Page 58 - AlertDiver_Winter2013

56 | WINTER 2013
RESEARCH, EDUCATION & MEDICINE // I N C I D E N T I N S I G H T
The diver
The diver was a healthy female in her 20s who was diving
as part of her job. She was a scientific diver participating in
training exercises with her team.
The dives
Several divers were in the water practicing survey
techniques and learning to use new equipment in depths
between 20 and 30 feet. Most dives lasted less than
20 minutes, and divers were in communication with
topside support staff at all times. After each training
scenario they would surface for a debriefing and learn
about the next scenario. The group had some newer
members, so divers switched buddies regularly to allow
everyone to interact with each other. It was summer,
and temperatures were in the 90s (°F).
Most of the divers were wearing drysuits, their normal
diving attire, so the group took precautions to limit
overheating during surface intervals. Conditions were
calm, and the water temperature was 84°F on the surface.
Due to significant thermoclines, the temperature was 72°F
at 15 feet and 64°F at 30 feet. All divers carried lights and
used full-face masks. As part of the training, each diver
took a turn using a new surface-supplied-air helmet to
get used to working with an umbilical line and to learn to
operate the helmet’s emergency bailout system.
The Incident
All participants admitted to being hot and tired toward
the end of the sessions. This diver was the second-to-
last member of the group to use the surface-supplied-air
system. She had some trouble adjusting to the umbilical
Don’t Ignore Your
Medical History
B y S c o t t S m i t h , E M T - P , D M T
STEPHEN FRINK
Whether working or recreational,
all divers should consider their
medical histories carefully and
discuss any potential concerns
with a qualified physician.