharpening.

n Do not overburden the worksite with unnecessary tools, but have all tools that
may be needed readily available.

n Attach lanyards to all tools and parts that may be dropped and lost. Tools may
be hand carried (less desired), secured to the diving stage, or lowered on the
descent line. Secure power to all tools prior to ascent or descent.

n Use a diving stage, if possible,to provide the diver leverage and when applying
force (as to a wrench), or when working with a power that transmits a force
back through the diver.

n Use a hogging line if a stage is impractical to keep the diver close to the task
and provide leverage.

8-10.9 Safety. The safest teams are technically competent, well trained, and conduct
detailed planning and challenging emergency drills. A diver in trouble underwater

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-33

 should relax, avoid panic, communicate the problem to the surface, and carefully
think through the possible solutions to the situation. The Diving Supervisor shall
ensure a calm, orderly execution of emergency procedures and ensure common
sense and good seamanship prevail to safely resolve an emergency.

Knowledge and understanding of specific job hazards is imperative for safe

execution of specific job tasks. Chapter 6 discusses hazards and mitigations, and
work specific operations manuals (i.e. U/W Cutting and Welding Manual, Salvage
Manual) contain warnings and cautions that shall be followed. Specific emergency
procedures are covered for each equipment in its operations and maintenance
manual. Dive system operators shall be able to execute the emergency procedures
for the system in use without hesitation.

A diver is likely to encounter the situations below in the normal range of diving
activity which, if not promptly solved, can lead to full-scale emergencies.

8‑10.9.1 Fouled Umbilical. As soon as a diver discovers that the umbilical has become
fouled:

1. The diver must stop and examine the situation. Pulling or tugging without a
plan may only serve to complicate the problem and could lead to a severed
hose.

2. Notify the Diving Supervisor if possible (the fouling may prevent transmission
of line-pull signals).

3. Follow umbilical back to the point of fouling and clear the umbilical.

4. If the umbilical was fouled on a sharp obstruction, inspect umbilical for damage
and report to the Dive Supervisor.

5. Deploy the standby or buddy diver if the umbilical cannot be freed.

6. The standby diver, using the first diver’s umbilical (as a descent line), should
follow the affected diver’s umbilical and free it.

7. If it is impossible to free the umbilical, the standby diver should signal for a
replacement umbilical.

8‑10.9.2 Fouled Descent Lines. If the diver becomes fouled with the descent line and
cannot be easily cleared, it is necessary to haul the diver and the line to the surface,
or to cut the weight free of the line and attempt to pull it free from topside. If the
descent line is secured to an object or if the weight is too heavy, the diver may
have to cut the line before being hauled up. For this reason, a diver should not
descend on a line that cannot be cut.

8‑10.9.3 Loss of Communications. If audio communications are lost, the system may have
failed or the diver could be in trouble. If communications are lost:

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 1. Use line-pull signals at once. Depth, current, bottom or work site conditions
may interfere.
2. Check for rising bubbles of air. A cessation or marked decrease of bubbles
could be a sign of trouble.
3. Listen for sounds from the diving helmet. If no sound is heard, the circuit may
be out of order. If the flow of bubbles seems normal, the diver may be all right.
4. If sounds are heard and the diver does not respond to signals, assume the diver
is in trouble.
5. Have divers already on the bottom investigate, or send down the standby diver
to do so.

WARNING If only one diver is in the water and no response is received from the diver.
The possibility of contaminated breathing supply should be considered
and a shift to secondary may be required.

8-10.9.4 Loss of Gas Supply. Usually, when a diver loses breathing gas it should be obvious
almost immediately. Some diving configurations may employ an emergency gas
supply (EGS). When breathing gas supply is interrupted the approved emergency
procedure for the system in use must be executed and the dive shall be aborted.
The diver is surfaced as soon as possible. Surfacing divers may be suffering from
hypoxia, hypercapnia, missed decompression, or a combination of the three, and
should be treated accordingly.

8-10.9.5 Falling. When working at mid-depth in the water column, the diver should keep
a hand on the stage or rigging to avoid falling. The diver avoids putting an arm
overhead in a dry suit; air leakage around the edges of the cuffs may change the
suit buoyancy and increase the possibility of a fall in the water column.

8‑10.9.6 Damage to Helmet and Diving Dress. If a leak occurs in the helmet, the diver’s
head is lowered and the air pressure slightly increased to prevent water leakage. A
leak in the diving suit only requires remaining in an upright position; water in the
suit does not endanger breathing.

8-10.10 Tending the Diver. Procedures for tending the diver follow.

1. Before the dive, the tender ensures the dive hat has been properly prepared for
diving IAW PMS and that outerwear, harnesses, weights, boots, and gloves are
all ready and in good repair. The tender ensures that everything needed to dress
and prepare the diver for the dive is available at the bench before the diver sits
down (i.e., electrical tape, lanyards, N.I.D. buckets, foxtails, etc.).

2. When the diver is ready, the tenders dress and assist the diver to the stage or
ladder or water’s edge, always keeping a hand on the umbilical.

3. As the diver approaches the water’s edge the tenders put sufficient umbilical
slack over the side to allow the water to “break the divers fall” but not so much
as to allow the diver to descend too deep. Tenders pay out the umbilical at a
steady rate to permit the diver to descend smoothly and are vigilant for a call to

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-35

 “hold” by the diver. Tenders call out increments of umbilical over the side as
directed by the Dive Supervisor.

4. Throughout the dive the tender keeps slack out of the line while not holding
it too tautly. The umbilical shall never be allowed to run free or be belayed
around a cleat or set of bitts. Two or three feet of slack permits the diver
freedom of movement and prevents the diver from being pulled off the bottom
by surging of the support craft or the force of current acting on the line. The
tender occasionally checks the umbilical to ensure that movement by the diver
has not resulted in excessive slack. Excessive slack makes signaling difficult
and increases the possibility of fouling the umbilical.

5. The tender monitors the umbilical by feel and the descent line by sight for
any line-pull signals from the diver. If an intercom is not being used, or if the
diver is silent, the tender periodically verifies the diver’s condition by line-pull
signal. If the diver does not answer, the signal is repeated; if still not answered,
the Diving Supervisor is notified. If communications are lost, the situation is
treated as an emergency.

8-10.11 Monitoring the Diver’s Movements. The Diving Supervisor and designated
members of the dive team constantly monitor the diver’s progress and keeps track
of their relative position.

1. Follow the bubble trail, while considering current(s). If the diver is searching
the bottom, bubbles move in a regular pattern. If the diver is working in place,
bubbles do not shift position. If the diver has fallen, the bubbles may move
rapidly off in a straight line.

2. Monitor the pneumofathometer pressure gauge to keep track of operating

depth. If the diver remains at a constant depth or rises, the gauge provides a
direct reading, without the need to add air. If the diver descends, the hose must
be cleared and a new reading made.

3. Additional Personnel Actions. Monitor the gauges on the supply systems for
any powered equipment. For example, the ammeter on an electric welding unit
indicates a power drain when the arc is in use; the gas pressure gauges for a gas
torch registers the flow of fuel. A change in pressure and flow of the hydraulic
power unit indicates tool use.

8-11 ASCENT PROCEDURES

Follow these ascent procedures when it is time for the divers to return to the surface:

1. To prepare for a normal ascent, the diver clears the job site of tools and
equipment. These can be returned to the surface by special messenger lines sent
down the descent line. Or if the diver cannot find the descent line and needs a
special line, this can be bent onto the umbilical and pulled down by the diver.
The diver must be careful not to foul the line as it is laid down. The tender then

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 pulls up the slack. This technique is useful in shallow water, but not practical
in deep dives.

2. If possible, the diving stage is positioned on the bottom. If some malfunction

such as fouling of the descent line prevents lowering the stage to the bottom,
the stage should be positioned below the first decompression stop if possible.
Readings from the pneumofathometer are the primary depth measurements.

3. If ascent is being made using the descent line or the stage has been positioned
below the first decompression stop, the tender signals the diver “Standby to
come up” when all tools and extra lines have been cleared away. The diver
acknowledges the signal. The diver, however, does not pull up. The tender lifts
the diver off the bottom when the diver signals “Ready to come up,” and the
tender signals “Coming up. Report when you leave the bottom.” The diver so
reports.

Figure 8-14. Surface Decompression.

4. If, during the ascent, while using a descent line, the diver becomes too buoyant
and rises too quickly, the diver checks the ascent by clamping his legs on the
descent line.

5. The rate of ascent is a critical factor in decompressing the diver. Ascent

must be carefully controlled at 30 feet per minute by the tender. The ascent
is monitored with the pneumofathometer. As the diver reaches the stage and
climbs aboard, topside is notified of arrival. The stage is then brought up to the
first decompression stop. Refer to Chapter 9 for decompression procedures.
6. While ascending and during the decompression stops, the diver must be
satisfied that no symptoms of physical problems have developed. If the diver
feels any pain, dizziness, or numbness, the diver immediately notifies topside.

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-37

 During this often lengthy period of ascent, the diver also checks to ensure that
the umbilical is not fouled.

7. Upon arrival at the surface, topside personnel, timing the movement as dictated
by any surface wave action, coordinate bringing the stage and umbilical up and
over the side.

8. The tenders provide assistance if the diver exits the water via the ladder. The
diver may be tired, and a fall back into the water could result in serious injury.

If an emergency requires the diver to be hauled out of the water, any required
extraction aids should have been identified in the planning stage and the remedy
tested and ready prior to operations. Under no conditions is any of the diver’s gear
to be removed before the diver is firmly on deck.

8-12 SURFACE DECOMPRESSION

8-12.1 Surface Decompression Considerations. Surface decompression procedures

are discussed in paragraph 9-8.3. When transferring a diver from the water to the
chamber, the tenders are allowed no more than 3½ minutes to undress the diver.
Undressing a diver for surface decompression should be practiced until a smooth,
coordinated procedure is developed. The time factor is critical and delays cannot
be tolerated.

The route from the diver’s benches to the chamber must be kept clear from
obstructions and trip hazards. The chamber team must be alert to the dive
supervisor’s cue to man the chamber and be ready at their stations before the divers
arrive. An inside tender, or diving medical personnel, as required by the nature of
the dive or the condition of the diver, must be in the chamber with any necessary
supplies prior to arrival of the diver. (Figure 8-14)

Unassigned personnel must be ready to assist in getting the diver safely to the
chamber and back under pressure within the allotted time.

8-13 POSTDIVE PROCEDURES

Postdive procedures are planned in advance to ensure personnel are carefully

examined for any possible injury or adverse effects and equipment is inspected,
maintained, and stowed in good order.

8-13.1 Personnel and Reporting. Immediate postdive activities include any required
medical treatment for the diver and completing of mandatory reports.

n Medical treatment is administered for cuts or abrasions. The general condition

of the diver is monitored until problems are unlikely to develop. The Diving
Supervisor resets the stopwatch after the diver reaches the surface and remains
alert for irregularities in the diver’s actions or mental state. The diver shall
remain within under the direct observation of the Dive Supervisor, or a

8-38 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 competent representative, for 10 minutes post dive and 30 minutes’ travel time
of the diving unit for at least 2 hours after surfacing.

n Mandatory records and reports are covered in Chapters 5 and 6. Certain

information is logged as soon as the diving operations are completed, while
other record keeping is scheduled when convenient. The Diving Supervisor
is responsible for the diving log, which is kept as a running account of the
dive. The diver is responsible for making appropriate entries in the personal
diving record. Other personnel, as assigned, are responsible for maintaining
equipment usage logs.

8-13.2 Equipment. A postdive checklist, tailored to the equipment used, is followed

to ensure equipment receives proper maintenance prior to storage. Postdive
maintenance procedures are contained in the equipment operation and maintenance
manual and the planned maintenance system package.

CHAPTER 8 — Surface Supplied Air Diving Operations 8-39

 PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY

8-40 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 CHAPTER 9

Air Decompression

9-1 INTRODUCTION

9-1.1 Purpose. This chapter discusses the decompression requirements for air diving
operations.

9-1.2 Scope. This chapter explains the theory and provides general guidance to
safely conduct air decompression dives. Air dives are completed utilizing No-
Decompression, In-Water Decompression, In-Water Decompression on Air and
Oxygen, and Surface Decompression tables and procedures. This chapter also
explains charting air dives, exceptional exposure diving, altitude diving, and
emergency procedures.

9-2 THEORY OF DECOMPRESSION

As a diver descends, the partial pressure of nitrogen in his lungs rises above
the partial pressure of nitrogen dissolved in his tissues. This pressure difference
causes nitrogen to be transported from the lungs to the tissues via the bloodstream.
Transport to a given tissue will continue as long as the partial pressure of nitrogen
in the lungs is higher than the partial pressure of nitrogen in that tissue. The process
will stop when the tissue has absorbed enough nitrogen to raise its partial pressure
to a value equal to that in the lungs. Different tissues absorb nitrogen at different
rates. A tissue with a high blood flow, like the brain, will come into equilibrium
with the partial pressure of nitrogen in the lungs faster than a tissue with low blood
flow, like muscle or tendon. The total amount of nitrogen absorbed by a tissue
will be greater the deeper the dive and the longer the bottom time, until the tissue
becomes saturated.

As a diver ascends, the process is reversed. The partial pressure of nitrogen in the
tissues comes to exceed that in the lungs. During ascent, nitrogen is transported
back from the tissues to the lungs through circulation. The ascent rate must be
carefully controlled to allow time for this process to occur and not allow the tissue
nitrogen partial pressure to exceed the ambient pressure by too great an amount.
The more the tissue nitrogen partial pressure exceeds the ambient pressure during
ascent, the more likely nitrogen bubbles will form in tissues and blood, causing
decompression sickness.

To reduce the possibility of decompression sickness, special decompression

schedules have been developed for air diving. These schedules take into consideration
the amount of nitrogen absorbed by the body at various depths and times. Other
considerations are the extent to which the tissue nitrogen partial pressure can
exceed the ambient pressure without excessive bubble formation and the different
nitrogen elimination rates associated with the various body tissues. Because of its
operational simplicity, staged decompression is used for air decompression. Staged

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-1

 decompression requires decompression stops in the water at various depths for
specific periods of time.

Years of scientific study, calculations, animal and human experimentation, and

extensive field experience have all contributed to the air decompression tables.
While the tables contain the best information available, the tables tend to be less
accurate as dive depth and bottom time increase. To ensure maximum diver safety,
the tables must be strictly followed. Deviations from established decompression
procedures are not permitted except in an emergency and with the guidance and
recommendation of a Dive Medical Officer (DMO) with the Commanding Officer
or Officer-in-Charge’s approval.

9-3 AIR DECOMPRESSION DEFINITIONS

The following terms must be understood before using the air decompression tables.

9-3.1 Descent Time. Descent time is the total elapsed time from the time the diver leaves
the surface to the time he reaches the bottom. Descent time is rounded up to the
next whole minute for charting purposes.

9-3.2 Bottom Time. Bottom time is the total elapsed time from the time the diver leaves
the surface to the time he leaves the bottom. Bottom time is measured in minutes
and is rounded up to the next whole minute.

9-3.3 Total Decompression Time. The total decompression time is the total elapsed time
from the time the diver leaves the bottom to the time he arrives on the surface. This
time is also frequently called the total ascent time. The two terms are synonymous
and can be used interchangeably.

9-3.4 Total Time of Dive. The total time of dive is the total elapsed time from the time
the diver leaves the surface to the time he arrives back on the surface.

9-3.5 Deepest Depth. The deepest depth is the deepest depth recorded on the depth
gauge during a dive.

9-3.6 Maximum Depth. Maximum depth is the deepest depth obtained by the diver
after correction of the depth gauge reading for error. When conducting SCUBA
operations, the diver’s depth gauge is considered error free. The diver’s maximum
depth is the deepest depth gauge reading. When conducting surface-supplied
diving operations using a pneumofathometer to measure depth, maximum depth
is the deepest reading on the pneumofathometer gauge plus the pneumofathometer
correction factor (Table 9-1). Maximum depth is the depth used to enter the
decompression tables.

9-3.7 Stage Depth. Stage depth is the pneumofathometer reading taken when the divers
are on the stage just prior to leaving the bottom. Stage depth is used to compute the
distance and travel time to the first stop, or to the surface if no stops are required.

9-2 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 9-3.8 Decompression Table. A decompression table is a structured set of decompression
schedules, or limits, usually organized in order of increasing bottom times and
depths.

9-3.9 Decompression Schedule. A decompression schedule is a specific decompression

procedure for a given combination of depth and bottom time as listed in a
decompression table. It is normally indicated as feet/minutes.

9-3.10 Decompression Stop. A decompression stop is a specified depth where a diver

must remain for a specified length of time (stop time) during ascent.

9-3.11 No-Decompression (No “D”) Limit. The maximum time a diver can spend at a
given depth and still ascend directly to the surface at the prescribed travel rate
without taking decompression stops.

9-3.12 No-Decompression Dive. A dive that does not require a diver to take decompression
stops during ascent to the surface.

9-3.13 Decompression Dive. A dive that does require a diver to take decompression stops
during ascent to the surface.

9-3.14 Surface Interval. In the context of repetitive diving, the surface interval is the
time a diver spends on the surface between dives. It begins as soon as the diver
surfaces and ends as soon as he starts his next descent. In the context of surface
decompression, the surface interval is the total elapsed time from when the diver
leaves the 40 fsw water stop to the time he arrives at 50 fsw in the recompression
chamber.

9-3.15 Residual Nitrogen. Residual nitrogen is the excess nitrogen gas still dissolved in a
diver’s tissues after surfacing. This excess nitrogen is gradually eliminated during
the surface interval. If a second dive is performed before all the residual nitrogen
has been eliminated, the residual nitrogen must be considered in computing the
decompression requirements of the second dive.

9-3.16 Single Dive. A single dive is any dive conducted after all the residual nitrogen
from prior dives has been eliminated from the tissues.

9-3.17 Repetitive Dive. A repetitive dive is any dive conducted while the diver still has
some residual nitrogen in his tissues from a prior dive.

9-3.18 Repetitive Group Designator. The repetitive group designator is a letter used to
indicate the amount of residual nitrogen remaining in the diver’s body following a
previous dive.

9-3.19 Residual Nitrogen Time. Residual nitrogen time is the time that must be added to
the bottom time of a repetitive dive to compensate for the nitrogen still in solution
in a diver’s tissues from a previous dive. Residual nitrogen time is expressed in
minutes.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-3

 9-3.20 Equivalent Single Dive. A repetitive dive is converted to its single dive equivalent
before entering the decompression tables to determine the decompression
requirement. The depth of the equivalent single dive is equal to the depth of the
repetitive dive. The bottom time of the equivalent single dive is equal to the sum
of the residual nitrogen time and the actual bottom time of the repetitive dive.

9-3.21 Equivalent Single Dive Time. The equivalent single dive time is the sum of the
residual nitrogen time and the bottom time of a repetitive dive. Equivalent single
dive time is used to select the decompression schedule for a repetitive dive. This
time is expressed in minutes.

9-3.22 Surface Decompression. Surface decompression is a technique where some of

the decompression stops in the water are skipped. These stops are made up by
compressing the diver back to depth in a recompression chamber on the surface.

9-3.23 Exceptional Exposure Dive. An exceptional exposure dive is one in which the risk
of decompression sickness, oxygen toxicity, and/or exposure to the elements is
substantially greater than on a normal working dive. Planned exceptional exposure
dives require CNO approval.

9-4 DIVE CHARTING AND RECORDING

Chapter 5 provides information for maintaining a Command Diving Log and a

personal dive log and for reporting individual dives to the Naval Safety Center.
In addition to these records, every Navy dive may be recorded on a diving chart
similar to Figure 9-1. The diving chart is a convenient means of collecting the dive
data, which in turn will be transcribed into the dive log. Abbreviations that may be
used in the diving chart and Command Diving Log are:

n LS - Left Surface

n RB - Reached Bottom

n LB - Left Bottom

n R - Reached a decompression stop

n L - Left a decompression stop

n RS - Reached Surface

n TBT - Total Bottom Time (computed from leaving the surface to leaving the
bottom)

n TDT - Total Decompression Time (computed from leaving the bottom to

reaching the surface)

9-4 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Date: Type of Dive: AIR HeO2
Diver 1: Diver 2: Standby:
Rig: PSIG: O2%: Rig: PSIG: O2%: Rig: PSIG: O2%:
Diving Supervisor: Chartman: Bottom Mix:
EVENT STOP TIME CLOCK TIME EVENT TIME/DEPTH
LS or 20 fsw Descent Time (Water)
RB Stage Depth (fsw)
LB Maximum Depth (fsw)
st
R 1 Stop Total Bottom Time
190 fsw Table/Schedule
180 fsw Time to 1st Stop ( Actual)
170 fsw Time to 1st Stop (Planned)
160 fsw Delay to 1st Stop
150 fsw Travel/Shift/Vent Time
140 fsw Ascent Time-Water/SurD (Actual)
130 fsw Undress Time-SurD (Actual)
120 fsw Descent Chamber-SurD (Actual)
110 fsw Total SurD Surface Interval
100 fsw Ascent Time–Chamber (Actual)
90 fsw HOLDS ON DESCENT
80 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
70 fsw
60 fsw
50 fsw
40 fsw DELAYS ON ASCENT
30 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
20 fsw
RS
RB CHAMBER
50 fsw chamber DECOMPRESSION PROCEDURES USED
40 fsw chamber AIR
30 fsw chamber o In-water Air decompression
o In-water Air/O2 decompression
RS CHAMBER
o SurDO2
TDT TTD HeO2
o In-water HeO2/O2 decompression
o SurDO2
REPETITIVE GROUP:
Remarks:

Figure 9-1. Diving Chart.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-5

 n TTD - Total Time of Dive (computed from leaving the surface to reaching the
surface)

Figure 9‑2 illustrates these abbreviations in conjunction with a dive profile.

Figure 9‑2. Graphic View of a Dive with Abbreviations.

9-5 THE AIR DECOMPRESSION TABLES

Six Tables are required to perform the full spectrum of air dives

n No-Decompression Limits and Repetitive Group Designation Table for No-

Decompression Air Dives. This Table gives the no-decompression limits and
the repetitive group designators for dives that do not require decompression
stops.

n Air Decompression Table. This Table gives the decompression schedules and
repetitive group designators for dives that require decompression stops.

n Residual Nitrogen Timetable for Repetitive Air Dives. This Table allows the
diver to determine his Residual Nitrogen Time when performing a repetitive
dive.

n Sea Level Equivalent Depth Table. This Table allows the diver to correct the
sea level decompression tables for use at altitude.

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 n Repetitive Groups Associated with Initial Ascent to Altitude Table. This
Table allows the diver to adjust his decompression if he is not fully equilibrated
at altitude.

n Required Surface Interval Before Ascent to Altitude After Diving. This

Table tells the diver when it is safe to fly or ascend to higher altitude after a dive.

9-6 GENERAL RULES FOR THE USE OF AIR DECOMPRESSION TABLES

9-6.1 Selecting the Decompression Schedule. To select the proper decompression

schedule, record the bottom time and the maximum depth attained by the diver.
Enter the table at the exact or next greater depth and at the exact or next longer
bottom time. The new air tables are designed to provide safe decompression
even for divers who work hard on the bottom or are exceptionally cold during
decompression. It is not necessary to select the next deeper or next longer
decompression schedule under these conditions as in the past.

When using a pneumofathometer to measure depth, first correct the observed depth
reading by adding the pneumofathometer correction factor shown in Table 9-1.
Ensure the pneumofathometer is located at mid-chest level.

Table 9‑1. Pneumofathometer Correction Factors.

Pneumofathometer Depth Correction Factor

0-100 fsw +1 fsw

101-200 fsw +2 fsw

201-300 fsw +4 fsw

301-400 fsw +7 fsw

Example: The diver’s pneumofathometer reads 145 fsw. In the depth range of
101–200 fsw, the pneumofathometer underestimates the diver’s actual depth by
2 fsw. To determine the diver’s actual depth, add 2 fsw to the pneumofathometer
reading. The diver’s actual depth is 147 fsw.

9-6.2 Descent Rate. The descent rate on an air dive is not critical, but in general it should
not exceed 75 fsw/min.

9-6.3 Ascent Rate. The ascent rate from the bottom to the first decompression stop,
between decompression stops, and from the last decompression stop to the surface
is 30 fsw/min (20 seconds per 10 fsw). Minor variations in the rate of ascent
between 20 and 40 fsw/min are acceptable. For surface decompression, the ascent
rate from the 40 fsw water stop to the surface is 40 fsw/min.

9-6.4 Decompression Stop Time. For in-water decompression on air, the time at the
first decompression stop begins when the diver arrives at the stop and ends when
he leaves the stop. For all subsequent stops, the stop time begins when the diver

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-7

 leaves the previous stop and ends when he leaves the stop. In other words, ascent
time between stops is included in the subsequent stop time. The same rules apply
to in-water decompression on air/oxygen with the exception of the first stop on
oxygen. The time at the first oxygen stop begins when all divers are confirmed on
oxygen and ends when the divers leave the stop.

9-6.5 Last Water Stop. The last water stop for all in-water decompressions is 20 fsw.

9-6.6 Eligibility for Surface Decompression. A diver is eligible for surface

decompression upon completion of the 40 fsw water stop. If a 40 fsw stop is not
required by the decompression schedule, the diver may ascend directly to the
surface without decompression stops and begin surface decompression.

9-7 NO-DECOMPRESSION LIMITS AND REPETITIVE GROUP DESIGNATION TABLE

FOR NO-DECOMPRESSION AIR DIVES

The No-Decompression Table (Table 9-7) gives the maximum time that can be spent
at a given depth without the need for decompression stops during the subsequent
ascent to the surface. This table is sometimes called the “no-stop” table. At depths
of 20 fsw and shallower, there is no limit on the amount of time that can be spent at
depth. Deeper than 20 fsw, the time that can be spent is limited. For example, at 60
fsw, any dive longer than 63 minutes will require decompression stops.

The No-Decompression Table also provides the repetitive group designators for
dives that fall within the no-decompression limits. Even though no decompression
stops are required during ascent, the diver still surfaces with some residual nitrogen
in his tissues. This residual nitrogen needs to be accounted for if a repetitive dive
is planned.

If a diver exceeds the limits given in the No-Decompression Table, then the
decompression stop requirement must be calculated using Table 9-9.

For each depth listed in the No-Decompression Table, the corresponding no-
decompression limit is indicated in the second column. This limit is the maximum
bottom time that a diver may spend at that depth and still return to the surface
without taking decompression stops. To find the no-decompression limit, enter the
table at the depth equal to or next greater than the maximum depth of the dive.
Follow that row to the second column to obtain the no-decompression limit.

The columns to the right of the no-decompression limit column contain the
repetitive group designators for dives with bottom times equal to or shorter than
the no-decompression limit. A repetitive group designator must be assigned to a
diver subsequent to every dive, even a no-decompression dive.

To find the repetitive group designator following a no-decompression dive:

1. Enter the table at the depth equal to or next greater than the maximum depth of
the dive.

9-8 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 2. Follow that row to the right to the bottom time equal to or next greater than the
actual bottom time of the dive.

3. Follow the column up to obtain the repetitive group designator.

Example: Divers conduct a brief inspection of a worksite located at a depth of 74

fsw. Bottom time is 10 min. What is the no-decompression limit for a dive to 74
fsw? What is the repetitive group designator following this 10-minute dive?

Enter the No-Decompression Table at the next greater depth, 80 fsw. Follow the
row horizontally to the second column. The no-decompression limit at 80 fsw is
39 min. The divers could spend up to 39 min at this depth and still ascend to the
surface without decompression stops. Continue reading horizontally to the right
to the bottom time that is next greater than the actual bottom time. This is 12 min.
Read vertically up the column to obtain the repetitive group designator for this 10-
min dive. The repetitive group designator is C. If the divers had spent the full 39
min allowed at 74 fsw, the repetitive group designator would have been J. This dive
is illustrated in Figure 9-3.

9-7.1 Optional Shallow Water No-Decompression Table. Appendix 2A contains an

expanded version of Table 9-7 and Table 9-8 covering the depth range of 30–50 fsw
in one-foot increments. In this depth range, a small change in the diver’s maximum
depth can make a substantial difference in the allowable no-decompression time.
For example, at 35 fsw the no-decompression limit is 232 minutes; at 40 fsw it is
only 163 minutes, more than an hour less. When the diver’s maximum depth is
accurately known at the beginning of the dive, for example in ballast tank dives, or
when continuous depth recording is available, for example with a decompression
computer, the expanded table can be used to maximize no-decompression time.
These optional tables are most suited to ship husbandry diving, but can be used in
other shallow air diving applications as well.

9-8 THE AIR DECOMPRESSION TABLE

The Air Decompression Table, Table 9-9, combines three modes of decompression
into one table. These modes are: (1) in-water decompression on air, (2) in-water
decompression on air and oxygen, and (3) surface decompression on oxygen.

9-8.1 In-Water Decompression on Air. This mode of decompression is used when the
entire decompression will be conducted on air. The top row labeled “Air” under
each depth/bottom time entry gives the decompression schedule for in-water air
decompression. Enter the table at the depth that is exactly equal to or next deeper
than the diver’s maximum depth. Select the schedule for the bottom time that is
exactly equal to or next longer than the diver’s actual bottom time. Read across the
row to obtain the required decompression stop times. The last decompression stop
is taken at 20 fsw. The total ascent time is given in the next column. The repetitive
group designator upon surfacing is given in the last column.

Example: A diver makes a surface-supplied air dive to 78 fsw for 47 minutes. What
is the required decompression?

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-9

 1313
Date: 4 Sept 07 Type of Dive: AIR HeO2
Diver 1: ND1Hooper Diver 2: ND1 Patterson Standby: ND2 Webb
Rig: KM 37 PSIG: 3000 O2%: Rig: KM 37 PSIG: 3000 O2%: Rig: KM 37 PSIG: 3000 O2%:
Diving Supervisor: NDC Degitz Chartman: NDC Palmer Bottom Mix:
EVENT STOP TIME CLOCK TIME EVENT TIME/DEPTH
LS or 20 fsw 1300 Descent Time (Water) :01
RB 1301 Stage Depth (fsw) 73
LB 1310 Maximum Depth (fsw) 73+1=74
st
R 1 Stop Total Bottom Time :10
190 fsw Table/Schedule 80/12 No D
180 fsw Time to 1st Stop (Actual) :02::30
st
170 fsw Time to 1 Stop (Planned) :02::26
160 fsw Delay to 1st Stop ::04
150 fsw Travel/Shift/Vent Time
140 fsw Ascent Time-Water/SurD (Actual)
130 fsw Undress Time-SurD (Actual)
120 fsw Descent Chamber-SurD (Actual)
110 fsw Total SurD Surface Interval
100 fsw Ascent Time–Chamber (Actual)
90 fsw HOLDS ON DESCENT
80 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
70 fsw
60 fsw
50 fsw
40 fsw DELAYS ON ASCENT
30 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
20 fsw
RS 1313
RB CHAMBER
50 fsw chamber DECOMPRESSION PROCEDURES USED
40 fsw chamber AIR
30 fsw chamber o In-water Air decompression
o In-water Air/O2 decompression
RS CHAMBER
o SurDO2
TDT TTD HeO2
o In-water HeO2/O2 decompression
:02::30 :13 o SurDO2
REPETITIVE GROUP: C
Remarks:

Figure 9‑3. Completed Air Diving Chart: No-Decompression Dive.

9-10 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Enter the Air Decompression Table at the next deeper depth, 80 fsw, and the
next longer bottom time, 50 min. Read across the row labeled “Air”. A 17 min
decompression stop at 20 fsw is required. The diver ascends from 78 to 20 fsw at
30 fsw/min, spends 17 min at 20 fsw, then ascends to the surface at 30 fsw/min.
The repetitive group designator for this dive is “M”. This dive is illustrated in
Figure 9-4.

If the bottom time of a dive is less than the first bottom time listed for its depth in the
Air Decompression Table, decompression stops are not required. The divers may
ascend directly to the surface at 30 fsw/min. Refer to the No-Decompression Table,
Table 9-7, to obtain the repetitive group designator for a no-decompression dive.

If the Air Decompression Table does not list a repetitive group designator for a
dive, no repetitive dives deeper than 20 fsw are permitted following this dive. The
diver must have an 18-hour surface interval before making another dive deeper
than 20 fsw.

9-8.2 In-Water Decompression on Air and Oxygen.

WARNING Due to increased fire hazard risk, the use of oxygen in air diving systems
is restricted to those systems using ANU Purification Systems and
verified as meeting the requirements of Table 4-1.

CAUTION Personnel conducting O2 DLSS maintenance shall be qualified, in writing,

as an oxygen worker and DLSS maintenance Technician or O2/mixed-gas
UBA Technician for the UBA they are conducting maintenance on.

This mode of decompression is used when the decompression will be conducted

partly on air and partly on 100% oxygen. The bottom row labeled “Air/O2” under
each depth/bottom time entry in Table 9-9 gives the decompression schedule for in-
water air/oxygen decompression. Enter the table at the depth that is exactly equal to
or next deeper than the diver’s maximum depth. Select the schedule for the bottom
time that is exactly equal to or next longer than the diver’s actual bottom time.
Read across the Air/O2 row to obtain the required decompression stop times. The
diver follows the air schedule to 30 fsw (or 20 fsw if there is no 30 fsw stop), then
shifts from air to 100% oxygen. The oxygen stop times are shown in bold print.
Oxygen stop time begins when all divers are confirmed on oxygen. If more than 30
minutes must be spent on oxygen, a 5 min air break is required every 30 minutes.
Upon completion of the 20 fsw oxygen stop time, the diver surfaces at 30 fsw/
min while continuing to breathe 100% oxygen. The total ascent time, including air
breaks, is given in the next column. The repetitive group designator upon surfacing
is given in the last column and is the same as the repetitive group designator for an
air decompression dive.

All decompression stops deeper than 30 fsw are done on air. Decompression stops
on oxygen commence at 20 or 30 fsw in accordance with Table 9-9. Stops on
oxygen are in bold type in Table 9-9.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-11

 1007
Date: 4 Sept 07 Type of Dive: AIR HeO2
Diver 1: ND1 Hedrick Diver 2: HM2 Tyau Standby: ND2 Parsons
Rig: KM 37 PSIG: 3000 O2%: Rig: KM 37 PSIG: 3000 O2%: Rig: KM 37 PSIG: 3000 O2%:
Diving Supervisor: NDCM Wiggins Chartman: NDC Kriese Bottom Mix:
EVENT STOP TIME CLOCK TIME EVENT TIME/DEPTH
LS or 20 fsw 0900 Descent Time (Water) :02
RB 0902 Stage Depth (fsw) 77
LB 0947 Maximum Depth (fsw) 77+1=78
st
R 1 Stop 0949 Total Bottom Time :47
190 fsw Table/Schedule 80/50
180 fsw Time to 1st Stop (Actual) :01::58
st
170 fsw Time to 1 Stop (Planned) :01::54
st
160 fsw Delay to 1 Stop ::04
150 fsw Travel/Shift/Vent Time
140 fsw Ascent Time-Water/SurD (Actual) ::45
130 fsw Undress Time-SurD (Actual)
120 fsw Descent Chamber-SurD (Actual)
110 fsw Total SurD Surface Interval
100 fsw Ascent Time–Chamber (Actual)
90 fsw HOLDS ON DESCENT
80 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
70 fsw
60 fsw
50 fsw
40 fsw DELAYS ON ASCENT
30 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
20 fsw :17 1006
RS 1007
RB CHAMBER
50 fsw chamber DECOMPRESSION PROCEDURES USED
40 fsw chamber AIR
30 fsw chamber  In-water Air decompression
o In-water Air/O2 decompression
RS CHAMBER
o SurDO2
TDT TTD HeO2
o In-water HeO2/O2 decompression
:20 1:07 o SurDO2
REPETITIVE GROUP: M
Remarks:

Figure 9‑4. Completed Air Diving Chart: In-water Decompression on Air.

9-12 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Current USN surface-supplied air diving systems (FADS III, LWDS, DSM, etc.)
require the use of an Oxygen Regulator Console Assembly (ORCA) to deliver
oxygen to the diver in the water. The Fly-Away Mixed Gas Diving System (FMGS),
which can be used to conduct air dives as well as mixed gas dives, is capable of
providing oxygen to the diver without the addition of an ORCA.

9-8.2.1 Procedures for Shifting to 100% Oxygen at 30 or 20 fsw. Upon arrival at the first
oxygen stop, ventilate each diver with oxygen following these steps:
1. Align the ORCA or FMGS to supply 100% oxygen to the diver.

2. Ventilate each diver for 20 seconds. Divers may be vented simultaneously or

sequentially.

3. Verify that the oxygen monitoring device on the ORCA or FMGS, if one is
present, shows 100% oxygen being delivered to the diver.

The Air Diving Chart has a space to enter the “Travel/Shift/Vent” time. For dives
in which the first stop is at 40 fsw or deeper, the travel/shift/vent time includes the
20 second ascent from 40 to 30 fsw as well as the time required to shift the console
to oxygen, vent the divers, and confirm that the divers are on oxygen. For dives
in which the first stop is an oxygen stop at 30 or 20 fsw, the travel/shift/vent time
only includes the time required to shift the console, vent the divers, and confirm
that they are on oxygen. The travel time to the stop is not included. The travel/shift/
vent time is recorded as minutes and seconds. The travel/shift/vent time should be
under 3 minutes.

9-8.2.2 Air Breaks at 30 and 20 fsw. At the 30 fsw and 20 fsw water stops, the diver
breathes oxygen for 30 min periods separated by 5 min air breaks. The air breaks do
not count toward required decompression time. When an air break is required, shift
the ORCA or FMGS to air for 5 minutes then back to 100% oxygen. Ventilation
of the divers is not required. For purposes of timing air breaks, begin clocking
oxygen time when all divers are confirmed on oxygen. If the total oxygen stop time
is 35 minutes or less, an air break is not required at 30 minutes. If the final oxygen
period is 35 minutes or less, a final air break at the 30-min mark is not required.
In either case, surface the diver on 100% oxygen upon completion of the oxygen
time.

Example: A diver makes a surface-supplied air dive to 145 fsw for 39 min. What is
the required decompression on air and oxygen?

1. Enter the Air Decompression Table at the next deeper depth, 150 fsw, and the
next longer bottom time, 40 min.
2. Read across the row labeled “Air/O2.” A 2-min decompression stop on air at
50 fsw is required.
3. The diver ascends from 145 to 50 fsw at 30 fsw/min, spends 2 min on air at
50 fsw, and then ascends to 40 fsw at 30 fsw/min.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-13

 1141
Date: 5 Sept 07 Type of Dive: AIR HeO2
Diver 1: ND1 Poulan Diver 2: HM2 Montgomery Standby: NDC Miller
Rig: KM-37 NS PSIG: 2900 O2%: Rig: KM-37 NS PSIG: 2900 O2%: Rig: KM-37 NS PSIG: 2900 O2%:
Diving Supervisor: NDCM Chartman: ND1 Slappy Bottom Mix:
Westling
EVENT STOP TIME CLOCK TIME EVENT TIME/DEPTH
LS or 20 fsw 1000 Descent Time (Water) :02
RB 1002 Stage Depth (fsw) 143
LB 1039 Maximum Depth (fsw) 143+2=145
st
R 1 Stop 1043 Total Bottom Time :39
190 fsw Table/Schedule 150/40
180 fsw Time to 1st Stop (Actual) :03::10
st
170 fsw Time to 1 Stop (Planned) :03::06
st
160 fsw Delay to 1 Stop ::04
150 fsw Travel/Shift/Vent Time :02
140 fsw Ascent Time-Water/SurD (Actual) ::40
130 fsw Undress Time-SurD (Actual)
120 fsw Descent Chamber-SurD (Actual)
110 fsw Total SurD Surface Interval
100 fsw Ascent Time–Chamber (Actual)
90 fsw HOLDS ON DESCENT
80 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
70 fsw
60 fsw
50 fsw :02 (Air) 1045
40 fsw :06 (Air) 1051 DELAYS ON ASCENT
30 fsw :02+:07 (O2) 1100 DEPTH PROBLEM
20 fsw :23+:05+:12(O2) 1140
RS 1141
RB CHAMBER
50 fsw chamber DECOMPRESSION PROCEDURES USED
40 fsw chamber AIR
30 fsw chamber o In-water Air decompression
 In-water Air/O2 decompression
RS CHAMBER
o SurDO2
TDT TTD HeO2
o In-water HeO2/O2 decompression
1:02 1:41 o SurDO2
REPETITIVE GROUP: Z
Remarks:

Figure 9‑5. Completed Air Diving Chart: In-water Decompression on Air and Oxygen.

9-14 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 4. Upon arrival at 40 fsw, the diver spends 6 min on air, and then ascends to 30
fsw at 30 fsw/min.
5. Upon arrival at 30 fsw, the diver shifts to 100% oxygen. The diver spends a
total of 7 min at 30 fsw after the shift to oxygen.

6. The diver ascends on oxygen to 20 fsw and spends a total of 35 minutes on

oxygen at 20 fsw. The 20 second ascent time from 30 to 20 fsw is included in
the 35-min stop time. A five minute air break is required 23 minutes into the
20 fsw stop. The diver takes the air break then completes the remaining 12
minutes of oxygen required at 20 fsw.

7. Upon completion of the 20 fsw stop time, the diver ascends to the surface on
100% oxygen at 30 fsw/min. The total ascent time, including the air break is 59
minutes 40 seconds, not counting the time required to shift the divers to oxygen
at 30 fsw. The repetitive group designator for this dive is “Z”.

This dive is illustrated in Figure 9-5.

9-8.3 Surface Decompression on Oxygen (SurDO2). Surface decompression is a

technique for fulfilling all or a portion of a diver’s decompression obligation in
a recompression chamber instead of in the water. Decompression in the water
column is time consuming, uncomfortable, and inhibits the ability of the support
vessel to get underway. Advantages of surface decompression include:

n Reduces the time a diver must spend in the water.

n Enhanced diver’s safety.

n Shorter exposure time in the water keeps divers from chilling to a dangerous
level when diving in cold water.

n Divers can be maintained at a constant pressure inside the recompression

chamber, unaffected by the surface conditions of the sea.

n Speeds up operations. Once divers have been recovered into the recompression
chamber, a second dive team can begin descent, provided the recompression
chamber and the surface-supplied diving system have separate air supplies.

Delays from in-water decompression may present other problems for the support
vessel: weather, threatened enemy action, or operating schedule constraints. In-
water decompression delays medical treatment, when needed, and increases the
possibility of severe chilling and accident. For these reasons, decompression is
often accomplished in a recompression chamber on the support ship.

To decompress the diver using the Surface Decompression on Oxygen mode, follow
the in-water air decompression schedule (top row) through the end of the 40 fsw
water stop, then initiate surface decompression following the rules given below. If
there is no 40 fsw water stop in the air schedule, surface the diver without taking
any stops. In either case, start timing the surface interval when the diver leaves 40

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-15

 fsw. The required time on oxygen in the recompression chamber is shown in the
next to last column of the Table. Oxygen time is divided into periods. Each period
is 30 minutes long; each half-period is 15 minutes long. The first 15 minutes is
always spent at 50 fsw in the chamber; the remainder of the oxygen time is taken at
40 fsw. If the schedule requires only one half of an oxygen period, the diver spends
15 minutes breathing oxygen at 50 fsw in the chamber, then surfaces at 30 fsw/min.
The repetitive group designator for a surface decompression dive is shown in the
last column of the Table and is the same as the repetitive group designator for an
air decompression dive.

9-8.3.1 Surface Decompression on Oxygen Procedure

1. Complete any required decompression stops on air 40 fsw and deeper.

2. Upon completion of the 40 fsw stop, bring the diver to the surface at 40 fsw/
min. If a 40 fsw water stop is not required, bring the diver from the bottom to
40 fsw at 30 fsw/min and then from 40 fsw to the surface at 40 fsw/min. Once
the diver is on the surface, tenders have approximately 3 and a half minutes to
remove the breathing apparatus and diving dress and assist the diver into the
recompression chamber.

3. Place the diver and a tender in the recompression chamber. The job of the
tender is to monitor the diver closely for signs of decompression sickness and
CNS oxygen toxicity during the subsequent recompression. When two divers
undergo surface decompression simultaneously, the dive supervisor may elect
not to use an inside tender. In this case, both divers will carefully monitor each
other in addition to being closely observed by topside personnel.

4. Compress the diver on air to 50 fsw at a maximum compression rate of 100

fsw/min. The surface interval is the elapsed time from the time the diver leaves
the 40 fsw water stop to the time the diver arrives at 50 fsw in the chamber. A
normal surface interval should not exceed 5 minutes.

WARNING The interval from leaving 40 fsw in the water to arriving at 50 fsw in the
chamber cannot exceed 5 minutes without incurring a penalty. (See
paragraph 9-12.6.)

5. Upon arrival at 50 fsw, place the diver on 100 percent oxygen by mask. Instruct
the diver to strap the mask on tightly to ensure a good oxygen seal.
6. In the chamber, have the diver breathe oxygen for the number of 30-minute
periods and 15-min half periods indicated in the next to last column of the Air
Decompression Table. The first period consists of 15 minutes on oxygen at 50
fsw followed by 15 minutes on oxygen at 40 fsw. Periods 2–4 are spent at 40
fsw. If more than 4 periods are required, the remaining periods are spent at 30
fsw. Ascent from 50 fsw to 40 fsw and from 40 fsw to 30 fsw is at 30 fsw/min.
Ascent time from 50 to 40 fsw is included in the first oxygen period. Ascent
from 40 to 30 fsw, if required, should take place during an air break.

9-16 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 7. Interrupt oxygen breathing with a 5-min air break after every 30 minutes on
oxygen. This air time is considered dead time. Oxygen time begins when the
diver is confirmed to be on oxygen at 50 fsw.
8. When the last oxygen breathing period has been completed, return the diver to
breathing chamber air.
9. Ascend to the surface at 30 fsw/min.

Example: A surface-supplied diver makes an air dive to a maximum depth of

118 fsw for 65 minutes. The intent is to decompress the diver using the surface
decompression on oxygen mode. What is the proper decompression?

1. Enter the Air Decompression Table at the next deeper depth, 120 fsw, and the
next longer bottom time, 70 min.
2. Read across the row labeled “Air.” A 13-min decompression stop on air at
40 fsw is required. Continue reading across the row to the column labeled
“Chamber O2 Periods.” Two and one half chamber oxygen periods are required.
3. The diver ascends from 118 to 40 fsw at 30 fsw/min, spends 13 minutes on
air at 40 fsw, and then ascends to the surface at 40 fsw/min. Surfacing takes
1 minute.
4. Upon surfacing the diver is undressed as quickly as possible, placed in the
recompression chamber, and recompressed on air to 50 fsw. The total time
from leaving 40 fsw in the water to arriving at 50 fsw in the chamber normally
should not exceed 5 minutes.
5. Upon arrival at 50 fsw, the diver goes on 100% oxygen by mask and breathes
oxygen for 15 minutes. Time on oxygen begins when the diver goes on the
oxygen mask.
6. After 15 minutes on oxygen at 50 fsw, the diver ascends to 40 fsw at 30 fsw/
min while continuing to breathe oxygen from the mask. Ascent to 40 fsw takes
20 seconds. The diver continues to breathe oxygen at 40 fsw for an additional
14 min and 40 seconds. This ends the first 30-min oxygen period and the diver
takes a 5-min air break.
7. Upon completion of the air break, the diver resumes oxygen breathing by mask
for another 30-minute period. This ends the second 30-min oxygen period and
the diver takes a second 5-min air break.
8. Upon completion of the second air break, the diver resumes oxygen breathing
for 15 minutes, the remaining one-half period of oxygen required.
9. Upon completion of this last half period of oxygen, the diver goes off the
oxygen mask and breathes chamber air. The diver is brought to the surface at
30 fsw/min while breathing air.
10. No repetitive group designator is shown for this dive. The diver must wait 18
hours before making another dive.

This dive is illustrated in Figure 9-6.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-17

 1253
Date: 5 Sept 07 Type of Dive: AIR HeO2
Diver 1: ND1 Chaisson Diver 2: ND2 Hutcheson Standby: ND1 Collins
Rig: KM-37 NS PSIG: 2900 O2%: Rig: KM-37 NS PSIG: 2900 O2%: Rig: KM-37 NS PSIG: 2900 O2%:
Diving Supervisor: NDCM Orns Chartman: ND1 Saurez Bottom Mix:
EVENT STOP TIME CLOCK TIME EVENT TIME/DEPTH
LS or 20 fsw 1000 Descent Time (Water) :02
RB 1002 Stage Depth (fsw) 116
LB 1105 Maximum Depth (fsw) 116+2=118
st
R 1 Stop 1108 Total Bottom Time :65
190 fsw Table/Schedule 120/70
180 fsw Time to 1st Stop (Actual) :02::32
st
170 fsw Time to 1 Stop (Planned) :02::32
st
160 fsw Delay to 1 Stop
150 fsw Travel/Shift/Vent Time
140 fsw AscentTime-Water/SurD (Actual) :01
130 fsw Undress Time-SurD (Actual) :03::20
120 fsw Descent Chamber-SurD (Actual) ::40
110 fsw Total SurD Surface Interval :05
100 fsw Ascent Time–Chamber (Actual) :01::20
90 fsw HOLDS ON DESCENT
80 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
70 fsw
60 fsw
50 fsw
40 fsw :13 (Air) 1121 DELAYS ON ASCENT
30 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
20 fsw
RS 1122
RB CHAMBER 1126
50 fsw chamber :15 1141 DECOMPRESSION PROCEDURES USED
40 fsw chamber :15+:5+:30+:5+:15 1251 AIR
30 fsw chamber o In-water Air decompression
o In-water Air/O2 decompression
RS CHAMBER 1253
 SurDO2
TDT TTD HeO2
o In-water HeO2/O2 decompression
1:48 2:53 o SurDO2
REPETITIVE GROUP: No Repet, must wait 18 hours.
Remarks:

Figure 9‑6. Completed Air Diving Chart: Surface Decompression on Oxygen.

9-18 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 9-8.3.2 Surface Decompression from 30 and 20 fsw

The diving supervisor can initiate surface decompression at any point during
in-water decompression at 30 or 20 fsw, if desired. Surface decompression may
become desirable if sea conditions are deteriorating, the diver feels ill, or some
other contingency arises. Surface decompression may be initiated regardless of
whether the divers are decompressing on air or oxygen. The diving supervisor may
elect to prescribe the full number of chamber oxygen periods listed in the surface
decompression schedule or elect to reduce that number of periods to take credit for
the time already spent on air or oxygen in the water.
1. If surface decompression is elected before the divers have been shifted to oxy-
gen, take the full number of chamber oxygen periods prescribed by the table.

2. If surface decompression is elected after divers have switched to oxygen,

compute the number of chamber oxygen periods required by multiplying the
remaining oxygen time at the stops by 1.1, dividing the total by 30 minutes,
then rounding the result up to the next highest half period. One half period (15
minutes at 50 fsw) is the minimum requirement.
Example: The supervisor elects to surface decompress when the diver has a
remaining oxygen time of 5 minutes at 30 fsw and 33 minutes at 20 fsw. The
total remaining oxygen time is 38 minutes. The number of 30-min SurDO2
periods required is (1.1 × 38) / 30 = 1.39. This number is rounded up to 1.5.

3. If surface decompression is elected while the divers are decompressing on air,

first convert the remaining air time at the stops to the equivalent remaining
oxygen time at the stops, then convert this remaining oxygen time to the
number of chamber oxygen periods required as shown above.

n For a diver at 30 fsw: First compute the air/oxygen trading ratio at 30

fsw by dividing the 30 fsw air stop time listed in the table by the 30-fsw
oxygen time. Next divide the remaining air time at 30 fsw by the air/
oxygen trading ratio to determine the equivalent remaining oxygen time at
30 fsw. Add the oxygen time shown in the table at 20 fsw to the equivalent
remaining oxygen time at 30 fsw to obtain the total remaining oxygen time.
Compute the number of chamber oxygen periods required by multiplying
the remaining oxygen time at the stops by 1.1, dividing the total by 30
minutes, then rounding the result up to the next highest half period. One
half period (15 minutes at 50 fsw) is the minimum requirement.

n For a diver at 20 fsw: Compute the air/oxygen trading ratio at 20 fsw by

dividing the 20 fsw air stop time listed in the table by the 20-fsw oxygen
time. Divide the remaining air time at 20 fsw by the air/oxygen trading
ratio to obtain the equivalent remaining oxygen time. Compute the number
of chamber oxygen periods required by multiplying the remaining oxygen
time at the stops by 1.1, dividing the total by 30 minutes, then rounding the
result up to the next highest half period. One half period (15 minutes at 50
fsw) is the minimum requirement.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-19

 No In-Water Yes
Decompression on
Air > 15 min

Use
In-Water
Decompression No ORCA Yes
on Air Available

No Yes No Yes
Chamber Chamber
Available Available

Use Use
In-Water Use
In-Water
Decompression Surface No In-water Yes
Decompression
on Air Decompression Air/O2 TDT
on Air/O2
TDT NTE 90 min on oxygen > 90 min
TDT NTE 90 min

Use In-Water
Decompression Use
on Air/O2 Surface
-or- Decompression
Surface on
Decompression oxygen
on oxygen

Figure 9‑7. Decompression Mode Selection Flowchart.

F ig ure 9-7. Decompression Mode Selection Flowchart

Example: A diver is decompressing on a schedule that calls for a single 50

min stop on air at 20 fsw. The corresponding 20 fsw oxygen stop time is 27
min. After 20 minutes on air at 20 fsw, the diving supervisor elects to surface
decompress the diver. The air/oxygen trading ratio at 20 fsw is 50/27 = 1.85,
i.e., every 1.85 minutes spent air at 20 fsw is the equivalent of 1 minute spent
on oxygen at 20 fsw. The remaining time on air at 20 fsw is 50 – 20 = 30

9-20 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 minutes. The equivalent remaining oxygen time at 20 fsw is 30/1.85 = 16.2
minutes. This remaining oxygen time is rounded up to the next whole minute,
17 min. The number of 30-min SurDO2 periods required is (1.1 × 17) / 30 =
0.62. This number is rounded up to 1.0.

9-8.4 Selection of the Mode of Decompression

Figure 9-7 provides guidance for selecting the best mode of decompression for a
given dive.

In-water decompression on air is the most suitable mode for dives that do not
require more than 15 minutes of total decompression stop time. Most dives will
fall in this category. In-water decompression on air avoids the additional logistic
burden of bringing an ORCA and/or a recompression chamber to the dive station.

In-water decompression on air and oxygen is strongly recommended whenever the

total decompression stop time on air exceeds 15 minutes and surface decompression
on oxygen is not a viable alternative. Surface decompression may not be possible
either because a recompression chamber is not available on the dive station or the
short surface interval associated with surface decompression does not allow enough
time for diver decontamination following a contaminated water dive. In-water
decompression on air and oxygen is most suitable for dives that do not require more
than 90 minutes of total air and oxygen time in the water. Longer times increase the
risk of CNS oxygen toxicity and exposure to the elements. If the total air/oxygen
decompression time in the water is greater than 90 minutes, surface decompression
on oxygen is required unless CNO permission to conduct exceptional exposure dives
is obtained.

9-9 REPETITIVE DIVES

During the surface interval after an air dive, the quantity of residual nitrogen in
the diver’s body will gradually be reduced to its normal value. If the diver makes a
second dive before the residual nitrogen has been dissipated (a repetitive dive), he
must consider his residual nitrogen level when planning for the second dive.

The procedures for conducting a repetitive dive are summarized in Figure 9-8.
Upon completing the first dive, the diver is assigned a repetitive group designator
from either the Air Decompression Table or the No-Decompression Table. This
designator tells the diver how much residual nitrogen he has upon surfacing from
the first dive. A diver in Group A has the lowest amount of residual nitrogen; a diver
in Group Z has the highest. As nitrogen passes out of the diver’s body during the
surface interval, the repetitive group designation changes to a lower letter group
to reflect the lower quantity of residual nitrogen. The top half of Table 9-8 allows
the repetitive group designator to be determined at any time during the surface
interval. The lower half of Table 9-8 gives the Residual Nitrogen Time (RNT)
corresponding to the repetitive group designator at the end of the surface interval
and the depth of the repetitive dive. The residual nitrogen time is the time a diver
would have had to spend at the depth of the repetitive dive to absorb the amount

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-21

 Conduct
single
dive

Decompress according Obtain repetitive

to Air Decompression group designation
Table or No-
Decompression Table
Enter top half Table
9-9 on diagonal
9-8

Surface interval greater Surfaceinterval

Surface intervalgreater
greater
than maximum time Surface interval less
than10
than 10minutes
minutesbut butless
less
listed than 10 minutes
than maximum
than maximum timetime listed
listed

Obtain residual nitrogen time Add bottom time of

using Residual Nitrogen previous dive to that
Timetable of repetitive dive

Add residual
Add residual nitrogen
nitrogen time
time
to bottom
to bottom time
time ofof repetitive
repetitive
dive to
dive giving
obtainequivalent
equivalentsingle
dive bottom
single dive timetime

Decompress using schedule

Decompress Decompress from repetitive
for repetitive
schedule dive depthdive
for repetitive dive using schedule for
and equivalent
depth single single
and equivalent dive deeper of two dives and
bottom
dive time
time combined bottom times

Figure 9‑8. Repetitive Dive Flow Chart.

F ig ure 9-8. Repetitive Dive Flowchart.

9-22 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 of nitrogen he has left over from the previous dive. The residual nitrogen time is
added to the bottom time of the repetitive dive to obtain the Equivalent Single Dive
Time (ESDT). The decompression schedule for the repetitive dive is obtained by
entering either the Air Decompression Table or the No-Decompression Table at the
depth of the repetitive dive and the equivalent single dive time.

9-9.1 Repetitive Dive Procedure. To use the repetitive dive procedure described below,
the interval on the surface between dives must be at least 10 minutes. If the surface
interval between dives is less than 10 minutes, add the bottom time of the two
dives and enter the decompression table at the deeper of the two depths.

To determine the decompression schedule for a repetitive dive when the surface
interval is greater than 10 minutes:
1. Obtain the repetitive group designator from the Air Decompression Table or
the No-Decompression Table upon surfacing from the first dive.
2. Using the repetitive group designator, enter the top half of Table 9-8 on the
diagonal. Table 9-8 is the Residual Nitrogen Timetable for Repetitive Air
Dives.
3. Read horizontally across the row to locate the time interval that includes the
diver’s surface interval. The times are expressed in hours and minutes (e.g.,
2:21 = 2 hours 21 minutes). Each time interval has a minimum time (top limit)
and a maximum time (bottom limit). The time spent on the surface must be
between or equal to the limits of the selected interval. If the surface interval
exceeds the longest time shown in the row, the dive is not a repetitive dive. No
correction for residual nitrogen is required.
4. Read vertically down the column to obtain the repetitive group designator at
the end of the surface interval.
5. Continue down the same column to the depth row that is exactly equal or next
deeper than the depth of the repetitive dive. The time given at the intersection
of the column and row is the residual nitrogen time in minutes.
6. Add the residual nitrogen time to the actual bottom time of the repetitive dive
to get the Equivalent Single Dive Time (ESDT).
7. Enter the Air Decompression Table or No-Decompression Table at the depth
that is exactly equal to or next deeper than the actual depth of the repetitive dive.
Select the schedule that is exactly equal to or next longer than the Equivalent
Single Dive Time. Follow the prescribed decompression to the surface.
8. At depths of 10, 15, and 20 fsw, some of the higher repetitive groups do not
have a defined residual nitrogen time. These groups are marked with a double
asterisk in the lower half of Table 9-8. The RNT is undefined because the tissue
nitrogen loading associated with those repetitive groups is higher than the
nitrogen loading that could be achieved even if the diver were to remain at
those depths for an infinite period of time. A diver entering the dive in one of
those higher groups marked by a double asterisk can still perform a repetitive
dive at 10, 15 or 20 fsw because the no-decompression time at those depths
is unlimited. An RNT time is not required to make the dive. If a subsequent
repetitive dive to a deeper depth is planned, however, the diver will need a

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-23

 Date:
REPETITIVE DIVE WORKSHEET
1st DIVE
Max Depth
Bottom Time
Table & Schedule REPET Group

Surface Interval New Group

2nd DIVE
Max Depth MD + ESDT = Table & Schedule
REPET
Bottom Time + RNT = ESDT = Table & Schedule
Group

+ = =

Ensure the RNT Exception Rule does not apply

Surface Interval New Group

3rd DIVE
Max Depth MD + ESDT = Table & Schedule
REPET
Bottom Time + RNT = ESDT = Table & Schedule
Group
+ = =

Ensure the RNT Exception Rule does not apply

Surface Interval New Group

4th DIVE
Max Depth MD + ESDT = Table & Schedule
REPET
Bottom Time + RNT = ESDT = Table & Schedule
Group
+ = =

Ensure the RNT Exception Rule does not apply

Surface Interval New Group

Figure 9‑9. Repetitive Dive Worksheet.

9-24 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 repetitive group at the end of the shallow dive in order to continue using the
RNT table. If a double asterisk is encountered in Table 9-8, assume that the
repetitive group remains unchanged during the course of the dive at 10, 15, or
20 fsw.
Example: A diver surfaces from a dive in repetitive Group N. Thirty minutes
later, he makes a dive to 20 fsw. The diver begins the 20 fsw dive in Group
N. The RNT time for Group N at 20 fsw is undefined. This is not a problem
because the no-decompression time at 20 fsw is unlimited. Regardless of his
starting repetitive group, the diver can spend any amount of time at 20 fsw
without incurring a decompression obligation. If a subsequent dive deeper than
20 fsw is planned, the diver should assume that he surfaced from the 20 fsw
dive in Group N regardless of the duration of the 20 fsw dive.
9. If a repetitive group is not shown in the decompression schedule, repetitive
dives deeper than 20 fsw are not allowed following a dive on that schedule. The
diver must remain on the surface for at least 18 hours before making another
dive deeper than 20 fsw.
10. Do not perform repetitive dives that require the use of Exceptional Exposure
decompression schedules.

Always use the Repetitive Dive Worksheet, shown in Figure 9-9, when determining
the decompression schedule for a repetitive dive.

Example: A repetitive dive is planned to 98 fsw for an estimated bottom time

of 15 minutes. The previous dive was to a depth of 101 fsw (100 fsw + 1 fsw
pneumofathometer correction factor) and had a bottom time of 48 minutes.
Decompression was conducted using the in-water air/oxygen option. The diver’s
surface interval is 6 hours 26 minutes (6:26). What is the proper decompression
schedule for the repetitive dive?

1. Enter the Air Decompression Table at a depth of 110 fsw and a bottom time of
50 minutes. Read across the row to obtain the repetitive group designator upon
surfacing from the first dive. The repetitive group designator is Z.
2. Move to the Residual Nitrogen Timetable for Repetitive Air Dives, Table 9-8.
3. Enter the top half of the table on the diagonal line at Z.
4. Read horizontally across the line until reaching the time interval that includes
the diver’s surface interval of 6 hours 25 minutes. The diver’s surface interval
falls within the limits of the 6:07/6:58 column.
5. Read vertically down the 6:07/6:58 column. The repetitive group designator at
the end of the surface interval is I.
6. Continue to read down the column until reaching the depth that is exactly equal
or next deeper than the depth of the repetitive dive. This is 100 fsw. The residual
nitrogen time is 30 minutes.
7. Add the 30 minutes of residual nitrogen time to the estimated bottom time of
15 minutes to obtain the single equivalent dive time of 45 minutes.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-25

 1026
Date: 5 Sept 07 Type of Dive: AIR HeO2
Diver 1: NDCM Boyd Diver 2: NDC Parson Standby: ND3 Jones
Rig: KM-37 NS PSIG: 2900 O2%: Rig: KM-37 NS PSIG: 2900 O2%: Rig: KM-37 NS PSIG: 2900 O2%:
Diving Supervisor: NDCM Mariano Chartman: ND1 Peters Bottom Mix:
TIME/
EVENT STOP TIME CLOCK TIME EVENT
DEPTH
LS or 20 fsw 0900 Descent Time (Water) :02
RB 0902 Stage Depth (fsw) 100
LB 0948 Maximum Depth (fsw) 100+1=101
R 1st Stop 0951 Total Bottom Time :48
190 fsw Table/Schedule 110/50
180 fsw Time to 1st Stop (Actual) :02::46
170 fsw Time to 1st Stop (Planned) :02::40
st
160 fsw Delay to 1 Stop ::06
150 fsw Travel/Shift/Vent Time :02
140 fsw Ascent Time-Water/SurD (Actual) ::40
130 fsw Undress Time-SurD (Actual)
120 fsw Descent Chamber-SurD (Actual)
110 fsw Total SurD Surface Interval
100 fsw Ascent Time–Chamber (Actual)
90 fsw HOLDS ON DESCENT
80 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
70 fsw
60 fsw
50 fsw
40 fsw DELAYS ON ASCENT
30 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
20 fsw :02+:32 1025
RS 1026
RB CHAMBER
50 fsw chamber DECOMPRESSION PROCEDURES USED
40 fsw chamber AIR
30 fsw chamber o In-water Air decompression
 In-water Air/O2 decompression
RS CHAMBER
o SurDO2
TDT TTD HeO2
o In-water HeO2/O2 decompression
:38 1:26 o SurDO2
REPETITIVE GROUP: Z
Remarks:

Figure 9‑10. Completed Air Diving Chart: First Dive of Repetitive Dive Profile.

9-26 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Date:
REPETITIVE DIVE WORKSHEET 5 Sept 07

1st DIVE
Max Depth 100+1=101
Bottom Time :48
Table & Schedule 110/50 REPET Group Z

Surface Interval 6:25 New Group I

2nd DIVE
Max Depth 97+1=98 MD + ESDT = Table & Schedule
REPET
Bottom Time + RNT = ESDT = Table & Schedule
Group

:15 + :30 = :45 = 100/45 N

Ensure the RNT Exception Rule does not apply

Surface Interval New Group

3rd DIVE
Max Depth MD + ESDT = Table & Schedule
REPET
Bottom Time + RNT = ESDT = Table & Schedule
Group
+ = =

Ensure the RNT Exception Rule does not apply

Surface Interval New Group

4th DIVE
Max Depth MD + ESDT = Table & Schedule
REPET
Bottom Time + RNT = ESDT = Table & Schedule
Group
+ = =

Ensure the RNT Exception Rule does not apply

Surface Interval New Group

Figure 9‑11. Completed Repetitive Dive Worksheet.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-27

 1731
Date: 5 Sept 07 Type of Dive: AIR HeO2
Diver 1: NDCM Boyd Diver 2: NDC Parson Standby: CWO5 Armstrong
Rig: KM-37 NS PSIG: 2900 O2%: Rig: KM-37 NS PSIG: 2900 O2%: Rig: KM-37 NS PSIG: 2900 O2%:
Diving Supervisor: NDCM Chartman: CWO4 Perna Bottom Mix:
Mariano
EVENT STOP TIME CLOCK TIME EVENT TIME/DEPTH
LS or 20 fsw 1651 Descent Time (Water) :02
RB 1653 Stage Depth (fsw) 97
LB 1706 Maximum Depth (fsw) 97+1=98
st
R 1 Stop 1709 Total Bottom Time :15+:30=:45
190 fsw Table/Schedule 100/45
st
180 fsw Time to 1 Stop (Actual) :02::35
st
170 fsw Time to 1 Stop (Planned) :02::34
st
160 fsw Delay to 1 Stop ::01
150 fsw Travel/Shift/Vent Time :02
140 fsw Ascent Time-Water/SurD (Actual) ::45
130 fsw Undress Time-SurD (Actual)
120 fsw Descent Chamber-SurD (Actual)
110 fsw Total SurD Surface Interval
100 fsw Ascent Time–Chamber (Actual)
90 fsw HOLDS ON DESCENT
80 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
70 fsw
60 fsw
50 fsw
40 fsw DELAYS ON ASCENT
30 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
20 fsw :02+:19 1730
RS 1731
RB CHAMBER
50 fsw chamber DECOMPRESSION PROCEDURES USED
40 fsw chamber AIR
30 fsw chamber o In-water Air decompression
 In-water Air/O2 decompression
RS CHAMBER
o SurDO2
TDT TTD HeO2
o In-water HeO2/O2 decompression
:25 :40 o SurDO2
REPETITIVE GROUP: N
Remarks:

Figure 9‑12. Completed Air Diving Chart: Second Dive of Repetitive Dive Profile.

9-28 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 8. The diver will be decompressed on the 100 fsw/45 min schedule in the Air
Decompression Table.

Figure 9-10 depicts the dive profile for the first dive, Figure 9-11 shows the
completed Repetitive Dive Worksheet, and Figure 9-12 shows the dive profile for
the repetitive dive.

9-9.2 RNT Exception Rule. In some cases, the residual nitrogen time given in Table 9-8
may be longer than needed to provide adequate decompression on the repetitive
dive. This situation is most likely to occur when the surface interval between the
dives is short. After determining the decompression requirement for the repetitive
dive using the procedure in paragraph 9-9.1, the diver should recalculate the
requirement by summing the bottom times of the two dives and taking the deepest
depth. If the resultant table and schedule produces a longer no-decompression
time or a shorter decompression time than the procedure in paragraph 9-9.1, the
table and schedule with the lesser decompression obligation may be used. This
alternative method of determining the table and schedule is referred to as the RNT
Exception Rule.

Example: A diver makes an air dive to 60 fsw for 40 minutes and plans to make
a repetitive air dive to 56 fsw for 20 minutes after a 30-minute surface interval.
Determine the table and schedule for the repetitive dive.

The diver surfaces from the first dive in repetitive group H. After 30 minutes on
the surface he remains in repetitive group H. The depth of the repetitive dive is
rounded up to the next deeper depth in Table 9-8, 60 fsw. The residual nitrogen
time for a group H diver at 60 fsw is 46 minutes. The equivalent single dive time of
the repetitive dive is 20 + 46 = 66 minutes. The 60 fsw/70 min schedule calls for a
7 min stop on air at 20 fsw. The alternative table and schedule for the repetitive dive
is 60 fsw (deepest of the two depths) and 60 minutes (sum of the 40 and 20-minute
bottom times). The 60 fsw / 63 min schedule does not require decompression stops.
The diver uses the 60 fsw / 63 min schedule for the repetitive dive under the RNT
exception rule.

Example: A diver makes a dive to 100 fsw for 25 minutes and plans to make a
repetitive dive to 60 fsw for 20 minutes after a 30-minute surface interval. Determine
the table and schedule for the repetitive dive.

The diver surfaces from the first dive in repetitive group H. After 30 minutes on the
surface, he remains in repetitive group H. The residual nitrogen time for group H
at 60 fsw is 46 minutes. The equivalent single dive time of the repetitive dive is 20
+ 46 = 66 minutes. The 60 fsw / 70 min schedule calls for a 7 min stop on air at 20
fsw. The alternative table and schedule for the repetitive dive is 100 fsw (deepest
of the two depths) and 45 minutes (sum of 25 and 20-minute bottom times). The
100 fsw / 45 min schedule calls for 36 minutes on air at 20 fsw. The diver uses the
shorter 60 fsw / 70 min schedule under the provisions of paragraph 9-9.1.

The RNT exception rule can be applied to a series of repetitive dives. The table
and schedule for the next dive in the series is determined first using the procedure

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-29

 in paragraph 9-9.1, then by adding the bottom times of all the repetitive dives in
the series and taking the deepest depth. Whichever table and schedule produces the
shorter decompression time or the longer no-decompression time is the table and
schedule to be used for the repetitive dive.

9-9.3 Repetitive Air to nitrogen-oxygen Electronically Controlled (EC)-UBA or nitrogen

oxygen EC-UBA to Air Dives. The repetitive group designators for air diving and
EC-UBA diving are defined identically. This means that it is possible to perform
a repetitive dive on air following either a EC-UBA nitrogen-oxygen dive or vice
versa using the existing tables. To perform a repetitive dive on air following a
nitrogen-oxygen dive, refer to Section 15-8.2.

9-9.4 Order of Repetitive Dives. From the decompression standpoint, the most
efficient way to perform repetitive dives is to perform the deepest dive first and
the shallowest dive last. This pattern yields the most bottom time for the least
decompression time. There is no prohibition on performing repetitive dives in the
reverse order, i.e., shallowest dive first and deepest dive last, or in any random
order if the operational situation requires it. It is just that patterns other than deep
to shallow are not the most efficient in terms of decompression.

Example: A diver plans to perform two dives separated by a 30-min surface interval.
One dive is to 100 fsw for 20 min. The second dive is to 60 fsw for 20 min. Which
dive should be performed first?

Following the normal pattern of deep to shallow, the diver does the 100 fsw dive
first. He surfaces in repetitive group G and remains in Group G during the surface
interval. The RNT for Group G at 60 fsw is 40 min. The Equivalent Single Dive
Time of the 60 fsw dive therefore is 60 min (40 + 20). A 60 fsw/60 min dive is close
to the no-decompression limit. No decompression is required for either dive.

Following the reverse pattern of shallow to deep, the diver does the 60 fsw dive
first. He surfaces in repetitive Group D and remains in Group D during the surface
interval. The RNT for Group D at 100 fsw is 14 min. The Equivalent Single Dive
Time of the 100 fsw dive therefore is 34 min (14 + 20). The diver decompresses on
the 100 fsw/35 min schedule. A 15 min decompression stop at 20 fsw is required.

With the normal pattern, the diver achieved 40 minutes of bottom time without
having to decompress. With the reverse pattern the diver required 15 min of
decompression stop time for the same 40 minutes of bottom time.

9-10 EXCEPTIONAL EXPOSURE DIVES

Exceptional exposure dives are those dives in which the risk of decompression
sickness, oxygen toxicity, and/or exposure to the elements is substantially greater
than on normal working dives. These exceptional exposure schedules are intended
to be used only in emergencies such as diver entrapment. Exceptional exposures
should not be planned in advance except under the most unusual operational
circumstances. The Commanding Officer must carefully assess the need for planned
exceptional exposure diving in accordance with OPNAVINST 3150.27 (series).

9-30 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Exceptional exposure dives are defined by the required decompression time for the
decompression mode selected. The following air dives are considered exceptional
exposure.

n Any air dive deeper than 190 fsw.

n Any in-water decompression dive with a total decompression time on air or air/
oxygen greater than 90 minutes.

n Any SurDO2 dive with a chamber oxygen time greater than 120 minutes (4
oxygen periods).

NOTE The Commanding Officer must have approval to conduct planned

exceptional exposure dives.

9-11 VARIATIONS IN RATE OF ASCENT

The following rules for correcting for variations in rate of ascent apply to all the
tables given in this chapter. The normal rate of ascent to the first stop and between
subsequent stops is 30 fsw/min. Minor variations in the rate of travel between 20
and 40 fsw/min are acceptable and do not require correction.

9-11.1 Travel Rate Exceeded. If the rate of ascent is greater than 40 fsw/min, stop the
ascent, allow the watches to catch up, and then continue ascent.

9-11.2 Early Arrival at the First Decompression Stop. If the divers arrive early at the first
decompression stop:
1. Begin timing the first stop when the required travel time has been completed.

2. If the first stop is an oxygen stop, shift the divers to oxygen upon arrival at
the stop. Begin stop time when the divers are confirmed on oxygen and the
required travel time has been completed.

9-11.3 Delays in Arriving at the First Decompression Stop

n Delay up to 1 minute. A delay of up to one minute in reaching the first

decompression stop can be ignored.

n Delay greater than 1 minute, deeper than 50 fsw. Round up the delay
time to the next whole minute and add it to the bottom time. Recompute the
decompression schedule. If no change in schedule is required, continue on
the planned decompression. If a change in schedule is required and the new
schedule calls for a decompression stop deeper than the diver’s current depth,
perform any missed deeper stops at the diver’s current depth. Do not go deeper.
Example: Divers make a dive to 115 fsw. Stage depth is 113 fsw. Bottom time
is 55 minutes. According to the 120 fsw / 55 min decompression schedule, the

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-31

 first decompression stop is 30 fsw. During ascent, the divers were delayed at
100 fsw for 3 minutes 27 seconds and it actually took 6 min 13 seconds to reach
the 30-foot decompression stop. Determine the new decompression schedule.

The total delay is 3 minutes 27 seconds. Round this delay time up to the next
whole minute, 4 minutes, and add the rounded up delay to the bottom time.
The new bottom time is 59 minutes. Re-compute the decompression schedule
using a 60-min bottom time and continue decompression according to the new
decompression schedule, 120 fsw / 60 min. This dive is illustrated in Figure 9-13.

n Delay greater than 1 minute, shallower than 50 fsw. If a delay in ascent

greater than 1 minute occurs shallower than 50 fsw, round the delay time up to
the next whole minute and add the delay time to the diver’s first decompression
stop.
Example: Divers made a dive to 113 fsw. Bottom time was 60 minutes. According
to the Air Decompression Table, the first decompression stop is at 30 fsw. During
ascent, the divers were delayed at 40 fsw and it actually took 6 minutes 20
seconds to reach the 30-fsw stop. Determine the new decompression schedule.

If the divers had maintained an ascent rate of 30 fsw/min, the correct ascent time
would have been 2 minutes 46 seconds. Because it took 6 minutes 20 seconds
to reach the 30-fsw stop, there was a delay of 3 minutes 34 seconds (6 minutes
20 seconds minus 2 minutes 46 seconds). Therefore, increase the length of the
30-fsw decompression stop by 3 minutes 34 seconds, rounded up to 4 minutes.
Instead of 14 minutes on oxygen at 30 fsw, the divers must spend 18 minutes
on oxygen. This dive is illustrated in Figure 9-14.

9.11.4 Delays in Leaving a Stop or Between Decompression Stops.

n Delay less than 1 minute leaving an air stop. When the delay in leaving
an air stop is less than 1 minute, disregard the delay. Resume the normal
decompression when the delay is over.

n Delay less than 1 minute between air stops. If the delay between stops is less
than 1 minute, disregard the delay.

n Delay greater than 1 minute leaving an air stop or between air stops deeper
than 50 fsw. Add the delay to the bottom time and recalculate the required
decompression. If a new schedule is required, pick up the new schedule at
the present stop or subsequent stop if delay occurs between stops. Ignore any
missed stops or time deeper than the depth at which the delay occurred.

n Delay greater than 1 minute leaving an air stop or between air stops
shallower than 50 fsw. Ignore the delay. Resume the normal schedule upon
completion of the delay.

n Delay leaving an oxygen stop at 30 fsw or delay between oxygen stops at

30 and 20 fsw. Subtract any delay in leaving the 30 fsw oxygen stop or any

9-32 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 1503
Date: 22 Oct 07 Type of Dive: AIR HeO2
Diver 1: ND1 Schlabach Diver 2: ND2 Hedrick Standby: HM2 Montgomery
Rig: KM 37 PSIG: O2%: Rig: KM 37 PSIG: O2%: Rig: KM 37 PSIG: O2%:
Diving Supervisor: NDC Blanton Chartman: LT Slappy Bottom Mix:
EVENT STOP TIME CLOCK TIME EVENT TIME/DEPTH
LS or 20 fsw 1300 Descent Time (Water) :02
RB 1302 Stage Depth (fsw) 113
LB 1355 Maximum Depth (fsw) 113+2=115
st
R 1 Stop 1402 Total Bottom Time :55+:04=:59
190 fsw Table/Schedule 120/60
st
180 fsw Time to 1 Stop (Actual) :06::13
st
170 fsw Time to 1 Stop (Planned) :02::46
st
160 fsw Delay to 1 Stop :03::27
150 fsw Travel/Shift/Vent Time :02
140 fsw Ascent Time-Water/SurD (Actual) :45
130 fsw Undress Time-SurD (Actual)
120 fsw Descent Chamber-SurD (Actual)
110 fsw Total SurD Surface Interval
100 fsw :3::27 1359 Ascent Time–Chamber (Actual)
90 fsw HOLDS ON DESCENT
80 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
70 fsw
60 fsw
50 fsw
40 fsw DELAYS ON ASCENT
30 fsw :02+:14 1418 DEPTH PROBLEM
20 fsw :16+:05+:23 1502 100 fouled
RS 1503
RB CHAMBER
50 fsw chamber DECOMPRESSION PROCEDURES USED
40 fsw chamber AIR
30 fsw chamber o In-water Air decompression
 In-water Air/O2 decompression
RS CHAMBER
o SurDO2
TDT TTD HeO2
o In-water HeO2/O2 decompression
1:08 2:03 o SurDO2
REPETITIVE GROUP: Z
Remarks: Diver fouled at 100 fsw for :3::27. Rounded up to :4 add to BT, Re-compute T/S

Figure 9‑13. Completed Air Diving Chart: Delay in Ascent deeper than 50 fsw.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-33

 1711
Date: 22 Oct 07 Type of Dive: AIR HeO2
Diver 1: ND1 Bauer Diver 2: ND2 Brown Standby: HM2 Seymour
Rig: KM 37 PSIG: O2%: Rig: KM 37 PSIG: O2%: Rig: KM 37 PSIG: O2%:
Diving Supervisor: NDC Poulan Chartman: CDR Daubon Bottom Mix:
EVENT STOP TIME CLOCK TIME EVENT TIME/DEPTH
LS or 20 fsw 1500 Descent Time (Water) :02
RB 1502 Stage Depth (fsw) 113
LB 1600 Maximum Depth (fsw) 113+2=115
st
R 1 Stop 1607 Total Bottom Time :60
190 fsw Table/Schedule 120/60
180 fsw Time to 1st Stop ( Actual) :06::20
st
170 fsw Time to 1 Stop (Planned) :02::46
st
160 fsw Delay to 1 Stop :03::34
150 fsw Travel/Shift/Vent Time :02
140 fsw Ascent Time-Water/SurD (Actual) :45
130 fsw Undress Time-SurD (Actual)
120 fsw Descent Chamber-SurD (Actual)
110 fsw Total SurD Surface Interval
100 fsw Ascent Time–Chamber (Actual)
90 fsw HOLDS ON DESCENT
80 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
70 fsw
60 fsw
50 fsw
40 fsw :03::34 1606 DELAYS ON ASCENT
30 fsw :02+:04+:14 1626 DEPTH PROBLEM
20 fsw :12+:05+:27 1710 40 fouled
RS 1711
RB CHAMBER
50 fsw chamber DECOMPRESSION PROCEDURES USED
40 fsw chamber AIR
30 fsw chamber o In-water Air decompression
 In-water Air/O2 decompression
RS CHAMBER
o SurDO2
TDT TTD HeO2
o In-water HeO2/O2 decompression
1:11 2:11 o SurDO2
REPETITIVE GROUP: Z
Remarks: Diver fouled at 40 fsw for :3::34. Rounded up to :04 add to 1st stop.

Figure 9‑14. Completed Air Diving Chart: Delay in Ascent Shallower than 50 fsw.

9-34 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 delay during travel from 30 to 20 fsw on oxygen from the subsequent 20-fsw
oxygen stop time. If the delay causes the total time on oxygen deeper than 20
fsw to exceed 30 minutes, shift the diver to air at the 30-minute mark. When
the problem has been resolved, shift the diver back to oxygen and resume
decompression. Ignore any time spent on air.
Example: The diver’s decompression schedule calls for a 20 min stop on
oxygen at 30 fsw and a 40 min stop on oxygen at 20 fsw. The diver has a 15
min delay leaving the 30-fsw stop due to a stage malfunction.

The first 10 minutes of the delay can be spent on oxygen at 30 fsw, giving a
total oxygen time of 30 minutes at 30 fsw. The diver should then be shifted to
air for the remaining 5 minutes of the delay. When the problem is resolved,
switch the diver back to oxygen at 30 fsw and ascend to 20 fsw to begin the 20-
fsw stop time. The 20-fsw stop time is reduced from 40 to 30 minutes because
of the extra 10 minutes spent on oxygen at 30 fsw. The 5 minute air break is
ignored.

n Delay in leaving the 20-fsw oxygen stop. Delays leaving the 20-fsw oxygen
stop can be ignored. However, do not leave divers on oxygen longer than 30
minutes as described in paragraph 9-8.2.2. Shift the divers to air and remain on
air until travel to the surface is possible.

n Delay in Travel from 40 fsw to the Surface for Surface Decompression.

Disregard any delays in travel from 40 fsw to the surface during surface
decompression unless the diver exceeds the allowed 5-minute surface interval.
If the diver exceeds the 5-minute surface interval, follow the guidance in
paragraph 9-12.6.

9-12 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

In air diving, specific procedures are used in emergency situations. The following
paragraphs detail these emergency procedures.

9-12.1 Bottom Time in Excess of the Table

In the rare instance of diver entrapment or umbilical fouling, bottom time may
exceed the longest bottom time listed in the table for the diver’s depth. When it is
foreseen the bottom time will exceed the longest listed value, immediately contact
the Navy Experimental Diving Unit for advice on how to decompress. If the Navy
Experimental Diving Unit cannot be contacted in time, take the following action:
1. If available, use the U.S. Navy Thalmann Algorithm Dive Planner to compute
the decompression requirement.

2. Read down to deeper depths in the Air Decompression Table until a depth is
found that has a schedule that is equal to or longer than the bottom time. The Air

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-35

 Decompression Table contains longer schedules at various depths especially
for this purpose.

Example: A diver is trapped on the bottom at a depth of 155 fsw. By the time he
is freed, the bottom time is 100 min. The longest schedule in the 160 fsw table is
80 min. Read down to the 170 fsw table. The 120 min schedule is longer than the
diver’s bottom time. Decompress the diver on the 170 fsw / 120 minute schedule.

9-12.2 Loss of Oxygen Supply in the Water

If the diver cannot be shifted to oxygen at 30 or 20 fsw:

1. Have the diver continue to breathe air while the problem is investigated.

2. If the problem can be corrected quickly, ventilate the diver with oxygen as
soon as the gas supply is restored. Consider any time spent on air as dead time.
Remain on oxygen at the stop for the full stop time listed in the table.

3. If the problem cannot be corrected, initiate surface decompression or continue

decompression in the water on air. In this situation, the surface interval for
surface decompression is the time from leaving the in-water stop to reaching
the 50-fsw stop in the recompression chamber.

If the oxygen supply is lost during the 30 or 20-fsw water stops after the diver has
shifted to oxygen:

1. Shift the diver back to air.

2. If the problem can be corrected quickly, re-ventilate the diver with oxygen and
resume the schedule at the point of interruption. Consider any time spent on air
as dead time.

3. If the problem cannot be corrected and a recompression chamber is available

on the dive station, initiate surface decompression. Compute the number of
chamber oxygen periods required by multiplying the remaining oxygen time at
the stops by 1.1, dividing the total by 30 minutes, then rounding the result up
to the next highest half period. One half period (15 minutes at 50 fsw) is the
minimum requirement.
Example: The oxygen supply is lost permanently when the diver has a
remaining oxygen time of 5 minutes at 30 fsw and 33 minutes at 20 fsw. The
total remaining oxygen time is 38 minutes. The number of 30-min SurDO2
periods required is (1.1 × 38) / 30 = 1.39. This number is rounded up to 1.5.

4. If the problem cannot be corrected and a recompression chamber is not available

on the dive station, continue decompression on air in the water. Compute the
remaining stop time on air at the depth of the loss by multiplying the remaining

9-36 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 stop time on oxygen at that depth by the ratio of the air stop time to the oxygen
time at that depth.
Example: The oxygen supply is lost permanently when the diver has a
remaining oxygen time of 10 minutes at 20 fsw. His decompression schedule
calls for either 140 minutes on air at 20 fsw or 34 minutes on oxygen at 20 fsw.
The ratio of air stop time to oxygen time at the 20-fsw stop is 140/34 = 4.12.
His remaining time on air at 20 fsw is 10 × 4.12 = 41.2 minutes. Round this
time up to 42 minutes.

If the shift to air occurs at 30 fsw, compute the remaining stop time on air at 30
fsw as shown above, then take the full 20-fsw air stop as prescribed in the Air
Decompression Table.

9-12.3 Contamination of Oxygen Supply with Air

It will be difficult to detect mixing of air with the oxygen supply during oxygen
decompression in the water as no voice change will occur as it does in helium-
oxygen diving. On shifting to oxygen, the ORCA operator should verify that the
ORCA is properly lined up and that the oxygen monitor, if one is present, indicates
100% oxygen going to the diver’s umbilical. The diver should monitor his EGS
pressure gauge periodically to ensure that there is no drop in pressure.

If the operator discovers that the ORCA is improperly lined up, take the following
action:
1. Align the ORCA properly.

2. Re-ventilate each diver with oxygen for 20 seconds.

3. Restart oxygen time. Consider any time spent on contaminated oxygen as dead
time.

9-12.4 CNS Oxygen Toxicity Symptoms (Non-convulsive) at 30 or 20 fsw Water Stop

Most divers will easily tolerate the oxygen exposures prescribed by these Tables.
CNS oxygen toxicity symptoms, if they do develop, are most likely to occur near
the end of the 20-fsw oxygen stop. Nausea is the most likely symptom.

If the diver develops symptoms of CNS toxicity at the 30- or 20-fsw water stops,
take the following action:
1. If a recompression chamber is available on the dive station, initiate surface
decompression. Shift the console to air during travel to the surface. Compute
the number of chamber oxygen periods required by multiplying the remaining
oxygen time at the stops by 1.1, dividing the total by 30 minutes, then rounding
the result up to the next highest half period. One half period (15 minutes at 50
fsw) is the minimum requirement.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-37

 2. If a recompression chamber is not available on the dive station and the event
occurs at 30 fsw, bring the divers up 10 fsw and shift to air to reduce the partial
pressure of oxygen. Shift the console as the divers are traveling to 20 fsw.
Ventilate both divers with air upon arrival at 20 fsw. Ventilate the affected
diver first. Complete the decompression on air at 20 fsw. Compute the 20-fsw
stop time as follows: Multiply the missed stop time on oxygen at 30 fsw by the
ratio of the air to oxygen stop time at 30 fsw to obtain the equivalent missed
air time at 30 fsw. Add this time to the 20-fsw air stop time shown in the Air
Decompression Table.

3. If a recompression chamber is not available on the dive station and the event
occurs at 20 fsw, shift the console to air, ventilate both divers, affected diver
first, and complete the decompression in the water at 20 fsw on air. Compute the
remaining stop time on air at 20 fsw by multiplying the remaining stop time on
oxygen at 20 fsw by the ratio of the air stop time to the oxygen time at 20 fsw.
Example: After 10 minutes on oxygen at 30 fsw, a diver has a non-convulsive
CNS oxygen toxicity symptom. A recompression chamber is not available on
the dive station. The diver is immediately brought up to 20 fsw and ventilated
with air. His decompression schedule calls for 28 minutes on air at 30 fsw and
175 minutes on air at 20 fsw. The oxygen stop time at 30 fsw is 14 minutes.
The missed oxygen time at 30 fsw is 4 minutes (14 – 10). The ratio of air to
oxygen time at 30 fsw is 28/14 = 2.0. The missed air time at 30 fsw therefore
is 4 × 2.0 = 8 minutes. The required air decompression time at 20 fsw is 183
minutes (8 + 175).

Example: After 21 minutes on oxygen at 20 fsw, a diver has a non-convulsive

CNS oxygen toxicity symptom. A recompression chamber is not available
on the dive station. The diver is shifted to air with 10 min of oxygen time
remaining at 20 fsw. His decompression schedule calls for either 140 minutes
on air at 20 fsw or 31 minutes on oxygen at 20 fsw. The ratio of air stop time to
oxygen time at the 20-fsw stop is 140/31 = 4.52. His remaining time on air at
20 fsw is 10 × 4.52 = 45.2 minutes. Round this time up to 46 minutes.

9-12.5 Oxygen Convulsion at the 30- or 20-fsw Water Stop

If symptoms progress to an oxygen convulsion despite the above measures, or if a

convulsion occurs suddenly without warning, take the following action.
1. Shift both divers to air if this action has not already been taken.
2. Have the unaffected diver ventilate himself and then ventilate the stricken
diver.
3. If only one diver is in the water, launch the standby diver immediately and have
him ventilate the stricken diver.
4. Hold the divers at depth until the tonic-clonic phase of the convulsion has
subsided. The tonic-clonic phase of a convulsion generally lasts 1–2 minutes.

9-38 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 5. At the end of the tonic-clonic phase, have the dive partner or standby diver
ascertain whether the diver is breathing. The presence or absence of breath
sounds will usually be audible over the diver communication system.
6. If the diver appears not to be breathing, have the dive partner or standby diver
attempt to reposition the head to open the airway. Airway obstruction will be
the most common reason why an unconscious diver fails to breathe.
7. If the diver is breathing, hold him at depth until he is stable, then surface
decompress. Compute the number of chamber oxygen periods required by
multiplying the remaining oxygen time at the stops by 1.1, dividing the total
by 30 min, then rounding the result up to the next highest half period. One half
period (15 minutes at 50 fsw) is the minimum requirement.
8. If surface decompression is not feasible, continue decompression on air in the
water. Compute the remaining stop time on air at the depth of the incident by
multiplying the remaining stop time on oxygen at that depth by the ratio of the
air stop time to the oxygen time at that depth. If the shift to air occurs at 30 fsw,
compute the remaining stop time on air at 30 fsw, then take the full 20-fsw air
stop as prescribed in the Air Decompression Table.
9. If it is not possible to verify that the affected diver is breathing, leave the
unaffected diver at the stop to complete decompression, and surface the
affected diver and the standby diver at 30 fsw/min. The standby diver should
attempt to maintain an open airway on the stricken diver during ascent. On the
surface, the affected diver should receive any necessary airway support and be
immediately recompressed and treated for arterial gas embolism in accordance
with Figure 17-1.

9-12.6 Surface Interval Greater than 5 Minutes. If the time from leaving 40 fsw in the
water to the time of arrival at 50 fsw in the chamber during surface decompression
exceeds 5 minutes, take the following action:
1. If the surface interval is more than 5 minutes but less than or equal to 7 minutes,
increase the time on oxygen at 50 fsw from 15 to 30 minutes, i.e., add one-
half oxygen period to the 50 fsw chamber stop. Ascend to 40 fsw during the
subsequent air break. The 15-min penalty is considered a part of the normal
surface decompression procedure, not an emergency procedure.
Example: Divers are decompressing on a SurDO2 schedule that requires 1.5
oxygen breathing periods. It took 6 minutes and 20 seconds to travel from 40
fsw to the surface, undress the diver, and recompress to 50 fsw in the chamber.
The divers are placed on oxygen at 50 fsw in the chamber. They will breathe
oxygen at 50 fsw for the 15 minutes (one-half period) required by the original
schedule plus an additional 15 minutes to compensate for exceeding the normal
5-min surface interval. Upon completion of 30 minutes on oxygen at 50 fsw,
they will remove the BIBS to initiate a 5-minute air break and ascend from
50 fsw to 40 fsw at 30 fsw/min while breathing air. After 5 minutes on air, the
divers will breathe oxygen for 30 minutes to complete the oxygen time required
at 40 fsw on the original schedule. After 30 minutes on oxygen at 40 fsw, the
divers will remove the BIBS and ascend to the surface at 30 fsw/min breathing

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-39

 air. Because the divers exceeded the normal 5-minute surface interval, the total
number of oxygen periods is increased from 1.5 to 2.0.
2. If the surface interval is greater than 7 minutes, continue compression to a depth
of 60 fsw. Treat the divers on Treatment Table 5 if the original schedule required
2 or fewer oxygen periods in the chamber. Treat the divers on Treatment Table
6 if the original schedule required 2.5 or more oxygen periods in the chamber.

3. On rare occasions a diver may be unable to reach 50 fsw in the chamber due
to difficulty equalizing middle ear pressure. In this situation, an alternative
procedure for surface decompression on oxygen may be used:

n Begin oxygen breathing at the initially attained depth - presumed to be less

than 20 fsw.

n If surface decompression was initiated while the diver was decompressing

on oxygen in the water at 20 fsw, attempt to gradually compress the diver
to 20 fsw.

n If surface decompression was initiated from deeper than 20 fsw, attempt to

gradually compress the diver to 30 fsw.

n In either case, double the number of chamber oxygen periods indicated

in the table and take these periods at the deepest depth the diver is able to
attain. Oxygen time starts when the diver initially goes on oxygen.

n Interrupt oxygen breathing every 60 minutes with a 15-min air break. The
air break does not count toward the total oxygen time.

n Surface the diver at 30 fsw/min upon completion of the oxygen breathing

periods and carefully observe the diver for the onset of decompression
sickness.

This “safe way out” procedure is not intended to be used in place of normal surface
decompression procedures. Divers that experienced ear difficulty on descent in the
water column may not be good candidates for surface decompression.

Repetitive diving is not authorized following use of this procedure.

9-12.7 Decompression Sickness During the Surface Interval. If symptoms of Type

I decompression sickness occur during travel from 40 fsw to the surface during
surface decompression or during the surface undress phase, compress the diver to
50 fsw following normal surface decompression procedures. Delay neurological
exam until the diver reaches the 50-fsw stop and is on oxygen. If Type I symptoms
resolve during the 15 minute 50-fsw stop, the surface interval was 5 minutes or
less, and no neurological signs are found, increase the 50 fsw oxygen time from
15 to 30 minutes as outlined above, then continue normal decompression for the
schedule of the dive. Ascend from 50 to 40 fsw during the subsequent air break.

9-40 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 If Type I symptoms do not resolve during the 15 minute 50-fsw stop or symptoms
resolve but the surface interval was greater than 5 minutes, compress the diver to
60 fsw on oxygen. Treat the diver on Treatment Table 5 if the original schedule
required 2 or fewer oxygen periods in the chamber. Treat the diver on Treatment
Table 6 if the original schedule required 2.5 or more oxygen periods in the
chamber. Treatment table time starts upon arrival at 60 fsw. Follow the guidelines
for treatment of decompression sickness given in Chapter 18.

If symptoms of Type II decompression sickness occur during travel from 40 fsw

to the surface, during the surface undress phase, or the neurological examination
at 50 fsw is abnormal, compress the diver to 60 fsw on oxygen. Treat the diver on
Treatment Table 6. Treatment table time starts upon arrival at 60 fsw. Follow the
guidelines for treatment of decompression sickness given in Chapter 18.

Table 9-2 summarizes the guidance for managing an extended surface interval and
for managing Type I decompression sickness during the surface interval.

Table 9‑2. Management of Extended Surface Interval and Type I Decompression Sickness during the
Surface Interval.

Surface Interval Symptomatic Diver

Asymptomatic Diver
(Note 1) (Type I DCS)

Increase O2 time at 50 fsw from 15 to

5 min or less Follow original schedule
30 min (Note 2)

Greater than 5 min but less than or Increase O2 time at 50 fsw from 15 to
equal to 7 min 30 min Treatment Table 5 if 2 or fewer
SurDO2 periods
Treatment Table 5 if 2 or fewer
SurDO2 periods
Treatment Table 6 if more than 2
Greater than 7 min
SurDO2 periods
Treatment Table 6 if more than 2
SurDO2 periods

Notes:
1. Surface interval is the time from leaving the 40-fsw water stop to arriving at the 50-fsw chamber stop.
2. Type I symptoms must completely resolve during the first 15 minutes at 50 fsw and a full neurological examination at 50
fsw must be normal. If symptoms do not resolve within 15 min, treat the diver on Treatment Tables 5 or 6 as indicated for
surface intervals longer than 5 min.
3. If Type II symptoms are present at any time during the surface interval or the neurological examination at 50 fsw is
abnormal, treat the diver on Treatment Table 6.

If DCS symptoms appear while the diver is undergoing decompression at 50, 40

or 30 fsw in the chamber, treat the symptoms as a recurrence in accordance with
Figure 17-3.

9-12.8 Loss of Oxygen Supply in the Chamber

For loss of oxygen supply in the chamber, have the diver breathe chamber air. If
the loss is temporary, return the diver to oxygen breathing. Consider any time spent
on air as dead time.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-41

 If the loss of the oxygen supply is permanent, complete decompression in the
chamber on 50% nitrogen 50% oxygen (preferred) or on air. If 50% nitrogen
50% oxygen is available, multiply the remaining oxygen time by two to obtain
the equivalent chamber decompression time on 50/50. Air breaks are not required
when breathing 50/50. Diver may remove mask briefly (e.g., for drinking fluids).
Consider any time spent on air as dead time. If chamber air is the only gas available,
multiply the remaining chamber time on oxygen by the ratio of the water stop times
on air at 30 and 20 fsw to the oxygen time at those depths to obtain the equivalent
chamber decompression time on air. Allocate 10% of the equivalent air or 50/50
nitrogen-oxygen time to the 40-fsw stop, 20% to the 30-fsw stop, and 70% to the
20-fsw stop. If the diver is at 50 fsw when the loss occurs, ascend to 40 fsw and
begin the stop time. If the loss occurred at 30 fsw, allocate 30% of the equivalent
air or nitrogen-oxygen time to the 30-fsw stop and 70% to the 20-fsw stop. Round
the stop times to the nearest whole minute. Surface the divers upon completion of
the 20-fsw stop.

Example: A SurDO2 schedule calls for two 30-min oxygen periods in the chamber.
The chamber oxygen supply is lost permanently after 28 minutes on oxygen at 50
and 40 fsw. Chamber air is the only gas available. The remaining oxygen time is (2
× 30) – 28 = 32 minutes. The original decompression schedule calls for 52 and 140
minute in-water air decompression stops at 30 and 20 fsw for a total air stop time
of 192 minutes. The corresponding oxygen stop times are 13 and 34 minutes, for a
total of oxygen stop time of 47 min. The ratio of air stop time to oxygen stop time
is 192/47 = 4.08. The remaining chamber air time is 32 × 4.08 = 131 minutes. This
time is allocated as follows: 13 min at 40 fsw (131 × 0.1), 26 min at 30 fsw (131 ×
0.2), and 92 min at 20 fsw (131 × 0.7).

9-12.9 CNS Oxygen Toxicity in the Chamber

At the first sign of CNS oxygen toxicity, the diver should be removed from
oxygen and allowed to breathe chamber air. Fifteen minutes after all symptoms
have completely subsided, resume oxygen breathing at the point of interruption. If
symptoms develop again, or if the first symptom is a convulsion, take the following
action:
1. Remove the mask.

2. After all symptoms have completely subsided, decompress 10 feet at a rate of

1 fsw/min. For a convulsion, begin travel when the patient is fully relaxed and
breathing normally.

3. Resume oxygen breathing at the shallower depth at the point of schedule

interruption.

4. If another oxygen symptom occurs after ascending 10 fsw, complete

decompression on chamber air. Compute the remaining chamber time on air as
shown in paragraph 9-12.8 above. If the diver is at 40 fsw, allocate 10% of the
remaining air time to the 40-fsw stop, 20% to the 30-fsw stop, and 70% to the
20-fsw stop. If the diver is at 30 fsw, allocate 30% of the remaining time to the

9-42 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 30-fsw stop and 70% to the 20-fsw stop. Round the stop times to the nearest
whole minute. Surface the divers upon completion of the 20-fsw stop.

9-12.10 Asymptomatic Omitted Decompression

Certain emergencies, such as uncontrolled ascents, an exhausted air supply,

or bodily injury may interrupt or prevent required decompression. If the diver
shows symptoms of decompression sickness or arterial gas embolism, immediate
treatment using the appropriate recompression treatment table is essential. Even if
the diver shows no symptoms, omitted decompression must be addressed in some
manner to avert later difficulty.

Omitted decompression may or may not be planned. Planned omitted decompression

results when a condition develops at depth that will require the diver to surface
before completing all of the decompression stops and when there is time to consider
all available options, ready the recompression chamber, and alert all personnel as
to the planned evolution. Equipment malfunctions, diver injury, or sudden severe
storms are examples of these situations. In unplanned omitted decompression, the
diver suddenly appears on the surface without warning or misses decompression
for some unforeseen reason.

Table 9-3 summarizes management of asymptomatic omitted decompression.

Table 9‑3. Management of Asymptomatic Omitted Decompression.

Action

Deepest Decompression Surface Interval Chamber Available No Chamber

Stop Omitted (Note 1) (Note 2) Available

None Any Observe on surface for 1 hour

Return to depth of stop. Increase stop time by 1 min. Resume
Less than 1 min
decompression according to original schedule.

Use Surface Decompression

1 to 7 min
Procedure (Note 3)
20 or 30 fsw Return to depth of stop.
Treatment Table 5 if 2 or fewer Multiply 30 and/or 20 fsw air
SurDO2 periods or O2 stop times by 1.5.
Greater than 7 min
Treatment Table 6 If more than
2 SurDO2 periods
Descend to depth of first stop.
Follow the schedule to 30
Deeper than
Any Treatment Table 6 (Note 4) fsw. Switch to O2 at 30 fsw if
30 fsw
available. Multiply 30 and 20
fsw air or O2 stops by 1.5.
Notes:
1. For surface decompression, surface interval is the time from leaving the stop to arriving at depth in the chamber.
2. Using a recompression chamber is strongly preferred over in-water recompression for returning a diver to pressure.
Compress to depth as fast as possible not to exceed 100 fsw/min.
3. For surface intervals greater than 5 minutes but less than or equal to 7 minutes, increase the oxygen time at 50 fsw
from 15 to 30 minutes.
4. If a diver missed a stop deeper than 50 fsw, compress to 165 fsw and start Treatment Table 6A.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-43

 9-12.10.1 No-Decompression Stops Required

If a diver makes an uncontrolled ascent to the surface at a rate greater than 30

fsw/min, but the dive itself is within no-decompression limits, the diver should be
observed on the surface for one hour to ensure that symptoms of decompression
sickness or arterial gas embolism do not develop. Recompression is not necessary
unless symptoms develop.

9-12.10.2 Omitted Decompression Stops at 30 and 20 fsw

If the diver omits some or all of the decompression time at 30 and/or 20 fsw, take
the following action:
1. If the diver is on the surface for less than one minute, return the diver to depth
of the stop from which he came. Increase that stop time by one minute. Resume
decompression according to the original schedule.

2. If the diver is on the surface for 1 to 5 minutes and a recompression chamber

is available on dive station, place the diver in the recompression chamber and
complete the decompression using surface decompression. If the diver was on
oxygen at the time of the omission, compute the number of chamber oxygen
periods required by multiplying the remaining oxygen time at the stops by 1.1,
dividing the total by 30 min, then rounding the result up to the next highest
half period. If the diver was on air at the time of the omission, first compute the
equivalent remaining oxygen time at the stop as shown in paragraph 9-8.3.2.
If the omission occurred at 20 fsw, use this remaining oxygen time to compute
the number of oxygen periods as shown above. If the omission occurred at 30
fsw, compute the remaining oxygen time at 30 fsw, then add the oxygen time
shown in the decompression table at 20 fsw to get the total remaining oxygen
time. Use the total remaining oxygen time to compute the number of oxygen
periods. In all instances, one half period (15 minutes at 50 fsw) is the minimum
requirement.

3. If the diver is on the surface for more than 5 minutes but less than or equal to
7 minutes and a recompression chamber is available on the dive station, place
the diver in the recompression chamber and complete the decompression using
surface decompression as outlined in paragraph 2 above. Increase the time on
oxygen at 50 fsw from 15 to 30 minutes.

4. If the diver is on the surface for more than 7 minutes and a recompression
chamber is available on the dive station, treat the diver with Treatment Table
5 if the surface decompression schedule for that dive required two or fewer
oxygen periods in the chamber. Treat on Treatment Table 6 if the surface
decompression schedule for that dive required 2.5 or more oxygen periods in
the chamber.

5. If the diver is on the surface for more than 1 minute and a recompression
chamber is not available, return the diver to the depth of the omitted stop.

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 Complete decompression in the water by multiplying the 30- and/or 20-fsw air
or oxygen stops by 1.5.

9-12.10.3 Omitted Decompression Stops Deeper than 30 fsw

If the diver omits part or all of a decompression stop at 40 fsw or deeper and
a recompression chamber is available on the dive station, treat the diver with
Treatment Table 6. If a recompression chamber is not available on the dive station,
return the diver to the depth of the first decompression stop. Follow the original
decompression schedule to 30 fsw. At 30 fsw, shift the diver to oxygen if it is
available. Complete decompression from 30 fsw by multiplying the 30- and 20-fsw
air or oxygen stops by 1.5.

9-12.11 Decompression Sickness in the Water.

In rare instances, decompression sickness may develop in the water during

prolonged decompression on air or air/oxygen. The predominant symptom will
usually be joint pain but more serious manifestations such as numbness, weakness,
hearing loss, and vertigo may also occur. Decompression sickness is most likely
to appear at the shallow stops just prior to surfacing. Some cases, however, have
occurred during ascent to the first stop or shortly thereafter.

Managing decompression sickness in the water will be difficult in the best of

circumstances. Only general guidance can be presented here. Management
decisions must be made on site, taking in account all known factors. The advice of
a Diving Medical Officer should be sought whenever possible.

9-12.11.1 Diver Remaining in the Water. If the diver indicates that he has decompression
sickness but feels he can remain in the water:
1. Dispatch the standby diver to assist. Continue to decompress the other divers
according to the original schedule.

2. If the diver is decompressing on air at 30 or 20 fsw, switch the diver to 100%

oxygen if available.

3. Have the diver descend 10 fsw. If significant relief of symptoms is not obtained,
have the diver descend an additional 10 fsw, but no deeper than 40 fsw if the
diver is on oxygen.

4. Remain at treatment depth for at least 30 minutes.

5. If the diver is on air, resume decompression from treatment depth by multiplying

subsequent air or oxygen stop times in the Air Decompression Table by 1.5.
If recompression went deeper than the depth of the first stop on the original
air decompression schedule, insert intervening stops in 10 fsw increments

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-45

 between the treatment depth and the original first stop depth equal to 1.5 times
the original first stop time.

6. If the diver is undergoing treatment on oxygen at 40 fsw, return to the surface

by multiplying the 30 and 20-fsw oxygen stop times by 1.5. If the original
schedule did not call for a 30-fsw oxygen stop, insert a 30-fsw oxygen stop
with a stop time equal to the 20-fsw stop time.

7. If the diver is undergoing treatment on oxygen at 30 fsw, return to the surface

by multiplying the 20-fsw oxygen stop time by 1.5.

8. If the diver is symptom-free upon surfacing, place the diver on oxygen, transport
to the nearest appropriate recompression chamber, and treat on Treatment Table
5. This requirement may be waived for dives conducted in remote locations
that do not have recompression chambers within a reasonable travel distance. If
the diver is not symptom-free upon surfacing, transport the diver to the nearest
chamber and treat on Treatment Table 6.

9. If a recompression chamber is immediately available on the dive station, the

diving supervisor may elect to forego treatment with in-water recompression
and surface the diver for treatment in the recompression chamber or treat the
diver in the water for 30 minutes to relieve symptoms, then surface the diver
for further treatment in the recompression chamber. In either case, the surface
interval should be 5 minutes or less, and the diver should be considered to
have Type II decompression sickness, even if the symptoms are Type I. After
completing recompression treatment, observe the diver for at least 6 hours. If
any symptoms recur, treat as a recurrence of Type II symptoms.

9-12.11.2 Diver Leaving the Water. If the diver indicates that he has decompression sickness
and feels he cannot safely remain in the water:
1. Surface the diver at a moderate rate (not to exceed 30 fsw/min).

2. If a Level I recompression chamber is available, recompress the diver as

outlined in step 9 above.

3. If a recompression chamber is not immediately available, transport the diver to

the nearest chamber. Follow the management guidance given in Chapter 17.

9-13 DIVING AT ALTITUDE

Because of the reduced atmospheric pressure, dives conducted at altitude require

more decompression than identical dives conducted at sea level. The air
decompression tables, therefore, cannot be used as written. Some organizations
calculate specific decompression tables for use at each altitude. An alternative
approach is to correct the altitude dive to obtain the equivalent sea level dive, then
determine the decompression requirement using standard tables. This procedure is
commonly known as the “Cross Correction” technique and always yields a sea level
dive that is deeper than the actual dive at altitude. A deeper sea level equivalent
dive provides the extra decompression needed to offset effects of diving at altitude.

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 9-13.1 Altitude Correction Procedure. To apply the “Cross Correction” technique, two
corrections must be made for altitude diving. First, the actual dive depth must be
corrected to determine the sea level equivalent depth. Second, the decompression
stops in the sea level equivalent depth table must be corrected for use at altitude.
Strictly speaking, ascent rate should also be corrected, but this third correction can
safely be ignored.

9-13.1.1 Correction of Dive Depth. The depth of the sea level equivalent dive is determined
by multiplying the depth of the dive at altitude by the ratio of the atmospheric
pressure at sea level to the atmospheric pressure at altitude.

Example: A diver makes a dive to 60 fsw at an altitude of 5000 feet. The

atmospheric pressure measured at 5000 feet is 843 millibars (0.832 ATA).
Atmospheric pressure at sea level is assumed to be 1013 millibars (1.000 ATA).
Sea level equivalent depth is then:

9-13.1.2 Correction of Decompression Stop Depth. The depth of the corrected stop at
altitude is calculated by multiplying the depth of a sea level equivalent stop by
the ratio of the atmospheric pressure at altitude to the atmospheric pressure at sea
level. [Note: this ratio is the inverse of the ratio in the formula above.]

Example: A diver makes a dive at an altitude of 5000 feet. An equivalent sea level
dive requires a decompression stop at 20 fsw. Stop depth used at altitude is then:

To simplify calculations, Table 9-4 gives corrected sea level equivalent depths and
equivalent stop depths for dives from 10–190 fsw and for altitudes from 1,000 to
10,000 feet in 1,000 foot increments. For exact calculations, refer to Chapter 2,
Table 2-19 for atmospheric pressure at altitude.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-47

Table 9‑4. Sea Level Equivalent Depth (fsw).

Actual Depth Altitude (feet)

(fsw) 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000 10000
10 10 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15
15 15 20 20 20 20 20 20 25 25 25
20 20 25 25 25 25 25 30 30 30 30
25 25 30 30 30 35 35 35 35 35 40
30 30 35 35 35 40 40 40 45 45 45
35 35 40 40 45 45 45 50 50 50 60
40 40 45 45 50 50 50 55 55 60 60
45 45 50 55 55 55 60 60 70 70 70
50 50 55 60 60 70 70 70 70 70 80
55 55 60 70 70 70 70 80 80 80 80
60 60 70 70 70 80 80 80 90 90 90
65 65 70 80 80 80 90 90 90 100 100
70 70 80 80 90 90 90 100 100 100 110
75 75 90 90 90 100 100 100 110 110 110
80 80 90 90 100 100 100 110 110 120 120
85 85 100 100 100 110 110 120 120 120 130
90 90 100 110 110 110 120 120 130 130 140
95 95 110 110 110 120 120 130 130 140 140
100 100 110 120 120 130 130 130 140 140 150
105 105 120 120 130 130 140 140 150 150 160
110 110 120 130 130 140 140 150 150 160 160
115 115 130 130 140 140 150 150 160 170 170
120 120 130 140 140 150 150 160 170 170 180
125 125 140 140 150 160 160 170 170 180 190
130 130 140 150 160 160 170 170 180 190 190
135 135 150 160 160 170 170 180 190 190 200
140 140 160 160 170 170 180 190 190 200 210
145 145 160 170 170 180 190 190 200 210
150 160 170 170 180 190 190 200 210
155 170 170 180 180 190 200 210
160 170 180 180 190 200 200
165 180 180 190 200 200
170 180 190 190 200
175 190 190 200
180 190 200 210
185 200 200
190 200
Table
Water Stops Equivalent Stop Depths (fsw)
10 10 9 9 9 8 8 8 7 7 7
20 19 19 18 17 17 16 15 15 14 14
30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 21
40 39 37 36 35 33 32 31 30 29 28
50 48 47 45 43 42 40 39 37 36 34
60 58 56 54 52 50 48 46 45 43 41
Note: = Exceptional Exposure Limit

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 WARNING Table 9-4 cannot be used when diving with equipment that maintains a
constant partial pressure of oxygen such as the MK 16 MOD 0 and the MK
16 MOD 1. Consult NAVSEA 00C for specific guidance when diving the
MK 16 at altitudes greater than 1000 feet.

9-13.2 Need for Correction. No correction is required for dives conducted at altitudes
between sea level and 300 feet. The additional risk associated with these dives is
minimal. At altitudes between 300 and 1000 feet, correction is required for dives
deeper than 145 fsw (actual depth). At altitudes above 1000 feet, correction is
required for all dives.

9-13.3 Depth Measurement at Altitude. The preferred method for measuring depth at
altitude is a mechanical or electronic gauge that can be re-zeroed at the dive site.
Once re-zeroed, no further correction of the reading is required.

When using a recompression chamber for decompression, zero the chamber depth
gauges before conducting surface decompression.

Most mechanical depth gauges carried by divers have a sealed one-atmosphere

reference and cannot be adjusted for altitude; thus they will read low throughout a
dive at altitude. A correction factor of 1 fsw for every 1000 feet of altitude should
be added to the reading of a sealed reference gauge before entering Table 9-4.

Pneumofathometers can be used at altitude. Add the pneumofathometer

correction factor (Table 9-1) to the depth reading before entering Table 9-4. The
pneumofathometer correction factors are unchanged at altitude.

A sounding line or fathometer may be used to measure the depth if a suitable depth
gauge is not available. These devices measure the linear distance below the surface
of the water, not the water pressure. Though fresh water is less dense than sea water,
all dives will be assumed to be conducted in sea water, thus no corrections will be
made based on water salinity. Enter Table 9-4 directly with the depth indicated on
the line or fathometer.

9-13.4 Equilibration at Altitude. Upon ascent to altitude, two things happen. The body
off-gases excess nitrogen to come into equilibrium with the lower partial pressure
of nitrogen in the atmosphere. It also begins a series of complicated adjustments
to the lower partial pressure of oxygen. The first process is called equilibration;
the second is called acclimatization. Approximately twelve hours at altitude is
required for equilibration. A longer period is required for full acclimatization.

If a diver begins a dive at altitude within 12 hours of arrival, the residual nitrogen
left over from sea level must be taken into account. In effect, the initial dive at
altitude can be considered a repetitive dive, with the first dive being the ascent
from sea level to altitude. Table 9-5 gives the repetitive group associated with an
initial ascent to altitude. Using this group and time at altitude before diving, enter
the Residual Nitrogen Timetable for Repetitive Air Dives (Table 9-8) to determine
the new repetitive group designator associated with that period of equilibration.
Determine the sea level equivalent depth for your planned dive using Table 9-4.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-49

 Table 9‑5. Repetitive Groups Associated with Initial Ascent to Altitude.

Altitude (feet) Repetitive Group

1000 A

2000 A

3000 B

4000 C

5000 D

6000 E

7000 F

8000 G

9000 H

10000 I

From your new repetitive group and sea level equivalent depth, determine the
residual nitrogen time associated with the dive. Add this time to the actual bottom
time of the dive. If the diver has spent enough time at altitude to desaturate beyond
repetitive group A in Table 9-8, no addition of residual nitrogen time to bottom time
is needed. The diver is “clean.”

Example: A diver ascends rapidly to 6000 feet in a helicopter and begins a dive to
100 fsw 90 minutes later. How much residual nitrogen time should be added to the
dive?

From Table 9-5, the repetitive group upon arrival at 6000 feet is Group E. During
90 minutes at altitude, the diver will desaturate to Group D. From Table 9-4, the sea
level equivalent depth for a 100 fsw dive is 130 fsw. From Table 9-8, the residual
nitrogen time for a 130 fsw dive in Group D is 11 minutes. The diver should add
11 minutes to the bottom time.

Table 9-5 can also be used when a diver who is fully equilibrated at one altitude
ascends to and dives at a higher altitude. Enter Table 9-5 with the difference
between the two altitudes to determine the initial repetitive group.

Example: Divers equilibrated at a base camp altitude of 6000 feet fly by helicopter
to the dive site at 10,000 feet. The difference between the altitudes is 4000 feet.
From Table 9-5, the initial repetitive group to be used at 10,000 feet is Group C.

WARNING Altitudes above 10,000 feet can impose serious stress on the body resulting
in significant medical problems while the acclimatization process takes
place. Ascents to these altitudes must be slow to allow acclimatization to
occur and prophylactic drugs may be required to prevent the occurrence
of altitude sickness. These exposures should always be planned in
consultation with a Diving Medical Officer. Commands conducting diving
operations above 10,000 feet may obtain the appropriate decompression
procedures from NAVSEA 00C.

9-50 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Date: __________________
DIVING AT ALTITUDE WORKSHEET

Actual Dive Site Altitude________________ feet

1. Altitude from Table 9-4 ________ feet
2. Actual Depth of Dive (Corrected per Section 9-13.3) ________ fsw
3. Sea Level Equivalent Depth from Table 9-4 ________ SLED
4. Repetitive Group from Table 9-5 ________
5. Time at Altitude ________ hrs ________ min
6. New Repetitive Group Designator from Table 9-8 ________
7. Residual Nitrogen Time ________ min
8. Planned Bottom Time + ________ min
9. Equivalent Single Dive Time = ________ min
10. Decompression Mode
o No-Decompression o In-water Air/Oxygen Decompression

o In-water Air Decompression o Surface Decompression Using Oxygen

11. Table/Schedule _______ / _______

12. Decompression Schedule

Sea Level Stop Depth Altitude Stop Depth Water Stop Time Chamber Stop Time
60 fsw _________ fsw ________ min
50 fsw _________ fsw ________ min ________ min *
40 fsw _________ fsw ________ min ________ min *
30 fsw _________ fsw ________ min ________ min *
20 fsw _________ fsw ________ min

13. Repetitive Group Designator ______ * Chamber stops on SurDO2 will be at

50, 40, and 30 fsw

Figure 9‑15. Diving at Altitude Worksheet.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-51

 9-13.5 Diving at Altitude Worksheet. Figure 9-15 is a diving at altitude worksheet. To
determine Sea Level Equivalent Depth (SLED) and corrected decompression stops
for an altitude dive, follow these steps:

9-13.5.1 Corrections for Depth of Dive at Altitude and In-Water Stops.

Line 1. Determine the dive site altitude by referring to a map or measuring the
barometric pressure. From Table 9-4, enter the altitude in feet that is
equal to or next greater than the altitude at the dive site.

Line 2. Enter the actual depth of the dive in feet of sea water.

NOTE Refer to paragraph 9-13.3 to correct divers’ depth gauge readings to

actual depths at altitude.

Line 3. Read Table 9-4 vertically down the Actual Depth Column. Select a
depth that is equal to or next greater than the actual depth. Reading
horizontally, select the Sea Level Equivalent Depth corresponding to
an altitude equal to or next greater than that of your dive site.

9-13.5.2 Corrections for Equilibration.

Line 4. Enter the Repetitive Group upon arrival at altitude from Table 9-5 for
the altitude listed on Line 1.

Line 5. Record the time in hours and minutes spent equilibrating at altitude
prior to the dive. If the equilibration time is longer than the time needed
to desaturate beyond Repetitive Group A in Table 9-8, proceed to Step
7 and enter zero.

Line 6. Using Table 9-8, determine the Repetitive Group at the end of the pre-
dive equilibration interval.

Line 7. Using Table 9-8, determine the Residual Nitrogen Time for the new
repetitive group designator from Line 6 and the Sea Level Equivalent
Depth from Line 3.

Line 8. Enter the planned bottom time.

Line 9. Add the bottom time and the residual nitrogen time to obtain the
Equivalent Single Dive Time.

Line 10. Select the mode of decompression to be used, e.g., in-water air/oxygen.

Line 11. Enter the Schedule from the Air Decompression Table using the Sea
Level Equivalent Depth from Line 3 and the Equivalent Single Dive
Time from Line 9.

9-52 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Line 12. Using the lower section of Table 9-4, read down the Table Water
Stops column on the left to the decompression stop(s) given in the
Sea Level Equivalent Depth Table/Schedule. Read horizontally to the
altitude column. Record the corresponding altitude stop depths on the
worksheet.

NOTE For surface decompression dives on oxygen, the chamber stops

are not adjusted for altitude. Enter the same depths as at sea level.
Keeping chamber stop depths the same as sea level provides an extra
decompression benefit for the diver on oxygen.

Line 13. Record the Repetitive Group Designator at the end of the dive.

NOTE Follow all decompression table procedures for ascent and descent.

Example: Five hours after arriving at an altitude of 7750 feet, divers make a
60-minute air dive to a gauge depth of 75 fsw. Depth is measured with a pneumo-
fathometer having a non-adjustable gauge with a fixed reference pressure of one
atmosphere. Surface decompression with oxygen will be used for decompression.
What is the proper decompression schedule?

The altitude is first rounded up to 8000 feet. A depth correction of +8 fsw

must be added to the maximum depth recorded on the fixed reference gauge. A
pneumofathometer correction factor of + 1 fsw must also be added. The diver’s
actual depth is 84 fsw. Table 9-4 is entered at an actual depth of 85 fsw. The Sea
Level Equivalent Depth for 8000 feet of altitude is 120 fsw. The repetitive group
upon arrival at altitude from Table 9-5 is Group G. This decays to Group B during
the five hours at altitude pre-dive. The residual nitrogen time for Group B at 120
fsw is 7 minutes. The Equivalent Single Dive Time therefore is 67 minutes. The
appropriate schedule from the Air Decompression Table is 120 fsw for 70 minutes.
By the schedule, a 12-minute water stop on air at 40 fsw is required followed by
two and one half oxygen periods in the chamber. The water stop is taken at a depth
of 30 fsw. The chamber stops are taken at depths of 50 and 40 fsw.

Figure 9-16 shows the filled-out Diving at Altitude Worksheet for this dive. Figure
9-17 shows the filled-out Diving Chart.

9-13.6 Repetitive Dives. Repetitive dives may be conducted at altitude. The procedure is
identical to that at sea level, with the exception that the sea level equivalent dive
depth is always used to replace the actual dive depth. Figure 9-18 is a Repetitive
Dive at Altitude Worksheet.

Example: Fourteen hours after ascending to an altitude of 7750 feet, divers make
an 82-fsw 50-minute KM 37 dive using in-water air/oxygen decompression. Depth
is measured with a pneumofathometer having a depth gauge adjustable for altitude.
After two hours and ten minutes on the surface, they make a second dive to 79 fsw
for 18 minutes and decompress using surface decompression on oxygen. What is
the proper decompression schedule for the second dive?

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-53

 Date: 23 Oct 07
DIVING AT ALTITUDE WORKSHEET

Actual Dive Site Altitude 7,750 feet

1. Altitude from Table 9-4 8,000 feet
2. Actual Depth of Dive (Corrected per Section 9-13.3) 75+8+1=84 fsw
3. Sea Level Equivalent Depth from Table 9-4 120 SLED
4. Repetitive Group from Table 9-5 G
5. Time at Altitude 5 hrs min
6. New Repetitive Group Designator from Table 9-8 B
7. Residual Nitrogen Time 7 min
8. Planned Bottom Time + 60 min
9. Equivalent Single Dive Time = 67 min
10. Decompression Mode
o No-Decompression o In-water Air/Oxygen Decompression

o In-water Air Decompression o Surface Decompression Using Oxygen

11. Table/Schedule 120/70

12. Decompression Schedule

Sea Level Stop Depth Altitude Stop Depth Water Stop Time Chamber Stop Time
60 fsw fsw min
50 fsw fsw min 15 min*
40 fsw 30 fsw 13 min 15+5+30+5+15 min*
30 fsw fsw min min*
20 fsw fsw min

13. Repetitive Group Designator * Chamber stops on SurDO2 will be at

50, 40, and 30 fsw

Figure 9‑16. Completed Diving at Altitude Worksheet.

9-54 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 1247 ALTITUDE 8000
Date: 5 Sept 07 Type of Dive: AIR HeO2
Diver 1: ND1 Chaisson Diver 2: ND2 Hutcheson Standby: ND1 Collins
Rig: MK-37 PSIG: 2900 O2%: Rig: MK-37 PSIG: 2900 O2%: Rig: MK-37 PSIG: 2900 O2%:
Diving Supervisor: NDCM Orns Chartman: ND1 Saurez Bottom Mix:
EVENT STOP TIME CLOCK TIME EVENT TIME/DEPTH
LS or 20 fsw 1000 Descent Time (Water) :02
RB 1002 Stage Depth (fsw) 84
LB 1100 Maximum Depth (fsw) 75+8+1=84
st
R 1 Stop 1102 Total Bottom Time :60+:07=:67
190 fsw Table/Schedule 120/70 SLED
180 fsw Time to 1st Stop (Actual) :01::32
st
170 fsw Time to 1 Stop (Planned) :01::30
st
160 fsw Delay to 1 Stop ::02
150 fsw Travel/Shift/Vent Time
140 fsw Ascent Time-Water/SurD (Actual) :01
130 fsw Undress Time-SurD (Actual) :03::20
120 fsw Descent Chamber-SurD (Actual) ::40
110 fsw Total SurD Surface Interval :05
100 fsw Ascent Time–Chamber (Actual) :01::20
90 fsw HOLDS ON DESCENT
80 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
70 fsw
60 fsw
50 fsw
40 fsw DELAYS ON ASCENT
30 fsw :13(AIR) 1115 DEPTH PROBLEM
20 fsw
RS 1116
RB CHAMBER 1120
50 fsw chamber :15 1135 DECOMPRESSION PROCEDURES USED
40 fsw chamber :15+:5+:30+:5+:15 1245 AIR
30 fsw chamber o In-water Air decompression
o In-water Air/O2 decompression
RS CHAMBER 1247
 SurDO2
TDT TTD HeO2
o In-water HeO2/O2 decompression
1:47 2:48 o SurDO2
REPETITIVE GROUP: No repet
Remarks:

Figure 9‑17. Completed Air Diving Chart: Dive at Altitude.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-55

 REPETITIVE DIVE AT ALTITUDE WORKSHEET Date:
1. PREVIOUS DIVE
Decompression Mode
_____ minutes o No-Decompression o In-water Air/Oxygen Decompression
_____ SLED o In-water Air Decompression o Surface Decompression Using Oxygen
_____ Repetitive Group Letter Designator
2. SURFACE INTERVAL
_____ hours ______ minutes on surface
_____ repetitive group from item 1 above
_____ new repetitive group letter designator from Residual Nitrogen Timetable
3. RESIDUAL NITROGEN TIME FOR REPETITIVE DIVE
Altitude from Table 9-4 _________ feet
Actual Depth of Dive (corrected per section 9-13.3) _________ fsw
Sea Level Equivalent Depth of repetitive dive from Table 9-4 _________ SLED
_____ new repetitive group letter designator from item 2 above
_____ minutes, residual nitrogen time from Residual Nitrogen Timetable
4. EQUIVALENT SINGLE DIVE TIME
_____ minutes, residual nitrogen time from item 3 above
+ _____ minutes, actual bottom time of repetitive dive
= _____ minutes, equivalent single dive time
5. DECOMPRESSION FOR REPETITIVE DIVE
_____ SLED of repetitive dive
_____ minutes, equivalent single dive time from item 4 above
Decompression Mode (check one)
o No-Decompression o In-water Air/Oxygen Decompression
o In-water Air Decompression o Surface Decompression Using Oxygen
___________ schedule used (depth/time)

Sea Level Stop Depth Altitude Stop Depth Water Stop Time Chamber Stop Time
60 fsw fsw min
50 fsw fsw min min*
40 fsw fsw min min*
30 fsw fsw min min*
20 fsw fsw min

13. Repetitive Group Letter Designator ______ * Chamber stops on SurDO2 will be at
50, 40, and 30 fsw

Figure 9‑18. Repetitive Dive at Altitude Worksheet.

9-56 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 The altitude is first rounded up to 8000 feet. For the first dive, a depth correction of
+1 fsw must be added to the 82 fsw pneumofathometer reading. The divers’ actual
depth on the first dive is 83 fsw. Table 9-4 is entered at an actual depth of 85 fsw.
The Sea Level Equivalent Depth for the first dive is 120 fsw. The repetitive group
designation upon completion of the 50 minute dive is Group Z. This decays to
Group N during the 2 hour 10 minute surface interval.

The actual depth of the second dive is 80 fsw (79 fsw plus a 1 fsw pneumofathometer
correction factor). Table 9-4 is entered at an actual depth of 80 fsw. The Sea Level
Equivalent Depth for the second dive is 110 fsw. The residual nitrogen time for
Group N at 110 fsw is 42 minutes. The equivalent single dive time therefore is 60
minutes. The appropriate surface decompression schedule is 110 fsw for 60 minutes.
This schedule does not require any water stops. The divers spend 60 minutes on
oxygen (2 oxygen periods) at 50 and 40 fsw in the recompression chamber.

Figure 9-19 shows the filled-out Repetitive Dive at Altitude Worksheet for these
two dives. Figure 9-20 and Figure 9-21 show the filled-out Diving Charts for the
first and second dives.

9-14 ASCENT TO ALTITUDE AFTER DIVING / FLYING AFTER DIVING

Leaving the dive site may require temporary ascent to a higher altitude. For
example, divers may drive over a mountain pass at higher altitude or leave the
dive site by air. Ascent to altitude after diving increases the risk of decompression
sickness because of the additional reduction in atmospheric pressure. The higher the
altitude, the greater the risk. (Pressurized commercial airline flights are addressed
in Note 3 of Table 9-6).

Table 9-6 gives the surface interval (hours:minutes) required before making a
further ascent to altitude. The surface interval depends on the planned increase in
altitude and the highest repetitive group designator obtained in the previous 24-
hour period. Enter the table with the highest repetitive group designator obtained
in the previous 24-hour period. Read the required surface interval from the column
for the planned change in altitude.

Example: A diver surfaces from a 60 fsw for 60 minutes no-decompression dive

at sea level in Repetitive Group K. After a surface interval of 6 hours 10 minutes,
the diver makes a second dive to 30 fsw for 20 minutes placing him in Repetitive
Group F. He plans to fly home in a commercial aircraft in which the cabin pressure
is controlled at 8000 feet. What is the required interval before flying?

The planned increase in altitude is 8000 feet. Because the diver has made two dives
in the previous 24-hour period, you must use the highest repetitive group designator
of the two dives. Enter Table 9-6 at 8000 feet and read down to Repetitive Group
K. The diver must wait 15 hours 35 minutes after completion of the second dive
before flying.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-57

 Example: Upon completion of a dive at an altitude of 4000 feet, the diver plans to
ascend to 7500 feet in order to cross a mountain pass. The diver’s repetitive group
upon surfacing is Group G. What is the required surface interval before crossing
the pass?

The planned increase in altitude is 3500 feet. Enter Table 9-6 at 4000 feet and read
down to Repetitive Group G. The diver does not require a surface interval before
crossing the pass.

Example: Upon completion of a dive at 2000 feet, the diver plans to fly home in an
un-pressurized aircraft at 5000 feet. The diver’s repetitive group designator upon
surfacing is Group K. What is the required surface interval before flying?

The planned increase in altitude is 3000 feet. Enter Table 9-6 at 3000 feet and
read down to Repetitive Group K. The diver must delay 3 hours 47 minutes before
taking the flight.

9-15 DIVE COMPUTER

The wrist-worn Cochran Navy Air III decompression computer may be used in
lieu of the decompression tables contained in this chapter. The Air III is intended
for no-decompression diving only. Once a diver exceeds the no-decompression
limit, the decompression obligation prescribed by the Air III will build rapidly
and may result in the diver running out of air before the decompression time
can be completed. If a diver does develop a decompression obligation while
diving the Air III, he should immediately abort the dive to minimize further
accumulation of decompression time and ascend to the surface taking the stops
indicated by the computer.

The Air III is not authorized for altitude diving operations above 2000 feet.
Once the AIR III switches back to a “first dive” surface display when activated,
the diver has completed his off gassing and may be considered a clean diver
with no restrictions on air travel or subsequent dives using other methods of
decompression. If repetitive dives are to be made, divers must use the same Air
III throughout the series of dives. Buddy pairs must remain the same to insure
equal amounts of residual nitrogen time.

NOTE: The Air III is not a substitute for ORM. Proper planning of the diving
evolution is essential.

9-58 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 REPETITIVE DIVE AT ALTITUDE WORKSHEET Date: 23 Oct 07
1. PREVIOUS DIVE
Decompression Mode
50 minutes o No-Decompression  In-water Air/Oxygen Decompression
120 SLED o In-water Air Decompression o Surface Decompression Using Oxygen
Z Repetitive Group Letter Designation
2. SURFACE INTERVAL
2 hours 10 minutes on surface
Z repetitive group from item 1 above
N new repetitive group letter designator from Residual Nitrogen Timetable
3. RESIDUAL NITROGEN TIME FOR REPETITIVE DIVE
Altitude from Table 9-4 8,000 feet
Actual Depth of Dive (corrected per section 9-13.3) 79+1=80 fsw
Sea Level Equivalent Depth of repetitive dive from Table 9-4 110 SLED
N new repetitive group letter designator from item 2 above
42 minutes, residual nitrogen time from Residual Nitrogen Timetable
4. EQUIVALENT SINGLE DIVE TIME
42 minutes, residual nitrogen time from item 3 above
+ 18 minutes, actual bottom time of repetitive dive
= 60 minutes, equivalent single dive time
5. DECOMPRESSION FOR REPETITIVE DIVE
110 SLED of repetitive dive
60 minutes, equivalent single dive time from item 4 above
Decompression Mode (check one)
o No-Decompression o In-water Air/Oxygen Decompression
o In-water Air Decompression  Surface Decompression Using Oxygen
110/60 schedule used (depth/time)

Sea Level Stop Depth Altitude Stop Depth Water Stop Time Chamber Stop Time
60 fsw fsw min
50 fsw fsw min 15 min*
40 fsw fsw min 15+3+30 min*
30 fsw fsw min min*
20 fsw fsw min

13. Repetitive Group Letter Designator * Chamber stops on SurDO2 will be at

50, 40, and 30 fsw

Figure 9‑19. Completed Repetitive Dive at Altitude Worksheet.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-59

 1038 ALTITUDE 8000
Date: 23 Oct 07 Type of Dive: AIR HeO2
Diver 1: ND1 Sullivan Diver 2: ND2 Schleef Standby: ND2 Bartley
Rig: KM 37 PSIG: 2900 O2%: Rig: KM 37 PSIG: 2900 O2%: Rig: KM 37 PSIG: 2900 O2%:
Diving Supervisor: NDCM Van Chartman: ND2 Bradley Bottom Mix:
Horn
EVENT STOP TIME CLOCK TIME EVENT TIME/DEPTH
LS or 20 fsw 0900 Descent Time (Water) :02
RB 0902 Stage Depth (fsw) 82
LB 0950 Maximum Depth (fsw) 82+1=83
st
R 1 Stop 0952 Total Bottom Time :50
190 fsw Table/Schedule 120/50 SLED
180 fsw Time to 1st Stop (Actual) :01::44
st
170 fsw Time to 1 Stop (Planned) :01::44
st
160 fsw Delay to 1 Stop
150 fsw Travel/Shift/Vent Time :02
140 fsw AscentTime-Water/SurD (Actual) ::45
130 fsw Undress Time-SurD (Actual)
120 fsw Descent Chamber-SurD (Actual)
110 fsw Total SurD Surface Interval
100 fsw Ascent Time–Chamber (Actual)
90 fsw HOLDS ON DESCENT
80 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
70 fsw
60 fsw
50 fsw
40 fsw DELAYS ON ASCENT
30 fsw :02+:05 0959 DEPTH PROBLEM
20 fsw :15+:05+:18 1037
RS 1038
RB CHAMBER
50 fsw chamber DECOMPRESSION PROCEDURES USED
40 fsw chamber AIR
30 fsw chamber o In-water Air decompression
 In-water Air/O2 decompression
RS CHAMBER
o SurDO2
TDT TTD HeO2
o In-water HeO2/O2 decompression
:48 1:38 o SurDO2
REPETITIVE GROUP: Z
Remarks:

Figure 9‑20. Completed Air Diving Chart: First Dive of Repetitive Dive Profile at Altitude.

9-60 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 1420 ALTITUDE 8000
Date: 23 Oct 07 Type of Dive: AIR HeO2
Diver 1: ND1 Sullivan Diver 2: ND2 Schleef Standby: ND2 Bartley
Rig: KM 37 PSIG: 2900 O2%: Rig: KM 37 PSIG: 2900 O2%: Rig: KM 37 PSIG: 2900 O2%:
Diving Supervisor: NDCM Van Chartman: ND2 Bradley Bottom Mix:
Horn
EVENT STOP TIME CLOCK TIME EVENT TIME/DEPTH
LS or 20 fsw 1248 Descent Time (Water) :02
RB 1250 Stage Depth (fsw) 79
LB 1306 Maximum Depth (fsw) 79+1=80
st
R 1 Stop 1309 Total Bottom Time :18 + :42 = 60
190 fsw Table/Schedule 110/60 SLED
st
180 fsw Time to 1 Stop (Actual) :02::20
st
170 fsw Time to 1 Stop (Planned) :02::18
st
160 fsw Delay to 1 Stop ::02
150 fsw Travel/Shift/Vent Time
140 fsw AscentTime-Water/SurD (Actual) :01
130 fsw Undress Time-SurD (Actual) :02::30
120 fsw Descent Chamber-SurD (Actual) ::50
110 fsw Total SurD Surface Interval :04::20
100 fsw Ascent Time–Chamber (Actual) :01::20
90 fsw HOLDS ON DESCENT
80 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
70 fsw
60 fsw
50 fsw
40 fsw DELAYS ON ASCENT
30 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
20 fsw
RS 1309
RB CHAMBER 1313
50 fsw chamber :15 1328 DECOMPRESSION PROCEDURES USED
40 fsw chamber :15+:5+:30 1418 AIR
30 fsw chamber o In-water Air decompression
o In-water Air/O2 decompression
RS CHAMBER 1420
 SurDO2
TDT TTD HeO2
o In-water HeO2/O2 decompression
1:14 1:32 o SurDO2
REPETITIVE GROUP: Z
Remarks:

Figure 9‑21. Completed Air Diving Chart: Second Dive of Repetitive Dive Profile at Altitude.

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-61

Table 9‑6. Required Surface Interval Before Ascent to Altitude After Diving.

Repetitive Increase in Altitude (feet)

Group
Designator 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000 10000

A 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00
B 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 1:42

C 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 1:48 6:23

D 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 1:45 5:24 9:59

E 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 1:37 4:39 8:18 12:54

F 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 1:32 4:04 7:06 10:45 15:20

G 0:00 0:00 0:00 0:00 1:19 3:38 6:10 9:13 12:52 17:27

H 0:00 0:00 0:00 1:06 3:10 5:29 8:02 11:04 14:43 19:18

I 0:00 0:00 0:56 2:45 4:50 7:09 9:41 12:44 16:22 20:58

J 0:00 0:41 2:25 4:15 6:19 8:39 11:11 14:13 17:52 22:27

K 0:30 2:03 3:47 5:37 7:41 10:00 12:33 15:35 19:14 23:49

L 1:45 3:18 5:02 6:52 8:56 11:15 13:48 16:50 20:29 25:04

M 2:54 4:28 6:12 8:01 10:06 12:25 14:57 18:00 21:38 26:14

N 3:59 5:32 7:16 9:06 11:10 13:29 16:02 19:04 22:43 27:18

O 4:59 6:33 8:17 10:06 12:11 14:30 17:02 20:05 23:43 28:19

Z 5:56 7:29 9:13 11:03 13:07 15:26 17:59 21:01 24:40 29:15

Exceptional Exposure Wait 48 hours before ascent

NOTE 1 When using Table 9-6, use the highest repetitive group designator obtained in the previous 24-hour
period.
NOTE 2 Table 9-6 may only be used when the maximum altitude achieved is 10,000 feet or less. For ascents
above 10,000 feet, consult NAVSEA 00C for guidance.
NOTE 3 The cabin pressure in commercial aircraft is maintained at a constant value regardless of the actual
altitude of the flight. Though cabin pressure varies somewhat with aircraft type, the nominal value is
8,000 feet. For commercial flights, use a final altitude of 8,000 feet to compute the required surface
interval before flying.
NOTE 4 No surface interval is required before taking a commercial flight if the dive site is at 8,000 feet or
higher. In this case, flying results in an increase in atmospheric pressure rather than a decrease.
NOTE 5 For ascent to altitude following a non-saturation helium-oxygen dive, wait 12 hours if the dive was
a no-decompression dive. Wait 24 hours if the dive was a decompression dive.

9-62 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

Table 9‑7. No-Decompression Limits and Repetitive Group Designators for No-Decompression Air Dives.

Depth No-Stop Repetitive Group Designation

(fsw) Limit A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O Z
10 Unlimited 57 101 158 245 426 *

15 Unlimited 36 60 88 121 163 217 297 449 *

20 Unlimited 26 43 61 82 106 133 165 205 256 330 461 *

25 1102 20 33 47 62 78 97 117 140 166 198 236 285 354 469 992 1102

30 371 17 27 38 50 62 76 91 107 125 145 167 193 223 260 307 371

35 232 14 23 32 42 52 63 74 87 100 115 131 148 168 190 215 232

40 163 12 20 27 36 44 53 63 73 84 95 108 121 135 151 163

45 125 11 17 24 31 39 46 55 63 72 82 92 102 114 125

50 92 9 15 21 28 34 41 48 56 63 71 80 89 92

55 74 8 14 19 25 31 37 43 50 56 63 71 74

60 63 7 12 17 22 28 33 39 45 51 57 63

70 48 6 10 14 19 23 28 32 37 42 47 48

80 39 5 9 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 39

90 33 4 7 11 14 17 21 24 28 31 33

100 25 4 6 9 12 15 18 21 25

110 20 3 6 8 11 14 16 19 20

120 15 3 5 7 10 12 15

130 12 2 4 6 9 11 12

140 10 2 4 6 8 10

150 8 3 5 7 8

160 7 3 5 6 7

170 6 4 6

180 6 4 5 6

190 5 3 5

* Highest repetitive group that can be achieved at this depth regardless of bottom time.
 

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-63

Table 9‑8. Residual Nitrogen Time Table for Repetitive Air Dives.
:10
Locate the diver’s repetitive group designation from his previous dive along the diagonal line A
2:20 *
above the table. Read horizontally to the interval in which the diver’s surface interval
:10 1:17
lies. B
1:16 3:36 *
:10 :56 2:12
Next, read vertically downward to the new repetitive group designation. C
:55 2:11 4:31 *
l
va
Continue downward in this same column to the row that represents :10 :53 1:48 3:04
r D
the depth of the repetitive dive. The time given at the intersection
n te :52 1:47 3:03 5:23 *
is residual nitrogen time, in minutes, to be applied to the
c eI E
:10 :53 1:45 2:40 3:56
rfa
repetitive dive. :52 1:44 2:39 3:55 6:15 *
Su :10 :53 1:45 2:38 3:32 4:49
of
* Dives following surface intervals longer than F
:52 1:44 2:37 3:31 4:48 7:08 *
this are not repetitive dives. Use actual i ng :10 :53 1:45 2:38 3:30 4:24 5:41
nn
G
bottom times in the Air Decompression :52 1:44 2:37 3:29 4:23 5:40 8:00 *
gi
Tables to compute decompression
Be H
:10 :53 1:45 2:38 3:30 4:22 5:17 6:33
for such dives. at :52 1:44 2:37 3:29 4:21 5:16 6:32 8:52 *

o up I
:10 :53 1:45 2:38 3:30 4:22 5:14 6:09 7:25
Gr :52 1:44 2:37 3:29 4:21 5:13 6:08 7:24 9:44 *

it ive J
:10 :53 1:45 2:38 3:30 4:22 5:14 6:07 7:01 8:17

pet :10
:52
:53
1:44
1:45
2:37
2:38
3:29
3:30
4:21
4:22
5:13
5:14
6:06
6:07
7:00
6:59
8:16
7:53
10:36 *
9:10
Re K
:52 1:44 2:37 3:29 4:21 5:13 6:06 6:58 7:52 9:09 11:29 *
:10 :53 1:45 2:38 3:30 4:22 5:14 6:07 6:59 7:51 8:45 10:02
L
:52 1:44 2:37 3:29 4:21 5:13 6:06 6:58 7:50 8:44 10:01 12:21 *
:10 :53 1:45 2:38 3:30 4:22 5:14 6:07 6:59 7:51 8:43 9:38 10:54
M
:52 1:44 2:37 3:29 4:21 5:13 6:06 6:58 7:50 8:42 9:37 10:53 13:13 *
:10 :53 1:45 2:38 3:30 4:22 5:14 6:07 6:59 7:51 8:43 9:35 10:30 11:46
N
:52 1:44 2:37 3:29 4:21 5:13 6:06 6:58 7:50 8:42 9:34 10:29 11:45 14:05 *
:10 :53 1:45 2:38 3:30 4:22 5:14 6:07 6:59 7:51 8:43 9:35 10:28 11:22 12:38
O
:52 1:44 2:37 3:29 4:21 5:13 6:06 6:58 7:50 8:42 9:34 10:27 11:21 12:37 14:58 *
:10 :53 1:45 2:38 3:30 4:22 5:14 6:07 6:59 7:51 8:43 9:35 10:28 11:20 12:14 13:31
Z
:52 1:44 2:37 3:29 4:21 5:13 6:06 6:58 7:50 8:42 9:34 10:27 11:19 12:13 13:30 15:50 *

Z O N M L K J I H G F E D C B A
Dive Repetitive Group at the End of the Surface Interval
Depth
10 ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** 427 246 159 101 58
15 ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** 450 298 218 164 122 89 61 37
20 ** ** ** ** ** 462 331 257 206 166 134 106 83 62 44 27
25 † † 470 354 286 237 198 167 141 118 98 79 63 48 34 21
30 372 308 261 224 194 168 146 126 108 92 77 63 51 39 28 18
35 245 216 191 169 149 132 116 101 88 75 64 53 43 33 24 15
40 188 169 152 136 122 109 97 85 74 64 55 45 37 29 21 13
45 154 140 127 115 104 93 83 73 64 56 48 40 32 25 18 12
50 131 120 109 99 90 81 73 65 57 49 42 35 29 23 17 11
55 114 105 96 88 80 72 65 58 51 44 38 32 26 20 15 10
60 101 93 86 79 72 65 58 52 46 40 35 29 24 19 14 9
70 83 77 71 65 59 54 49 44 39 34 29 25 20 16 12 8
80 70 65 60 55 51 46 42 38 33 29 25 22 18 14 10 7
90 61 57 52 48 44 41 37 33 29 26 22 19 16 12 9 6
100 54 50 47 43 40 36 33 30 26 23 20 17 14 11 8 5
110 48 45 42 39 36 33 30 27 24 21 18 16 13 10 8 5
120 44 41 38 35 32 30 27 24 22 19 17 14 12 9 7 5
130 40 37 35 32 30 27 25 22 20 18 15 13 11 9 6 4
140 37 34 32 30 27 25 23 21 19 16 14 12 10 8 6 4
150 34 32 30 28 26 23 21 19 17 15 13 11 9 8 6 4
160 32 30 28 26 24 22 20 18 16 14 13 11 9 7 5 4
170 30 28 26 24 22 21 19 17 15 14 12 10 8 7 5 3
180 28 26 25 23 21 19 18 16 14 13 11 10 8 6 5 3
190 26 25 23 22 20 18 17 15 14 12 11 9 8 6 5 3
Residual Nitrogen Times (Minutes)

** Residual Nitrogen Time cannot be determined using this table (see paragraph 9-9.1 subparagraph 8 for instructions).
† Read vertically downward to the 30 fsw repetitive dive depth. Use the corresponding residual nitrogen times to compute the
equivalent single dive time. Decompress using the 30 fsw air decompression table.

9-64 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Table 9‑9. Air Decompression Table.
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

30 FSW
371 1:00 AIR 0 1:00 0 Z
AIR/O2 0 1:00
380 0:20 AIR 5 6:00 0.5 Z
AIR/O2 1 2:00
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
420 0:20 AIR 22 23:00 0.5 Z
AIR/O2 5 6:00
480 0:20 AIR 42 43:00 0.5
AIR/O2 9 10:00
540 0:20 AIR 71 72:00 1
AIR/O2 14 15:00
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
600 0:20 AIR 92 93:00 1
AIR/O2 19 20:00
660 0:20 AIR 120 121:00 1
AIR/O2 22 23:00
720 0:20 AIR 158 159:00 1
AIR/O2 27 28:00

35 FSW
232 1:10 AIR 0 1:10 0 Z
AIR/O2 0 1:10
240 0:30 AIR 4 5:10 0.5 Z
AIR/O2 2 3:10
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
270 0:30 AIR 28 29:10 0.5 Z
AIR/O2 7 8:10
300 0:30 AIR 53 54:10 0.5 Z
AIR/O2 13 14:10
330 0:30 AIR 71 72:10 1 Z
AIR/O2 18 19:10
360 0:30 AIR 88 89:10 1
AIR/O2 22 23:10
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
420 0:30 AIR 134 135:10 1.5
AIR/O2 29 30:10
480 0:30 AIR 173 174:10 1.5
AIR/O2 38 44:10
540 0:30 AIR 228 229:10 2
AIR/O2 45 51:10
600 0:30 AIR 277 278:10 2
AIR/O2 53 59:10
660 0:30 AIR 314 315:10 2.5
AIR/O2 63 69:10
720 0:30 AIR 342 343:10 3
AIR/O2 71 82:10

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-65

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

40 FSW
163 1:20 AIR 0 1:20 0 O
AIR/O2 0 1:20
170 0:40 AIR 6 7:20 0.5 O
AIR/O2 2 3:20
180 0:40 AIR 14 15:20 0.5 Z
AIR/O2 5 6:20
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
190 0:40 AIR 21 22:20 0.5 Z
AIR/O2 7 8:20
200 0:40 AIR 27 28:20 0.5 Z
AIR/O2 9 10:20
210 0:40 AIR 39 40:20 0.5 Z
AIR/O2 11 12:20
220 0:40 AIR 52 53:20 0.5 Z
AIR/O2 12 13:20
230 0:40 AIR 64 65:20 1 Z
AIR/O2 16 17:20
240 0:40 AIR 75 76:20 1 Z
AIR/O2 19 20:20
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
270 0:40 AIR 101 102:20 1 Z
AIR/O2 26 27:20
300 0:40 AIR 128 129:20 1.5
AIR/O2 33 34:20
330 0:40 AIR 160 161:20 1.5
AIR/O2 38 44:20
360 0:40 AIR 184 185:20 2
AIR/O2 44 50:20
420 0:40 AIR 248 249:20 2.5
AIR/O2 56 62:20
480 0:40 AIR 321 322:20 2.5
AIR/O2 68 79:20
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
540 0:40 AIR 372 373:20 3
AIR/O2 80 91:20
600 0:40 AIR 410 411:20 3.5
AIR/O2 93 104:20
660 0:40 AIR 439 440:20 4
AIR/O2 103 119:20
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
720 0:40 AIR 461 462:20 4.5
AIR/O2 112 128:20

9-66 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

45 FSW
125 1:30 AIR 0 1:30 0 N
AIR/O2 0 1:30
130 0:50 AIR 2 3:30 0.5 O
AIR/O2 1 2:30
140 0:50 AIR 14 15:30 0.5 O
AIR/O2 5 6:30
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
150 0:50 AIR 25 26:30 0.5 Z
AIR/O2 8 9:30
160 0:50 AIR 34 35:30 0.5 Z
AIR/O2 11 12:30
170 0:50 AIR 41 42:30 1 Z
AIR/O2 14 15:30
180 0:50 AIR 59 60:30 1 Z
AIR/O2 17 18:30
190 0:50 AIR 75 76:30 1 Z
AIR/O2 19 20:30
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
200 0:50 AIR 89 90:30 1 Z
AIR/O2 23 24:30
210 0:50 AIR 101 102:30 1 Z
AIR/O2 27 28:30
220 0:50 AIR 112 113:30 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 30 31:30
230 0:50 AIR 121 122:30 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 33 34:30
240 0:50 AIR 130 131:30 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 37 43:30
270 0:50 AIR 173 174:30 2
AIR/O2 45 51:30
300 0:50 AIR 206 207:30 2
AIR/O2 51 57:30
330 0:50 AIR 243 244:30 2.5
AIR/O2 61 67:30
360 0:50 AIR 288 289:30 3
AIR/O2 69 80:30
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
420 0:50 AIR 373 374:30 3.5
AIR/O2 84 95:30
480 0:50 AIR 431 432:30 4
AIR/O2 101 117:30
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
540 0:50 AIR 473 474:30 4.5
AIR/O2 117 133:30

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-67

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

50 FSW
92 1:40 AIR 0 1:40 0 M
AIR/O2 0 1:40
95 1:00 AIR 2 3:40 0.5 M
AIR/O2 1 2:40
100 1:00 AIR 4 5:40 0.5 N
AIR/O2 2 3:40
110 1:00 AIR 8 9:40 0.5 O
AIR/O2 4 5:40
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
120 1:00 AIR 21 22:40 0.5 O
AIR/O2 7 8:40
130 1:00 AIR 34 35:40 0.5 Z
AIR/O2 12 13:40
140 1:00 AIR 45 46:40 1 Z
AIR/O2 16 17:40
150 1:00 AIR 56 57:40 1 Z
AIR/O2 19 20:40
160 1:00 AIR 78 79:40 1 Z
AIR/O2 23 24:40
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
170 1:00 AIR 96 97:40 1 Z
AIR/O2 26 27:40
180 1:00 AIR 111 112:40 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 30 31:40
190 1:00 AIR 125 126:40 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 35 36:40
200 1:00 AIR 136 137:40 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 39 45:40
210 1:00 AIR 147 148:40 2
AIR/O2 43 49:40
220 1:00 AIR 166 167:40 2
AIR/O2 47 53:40
230 1:00 AIR 183 184:40 2
AIR/O2 50 56:40
240 1:00 AIR 198 199:40 2
AIR/O2 53 59:40
270 1:00 AIR 236 237:40 2.5
AIR/O2 62 68:40
300 1:00 AIR 285 286:40 3
AIR/O2 74 85:40
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/O2 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
330 1:00 AIR 345 346:40 3.5
AIR/O2 83 94:40
360 1:00 AIR 393 394:40 3.5
AIR/O2 92 103:40
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
420 1:00 AIR 464 465:40 4.5
AIR/O2 113 129:40

9-68 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

55 FSW
74 1:50 AIR 0 1:50 0 L
AIR/O2 0 1:50
75 1:10 AIR 1 2:50 0.5 L
AIR/O2 1 2:50
80 1:10 AIR 4 5:50 0.5 M
AIR/O2 2 3:50
90 1:10 AIR 10 11:50 0.5 N
AIR/O2 5 6:50
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
100 1:10 AIR 17 18:50 0.5 O
AIR/O2 8 9:50
110 1:10 AIR 34 35:50 0.5 O
AIR/O2 12 13:50
120 1:10 AIR 48 49:50 1 Z
AIR/O2 17 18:50
130 1:10 AIR 59 60:50 1 Z
AIR/O2 22 23:50
140 1:10 AIR 84 85:50 1 Z
AIR/O2 26 27:50
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
150 1:10 AIR 105 106:50 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 30 31:50
160 1:10 AIR 123 124:50 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 34 35:50
170 1:10 AIR 138 139:50 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 40 46:50
180 1:10 AIR 151 152:50 2 Z
AIR/O2 45 51:50
190 1:10 AIR 169 170:50 2
AIR/O2 50 56:50
200 1:10 AIR 190 191:50 2
AIR/O2 54 60:50
210 1:10 AIR 208 209:50 2.5
AIR/O2 58 64:50
220 1:10 AIR 224 225:50 2.5
AIR/O2 62 68:50
230 1:10 AIR 239 240:50 2.5
AIR/O2 66 77:50
240 1:10 AIR 254 255:50 3
AIR/O2 69 80:50
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
270 1:10 AIR 313 314:50 3.5
AIR/O2 83 94:50
300 1:10 AIR 380 381:50 3.5
AIR/O2 94 105:50
330 1:10 AIR 432 433:50 4
AIR/O2 106 122:50
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
360 1:10 AIR 474 475:50 4.5
AIR/O2 118 134:50

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-69

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

60 FSW
63 2:00 AIR 0 2:00 0 K
AIR/O2 0 2:00
65 1:20 AIR 2 4:00 0.5 L
AIR/O2 1 3:00
70 1:20 AIR 7 9:00 0.5 L
AIR/O2 4 6:00
80 1:20 AIR 14 16:00 0.5 N
AIR/O2 7 9:00
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
90 1:20 AIR 23 25:00 0.5 O
AIR/O2 10 12:00
100 1:20 AIR 42 44:00 1 Z
AIR/O2 15 17:00
110 1:20 AIR 57 59:00 1 Z
AIR/O2 21 23:00
120 1:20 AIR 75 77:00 1 Z
AIR/O2 26 28:00
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
130 1:20 AIR 102 104:00 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 31 33:00
140 1:20 AIR 124 126:00 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 35 37:00
150 1:20 AIR 143 145:00 2 Z
AIR/O2 41 48:00
160 1:20 AIR 158 160:00 2 Z
AIR/O2 48 55:00
170 1:20 AIR 178 180:00 2
AIR/O2 53 60:00
180 1:20 AIR 201 203:00 2.5
AIR/O2 59 66:00
190 1:20 AIR 222 224:00 2.5
AIR/O2 64 71:00
200 1:20 AIR 240 242:00 2.5
AIR/O2 68 80:00
210 1:20 AIR 256 258:00 3
AIR/O2 73 85:00
220 1:20 AIR 278 280:00 3
AIR/O2 77 89:00
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
230 1:20 AIR 300 302:00 3.5
AIR/O2 82 94:00
240 1:20 AIR 321 323:00 3.5
AIR/O2 88 100:00
270 1:20 AIR 398 400:00 4
AIR/O2 102 119:00
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
300 1:20 AIR 456 458:00 4.5
AIR/O2 115 132:00

9-70 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

70 FSW
48 2:20 AIR 0 2:20 0 K
AIR/O2 0 2:20
50 1:40 AIR 2 4:20 0.5 K
AIR/O2 1 3:20
55 1:40 AIR 9 11:20 0.5 L
AIR/O2 5 7:20
60 1:40 AIR 14 16:20 0.5 M
AIR/O2 8 10:20
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
70 1:40 AIR 24 26:20 0.5 N
AIR/O2 13 15:20
80 1:40 AIR 44 46:20 1 O
AIR/O2 17 19:20
90 1:40 AIR 64 66:20 1 Z
AIR/O2 24 26:20
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
100 1:40 AIR 88 90:20 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 31 33:20
110 1:40 AIR 120 122:20 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 38 45:20
120 1:40 AIR 145 147:20 2 Z
AIR/O2 44 51:20
130 1:40 AIR 167 169:20 2 Z
AIR/O2 51 58:20
140 1:40 AIR 189 191:20 2.5
AIR/O2 59 66:20
150 1:40 AIR 219 221:20 2.5
AIR/O2 66 78:20
160 1:20 AIR 1 244 247:00 3
AIR/O2 1 72 85:00
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
170 1:20 AIR 2 265 269:00 3
AIR/O2 1 78 91:00
180 1:20 AIR 4 289 295:00 3.5
AIR/O2 2 83 97:00
190 1:20 AIR 5 316 323:00 3.5
AIR/O2 3 88 103:00
200 1:20 AIR 9 345 356:00 4
AIR/O2 5 93 115:00
210 1:20 AIR 13 378 393:00 4
AIR/O2 7 98 122:00
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
240 1:20 AIR 25 454 481:00 5
AIR/O2 13 110 140:00

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-71

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

80 FSW
39 2:40 AIR 0 2:40 0 J
AIR/O2 0 2:40
40 2:00 AIR 1 3:40 0.5 J
AIR/O2 1 3:40
45 2:00 AIR 10 12:40 0.5 K
AIR/O2 5 7:40
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
50 2:00 AIR 17 19:40 0.5 M
AIR/O2 9 11:40
55 2:00 AIR 24 26:40 0.5 M
AIR/O2 13 15:40
60 2:00 AIR 30 32:40 1 N
AIR/O2 16 18:40
70 2:00 AIR 54 56:40 1 O
AIR/O2 22 24:40
80 2:00 AIR 77 79:40 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 30 32:40
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
90 2:00 AIR 114 116:40 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 39 46:40
100 1:40 AIR 1 147 150:20 2 Z
AIR/O2 1 46 54:20
110 1:40 AIR 6 171 179:20 2 Z
AIR/O2 3 51 61:20
120 1:40 AIR 10 200 212:20 2.5
AIR/O2 5 59 71:20
130 1:40 AIR 14 232 248:20 3
AIR/O2 7 67 86:20
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
140 1:40 AIR 17 258 277:20 3.5
AIR/O2 9 73 94:20
150 1:40 AIR 19 285 306:20 3.5
AIR/O2 10 80 102:20
160 1:40 AIR 21 318 341:20 4
AIR/O2 11 86 114:20
170 1:40 AIR 27 354 383:20 4
AIR/O2 14 90 121:20
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
180 1:40 AIR 33 391 426:20 4.5
AIR/O2 17 96 130:20
210 1:40 AIR 51 473 526:20 5
AIR/O2 26 110 158:20

9-72 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

90 FSW
33 3:00 AIR 0 3:00 0 J
AIR/O2 0 3:00
35 2:20 AIR 4 7:00 0.5 J
AIR/O2 2 5:00
40 2:20 AIR 14 17:00 0.5 L
AIR/O2 7 10:00
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
45 2:20 AIR 23 26:00 0.5 M
AIR/O2 12 15:00
50 2:20 AIR 31 34:00 1 N
AIR/O2 17 20:00
55 2:20 AIR 39 42:00 1 O
AIR/O2 21 24:00
60 2:20 AIR 56 59:00 1 O
AIR/O2 24 27:00
70 2:20 AIR 83 86:00 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 32 35:00
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
80 2:00 AIR 5 125 132:40 2 Z
AIR/O2 3 40 50:40
90 2:00 AIR 13 158 173:40 2 Z
AIR/O2 7 46 60:40
100 2:00 AIR 19 185 206:40 2.5
AIR/O2 10 53 70:40
110 2:00 AIR 25 224 251:40 3
AIR/O2 13 61 86:40
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
120 1:40 AIR 2 28 256 288:20 3.5
AIR/O2 2 14 70 98:40
130 1:40 AIR 5 28 291 326:20 3.5
AIR/O2 5 14 79 110:40
140 1:40 AIR 8 28 330 368:20 4
AIR/O2 8 14 87 126:40
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
150 1:40 AIR 11 34 378 425:20 4.5
AIR/O2 11 17 94 139:40
160 1:40 AIR 13 40 418 473:20 4.5
AIR/O2 13 20 101 151:40
170 1:40 AIR 15 45 451 513:20 5
AIR/O2 15 23 106 166:40
180 1:40 AIR 16 51 479 548:20 5.5
AIR/O2 16 26 112 176:40
240 1:40 AIR 42 68 592 704:20 7.5
AIR/O2 42 34 159 267:40

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-73

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

100 FSW
25 3:20 AIR 0 3:20 0 H
AIR/O2 0 3:20
30 2:40 AIR 3 6:20 0.5 J
AIR/O2 2 5:20
35 2:40 AIR 15 18:20 0.5 L
AIR/O2 8 11:20
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
40 2:40 AIR 26 29:20 1 M
AIR/O2 14 17:20
45 2:40 AIR 36 39:20 1 N
AIR/O2 19 22:20
50 2:40 AIR 47 50:20 1 O
AIR/O2 24 27:20
55 2:40 AIR 65 68:20 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 28 31:20
60 2:40 AIR 81 84:20 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 33 36:20
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
70 2:20 AIR 11 124 138:00 2 Z
AIR/O2 6 39 53:00
80 2:20 AIR 21 160 184:00 2.5 Z
AIR/O2 11 45 64:00
90 2:00 AIR 2 28 196 228:40 2.5
AIR/O2 2 14 53 82:00
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
100 2:00 AIR 9 28 241 280:40 3
AIR/O2 9 14 66 102:00
110 2:00 AIR 14 28 278 322:40 3.5
AIR/O2 14 14 76 117:00
120 2:00 AIR 19 28 324 373:40 4
AIR/O2 19 14 85 136:00
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
150 1:40 AIR 3 26 46 461 538:20 5
AIR/O2 3 26 23 109 183:40

9-74 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

110 FSW
20 3:40 AIR 0 3:40 0 H
AIR/O2 0 3:40
25 3:00 AIR 5 8:40 0.5 I
AIR/O2 3 6:40
30 3:00 AIR 14 17:40 0.5 K
AIR/O2 7 10:40
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
35 3:00 AIR 27 30:40 1 M
AIR/O2 14 17:40
40 3:00 AIR 39 42:40 1 N
AIR/O2 20 23:40
45 3:00 AIR 50 53:40 1 O
AIR/O2 26 29:40
50 3:00 AIR 71 74:40 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 32 35:40
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
55 2:40 AIR 5 85 93:20 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 3 33 44:20
60 2:40 AIR 13 111 127:20 2 Z
AIR/O2 7 36 51:20
70 2:40 AIR 26 155 184:20 2.5 Z
AIR/O2 14 42 64:20
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
80 2:20 AIR 9 28 200 240:00 2.5
AIR/O2 9 14 54 90:20
90 2:20 AIR 18 28 249 298:00 3.5
AIR/O2 18 14 68 113:20
100 2:20 AIR 25 28 295 351:00 3.5
AIR/O2 25 14 79 131:20
110 2:00 AIR 5 26 28 353 414:40 4
AIR/O2 5 26 14 91 154:00
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
120 2:00 AIR 10 26 35 413 486:40 4.5
AIR/O2 10 26 18 101 173:00
180 1:40 AIR 3 23 47 68 593 736:20 7.5
AIR/O2 3 23 47 34 159 298:40

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-75

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

120 FSW
15 4:00 AIR 0 4:00 0 F
AIR/O2 0 4:00
20 3:20 AIR 4 8:00 0.5 H
AIR/O2 2 6:00
25 3:20 AIR 9 13:00 0.5 J
AIR/O2 5 9:00
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
30 3:20 AIR 24 28:00 0.5 L
AIR/O2 13 17:00
35 3:20 AIR 38 42:00 1 N
AIR/O2 20 24:00
40 3:00 AIR 2 49 54:40 1 O
AIR/O2 1 26 30:40
45 3:00 AIR 3 71 77:40 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 2 31 36:40
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
50 3:00 AIR 10 85 98:40 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 5 33 46:40
55 3:00 AIR 19 116 138:40 2 Z
AIR/O2 10 35 53:40
60 3:00 AIR 27 142 172:40 2 Z
AIR/O2 14 39 61:40
70 2:40 AIR 13 28 190 234:20 2.5
AIR/O2 13 14 51 86:40
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
80 2:40 AIR 24 28 246 301:20 3
AIR/O2 24 14 67 118:40
90 2:20 AIR 7 26 28 303 367:00 3.5
AIR/O2 7 26 14 80 140:20
100 2:20 AIR 15 25 28 372 443:00 4
AIR/O2 15 25 14 95 167:20
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
110 2:20 AIR 21 25 38 433 520:00 5
AIR/O2 21 25 19 105 188:20
120 2:00 AIR 3 23 25 47 480 580:40 5.5
AIR/O2 3 23 25 24 113 211:00

9-76 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

130 FSW
12 4:20 AIR 0 4:20 0 F
AIR/O2 0 4:20
15 3:40 AIR 3 7:20 0.5 G
AIR/O2 2 6:20
20 3:40 AIR 8 12:20 0.5 I
AIR/O2 5 9:20
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
25 3:40 AIR 17 21:20 0.5 K
AIR/O2 9 13:20
30 3:20 AIR 2 32 38:00 1 M
AIR/O2 1 17 22:00
35 3:20 AIR 5 44 53:00 1 O
AIR/O2 3 23 30:00
40 3:20 AIR 6 66 76:00 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 3 30 37:00
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
45 3:00 AIR 1 11 84 99:40 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 1 6 33 49:00
50 3:00 AIR 2 20 118 143:40 2 Z
AIR/O2 2 10 36 57:00
55 3:00 AIR 4 28 146 181:40 2 Z
AIR/O2 4 14 40 67:00
60 3:00 AIR 12 28 170 213:40 2.5 Z
AIR/O2 12 14 46 81:00
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
70 2:40 AIR 1 26 28 235 293:20 3
AIR/O2 1 26 14 63 117:40
80 2:40 AIR 12 26 28 297 366:20 3.5
AIR/O2 12 26 14 79 144:40
90 2:40 AIR 22 25 28 375 453:20 4
AIR/O2 22 25 14 95 174:40
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
100 2:20 AIR 6 23 26 38 444 540:00 5
AIR/O2 6 23 26 20 106 204:20
120 2:20 AIR 17 24 27 57 534 662:00 6
AIR/O2 17 24 27 29 130 255:20
180 2:00 AIR 13 21 45 57 94 658 890:40 9
AIR/O2 13 21 45 57 46 198 418:00

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-77

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

140 FSW
10 4:40 AIR 0 4:40 0 E
AIR/O2 0 4:40
15 4:00 AIR 5 9:40 0.5 H
AIR/O2 3 7:40
20 4:00 AIR 13 17:40 0.5 J
AIR/O2 7 11:40
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
25 3:40 AIR 3 24 31:20 1 L
AIR/O2 2 12 18:20
30 3:40 AIR 7 37 48:20 1 N
AIR/O2 4 19 27:20
35 3:20 AIR 2 7 58 71:00 1.5 O
AIR/O2 2 4 26 36:20
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
40 3:20 AIR 4 7 82 97:00 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 4 4 33 50:20
45 3:20 AIR 5 18 114 141:00 2 Z
AIR/O2 5 9 36 59:20
50 3:20 AIR 8 27 145 184:00 2 Z
AIR/O2 8 14 39 70:20
55 3:00 AIR 1 15 29 171 219:40 2.5 Z
AIR/O2 1 15 15 45 85:00
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
60 3:00 AIR 2 23 28 209 265:40 3
AIR/O2 2 23 14 56 109:00
70 3:00 AIR 14 25 29 276 347:40 3.5
AIR/O2 14 25 15 74 142:00
80 2:40 AIR 2 24 25 29 362 445:20 4
AIR/O2 2 24 25 15 91 175:40
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
90 2:40 AIR 12 23 26 38 443 545:20 5
AIR/O2 12 23 26 19 107 210:40

9-78 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

150 FSW
8 5:00 AIR 0 5:00 0 E
AIR/O2 0 5:00
10 4:20 AIR 2 7:00 0.5 F
AIR/O2 1 6:00
15 4:20 AIR 8 13:00 0.5 H
AIR/O2 5 10:00
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20 4:00 AIR 2 15 21:40 0.5 K
AIR/O2 1 8 13:40
25 4:00 AIR 7 29 40:40 1 M
AIR/O2 4 14 22:40
30 3:40 AIR 4 7 45 60:20 1.5 O
AIR/O2 4 4 22 34:40
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
35 3:40 AIR 6 7 74 91:20 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 6 4 30 44:40
40 3:20 AIR 2 6 14 106 132:00 2 Z
AIR/O2 2 6 7 35 59:20
45 3:20 AIR 3 8 24 142 181:00 2 Z
AIR/O2 3 8 12 40 72:20
50 3:20 AIR 4 14 28 170 220:00 2.5 Z
AIR/O2 4 14 14 46 87:20
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
55 3:20 AIR 7 21 28 212 272:00 3
AIR/O2 7 21 14 57 113:20
60 3:20 AIR 11 26 28 248 317:00 3
AIR/O2 11 26 14 67 132:20
70 3:00 AIR 3 24 25 28 330 413:40 4
AIR/O2 3 24 25 14 85 170:00
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
80 3:00 AIR 15 23 26 35 430 532:40 4.5
AIR/O2 15 23 26 18 104 205:00
90 2:40 AIR 3 22 23 26 47 496 620:20 5.5
AIR/O2 3 22 23 26 24 118 239:40
120 2:20 AIR 3 20 22 23 50 75 608 804:00 8
AIR/O2 3 20 22 23 50 37 168 356:20
180 2:00 AIR 2 19 20 42 48 79 121 694 1027:40 10.5
AIR/O2 2 19 20 42 48 79 58 222 538:00

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-79

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

160 FSW
7 5:20 AIR 0 5:20 0 E
AIR/O2 0 5:20
10 4:40 AIR 4 9:20 0.5 F
AIR/O2 2 7:20
15 4:20 AIR 2 10 17:00 0.5 I
AIR/O2 1 6 12:00
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20 4:00 AIR 1 4 19 28:40 0.5 L
AIR/O2 1 2 10 18:00
25 4:00 AIR 4 7 35 50:40 1 N
AIR/O2 4 4 17 30:00
30 3:40 AIR 2 6 7 62 81:20 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 2 6 4 26 42:40
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
35 3:40 AIR 4 6 8 89 111:20 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 4 6 4 34 57:40
40 3:40 AIR 6 6 21 134 171:20 2 Z
AIR/O2 6 6 11 38 70:40
45 3:20 AIR 2 5 11 28 166 216:00 2.5 Z
AIR/O2 2 5 11 14 45 86:20
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
50 3:20 AIR 2 8 19 28 207 268:00 3
AIR/O2 2 8 19 15 55 113:20
55 3:20 AIR 3 11 26 28 248 320:00 3
AIR/O2 3 11 26 14 67 135:20
60 3:20 AIR 6 17 25 29 291 372:00 3.5
AIR/O2 6 17 25 15 77 154:20
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
70 3:20 AIR 15 23 26 29 399 496:00 4.5
AIR/O2 15 23 26 15 99 197:20
80 3:00 AIR 6 21 24 25 44 482 605:40 5.5
AIR/O2 6 21 24 25 23 114 237:00

9-80 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

170 FSW
6 5:40 AIR 0 5:40 0 D
AIR/O2 0 5:40
10 5:00 AIR 6 11:40 0.5 G
AIR/O2 3 8:40
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15 4:40 AIR 3 13 21:20 0.5 J
AIR/O2 2 6 13:20
20 4:20 AIR 3 6 24 38:00 1 M
AIR/O2 3 3 12 23:20
25 4:00 AIR 1 7 7 41 60:40 1 O
AIR/O2 1 7 4 20 37:00
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
30 4:00 AIR 5 7 7 77 100:40 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 5 7 3 30 50:00
35 3:40 AIR 2 6 6 15 120 153:20 2 Z
AIR/O2 2 6 6 8 37 68:40
40 3:40 AIR 4 6 9 25 158 206:20 2.5 Z
AIR/O2 4 6 9 12 44 84:40
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
45 3:40 AIR 5 7 16 28 197 257:20 2.5 Z
AIR/O2 5 7 16 14 53 109:40
50 3:20 AIR 1 5 11 23 28 244 316:00 3
AIR/O2 1 5 11 23 14 66 134:20
55 3:20 AIR 2 7 16 26 28 289 372:00 3.5
AIR/O2 2 7 16 26 14 77 156:20
60 3:20 AIR 2 11 21 26 28 344 436:00 4
AIR/O2 2 11 21 26 14 88 181:20
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
70 3:20 AIR 7 19 24 25 39 454 572:00 5
AIR/O2 7 19 24 25 20 109 228:20
80 3:20 AIR 17 22 23 26 53 525 670:00 6
AIR/O2 17 22 23 26 27 128 267:20
90 3:00 AIR 8 19 22 23 37 66 574 752:40 7
AIR/O2 8 19 22 23 37 33 148 319:00
120 2:40 AIR 9 19 20 22 42 60 94 659 928:20 9
AIR/O2 9 19 20 22 42 60 46 198 454:40
180 2:20 AIR 10 18 19 40 43 70 97 156 703 1159:00 11.5
AIR/O2 10 18 19 40 43 70 97 74 229 648:00

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-81

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

180 FSW
6 6:00 AIR 0 6:00 0 E
AIR/O2 0 6:00
10 5:20 AIR 8 14:00 0.5 G
AIR/O2 4 10:00
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15 4:40 AIR 2 3 14 24:20 0.5 K
AIR/O2 2 2 7 16:40
20 4:20 AIR 1 5 7 29 47:00 1 M
AIR/O2 1 5 3 15 29:20
25 4:20 AIR 5 6 7 57 80:00 1.5 O
AIR/O2 5 6 4 24 44:20
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
30 4:00 AIR 3 6 6 7 95 121:40 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 3 6 6 4 34 63:00
35 3:40 AIR 1 5 6 6 22 144 188:20 2 Z
AIR/O2 1 5 6 6 11 41 79:40
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
40 3:40 AIR 2 6 5 13 28 178 236:20 2.5
AIR/O2 2 6 5 13 14 48 97:40
45 3:40 AIR 4 5 10 20 28 235 306:20 3
AIR/O2 4 5 10 20 14 63 130:40
50 3:40 AIR 4 8 13 25 29 277 360:20 3.5
AIR/O2 4 8 13 25 15 75 154:40
55 3:40 AIR 5 11 19 26 28 336 429:20 4
AIR/O2 5 11 19 26 14 87 181:40
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
60 3:20 AIR 1 8 13 23 25 31 406 511:00 4.5
AIR/O2 1 8 13 23 25 16 100 205:20
70 3:20 AIR 4 12 21 24 25 48 499 637:00 5.5
AIR/O2 4 12 21 24 25 24 119 253:20

9-82 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

190 FSW
5 6:20 AIR 0 6:20 0 D
AIR/O2 0 6:20
10 5:20 AIR 2 8 16:00 0.5 H
AIR/O2 1 4 11:00
In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Recommended --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15 4:40 AIR 1 3 3 16 28:20 0.5 K
AIR/O2 1 3 2 8 19:40
20 4:20 AIR 1 2 6 7 34 55:00 1 N
AIR/O2 1 2 6 4 17 35:20
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air Decompression ------------- In-Water Air/O2 Decompression or SurDO2 Required -----------
25 4:20 AIR 2 6 7 7 72 99:00 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 2 6 7 3 28 51:20
30 4:00 AIR 1 6 5 7 13 122 158:40 2 Z
AIR/O2 1 6 5 7 7 38 74:00
Exceptional Exposure: In-Water Air/02 Decompression ------------- SurDO2 Required-------------------------------------------------------
35 4:00 AIR 4 5 6 8 26 165 218:40 2.5 Z
AIR/O2 4 5 6 8 13 45 91:00
40 3:40 AIR 1 5 5 8 17 28 217 285:20 3
AIR/O2 1 5 5 8 17 15 58 123:40
45 3:40 AIR 2 5 6 12 24 29 264 346:20 3.5
AIR/O2 2 5 6 12 24 15 71 149:40
50 3:40 AIR 3 5 10 17 26 28 324 417:20 4
AIR/O2 3 5 10 17 26 14 85 179:40
Exceptional Exposure: SurDO2 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
55 3:40 AIR 4 8 10 24 25 30 397 502:20 4.5
AIR/O2 4 8 10 24 25 15 99 204:40
60 3:40 AIR 5 10 16 24 25 40 454 578:20 5
AIR/O2 5 10 16 24 25 20 109 233:40
90 3:20 AIR 11 19 20 21 28 51 83 626 863:00 8.5
AIR/O2 11 19 20 21 28 51 41 178 408:20
120 3:00 AIR 15 17 19 20 37 46 79 113 691 1040:40 10.5
AIR/O2 15 17 19 20 37 46 79 55 219 551:00

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-83

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Gas Mix 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

200 FSW
Exceptional Exposure ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5 6:40 AIR 0 6:40 0 E
AIR/O2 0 6:40
10 5:40 AIR 3 8 17:20 0.5 H
AIR/O2 2 4 12:20
15 5:00 AIR 2 3 5 19 34:40 0.5 L
AIR/O2 2 3 3 9 23:00
20 4:40 AIR 2 4 6 7 43 67:20 1 O
AIR/O2 2 4 6 4 20 41:40
25 4:20 AIR 1 5 6 6 7 85 115:00 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 1 5 6 6 4 32 64:20
30 4:20 AIR 4 6 5 7 19 145 191:00 2 Z
AIR/O2 4 6 5 7 10 42 84:20
35 4:00 AIR 2 5 5 6 13 28 188 251:40 2.5
AIR/O2 2 5 5 6 13 14 51 106:00
40 4:00 AIR 4 5 5 11 21 28 249 327:40 3.5
AIR/O2 4 5 5 11 21 14 68 143:00
45 3:40 AIR 1 4 5 10 14 25 28 306 397:20 3.5
AIR/O2 1 4 5 10 14 25 14 81 168:40
50 3:40 AIR 2 4 8 10 21 26 28 382 485:20 4.5
AIR/O2 2 4 8 10 21 26 14 97 201:40

210 FSW
Exceptional Exposure ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4 7:00 AIR 0 7:00 0 D
AIR/O2 0 7:00
5 6:20 AIR 2 9:00 0.5 E
AIR/O2 1 8:00
10 5:40 AIR 2 3 9 20:20 0.5 I
AIR/O2 2 2 4 14:40
15 5:00 AIR 1 3 3 6 24 42:40 1 M
AIR/O2 1 3 3 3 12 28:00
20 4:40 AIR 1 3 5 6 7 57 84:20 1 O
AIR/O2 1 3 5 6 4 23 47:40
25 4:40 AIR 3 6 5 7 8 110 144:20 2 Z
AIR/O2 3 6 5 7 4 38 73:40
30 4:20 AIR 2 5 6 6 6 26 163 219:00 2.5 Z
AIR/O2 2 5 6 6 6 13 45 93:20
35 4:00 AIR 1 4 5 6 7 18 28 223 296:40 3
AIR/O2 1 4 5 6 7 18 14 60 130:00
40 4:00 AIR 2 5 5 7 11 26 28 278 366:40 3.5
AIR/O2 2 5 5 7 11 26 14 76 161:00
45 4:00 AIR 4 4 6 11 18 26 28 355 456:40 4
AIR/O2 4 4 6 11 18 26 14 91 194:00
50 3:40 AIR 1 4 5 10 12 23 26 36 432 553:20 5
AIR/O2 1 4 5 10 12 23 26 18 105 223:40

9-84 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 Table 9-9. Air Decompression Table (Continued).
(DESCENT RATE 75 FPM—ASCENT RATE 30 FPM)

Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total

to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop Gas except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Mix 130 120 110 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

220 FSW
Exceptional Exposure ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4 7:20 AIR 0 7:20 0 E
AIR/O2 0 7:20
5 6:40 AIR 3 10:20 0.5 E
AIR/O2 2 9:20
10 6:00 AIR 3 4 10 23:40 0.5 J
AIR/O2 3 2 5 17:00
15 5:20 AIR 3 2 4 7 28 50:00 1 N
AIR/O2 3 2 4 4 14 33:20
20 5:00 AIR 2 4 6 6 7 70 100:40 1.5 Z
AIR/O2 2 4 6 6 4 26 54:00
25 4:40 AIR 1 5 6 6 6 14 133 176:20 2 Z
AIR/O2 1 5 6 6 6 7 41 82:40
30 4:20 AIR 1 4 5 6 6 10 28 183 248:00 2.5
AIR/O2 1 4 5 6 6 10 14 50 106:20
35 4:20 AIR 3 5 5 5 10 22 28 251 334:00 3.5
AIR/O2 3 5 5 5 10 22 14 68 147:20
40 4:00 AIR 1 4 5 5 9 15 26 28 319 416:40 4
AIR/O2 1 4 5 5 9 15 26 14 84 183:00

250 FSW
Exceptional Exposure ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4 7:40 AIR 4 12:20 0.5 F
AIR/O2 2 10:20
5 7:40 AIR 7 15:20 0.5 G
AIR/O2 4 12:20
10 6:20 AIR 2 2 4 3 15 33:00 0.5 L
AIR/O2 2 2 4 2 7 24:20
15 5:40 AIR 2 2 3 4 6 7 53 83:20 1 O
AIR/O2 2 2 3 4 6 4 22 49:40
20 5:20 AIR 2 2 4 6 6 6 11 125 168:00 2 Z
AIR/O2 2 2 4 6 6 6 6 39 82:20
25 5:00 AIR 1 4 4 5 6 6 10 28 189 258:40 2.5
AIR/O2 1 4 4 5 6 6 10 14 51 112:00
30 4:40 AIR 1 4 4 4 5 6 9 25 28 267 358:20 3.5
AIR/O2 1 4 4 4 5 6 9 25 15 72 160:40
35 4:40 AIR 3 4 4 5 5 10 19 26 28 363 472:20 4
AIR/O2 3 4 4 5 5 10 19 26 14 93 203:40

CHAPTER 9 — Air Decompression 9-85

 Time DECOMPRESSION STOPS (FSW) Total
to First Stop times (min) include travel time, Ascent Chamber
Bottom Time Stop Gas except first air and first O2 stop Time O2 Repet
(min) (M:S) Mix 130 120 110 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 (M:S) Periods Group

300 FSW
Exceptional Exposure ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4 9:00 AIR 3 7 19:40 0.5 G
AIR/O2 2 4 15:40
5 8:40 AIR 3 3 8 23:20 0.5 I
AIR/O2 3 2 4 18:40
10 7:20 AIR 2 3 2 3 4 7 35 64:00 1 N
AIR/O2 2 3 2 3 4 4 18 44:20
15 6:20 AIR 1 2 2 3 3 5 6 7 11 125 172:00 2 Z
AIR/O2 1 2 2 3 3 5 6 7 6 39 86:20
20 6:00 AIR 2 2 2 4 5 5 5 6 16 28 219 300:40 3
AIR/O2 2 2 2 4 5 5 5 6 16 14 59 137:00
25 5:40 AIR 1 3 4 4 4 5 5 5 18 26 28 324 433:20 4
AIR/O2 1 3 4 4 4 5 5 5 18 26 14 85 195:40

9-86 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 CHAPTER 10

Nitrogen-Oxygen Diving Operations

10-1 INTRODUCTION

Nitrogen-oxygen (NITROX) diving is a unique type of diving using nitrogen-

oxygen breathing gas mixtures ranging from 75 percent nitrogen/25 percent
oxygen to 60 percent nitrogen/40 percent oxygen. Using NITROX significantly
increases the amount of time a diver can spend at depth without decompressing. It
also decreases the required decompression time compared to a similar dive made
to the same depth using air. NITROX may be used in all diving operations suitable
for air, but its use is limited to a normal depth of 140 fsw.

NITROX breathing gas mixtures are normally used for shallow dives. The most
benefit is gained when NITROX is used shallower than 50 fsw, but it can be
advantageous when used to a depth of 140 fsw.

10-1.1 Advantages and Disadvantages of NITROX Diving. The advantages of using

NITROX rather than air for diving include:

n Extended bottom times for no-decompression diving.

n Reduced decompression time.
n Reduced residual nitrogen in the body after a dive.
n Reduced possibility of decompression sickness.
n Reduced Nitrogen Narcosis

The disadvantages of using NITROX include:

n Increased risk of CNS oxygen toxicity.

n Producing NITROX mixtures requires special equipment.
n NITROX equipment requires special cleaning techniques.
n Long-duration NITROX dives can result in pulmonary oxygen toxicity.
n Working with NITROX systems requires special training.
n NITROX is expensive to purchase.

10-2 EQUIVALENT AIR DEPTH

The partial pressure of nitrogen in a NITROX mixture is the key factor deter­mining
the diver’s decompression obligation. Oxygen plays no role. The decompression
obligation for a NITROX dive therefore can be determined using the Standard Air
Tables simply by selecting the depth on air that has the same partial pressure of
nitrogen as the NITROX mixture. This depth is called the Equivalent Air Depth
(EAD). For example, the nitrogen partial pressure in a 68% nitrogen 32% oxygen
mixture at 63 fsw is 2.0 ata. This is the same partial pressure of nitrogen found in
air at 50 fsw. 50 fsw is the Equivalent Air Depth.

CHAPTER 10 — Nitrogen-Oxygen Diving Operations 10-1

 10-2.1 Equivalent Air Depth Calculation.

The Equivalent Air Depth can be computed from the following formula:

Where:
EAD = equivalent depth on air (fsw)
D = diving depth on mixture (fsw)
O2% = oxygen concentration in breathing medium (percentage decimal)

For example, while breathing a mixture containing 40 percent oxygen (O2% =

0.40) at 70 fsw (D = 70), the equivalent air depth would be:

Note that with NITROX, the Equivalent Air Depth is always shallower than the
diver’s actual depth. This is the reason that NITROX offers a decompression
advantage over air.

10-3 OXYGEN TOXICITY

Although the use of NITROX can increase the diver’s bottom time and reduce the
risk of nitrogen narcosis, using a NITROX mixture raises the concern for oxygen
toxicity. For example, using air as the breathing medium, an oxygen partial pres­
sure (ppO2) of 1.6 ata is reached at a depth of 218 fsw. In contrast, when using the
NITROX mixture containing 60 percent nitrogen and 40 percent oxygen, a ppO2 of
1.6 ata is reached at 99 fsw. Therefore, oxygen toxicity must be considered when
diving a NITROX mixture and is a limiting factor when considering depth and
duration of a NITROX dive.

Generally speaking, there are two types of oxygen toxicity—central nervous system
(CNS) oxygen and pulmonary oxygen toxicity. CNS oxygen toxicity is usually
not encountered unless the partial pressure of oxygen approaches or exceeds 1.6
ata, but it can result in serious symptoms including potentially life-threatening
convulsions. Pulmonary oxygen toxicity may result from conducting long-duration
dives at oxygen partial pressures in excess of 1.0 ata. For example, a dive longer
than 240 minutes at 1.3 ata or a dive longer than 320 minutes at 1.1 ata may place

10-2 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 the diver at risk if the exposure is on a daily basis. Pulmonary oxygen toxicity
under these conditions can result in decrements of pulmonary function, but is not
life threatening.

The NITROX Equivalent Air Depth (EAD) Decompression Selection Table (Table
10‑1) was developed considering both CNS and pulmonary oxygen toxicity. Normal
working dives that exceed a ppO2 of 1.4 ata are not permitted, principally to avoid
the risk of CNS oxygen toxicity. Dives with a ppO2 less than 1.4 ata, however, can
be conducted using the full range of bottom times allowed by the air tables without
concern for CNS or pulmonary oxygen toxicity.

Supervisors must keep in mind that pulmonary oxygen toxicity may become an
issue with frequent, repetitive diving. The effects of pulmonary oxygen toxicity
can be cumulative and can reduce the underwater work performance of susceptible
individuals after a long series of repetitive daily exposures. Fatigue, headache, flu-
like symptoms, and numbness of the fingers and toes may also be experienced with
repetitive exposures. Table 10‑1 takes these repetitive exposures into account, and
therefore problems with oxygen toxicity should not be encountered with its use.
If symptoms are experienced, the diver should stop diving NITROX until they
resolve.

10-3.1 Selecting the Proper NITROX Mixture. Considerable caution must be used when
selecting the proper NITROX mixture for a dive. The maximum depth of the
dive must be known as well as the planned bottom time. Once the maximum
depth is known, the various NITROX mixtures can be evaluated to determine
which one will provide the least amount of decom­pression while also allowing
for a maximum bottom time. If a diver’s depth exceeds that allowed for a certain
NITROX mixture, the diver is at great risk of life-threatening oxygen toxicity.

10-4 NITROX DIVING PROCEDURES

10-4.1 NITROX Diving Using Equivalent Air Depths. NITROX diving is based upon the
current Air Decompression Tables. The actual schedule used is adjusted for the
oxygen percentage in the breathing gas. To use the EAD Decompression Selection
Table (Table 10-1), find the actual oxygen percentage of the breathing gas in the
heading and the diver’s actual depth in the left column to determine the appropriate
schedule to be used from the Air Decompression Tables. The EAD decompression
schedule is where the column and row intersect. When using Table 10-1, round all
gas mixtures using the standard rounding rule where gas mixes at or above 0.5%
round up to the next whole percent and mixes of 0.1% to 0.4% round down to
the next whole percent. Once an EAD is determined and an air table is selected,
follow the rules of the air table using the EAD for the remainder of the dive.

CHAPTER 10 — Nitrogen-Oxygen Diving Operations 10-3

Table 10‑1. Equivalent Air Depth Table.

Diver’s EAD Feet

Actual
Depth 25% 26% 27% 28% 29% 30% 31% 32% 33% 34% 35% 36% 37% 38% 39% 40%
(fsw) O2 O2 O2 O2 O2 O2 O2 O2 O2 O2 O2 O2 O2 O2 O2 O2

20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 15 15 15 15 15 10 10 10 10

30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 25 25 25 20 20 20 20 20 20

40 40 40 40 40 40 40 40 35 30 30 30 30 30 30 25 25

50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 40 40 40 40 40 35 35 35 35

60 60 60 60 60 60 60 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 40 40

70 70 70 70 70 70 60 60 60 60 60 60 60 50 50 50 50

80 80 80 80 80 70 70 70 70 70 70 70 60 60 60 60 60

90 90 90 90 90 80 80 80 80 80 80 70 70 70 70 70 70
(:107) (:80) (:61) (:47)

90 90 80 80 80 80 80 80 70
100 100 100 100 90 90 90 90
(:113) (:82) (:61) (:46) (:36) (:29) (:23)

100 100 100 100 90 90 90

110 110 110 110 100 100
(:96) (:69) (:51) (:39) (:30)

110 110 110 110 110 100 100

120 120 120 120
(:91) (:64) (:47) (:35) (:27)

130 120 120 120 120 120 110

130 130
(:95) (:65) (:47) (:35) (:26)

140 140 130 130 130

140
(:109) (:73) (:50) (:36)
150 150 140
150
(:89) (:59) (:41)
160 160
160
(:50) (:35)

EAD = Equivalent Air Depth - For Decompression Table Selection Only Rounded to Next Greater Depth
= 1.4 ata Normal working limit.

= Depth exceeds the normal working limit, requires the Commanding Officer’s authorization and surface-
supplied equipment. Repetitive dives are not authorized. Times listed in parentheses indicate maximum
allowable exposure.

Note1: Depths not listed are considered beyond the safe limits of NITROX diving.
Note2: The EAD, 1.4 ata Normal Working Limit Line and Maximum Allowable Exposure Time for dives deeper than
the Normal Working Limit Line are calculated assuming the diver rounds the oxygen percentage in the gas
mixture using the standard rounding rule discussed in paragraph 10‑4.1. The calculations also take into
account the allowable ± 0.5 percent error in gas analysis.

10-4 U.S. Navy Diving Manual — Volume 2

 10-4.2 SCUBA Operations. For SCUBA operations, analyze the nitrox mix in each bottle
to be used prior to every dive.

10-4.3 Special Procedures. In the event there is a switch to air during the NITROX dive,
using the diver’s maximum depth and bottom time follow the Air Decompression
Table for the actual depth of the dive.

10-4.4 Omitted Decompression. In the event that the loss of gas required a direct
ascent to the surface, any decom­pression requirements must be addressed using
the standard protocols for “omitted decompression.” For omitted decompression
dives that exceed the maximum depth listed on Table 10-1, the diving supervisor
must rapidly calculate the diver’s EAD and follow the omitted decompression
procedures based on the diver’s EAD, not his or her actual depth. If time will
not permit this, the diving supervisor can elect to use the diver’s actual depth and
follow the omitted decompression procedures.

10-4.5 Dives Exceeding the Normal Working Limit. The EAD Table has been developed
to restrict dives with a ppO2 greater than 1.4 ata and limits dive duration based
on CNS oxygen toxicity. Dives exceeding the normal working limits of Table
10-1 require the Commanding Officer’s authoriza­tion and are restricted to surface-
supplied diving equipment only. All Equivalent Air Depths provided below the
normal working limit line have the maximum allowable exposure time listed
alongside. This is the maximum time a diver can safely spend at that depth and
avoid CNS oxygen toxicity. Repetitive dives are not authorized when exceeding
the normal working limits of Table 10-1.

10-5 NITROX REPETITIVE DIVING

Repetitive diving is possible when using NITROX or combinations of air and

NITROX. Once the EAD is determined for a specific dive, the Air Decompression
Tables are used throughout the dive using the EAD from Table 10‑1.

The Residual Nitrogen Timetable for Repetitive Air Dives will be used when
applying the EAD for NITROX dives. Determine the Repetitive Group Designator
for the dive just completed using either Table 9-7, No-Decompression Limits and
Repetitive Group Designators for No-Decompression Air Dives or Table 9-9, Air
Decompression Table.

Enter Table 9‑8, Residual Nitrogen Timetable for Repetitive Air Dives, using the
repetitive group designator. If the repetitive dive is an air dive, use Table 9‑8 as is.
If the repetitive dive is a NITROX dive, determine the EAD of the repetitive dive
from Table 10‑1 and use that depth as the repetitive dive depth.

10-6 NITROX DIVE CHARTING

The NITROX Diving Chart (Figure 10‑1) should be used for NITROX diving and
filled out as described in Chapter 9. The NITROX chart has an additional block for
EAD with the percentage of gas written in the bottom mix block.

CHAPTER 10 — Nitrogen-Oxygen Diving Operations 10-5

 Date: Type of Dive: N2O2
Diver 1: Diver 2: Standby:
Rig: PSIG: O2%: Rig: PSIG: O2%: Rig: PSIG: O2%:
Diving Supervisor: Chartman: Bottom Mix:
EVENT STOP TIME CLOCK TIME EVENT TIME/DEPTH
LS or 20 fsw Descent Time (Water)
RB Stage Depth (fsw)
LB Maximum Depth (fsw)
st
R 1 Stop EAD (NITROX)
190 fsw Total Bottom Time
180 fsw Table/Schedule
170 fsw Time to 1st Stop (Planned)
160 fsw Time to 1st Stop (Actual)
150 fsw Delay to 1st Stop
140 fsw Travel/Shift/Vent Time
130 fsw Ascent Time-Water/SurD (Actual)
120 fsw Undress Time-SurD (Actual)
110 fsw Descent Chamber-SurD (Actual)
100 fsw Total SurD Surface Interval
90 fsw Ascent Time–Chamber (Actual)
80 fsw HOLDS ON DESCENT
70 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
60 fsw
50 fsw
40 fsw
30 fsw DELAYS ON ASCENT
20 fsw DEPTH PROBLEM
RS
RB CHAMBER
50 fsw chamber DECOMPRESSION PROCEDURES USED
40 fsw chamber
N2O2
30 fsw chamber o In-water N2O2 decompression
RS CHAMBER o In-water N2O2/O2 decompression
TDT TTD o SurDO2

REPETITIVE GROUP:
Remarks:

Figure 10‑1. NITROX Diving Chart.

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10-7 FLEET TRAINING FOR NITROX

A Master Diver shall conduct training for NITROX diving prior to conducting
NITROX diving operations. Actual NITROX dives are not required for this
training. The following are the minimum training topics to be covered:

n Pulmonary and CNS oxygen toxicity associated with NITROX diving.

n EAD tables and their association with the air tables.
n Compute the Equivalent Air Depth and then enter Table 6-2 to determine
chamber requirement. (Note – OSHA requires a chamber on station for open-
circuit NITROX diving for all civilian divers.)
n Safe handling of NITROX mixtures.

NITROX Charging and Mixing Technicians must be trained on the following

topics:

n Oxygen handling safety.

n Oxygen analysis equipment.
n NITROX mixing techniques.
n NITROX cleaning requirements (MIL-STD-1330 Series).

10-8 NITROX DIVING EQUIPMENT

NITROX diving can be performed using a variety of equipment that can be broken
down into two general categories: surface-supplied or closed- and open-circuit
SCUBA. Closed-circuit UBA apparatus is discussed in Chapter 16.

10-8.1 Open-Circuit SCUBA Systems. Open-circuit SCUBA systems for NITROX

diving are identical to air SCUBA systems with one exception: the SCUBA bottles
are filled with NITROX (nitrogen-oxygen) rather than air. There are specific
regulators authorized for NITROX diving, which are identified on the ANU list.
These regulators have been tested to confirm their compatibility with the higher
oxygen percentages encoun­tered with NITROX diving.

10‑8.1.1 Regulators. SCUBA regulators designated for NITROX use should be cleaned to
the standards of MIL-STD-1330. Once designated for NITROX use and cleaned,
the regulators should be maintained to the level of cleanliness outlined in MIL-
STD-1330.

CHAPTER 10 — Nitrogen-Oxygen Diving Operations 10-7

 10‑8.1.2 Bottles. SCUBA bottles designated for
use with NITROX should be oxygen
cleaned and maintained to that level.
The bottles should have a NITROX
label in large yellow letters on a green
Yellow

background. Once a bottle is cleaned Yellow Lettering Green

and designated for NITROX diving, it Yellow

should not be used for any other type of
diving (Fig­ure 10‑2).

10-8.2 General. All high-pressure flasks,

SCUBA cyl­inders, and all high-
pressure NITROX charging equipment
that comes in con­tact with 100 percent
oxygen during NI­ TROX diving,
mixing, or charging evolutions must be
cleaned and main­tained for NITROX Figure 10‑2. NITROX SCUBA Bottle
service in accordance with the current Markings.
MIL-STD-1330 series.

10-8.3 Surface-Supplied NITROX Diving. Surface-supplied NITROX diving systems

must be modified to make them compatible with the higher percentage of oxygen
found in NITROX mixtures. A request to convert the system to NITROX must
be forwarded to NAVSEA 00C for review and approval. The request must be
accompanied by the proposed changes to the Pre-survey Outline Booklet (PSOB)
permitting system use with NITROX. Once the system is designated for NITROX,
it shall be labeled NITROX with large yellow letters on a green background. MIL-
STD-1330D outlines the cleanli­ness requirements to which a surface-supplied
NITROX system must be maintained.

Once a system has been cleaned and designated for NITROX use, only air meeting
the requirements of Table 10‑2 shall be used to charge the system gas flasks. Air
diving, using a NITROX designated system, is authorized if the air meets the purity
requirements of Table 10‑2.

The EGS used in surface-supplied NITROX diving shall be filled with the same
mixture that is being supplied to the diver ± 0.5 percent.

10-9 EQUIPMENT CLEANLINESS

Cleanliness and the procedures used to obtain cleanliness are a concern with
NITROX systems. MIL-STD-1330 is applicable to anything with an oxygen level
higher than 25 percent by volume. Therefore, MIL-STD-1330 must be followed
when dealing with NITROX systems. Personnel involved in the maintenance and
repair of NITROX equipment shall complete an oxygen clean worker course, as
described in MIL-STD-1330. Even with oxygen levels of 25 to 40 percent, there
is still a greater risk of fire than with compressed air. Materials that would not

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 normally burn in air may burn at these higher O2 levels. Normally combustible
materials require less energy to ignite and will burn faster. The energy required
for ignition can come from different sources, for example adiabatic compression
or particle impact/spark. Another concern is that if improper cleaning agents or
processes are used, the agents themselves can become fire or toxic hazards. It is
therefore important to adhere to MIL-STD-1330 to reduce the risk of damage or
loss of equipment and injury or death of personnel.

10-10 BREATHING GAS PURITY

It is essential that all gases used in producing a NITROX mixture meet the breathing
gas purity standards for oxygen (Table 4‑2) and nitrogen (Table 4‑4). If air is to
be used to produce a mixture, it must be compressed using an oil free NITROX
approved compressor or meet the purity requirements of oil free air (Table 10‑2).
Prior to diving, all NITROX gases shall be analyzed using an ANU approved O2
analyzer accurate to within ± 0.5 percent.

10-11 NITROX MIXING

NITROX mixing can be accomplished by a variety of techniques to produce a final

predetermined nitrogen-oxygen mixture. The techniques for mixing NITROX are
listed as follows:
1. Continuous Flow Mixing. There are two techniques for continuous flow mixing:

a. Mix-maker. A mix-maker uses a precalibrated mixing system that pro­

portions the amount of each gas in the mixture as it is delivered to a
common mixing chamber. A mix-maker performs a series of functions
that ensures accurate mixtures. The gases are regulated to the same
temperature and pressure before they are sent through precision meter­
ing valves. The valves are precalibrated to provide the desired mixing
pressure. The final mixture can be provided directly to the divers or be
compressed using an oil-free compressor into storage banks.

b. Oxygen Induction. Oxygen induction uses a system where low pressure

oxygen is delivered to the intake header of an oil-free compressor, where
it is mixed with the air being drawn into the compressor. Oxygen flow
is adjusted and the compressor output is monitored for oxygen content.
When the desired NITROX mixture is attained the gas is diverted to
the storage banks for diver use while being continually monitored for
oxygen content (Figure 10‑3).

2. Mixing by Partial Pressure. Partial pressure mixing techniques are similar to

those used in helium-oxygen mixed gas diving and are discussed in Chapter 16.

CHAPTER 10 — Nitrogen-Oxygen Diving Operations 10-9

Figure 10‑3. NITROX O2 Injection System.

a. Partial Pressure Mixing with Air.Oil-free air can be used as a Nitrogen

source for the partial pressure mixing of NITROX using the following
procedures:
n Prior to charging air into a NITROX bottle, the NITROX mixing
technician shall smell, taste, and feel the oil-free air coming from the
compressor for signs of oil, mist, or particulates, or for any unusual
smell. If any signs of compressor malfunction are found, the system
must not be used until a satisfactory air sample has been completed.
n Prior to charging with oxygen, to produce a NITROX mix, the
NITROX-charging technician shall charge the bottle to at least 100
psi with oil-free air. This will reduce the risk of adiabatic compres­
sion temperature increase. Once 100 psi of oil-free air has been
added to the charging vessel, the required amount of oxygen should
then be added. The remaining necessary amount of oil-free air can
then be safely charged into the bottle. The charging rate for NITROX
mixing shall not exceed 200 psi per minute.

WARNING Mixing contaminated or non-oil free air with 100% oxygen can result in a
catastrophic fire and explosion.

n Compressed air for NITROX mixing shall meet the purity stan­dards

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 for “Oil Free Air,” (Table 10‑2). All compressors producing air for
NITROX mixing shall have a filtration system designed to produce
oil-free air that has been approved by NAVSEA 00C3. In addition,
all compressors producing oil-free air for NITROX charging shall
have an air sample taken within 90 days prior to use.

Table 10‑2. Oil Free Air.

Constituent Specification

Oxygen (percent by volume) 20-22%

Carbon dioxide (by volume) 500 ppm (max)

Carbon monoxide (by volume) 2 ppm (max)

Total hydrocarbons [as Methane (CH4) by volume] 25 ppm (max)

Odor Not objectionable

Oil, mist, particulates 0.1 mg/m3 (max)

Separated Water None

Total Water 0.02 mg/l (max)

Halogenated Compounds (by volume):

Solvents 0.2 ppm (max)

3. Mixing Using a Membrane System. Membrane systems selectively separate

gas molecules of different sizes such as nitrogen or oxygen from the air. By
removing the nitrogen from the air in a NITROX membrane system the oxygen
percent is increased. The resulting mixture is NITROX. Air is fed into an in-
line filter canister system that removes hydrocarbons and other contaminants.
It is then passed into the membrane canister containing thousands of hollow
membrane fibers. Oxygen permeates across the membrane at a controlled
rate. The amount of nitrogen removed is determined by a needle valve. Once
the desired nitrogen-oxygen ratio is achieved, the gas is diverted through a
NITROX approved compressor and sent to the storage banks (see Figure 10‑4
and Figure 10‑5). Membrane systems can also concentrate CO2 and argon.

4. Mixing Using Molecular Sieves. Molecular sieves are columns of solid, highly
selective chemical absorbent which perform a similar function to membrane
systems, and are used in a similar fashion. Molecular sieves have the added
advantage of absorbing CO2 and moisture from the feed gas.

5. Purchasing Premixed NITROX. Purchasing premixed NITROX is an acceptable

way of obtaining a NITROX mixture. When purchasing premixed NITROX
it is requisite that the gases used in the mixture meet the minimum purity
standards for oxygen (Table 4‑2) and nitrogen (Table 4‑4).

CHAPTER 10 — Nitrogen-Oxygen Diving Operations 10-11

10-12 NITROX MIXING, BLENDING, AND STORAGE SYSTEMS

NITROX mixing, blending, and storage systems shall be designed for oxygen
service and constructed using oxygen-compatible material following accepted
military and commercial practices in accordance with either ASTM G-88, G-63,
G-94, or MIL-STD-438 and -777. Commands should contact NAVSEA 00C for
specific guidance on developing NITROX mixing, blending, or storage systems.
Commands are not authorized to build or use a NITROX system without prior
NAVSEA 00C review and approval.

Figure 10‑4. LP Air Supply NITROX Membrane Configuration.

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Figure 10‑5. HP Air Supply NITROX Membrane Configuration.

CHAPTER 10 — Nitrogen-Oxygen Diving Operations 10-13

 PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY

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