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. If the diver cannot find the descent line and needs a
special line, this can be bent onto his 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
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.
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,
including an explanation of the tables.
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.
During this often lengthy period of ascent, the diver also checks to ensure that
his umbilical is not becoming fouled on the stage line, the descent line, or by
any steadying weights hanging from the stage platform.
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. If the diver exits the water via the ladder, the tenders provide assistance. The
diver will be tired, and a fall back into the water could result in serious injury.
Under no conditions is any of the diver’s gear to be removed before the diver
is firmly on deck.
