Surface Decompression Diving Operations (SurD02)

Introduction to Surface Decompression

This course aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of surface decompression techniques, protocols, and their importance in preventing decompression sickness.

Surface decompression is carried out at the surface, on deck, and requires the use of a deck decompression chamber (DDC). During diving, the surface decompression schedules require the first part of a diver’s decompression to be completed in the water and the remainder to be completed in the deck decompression chamber (DDC).

SurDO2 is mainly used during time-sensitive diving operations where divers must be cycled in and out of the water quickly and when sea conditions are unfavourable, in order to minimize the diver’s time spent decompressing in the water. The divers themselves operate the chamber for SurDO2 under the supervision of the diving supervisor. The diver will be given the SurDO2 diving profile with all the times worked out and must follow the schedule accurately and report or document according to company policy.

Course Objectives

Participants will learn about:

• The physiological effects of pressure changes on the human body.
• The principles and protocols of surface decompression.
• Techniques for calculating and implementing safe ascent profiles.
• Emergency procedures and medical interventions related to decompression sickness.

By the end of this course, participants will have the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage surface decompression, enhancing safety for themselves and their diving teams.