Commercial Diver how-to

How to Follow Decompression Procedures

Decompression prevents the bends.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Decompression prevents the bends. In short: track; use; stop, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Track depth and time.

  2. Use the dive table.

  3. Stop at required depths.

  4. Ascend slowly.

  5. Watch for symptoms.

  6. Use the chamber if needed.

Safety reminders for commercial divers

  • Always have a standby diver
  • Follow decompression rules
  • Lock out underwater hazards
  • Pass dive medicals

Tender · Umbilical · Surface-supplied air · Decompression · Bends · Bottom time: see the full commercial diver glossary.

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