Saturation diving requires complex saturation diving systems designed to
precisely control depth, atmosphere composition, and temperature. Commanding
Officers, Diving Officers, and Master Divers must consider personnel and training
requirements, the physiological stress imposed by depth and dive duration, logistics,
and gas supply requirements. Refer to Table 15-2 for the personnel
requirements for saturation diving.
TABLE 15-2 Personnel Requirements for Saturation Diving.
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All candidates for a saturation dive shall be physically
qualified to make the dive as determined by a Saturation Diving Medical Officer.
With the exceptions of authorized research, testing of equipment, or training
purposes, all divers shall be qualified and experienced with the UBA being used
and in the particular dive system to which they are assigned. Depending on
mission requirements, divers may need to have special skills that are required for
the operation
When the schedule permits, training in preparation for a
specific saturation diving mission shall be conducted. This training provides an
opportunity to ensure that all personnel are in optimal physical condition and facilitates
the development of special skills required for the operation. Training also
provides an opportunity for individuals to function as a team and to identify an individual with leadership skills necessary to fill the role of dive team leader.
Alternate divers should be identified and trained with the team in the event of
illness or injury to a primary diver.
