The purpose of this chapter is to familiarize divers with standard and
emergency procedures when diving with scuba equipment.
This chapter covers the use of open-circuit scuba, which is normally
deployed in operations not requiring decompression. Decompression diving using
open-circuit air scuba may be undertaken only if no other option exists and only
with the concurrence of the Commanding Officer or Officer-in-Charge (OIC).
Closed-circuit underwater breathing apparatus is the preferred method of
performing scuba decompression dives. Operation of open-circuit, closed-circuit,
and semiclosed-circuit systems designed for use with mixed-gas or oxygen is
covered in Volume 4.
