SELECTING AND ASSEMBLING THE DIVE TEAM
Selecting a properly trained team for a particular diving mission is critical. Refer
to Chapter 6 for an expanded discussion on dive team selection, as well as the
criteria for selecting qualified personnel for various tasks. It is critical to ensure
that only formally qualified personnel are assigned. The Diving Officer, Master
Diver, and Diving Supervisor must verify the qualification level of each team
member. The size and complexity of deep dive systems reinforces the need for a
detailed and comprehensive watch station qualification program.
Diver Training. Training must be given the highest command priority. The
command that dives infrequently, or with insufficient training and few work-up
dives between operations, will be ill-prepared in the event of an emergency. The dive team must be exercised on a regular diving schedule using both routine and
nonroutine drills to remain proficient not only in the water but on topside support
tasks as well. Cross-training ensures that divers are qualified to substitute for one
another when circumstances warrant.
Personnel Requirements. To ensure a sufficient number of properly trained and
qualified individuals are assigned to the most critical positions on a surfacesupplied
mixed-gas dive station, the following minimum stations shall be manned
by formally trained (NDSTC) mixed-gas divers:
All other assignments to a surface-supplied mixed-gas
dive station shall be filled in accordance with Table 13-4.
Diver Fatigue. Fatigue will predispose a diver to decompression sickness. A tired
diver is not mentally alert. Mixed-gas dives shall not be conducted using a
fatigued diver. The command must ensure that all divers making a mixed-gas dive
are well rested prior to the dive. All divers making mixed-gas dives must have at
least 8 hours of sleep within the last 24 hours before diving.
