Scuba Diving Hazards

Compression Decompression Sickness

Nitrogen Narcosis

• Also known as "raptures of the deep"
• Caused by high partial pressure of nitrogen in the bloodstream
• Effects:
  • Euphoria, dizziness, and confusion
  • Impaired judgment and coordination
  • Increased risk of accidents
  • Can lead to loss of consciousness and death
• Occurs at depths > 30 meters (100 feet)

Prevention Methods

• Gradual compression and decompression
• Dive planning and monitoring
• Safety stops during ascent
• Avoiding rapid changes in depth
• Breathing gases with lower nitrogen content (e.g., heliox, trimix)
• Physical fitness and health screening

Symptom Management

• Recognize and respond to symptoms early
• Stop the dive and ascend slowly
• Administer oxygen therapy
• Provide supportive care (e.g., fluids, pain management)
• Monitor for signs of worsening condition
• Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen

Oxygen Toxicity

• Caused by excessive oxygen partial pressure
• Effects:
  • Convulsions
  • Lung damage
  • Respiratory failure
• Risk factors:
  • High partial pressure of oxygen
  • Prolonged exposure
  • Depth and duration of dive
• Prevention:
  • Monitoring oxygen levels
  • Avoiding excessive oxygen exposure
  • Using oxygen-safe equipment

Diving Protocols

• Establishing a safe maximum operating depth (MOD)
• Conducting safety stops and gradual ascents
• Monitoring dive time and gas supply
• Performing pre-dive safety checks and equipment inspections
• Following established emergency procedures
• Maintaining accurate dive logs and records

Nitrogen Narcosis

• Also known as "raptures of the deep"
• Caused by high partial pressure of nitrogen in the bloodstream
• Occurs at depths > 30 meters (100 feet)
• Effects:
  • Euphoria, dizziness, and confusion
  • Impaired judgment and coordination
  • Increased risk of accidents
  • Can lead to loss of consciousness and death

Prevention Methods

• Gradual compression and decompression
• Dive planning and monitoring
• Safety stops during ascent
• Avoiding rapid changes in depth
• Breathing gases with lower nitrogen content (e.g., heliox, trimix)
• Physical fitness and health screening

Symptom Management

• Recognize and respond to symptoms early
• Stop the dive and ascend slowly
• Administer oxygen therapy
• Provide supportive care (e.g., fluids, pain management)
• Monitor for signs of worsening condition
• Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen

Oxygen Toxicity

• Caused by excessive oxygen partial pressure
• Effects:
  • Convulsions
  • Lung damage
  • Respiratory failure
• Risk factors:
  • High partial pressure of oxygen
  • Prolonged exposure
  • Depth and duration of dive
• Prevention:
  • Monitoring oxygen levels
  • Avoiding excessive oxygen exposure
  • Using oxygen-safe equipment

Diving Protocols

• Establishing a safe maximum operating depth (MOD)
• Conducting safety stops and gradual ascents
• Monitoring dive time and gas supply
• Performing pre-dive safety checks and equipment inspections
• Following established emergency procedures
• Maintaining accurate dive logs and records

Explore the risks of scuba diving, including nitrogen narcosis and compression decompression sickness. Learn about the causes, effects, and prevention methods to ensure a safe diving experience.