Diving equipment
Encyclopedia
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
File:Working Diver 02.jpg|A US Navy diver
at work. The umbilical supplying air from the surface is clearly visible
Image:Standard_diving_dress_1.jpg|Diver in standard diving dress entering water at Stoney Cove, England
File:Buzo.jpg|Scuba diver with single cylinder and open circuit regulator
Image:Apnea monofin.jpg|Free-diver with monofin
, ascending
File:Newtsuit atmospheric diving suit.jpg|The Newtsuit
is an atmospheric diving suit which has fully articulated, rotary joints in the arms and legs.
File:Aqualung 1st stage.jpg|Aqualung regulator 1st stage
File:Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator from 1960.jpg|A 1960s era Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator with "J" Valve incorporated
File:diving regulator contents guage.JPG|A depth gauge
and submersible pressure gauge
File:Pressure guage close up.jpg|Suunto submersible pressure gauge
File:Surface supply air panel for 4 divers P3053737.jpg|A surface supply panel for four divers showing four pneumofathometer gauges
Image:Suunto D9 Dive Computer.jpg|A watch
sized dive computer incorporating an electronic compass and the ability to display cylinder pressure when used with an optional transmitter (Suunto
D9)
Image:Dive computer logbook.jpg|Uwatec Aladin Pro dive computer showing the log of a previous dive
Image:UW Navigation tools.jpg|Nav finder and underwater compass - basic underwater navigation tools.
Image:Distance line.JPG|50 metres of line on a reel
File:Line_Arrow_of_Agnes_Milowka.jpg|Line Arrow Marker|alt=Line Arrow Marker
Image:Scubamask.jpg|A diving half mask provides clear sight and protection for the eyes.
Image:Diving-torch.jpg|A "canister" style dive light
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
File:Working Diver 02.jpg|A US Navy diver
at work. The umbilical supplying air from the surface is clearly visible
Image:Standard_diving_dress_1.jpg|Diver in standard diving dress entering water at Stoney Cove, England
File:Buzo.jpg|Scuba diver with single cylinder and open circuit regulator
Image:Apnea monofin.jpg|Free-diver with monofin
, ascending
File:Newtsuit atmospheric diving suit.jpg|The Newtsuit
is an atmospheric diving suit which has fully articulated, rotary joints in the arms and legs.
File:Aqualung 1st stage.jpg|Aqualung regulator 1st stage
File:Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator from 1960.jpg|A 1960s era Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator with "J" Valve incorporated
File:diving regulator contents guage.JPG|A depth gauge
and submersible pressure gauge
File:Pressure guage close up.jpg|Suunto submersible pressure gauge
File:Surface supply air panel for 4 divers P3053737.jpg|A surface supply panel for four divers showing four pneumofathometer gauges
Image:Suunto D9 Dive Computer.jpg|A watch
sized dive computer incorporating an electronic compass and the ability to display cylinder pressure when used with an optional transmitter (Suunto
D9)
Image:Dive computer logbook.jpg|Uwatec Aladin Pro dive computer showing the log of a previous dive
Image:UW Navigation tools.jpg|Nav finder and underwater compass - basic underwater navigation tools.
Image:Distance line.JPG|50 metres of line on a reel
File:Line_Arrow_of_Agnes_Milowka.jpg|Line Arrow Marker|alt=Line Arrow Marker
Image:Scubamask.jpg|A diving half mask provides clear sight and protection for the eyes.
Image:Diving-torch.jpg|A "canister" style dive light
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
File:Working Diver 02.jpg|A US Navy diver
at work. The umbilical supplying air from the surface is clearly visible
Image:Standard_diving_dress_1.jpg|Diver in standard diving dress entering water at Stoney Cove, England
File:Buzo.jpg|Scuba diver with single cylinder and open circuit regulator
Image:Apnea monofin.jpg|Free-diver with monofin
, ascending
File:Newtsuit atmospheric diving suit.jpg|The Newtsuit
is an atmospheric diving suit which has fully articulated, rotary joints in the arms and legs.
File:Aqualung 1st stage.jpg|Aqualung regulator 1st stage
File:Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator from 1960.jpg|A 1960s era Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator with "J" Valve incorporated
File:diving regulator contents guage.JPG|A depth gauge
and submersible pressure gauge
File:Pressure guage close up.jpg|Suunto submersible pressure gauge
File:Surface supply air panel for 4 divers P3053737.jpg|A surface supply panel for four divers showing four pneumofathometer gauges
Image:Suunto D9 Dive Computer.jpg|A watch
sized dive computer incorporating an electronic compass and the ability to display cylinder pressure when used with an optional transmitter (Suunto
D9)
Image:Dive computer logbook.jpg|Uwatec Aladin Pro dive computer showing the log of a previous dive
Image:UW Navigation tools.jpg|Nav finder and underwater compass - basic underwater navigation tools.
Image:Distance line.JPG|50 metres of line on a reel
File:Line_Arrow_of_Agnes_Milowka.jpg|Line Arrow Marker|alt=Line Arrow Marker
Image:Scubamask.jpg|A diving half mask provides clear sight and protection for the eyes.
Image:Diving-torch.jpg|A "canister" style dive light
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
File:Working Diver 02.jpg|A US Navy diver
at work. The umbilical supplying air from the surface is clearly visible
Image:Standard_diving_dress_1.jpg|Diver in standard diving dress entering water at Stoney Cove, England
File:Buzo.jpg|Scuba diver with single cylinder and open circuit regulator
Image:Apnea monofin.jpg|Free-diver with monofin
, ascending
File:Newtsuit atmospheric diving suit.jpg|The Newtsuit
is an atmospheric diving suit which has fully articulated, rotary joints in the arms and legs.
File:Aqualung 1st stage.jpg|Aqualung regulator 1st stage
File:Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator from 1960.jpg|A 1960s era Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator with "J" Valve incorporated
File:diving regulator contents guage.JPG|A depth gauge
and submersible pressure gauge
File:Pressure guage close up.jpg|Suunto submersible pressure gauge
File:Surface supply air panel for 4 divers P3053737.jpg|A surface supply panel for four divers showing four pneumofathometer gauges
Image:Suunto D9 Dive Computer.jpg|A watch
sized dive computer incorporating an electronic compass and the ability to display cylinder pressure when used with an optional transmitter (Suunto
D9)
Image:Dive computer logbook.jpg|Uwatec Aladin Pro dive computer showing the log of a previous dive
Image:UW Navigation tools.jpg|Nav finder and underwater compass - basic underwater navigation tools.
Image:Distance line.JPG|50 metres of line on a reel
File:Line_Arrow_of_Agnes_Milowka.jpg|Line Arrow Marker|alt=Line Arrow Marker
Image:Scubamask.jpg|A diving half mask provides clear sight and protection for the eyes.
Image:Diving-torch.jpg|A "canister" style dive light
File:Diver harness with weight pocketsPA268054.jpg|Front view of jacket style diver harness with removable weight pockets
Image:Gerber River Shorty.jpg|Gerber
River Shorty, a river/diving knife, with serrated edge for cutting lines and straps, and a blunt tip for prying
File:Aa scuba netcutter.jpg|scuba diver's net cutter. 7 inches long
Surface detection aids include:
File:Air panels and comms box at a surface supplied diver training operation P3118538.jpg|Surface supply air panels. On the left for two divers, on the right for three divers
File:Surface supply diving communications box P3103773.jpg|A hard-wired diver communications unit mounted in a waterproof box for convenience of transport and protection.
File:US Navy 010707-N-3093M-003 Diver Transfer Capsule.jpg|Personnel Transfer Capsule - a dry bell
This picture shows some of the basic diving equipment and controls:
Underwater diving
Underwater diving is the practice of going underwater, either with breathing apparatus or by breath-holding .Recreational diving is a popular activity...
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
Classes of underwater breathing apparatus
- Surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
- mostly used in professional diving. This category includes: - Surface oriented surface supplied diving (Bounce diving), where the diver starts and finished the dive at normal atmospheric pressure.
- Saturation divingSaturation divingSaturation diving is a diving technique that allows divers to reduce the risk of decompression sickness when they work at great depth for long periods of time....
, where the diver remains under pressure in a underwater habitatUnderwater habitatUnderwater habitats are underwater structures in which people can live for extended periods and carry out most of the basic human functions of a 24-hour day, such as working, resting, eating, attending to personal hygiene, and sleeping...
or saturation spread between underwater excursions. - Standard diving dressStandard diving dressA standard diving dress consists of a metallic diving helmet, an airline or hose from a surface supplied diving air pump, a canvas diving suit, diving knife and boots...
- mostly used in professional diving. Mainly of historical interest now. - Airline or Hookah diving.
- "Compressor divingCompressor divingCompressor diving is a method of surface-supplied diving used in some tropical sea areas including the Philippines and the Caribbean. The divers swim with an eyes-and-nose diving mask and fins and are supplied air by plastic hoses from an air compressor of the type commonly used to supply...
" - a rudimentary form of surface supplied diving used in the PhilippinesPhilippinesThe Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
by artisanal fishermen. - Recreational forms like snubaSnubaSnuba is an underwater breathing system developed by Snuba International.The word Snuba is a portmanteau of "snorkel" and "scuba". The swimmer uses swimfins, a diving mask, weights, and diving regulator as in scuba diving....
. - Scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
- The use of self contained underwater breathing apparatus. This category includes: - Open-circuit scuba consisting of diving cylinderDiving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
(s) and diving regulatorDiving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
(s) - RebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
, closed-circuit or semi-closed-circuit scuba - Free diving or breathhold diving, where the diver completes the dive on a single breath of air taken at the surface before the dive.
- Snorkel allows breathing at the surface with the face submerged, and is used as an adjunct to free diving and scuba.
- Atmospheric diving suitAtmospheric diving suitAn atmospheric diving suit or ADS is a small one-man articulated submersible of anthropomorphic form which resembles a suit of armour, with elaborate pressure joints to allow articulation while maintaining an internal pressure of one atmosphere...
s and other submersibles which isolate the diver from the ambient environment. These are not considered here. - Liquid breathingLiquid breathingLiquid breathing is a form of respiration in which a normally air-breathing organism breathes an oxygen-rich liquid , rather than breathing air....
systems are extremely rare and at an early experimental stage. It is hoped that some day practical systems allow very deep diving. This is not considered here.
Personal diving equipment
This is the diving equipment worn by or carried by the diver for personal protection or comfort, or to facilitate the diving aspect of the activity, and may include a selection from:Underwater breathing apparatus
- Scuba equipment: Primary cylinder(s)Diving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
and open circuit regulator(s)Diving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
, or rebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
sets. Alternative air source such as bailout bottleBailout bottleThe term Bailout bottle or Bailout cylinder refers to a scuba cylinder carried by an underwater diver for use as an emergency supply of breathing gas in the event of a primary gas supply failure. A Bailout cylinder may be carried by a scuba diver in addition to the primary scuba set, or by a...
or pony bottlePony bottleA pony bottle is a small independently filled diving cylinder, often of only a few litres capacity, which forms an extended scuba set and which is fitted with its own independent regulator. In an emergency, such as exhaustion of the diver's main air supply, it can be used as an alternate air...
, and decompressionDecompression (diving)Decompression in the context of diving derives from the reduction in ambient pressure experienced by the diver during the ascent at the end of a dive or hyperbaric exposure and refers to both the reduction in pressure and the process of allowing dissolved inert gases to be eliminated from the...
cylinders and their associated regulators. - Surface supplied equipment: HelmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
or full face mask, bailout block, bailout cylinder and regulator.
Exposure protection
Thermal, sting and abrasion protection.- In cold water, a diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
such as a dry suitDry suitA dry suit or drysuit provides thermal insulation or passive thermal protection to the wearer while immersed in water, and is worn by divers, boaters, water sports enthusiasts, and others who work or play in or near cold water. A dry suit normally protects the whole body except the head, hands, and...
(at temperatures of 0-10°C), a wet suit (at temperatures of 21-25°C), or a Hot water suit (surface supplied diving only). - Boiler suit overalls are often worn over the thermal protection suit by commercial divers as abrasion protection
- In very warm water (temperatures of 26-30°C), many types of tough, long, everyday clothing provide protection, as well as purpose made garments such as dive skins (made of lycra) and shorty wetsuits. In some cases, simple regular swimsuits are also used.
- Diving gloveGloveA glove is a garment covering the hand. Gloves have separate sheaths or openings for each finger and the thumb; if there is an opening but no covering sheath for each finger they are called "fingerless gloves". Fingerless gloves with one large opening rather than individual openings for each...
s - Diving hoods
- Diving boots - With dry suits, the boots are usually integrated.
- Safety helmet for scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
. (Not part of the breathing apparatus. May have a built-in forehead light. Images at http://www.flashbackscuba.com/museum/rediscovery/rediscovery.html.) - Diving chain mailChain Mail"Chain Mail" is a single by Mancunian band James, released in March 1986 by Sire Records, the first after the band defected from Factory Records. The record was released in two different versions, as 7" single and 12" EP, with different artworks by John Carroll and, confusingly, under different...
may be used as protection against bites by large marine animals - Diver's cagesShark proof cageA shark proof cage is an extremely strong metal cage used by a SCUBA diver to safely examine dangerous types of sharks up close, such as the Great White shark or bull shark. Shark proof cages are built to withstand being rammed by large, powerful sharks. The cages provide a visual and tactile...
may be used as protection against large predators
In-water stabilisation and movement
- A backplateBackplate and wingthumb|right|A stainless steel backplate, wing and manifolded twinsetA backplate and wing , is a type of Scuba harness with buoyancy compensation device worn by scuba divers. Unlike most other BCDs, the backplate and wing is a modular system, in that it consists of separable components...
is a structural device linking the buoyancy of the wing with the weight of the diving cylinders and harnessed around the diver's body - Buoyancy compensator, Buoyancy Control Device, BCD or BC - many names for a buoyancy adjusting and life-saving buoyancy device
- Diver Propulsion VehicleDiver Propulsion VehicleA diver propulsion vehicle is an item of diving equipment used by scuba and rebreather divers to increase range underwater...
- to increase the range of the diver underwater - Diving weighting systemDiving weighting systemDivers wear weighting systems, weight belts or weights, generally made of lead, to counteract the buoyancy of other diving equipment, such as diving suits and aluminium diving cylinders...
- to counteract the buoyancy of the diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
and diver to allow descent. Professional divers may use additional weighting to ensure stability when working on the bottom - FinsSwimfinSwimfins, swim fins, fins or flippers are worn on the foot or leg and made from finlike rubber or plastic, to aid movement through the water in water sports activities such as swimming, bodyboarding, bodysurfing, kneeboarding, riverboarding, and various types of underwater diving.Scuba divers use...
for efficient propulsion
Equipment for dive monitoring and navigation
- Depth gaugeDepth gaugeA depth gauge is a pressure gauge that displays the equivalent depth in water. It is a piece of diving equipment often used by SCUBA divers.Most modern diving depth gauges have an electronic mechanism and digital display. Older types used a mechanical mechanism and analogue display.A diver uses a...
lets the diver monitor depth, particularly maximum depth and, when used with a watch and Decompression tables, also allows the diver to monitor decompression requirements. Some digital depth gauges also indicate ascent rate which is an important factor in avoiding decompression sickness - Pneumofathometer is the surface supplied diving depth gauge which displays the depth of the diver at the surface control panel.
- Dive ComputerDive computerA dive computer or decompression meter is a device used by a scuba diver to measure the time and depth of a dive so that a safe ascent profile can be calculated and displayed so that the diver can avoid decompression sickness.- Purpose :...
helps the diver to avoid decompression sicknessDecompression sicknessDecompression sickness describes a condition arising from dissolved gases coming out of solution into bubbles inside the body on depressurization...
by indicating the decompression stops needed for the dive profileDive profileA dive profile is a two dimensional graphical representation of a dive showing depth and time.It is useful as an indication of the risks of decompression sickness and oxygen toxicity and also the volume of open-circuit breathing gas needed for a planned dive as these depend in part upon the depth...
. Most dive computers also indicate depth, time and ascent rate. Some also indicate oxygen toxicityOxygen toxicityOxygen toxicity is a condition resulting from the harmful effects of breathing molecular oxygen at elevated partial pressures. It is also known as oxygen toxicity syndrome, oxygen intoxication, and oxygen poisoning...
exposure and water temperature. - Diving watchDiving watchA diving watch is a watch designed for underwater diving that features, as a minimum, a water resistance greater than , the equivalent of . The typical diver's watch will have a water resistance of around , though modern technology allows the creation of diving watches that can go much deeper...
is used with depth gauge for decompression monitoring on decompression tables. - CompassCompassA compass is a navigational instrument that shows directions in a frame of reference that is stationary relative to the surface of the earth. The frame of reference defines the four cardinal directions – north, south, east, and west. Intermediate directions are also defined...
for underwater navigationUnderwater navigationUnderwater navigation is the common reference term for navigation techniques learned by Scuba divers in order to accurately navigate in an underwater environment....
. - Submersible pressure gauge, also known as a "contents gauge" is used to monitor the remaining breathing gas supply in scuba cylinders.
- Distance lineDistance lineA distance line, penetration line or guideline is an item of diving equipment used by SCUBA divers as a means of returning to a safe starting point in conditions of low visibility, water currents or where pilotage is difficult...
can used to guide the diver back to the start point and safety in poor visibility. - A cave line is a line laid by a diver while pnetrating a cave to ensure that the way out is known. Permanent cave lines are marked with line markerLine markerIn cave diving, line markers are used for orientation. Directional markers point the way to an exit ; non-directional markers are purely personal markers that mark specific spots, or the direction of one's own exit at line intersections / T's...
s at all junctions, indicating the direction along the line toward the nearest exit.
Vision and communication
- MaskDiving maskA diving mask is an item of diving equipment that allows scuba divers, free-divers, and snorkelers to see clearly underwater. When the human eye is in direct contact with water as opposed to air, its normal environment, light entering the eye is refracted by a different angle and the eye is unable...
allows the diver to see clearly underwaterUnderwater visionLight rays bend when they travel from one medium to another; the amount of bending is determined by the refractive indices of the two media. If one medium has a particular curved shape, it functions as a lens. The cornea, humours, and crystalline lens of the eye together form a lens that focuses...
and protects the eyes. - Full face mask protects the face from dirty or cold water and increases safety by securing the gas supply to the diver's face. If it contains no mouthpiece, the diver can talk allowing the use of communications equipment.
- Diving helmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
s are often used with surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
. They provide the same benefits as the full face mask but provide a very secure connection of the gas supply to the diver and additionally protect the head. - Underwater writing slateSlate (writing)A writing slate is a piece of flat material used as a medium for writing.In the 19th century, writing slates were made of slate, which is more durable than paper and was cheap at the time when paper was expensive. It was used to allow children to practice writing...
s and pencilPencilA pencil is a writing implement or art medium usually constructed of a narrow, solid pigment core inside a protective casing. The case prevents the core from breaking, and also from marking the user’s hand during use....
s are used to transport pre-dive plans underwater, to record facts whilst underwater and to aid communication with other divers. - Torches or flashlightsFlashlightA flashlight is a hand-held electric-powered light source. Usually the light source is a small incandescent lightbulb or light-emitting diode...
are essential for safety in low visibility or dark environments such as night divingNight divingNight diving is a type of recreational diving which takes place in darkness. The diver can experience a different underwater environment at night, because many marine animals are nocturnal....
and wreck and cave penetration. They are useful for communication and signalling both underwater and on the surface at night. Divers need artificial light even in shallow and clear water to reveal the red end of the spectrum of light which is absorbed as it travels through water. - Hand-held sonarSonarSonar is a technique that uses sound propagation to navigate, communicate with or detect other vessels...
for a diver.
Safety equipment
- Diver's safety harness
- Lifeline
- Surface marker buoy
- Cutting tool
- KnifeKnifeA knife is a cutting tool with an exposed cutting edge or blade, hand-held or otherwise, with or without a handle. Knives were used at least two-and-a-half million years ago, as evidenced by the Oldowan tools...
to cut lines, nets or to pry or dig. Can also be used for personal protection against underwater predators if needed, however not recommended as generally ineffective. - Diver's net or line cutter. This is a small handheld tool carried by scuba divers to extricate themselves if trapped in fishing netFishing netA fishing net or fishnet is a net that is used for fishing. Fishing nets are meshes usually formed by knotting a relatively thin thread. Modern nets are usually made of artificial polyamides like nylon, although nets of organic polyamides such as wool or silk thread were common until recently and...
or fishing lineFishing lineA fishing line is a cord used or made for angling. Important parameters of a fishing line are its length, material, and weight...
. It has a small sharp blade such as a replaceable scalpelScalpelA scalpel, or lancet, is a small and extremely sharp bladed instrument used for surgery, anatomical dissection, and various arts and crafts . Scalpels may be single-use disposable or re-usable. Re-usable scalpels can have attached, resharpenable blades or, more commonly, non-attached, replaceable...
blade inside the small notch. There is a small hole at the other end to for a lanyard to tether the cutter to the diver.
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
Underwater diving
Underwater diving is the practice of going underwater, either with breathing apparatus or by breath-holding .Recreational diving is a popular activity...
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
Classes of underwater breathing apparatus
- Surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
- mostly used in professional diving. This category includes: - Surface oriented surface supplied diving (Bounce diving), where the diver starts and finished the dive at normal atmospheric pressure.
- Saturation divingSaturation divingSaturation diving is a diving technique that allows divers to reduce the risk of decompression sickness when they work at great depth for long periods of time....
, where the diver remains under pressure in a underwater habitatUnderwater habitatUnderwater habitats are underwater structures in which people can live for extended periods and carry out most of the basic human functions of a 24-hour day, such as working, resting, eating, attending to personal hygiene, and sleeping...
or saturation spread between underwater excursions. - Standard diving dressStandard diving dressA standard diving dress consists of a metallic diving helmet, an airline or hose from a surface supplied diving air pump, a canvas diving suit, diving knife and boots...
- mostly used in professional diving. Mainly of historical interest now. - Airline or Hookah diving.
- "Compressor divingCompressor divingCompressor diving is a method of surface-supplied diving used in some tropical sea areas including the Philippines and the Caribbean. The divers swim with an eyes-and-nose diving mask and fins and are supplied air by plastic hoses from an air compressor of the type commonly used to supply...
" - a rudimentary form of surface supplied diving used in the PhilippinesPhilippinesThe Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
by artisanal fishermen. - Recreational forms like snubaSnubaSnuba is an underwater breathing system developed by Snuba International.The word Snuba is a portmanteau of "snorkel" and "scuba". The swimmer uses swimfins, a diving mask, weights, and diving regulator as in scuba diving....
. - Scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
- The use of self contained underwater breathing apparatus. This category includes: - Open-circuit scuba consisting of diving cylinderDiving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
(s) and diving regulatorDiving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
(s) - RebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
, closed-circuit or semi-closed-circuit scuba - Free diving or breathhold diving, where the diver completes the dive on a single breath of air taken at the surface before the dive.
- Snorkel allows breathing at the surface with the face submerged, and is used as an adjunct to free diving and scuba.
- Atmospheric diving suitAtmospheric diving suitAn atmospheric diving suit or ADS is a small one-man articulated submersible of anthropomorphic form which resembles a suit of armour, with elaborate pressure joints to allow articulation while maintaining an internal pressure of one atmosphere...
s and other submersibles which isolate the diver from the ambient environment. These are not considered here. - Liquid breathingLiquid breathingLiquid breathing is a form of respiration in which a normally air-breathing organism breathes an oxygen-rich liquid , rather than breathing air....
systems are extremely rare and at an early experimental stage. It is hoped that some day practical systems allow very deep diving. This is not considered here.
Personal diving equipment
This is the diving equipment worn by or carried by the diver for personal protection or comfort, or to facilitate the diving aspect of the activity, and may include a selection from:Underwater breathing apparatus
- Scuba equipment: Primary cylinder(s)Diving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
and open circuit regulator(s)Diving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
, or rebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
sets. Alternative air source such as bailout bottleBailout bottleThe term Bailout bottle or Bailout cylinder refers to a scuba cylinder carried by an underwater diver for use as an emergency supply of breathing gas in the event of a primary gas supply failure. A Bailout cylinder may be carried by a scuba diver in addition to the primary scuba set, or by a...
or pony bottlePony bottleA pony bottle is a small independently filled diving cylinder, often of only a few litres capacity, which forms an extended scuba set and which is fitted with its own independent regulator. In an emergency, such as exhaustion of the diver's main air supply, it can be used as an alternate air...
, and decompressionDecompression (diving)Decompression in the context of diving derives from the reduction in ambient pressure experienced by the diver during the ascent at the end of a dive or hyperbaric exposure and refers to both the reduction in pressure and the process of allowing dissolved inert gases to be eliminated from the...
cylinders and their associated regulators. - Surface supplied equipment: HelmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
or full face mask, bailout block, bailout cylinder and regulator.
Exposure protection
Thermal, sting and abrasion protection.- In cold water, a diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
such as a dry suitDry suitA dry suit or drysuit provides thermal insulation or passive thermal protection to the wearer while immersed in water, and is worn by divers, boaters, water sports enthusiasts, and others who work or play in or near cold water. A dry suit normally protects the whole body except the head, hands, and...
(at temperatures of 0-10°C), a wet suit (at temperatures of 21-25°C), or a Hot water suit (surface supplied diving only). - Boiler suit overalls are often worn over the thermal protection suit by commercial divers as abrasion protection
- In very warm water (temperatures of 26-30°C), many types of tough, long, everyday clothing provide protection, as well as purpose made garments such as dive skins (made of lycra) and shorty wetsuits. In some cases, simple regular swimsuits are also used.
- Diving gloveGloveA glove is a garment covering the hand. Gloves have separate sheaths or openings for each finger and the thumb; if there is an opening but no covering sheath for each finger they are called "fingerless gloves". Fingerless gloves with one large opening rather than individual openings for each...
s - Diving hoods
- Diving boots - With dry suits, the boots are usually integrated.
- Safety helmet for scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
. (Not part of the breathing apparatus. May have a built-in forehead light. Images at http://www.flashbackscuba.com/museum/rediscovery/rediscovery.html.) - Diving chain mailChain Mail"Chain Mail" is a single by Mancunian band James, released in March 1986 by Sire Records, the first after the band defected from Factory Records. The record was released in two different versions, as 7" single and 12" EP, with different artworks by John Carroll and, confusingly, under different...
may be used as protection against bites by large marine animals - Diver's cagesShark proof cageA shark proof cage is an extremely strong metal cage used by a SCUBA diver to safely examine dangerous types of sharks up close, such as the Great White shark or bull shark. Shark proof cages are built to withstand being rammed by large, powerful sharks. The cages provide a visual and tactile...
may be used as protection against large predators
In-water stabilisation and movement
- A backplateBackplate and wingthumb|right|A stainless steel backplate, wing and manifolded twinsetA backplate and wing , is a type of Scuba harness with buoyancy compensation device worn by scuba divers. Unlike most other BCDs, the backplate and wing is a modular system, in that it consists of separable components...
is a structural device linking the buoyancy of the wing with the weight of the diving cylinders and harnessed around the diver's body - Buoyancy compensator, Buoyancy Control Device, BCD or BC - many names for a buoyancy adjusting and life-saving buoyancy device
- Diver Propulsion VehicleDiver Propulsion VehicleA diver propulsion vehicle is an item of diving equipment used by scuba and rebreather divers to increase range underwater...
- to increase the range of the diver underwater - Diving weighting systemDiving weighting systemDivers wear weighting systems, weight belts or weights, generally made of lead, to counteract the buoyancy of other diving equipment, such as diving suits and aluminium diving cylinders...
- to counteract the buoyancy of the diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
and diver to allow descent. Professional divers may use additional weighting to ensure stability when working on the bottom - FinsSwimfinSwimfins, swim fins, fins or flippers are worn on the foot or leg and made from finlike rubber or plastic, to aid movement through the water in water sports activities such as swimming, bodyboarding, bodysurfing, kneeboarding, riverboarding, and various types of underwater diving.Scuba divers use...
for efficient propulsion
Equipment for dive monitoring and navigation
- Depth gaugeDepth gaugeA depth gauge is a pressure gauge that displays the equivalent depth in water. It is a piece of diving equipment often used by SCUBA divers.Most modern diving depth gauges have an electronic mechanism and digital display. Older types used a mechanical mechanism and analogue display.A diver uses a...
lets the diver monitor depth, particularly maximum depth and, when used with a watch and Decompression tables, also allows the diver to monitor decompression requirements. Some digital depth gauges also indicate ascent rate which is an important factor in avoiding decompression sickness - Pneumofathometer is the surface supplied diving depth gauge which displays the depth of the diver at the surface control panel.
- Dive ComputerDive computerA dive computer or decompression meter is a device used by a scuba diver to measure the time and depth of a dive so that a safe ascent profile can be calculated and displayed so that the diver can avoid decompression sickness.- Purpose :...
helps the diver to avoid decompression sicknessDecompression sicknessDecompression sickness describes a condition arising from dissolved gases coming out of solution into bubbles inside the body on depressurization...
by indicating the decompression stops needed for the dive profileDive profileA dive profile is a two dimensional graphical representation of a dive showing depth and time.It is useful as an indication of the risks of decompression sickness and oxygen toxicity and also the volume of open-circuit breathing gas needed for a planned dive as these depend in part upon the depth...
. Most dive computers also indicate depth, time and ascent rate. Some also indicate oxygen toxicityOxygen toxicityOxygen toxicity is a condition resulting from the harmful effects of breathing molecular oxygen at elevated partial pressures. It is also known as oxygen toxicity syndrome, oxygen intoxication, and oxygen poisoning...
exposure and water temperature. - Diving watchDiving watchA diving watch is a watch designed for underwater diving that features, as a minimum, a water resistance greater than , the equivalent of . The typical diver's watch will have a water resistance of around , though modern technology allows the creation of diving watches that can go much deeper...
is used with depth gauge for decompression monitoring on decompression tables. - CompassCompassA compass is a navigational instrument that shows directions in a frame of reference that is stationary relative to the surface of the earth. The frame of reference defines the four cardinal directions – north, south, east, and west. Intermediate directions are also defined...
for underwater navigationUnderwater navigationUnderwater navigation is the common reference term for navigation techniques learned by Scuba divers in order to accurately navigate in an underwater environment....
. - Submersible pressure gauge, also known as a "contents gauge" is used to monitor the remaining breathing gas supply in scuba cylinders.
- Distance lineDistance lineA distance line, penetration line or guideline is an item of diving equipment used by SCUBA divers as a means of returning to a safe starting point in conditions of low visibility, water currents or where pilotage is difficult...
can used to guide the diver back to the start point and safety in poor visibility. - A cave line is a line laid by a diver while pnetrating a cave to ensure that the way out is known. Permanent cave lines are marked with line markerLine markerIn cave diving, line markers are used for orientation. Directional markers point the way to an exit ; non-directional markers are purely personal markers that mark specific spots, or the direction of one's own exit at line intersections / T's...
s at all junctions, indicating the direction along the line toward the nearest exit.
Vision and communication
- MaskDiving maskA diving mask is an item of diving equipment that allows scuba divers, free-divers, and snorkelers to see clearly underwater. When the human eye is in direct contact with water as opposed to air, its normal environment, light entering the eye is refracted by a different angle and the eye is unable...
allows the diver to see clearly underwaterUnderwater visionLight rays bend when they travel from one medium to another; the amount of bending is determined by the refractive indices of the two media. If one medium has a particular curved shape, it functions as a lens. The cornea, humours, and crystalline lens of the eye together form a lens that focuses...
and protects the eyes. - Full face mask protects the face from dirty or cold water and increases safety by securing the gas supply to the diver's face. If it contains no mouthpiece, the diver can talk allowing the use of communications equipment.
- Diving helmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
s are often used with surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
. They provide the same benefits as the full face mask but provide a very secure connection of the gas supply to the diver and additionally protect the head. - Underwater writing slateSlate (writing)A writing slate is a piece of flat material used as a medium for writing.In the 19th century, writing slates were made of slate, which is more durable than paper and was cheap at the time when paper was expensive. It was used to allow children to practice writing...
s and pencilPencilA pencil is a writing implement or art medium usually constructed of a narrow, solid pigment core inside a protective casing. The case prevents the core from breaking, and also from marking the user’s hand during use....
s are used to transport pre-dive plans underwater, to record facts whilst underwater and to aid communication with other divers. - Torches or flashlightsFlashlightA flashlight is a hand-held electric-powered light source. Usually the light source is a small incandescent lightbulb or light-emitting diode...
are essential for safety in low visibility or dark environments such as night divingNight divingNight diving is a type of recreational diving which takes place in darkness. The diver can experience a different underwater environment at night, because many marine animals are nocturnal....
and wreck and cave penetration. They are useful for communication and signalling both underwater and on the surface at night. Divers need artificial light even in shallow and clear water to reveal the red end of the spectrum of light which is absorbed as it travels through water. - Hand-held sonarSonarSonar is a technique that uses sound propagation to navigate, communicate with or detect other vessels...
for a diver.
Safety equipment
- Diver's safety harness
- Lifeline
- Surface marker buoy
- Cutting tool
- KnifeKnifeA knife is a cutting tool with an exposed cutting edge or blade, hand-held or otherwise, with or without a handle. Knives were used at least two-and-a-half million years ago, as evidenced by the Oldowan tools...
to cut lines, nets or to pry or dig. Can also be used for personal protection against underwater predators if needed, however not recommended as generally ineffective. - Diver's net or line cutter. This is a small handheld tool carried by scuba divers to extricate themselves if trapped in fishing netFishing netA fishing net or fishnet is a net that is used for fishing. Fishing nets are meshes usually formed by knotting a relatively thin thread. Modern nets are usually made of artificial polyamides like nylon, although nets of organic polyamides such as wool or silk thread were common until recently and...
or fishing lineFishing lineA fishing line is a cord used or made for angling. Important parameters of a fishing line are its length, material, and weight...
. It has a small sharp blade such as a replaceable scalpelScalpelA scalpel, or lancet, is a small and extremely sharp bladed instrument used for surgery, anatomical dissection, and various arts and crafts . Scalpels may be single-use disposable or re-usable. Re-usable scalpels can have attached, resharpenable blades or, more commonly, non-attached, replaceable...
blade inside the small notch. There is a small hole at the other end to for a lanyard to tether the cutter to the diver.
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
Underwater diving
Underwater diving is the practice of going underwater, either with breathing apparatus or by breath-holding .Recreational diving is a popular activity...
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
Classes of underwater breathing apparatus
- Surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
- mostly used in professional diving. This category includes: - Surface oriented surface supplied diving (Bounce diving), where the diver starts and finished the dive at normal atmospheric pressure.
- Saturation divingSaturation divingSaturation diving is a diving technique that allows divers to reduce the risk of decompression sickness when they work at great depth for long periods of time....
, where the diver remains under pressure in a underwater habitatUnderwater habitatUnderwater habitats are underwater structures in which people can live for extended periods and carry out most of the basic human functions of a 24-hour day, such as working, resting, eating, attending to personal hygiene, and sleeping...
or saturation spread between underwater excursions. - Standard diving dressStandard diving dressA standard diving dress consists of a metallic diving helmet, an airline or hose from a surface supplied diving air pump, a canvas diving suit, diving knife and boots...
- mostly used in professional diving. Mainly of historical interest now. - Airline or Hookah diving.
- "Compressor divingCompressor divingCompressor diving is a method of surface-supplied diving used in some tropical sea areas including the Philippines and the Caribbean. The divers swim with an eyes-and-nose diving mask and fins and are supplied air by plastic hoses from an air compressor of the type commonly used to supply...
" - a rudimentary form of surface supplied diving used in the PhilippinesPhilippinesThe Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
by artisanal fishermen. - Recreational forms like snubaSnubaSnuba is an underwater breathing system developed by Snuba International.The word Snuba is a portmanteau of "snorkel" and "scuba". The swimmer uses swimfins, a diving mask, weights, and diving regulator as in scuba diving....
. - Scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
- The use of self contained underwater breathing apparatus. This category includes: - Open-circuit scuba consisting of diving cylinderDiving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
(s) and diving regulatorDiving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
(s) - RebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
, closed-circuit or semi-closed-circuit scuba - Free diving or breathhold diving, where the diver completes the dive on a single breath of air taken at the surface before the dive.
- Snorkel allows breathing at the surface with the face submerged, and is used as an adjunct to free diving and scuba.
- Atmospheric diving suitAtmospheric diving suitAn atmospheric diving suit or ADS is a small one-man articulated submersible of anthropomorphic form which resembles a suit of armour, with elaborate pressure joints to allow articulation while maintaining an internal pressure of one atmosphere...
s and other submersibles which isolate the diver from the ambient environment. These are not considered here. - Liquid breathingLiquid breathingLiquid breathing is a form of respiration in which a normally air-breathing organism breathes an oxygen-rich liquid , rather than breathing air....
systems are extremely rare and at an early experimental stage. It is hoped that some day practical systems allow very deep diving. This is not considered here.
Personal diving equipment
This is the diving equipment worn by or carried by the diver for personal protection or comfort, or to facilitate the diving aspect of the activity, and may include a selection from:Underwater breathing apparatus
- Scuba equipment: Primary cylinder(s)Diving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
and open circuit regulator(s)Diving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
, or rebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
sets. Alternative air source such as bailout bottleBailout bottleThe term Bailout bottle or Bailout cylinder refers to a scuba cylinder carried by an underwater diver for use as an emergency supply of breathing gas in the event of a primary gas supply failure. A Bailout cylinder may be carried by a scuba diver in addition to the primary scuba set, or by a...
or pony bottlePony bottleA pony bottle is a small independently filled diving cylinder, often of only a few litres capacity, which forms an extended scuba set and which is fitted with its own independent regulator. In an emergency, such as exhaustion of the diver's main air supply, it can be used as an alternate air...
, and decompressionDecompression (diving)Decompression in the context of diving derives from the reduction in ambient pressure experienced by the diver during the ascent at the end of a dive or hyperbaric exposure and refers to both the reduction in pressure and the process of allowing dissolved inert gases to be eliminated from the...
cylinders and their associated regulators. - Surface supplied equipment: HelmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
or full face mask, bailout block, bailout cylinder and regulator.
Exposure protection
Thermal, sting and abrasion protection.- In cold water, a diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
such as a dry suitDry suitA dry suit or drysuit provides thermal insulation or passive thermal protection to the wearer while immersed in water, and is worn by divers, boaters, water sports enthusiasts, and others who work or play in or near cold water. A dry suit normally protects the whole body except the head, hands, and...
(at temperatures of 0-10°C), a wet suit (at temperatures of 21-25°C), or a Hot water suit (surface supplied diving only). - Boiler suit overalls are often worn over the thermal protection suit by commercial divers as abrasion protection
- In very warm water (temperatures of 26-30°C), many types of tough, long, everyday clothing provide protection, as well as purpose made garments such as dive skins (made of lycra) and shorty wetsuits. In some cases, simple regular swimsuits are also used.
- Diving gloveGloveA glove is a garment covering the hand. Gloves have separate sheaths or openings for each finger and the thumb; if there is an opening but no covering sheath for each finger they are called "fingerless gloves". Fingerless gloves with one large opening rather than individual openings for each...
s - Diving hoods
- Diving boots - With dry suits, the boots are usually integrated.
- Safety helmet for scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
. (Not part of the breathing apparatus. May have a built-in forehead light. Images at http://www.flashbackscuba.com/museum/rediscovery/rediscovery.html.) - Diving chain mailChain Mail"Chain Mail" is a single by Mancunian band James, released in March 1986 by Sire Records, the first after the band defected from Factory Records. The record was released in two different versions, as 7" single and 12" EP, with different artworks by John Carroll and, confusingly, under different...
may be used as protection against bites by large marine animals - Diver's cagesShark proof cageA shark proof cage is an extremely strong metal cage used by a SCUBA diver to safely examine dangerous types of sharks up close, such as the Great White shark or bull shark. Shark proof cages are built to withstand being rammed by large, powerful sharks. The cages provide a visual and tactile...
may be used as protection against large predators
In-water stabilisation and movement
- A backplateBackplate and wingthumb|right|A stainless steel backplate, wing and manifolded twinsetA backplate and wing , is a type of Scuba harness with buoyancy compensation device worn by scuba divers. Unlike most other BCDs, the backplate and wing is a modular system, in that it consists of separable components...
is a structural device linking the buoyancy of the wing with the weight of the diving cylinders and harnessed around the diver's body - Buoyancy compensator, Buoyancy Control Device, BCD or BC - many names for a buoyancy adjusting and life-saving buoyancy device
- Diver Propulsion VehicleDiver Propulsion VehicleA diver propulsion vehicle is an item of diving equipment used by scuba and rebreather divers to increase range underwater...
- to increase the range of the diver underwater - Diving weighting systemDiving weighting systemDivers wear weighting systems, weight belts or weights, generally made of lead, to counteract the buoyancy of other diving equipment, such as diving suits and aluminium diving cylinders...
- to counteract the buoyancy of the diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
and diver to allow descent. Professional divers may use additional weighting to ensure stability when working on the bottom - FinsSwimfinSwimfins, swim fins, fins or flippers are worn on the foot or leg and made from finlike rubber or plastic, to aid movement through the water in water sports activities such as swimming, bodyboarding, bodysurfing, kneeboarding, riverboarding, and various types of underwater diving.Scuba divers use...
for efficient propulsion
Equipment for dive monitoring and navigation
- Depth gaugeDepth gaugeA depth gauge is a pressure gauge that displays the equivalent depth in water. It is a piece of diving equipment often used by SCUBA divers.Most modern diving depth gauges have an electronic mechanism and digital display. Older types used a mechanical mechanism and analogue display.A diver uses a...
lets the diver monitor depth, particularly maximum depth and, when used with a watch and Decompression tables, also allows the diver to monitor decompression requirements. Some digital depth gauges also indicate ascent rate which is an important factor in avoiding decompression sickness - Pneumofathometer is the surface supplied diving depth gauge which displays the depth of the diver at the surface control panel.
- Dive ComputerDive computerA dive computer or decompression meter is a device used by a scuba diver to measure the time and depth of a dive so that a safe ascent profile can be calculated and displayed so that the diver can avoid decompression sickness.- Purpose :...
helps the diver to avoid decompression sicknessDecompression sicknessDecompression sickness describes a condition arising from dissolved gases coming out of solution into bubbles inside the body on depressurization...
by indicating the decompression stops needed for the dive profileDive profileA dive profile is a two dimensional graphical representation of a dive showing depth and time.It is useful as an indication of the risks of decompression sickness and oxygen toxicity and also the volume of open-circuit breathing gas needed for a planned dive as these depend in part upon the depth...
. Most dive computers also indicate depth, time and ascent rate. Some also indicate oxygen toxicityOxygen toxicityOxygen toxicity is a condition resulting from the harmful effects of breathing molecular oxygen at elevated partial pressures. It is also known as oxygen toxicity syndrome, oxygen intoxication, and oxygen poisoning...
exposure and water temperature. - Diving watchDiving watchA diving watch is a watch designed for underwater diving that features, as a minimum, a water resistance greater than , the equivalent of . The typical diver's watch will have a water resistance of around , though modern technology allows the creation of diving watches that can go much deeper...
is used with depth gauge for decompression monitoring on decompression tables. - CompassCompassA compass is a navigational instrument that shows directions in a frame of reference that is stationary relative to the surface of the earth. The frame of reference defines the four cardinal directions – north, south, east, and west. Intermediate directions are also defined...
for underwater navigationUnderwater navigationUnderwater navigation is the common reference term for navigation techniques learned by Scuba divers in order to accurately navigate in an underwater environment....
. - Submersible pressure gauge, also known as a "contents gauge" is used to monitor the remaining breathing gas supply in scuba cylinders.
- Distance lineDistance lineA distance line, penetration line or guideline is an item of diving equipment used by SCUBA divers as a means of returning to a safe starting point in conditions of low visibility, water currents or where pilotage is difficult...
can used to guide the diver back to the start point and safety in poor visibility. - A cave line is a line laid by a diver while pnetrating a cave to ensure that the way out is known. Permanent cave lines are marked with line markerLine markerIn cave diving, line markers are used for orientation. Directional markers point the way to an exit ; non-directional markers are purely personal markers that mark specific spots, or the direction of one's own exit at line intersections / T's...
s at all junctions, indicating the direction along the line toward the nearest exit.
Vision and communication
- MaskDiving maskA diving mask is an item of diving equipment that allows scuba divers, free-divers, and snorkelers to see clearly underwater. When the human eye is in direct contact with water as opposed to air, its normal environment, light entering the eye is refracted by a different angle and the eye is unable...
allows the diver to see clearly underwaterUnderwater visionLight rays bend when they travel from one medium to another; the amount of bending is determined by the refractive indices of the two media. If one medium has a particular curved shape, it functions as a lens. The cornea, humours, and crystalline lens of the eye together form a lens that focuses...
and protects the eyes. - Full face mask protects the face from dirty or cold water and increases safety by securing the gas supply to the diver's face. If it contains no mouthpiece, the diver can talk allowing the use of communications equipment.
- Diving helmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
s are often used with surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
. They provide the same benefits as the full face mask but provide a very secure connection of the gas supply to the diver and additionally protect the head. - Underwater writing slateSlate (writing)A writing slate is a piece of flat material used as a medium for writing.In the 19th century, writing slates were made of slate, which is more durable than paper and was cheap at the time when paper was expensive. It was used to allow children to practice writing...
s and pencilPencilA pencil is a writing implement or art medium usually constructed of a narrow, solid pigment core inside a protective casing. The case prevents the core from breaking, and also from marking the user’s hand during use....
s are used to transport pre-dive plans underwater, to record facts whilst underwater and to aid communication with other divers. - Torches or flashlightsFlashlightA flashlight is a hand-held electric-powered light source. Usually the light source is a small incandescent lightbulb or light-emitting diode...
are essential for safety in low visibility or dark environments such as night divingNight divingNight diving is a type of recreational diving which takes place in darkness. The diver can experience a different underwater environment at night, because many marine animals are nocturnal....
and wreck and cave penetration. They are useful for communication and signalling both underwater and on the surface at night. Divers need artificial light even in shallow and clear water to reveal the red end of the spectrum of light which is absorbed as it travels through water. - Hand-held sonarSonarSonar is a technique that uses sound propagation to navigate, communicate with or detect other vessels...
for a diver.
Safety equipment
- Diver's safety harness
- Lifeline
- Surface marker buoy
- Cutting tool
- KnifeKnifeA knife is a cutting tool with an exposed cutting edge or blade, hand-held or otherwise, with or without a handle. Knives were used at least two-and-a-half million years ago, as evidenced by the Oldowan tools...
to cut lines, nets or to pry or dig. Can also be used for personal protection against underwater predators if needed, however not recommended as generally ineffective. - Diver's net or line cutter. This is a small handheld tool carried by scuba divers to extricate themselves if trapped in fishing netFishing netA fishing net or fishnet is a net that is used for fishing. Fishing nets are meshes usually formed by knotting a relatively thin thread. Modern nets are usually made of artificial polyamides like nylon, although nets of organic polyamides such as wool or silk thread were common until recently and...
or fishing lineFishing lineA fishing line is a cord used or made for angling. Important parameters of a fishing line are its length, material, and weight...
. It has a small sharp blade such as a replaceable scalpelScalpelA scalpel, or lancet, is a small and extremely sharp bladed instrument used for surgery, anatomical dissection, and various arts and crafts . Scalpels may be single-use disposable or re-usable. Re-usable scalpels can have attached, resharpenable blades or, more commonly, non-attached, replaceable...
blade inside the small notch. There is a small hole at the other end to for a lanyard to tether the cutter to the diver.
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
Underwater diving
Underwater diving is the practice of going underwater, either with breathing apparatus or by breath-holding .Recreational diving is a popular activity...
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
Classes of underwater breathing apparatus
- Surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
- mostly used in professional diving. This category includes: - Surface oriented surface supplied diving (Bounce diving), where the diver starts and finished the dive at normal atmospheric pressure.
- Saturation divingSaturation divingSaturation diving is a diving technique that allows divers to reduce the risk of decompression sickness when they work at great depth for long periods of time....
, where the diver remains under pressure in a underwater habitatUnderwater habitatUnderwater habitats are underwater structures in which people can live for extended periods and carry out most of the basic human functions of a 24-hour day, such as working, resting, eating, attending to personal hygiene, and sleeping...
or saturation spread between underwater excursions. - Standard diving dressStandard diving dressA standard diving dress consists of a metallic diving helmet, an airline or hose from a surface supplied diving air pump, a canvas diving suit, diving knife and boots...
- mostly used in professional diving. Mainly of historical interest now. - Airline or Hookah diving.
- "Compressor divingCompressor divingCompressor diving is a method of surface-supplied diving used in some tropical sea areas including the Philippines and the Caribbean. The divers swim with an eyes-and-nose diving mask and fins and are supplied air by plastic hoses from an air compressor of the type commonly used to supply...
" - a rudimentary form of surface supplied diving used in the PhilippinesPhilippinesThe Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
by artisanal fishermen. - Recreational forms like snubaSnubaSnuba is an underwater breathing system developed by Snuba International.The word Snuba is a portmanteau of "snorkel" and "scuba". The swimmer uses swimfins, a diving mask, weights, and diving regulator as in scuba diving....
. - Scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
- The use of self contained underwater breathing apparatus. This category includes: - Open-circuit scuba consisting of diving cylinderDiving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
(s) and diving regulatorDiving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
(s) - RebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
, closed-circuit or semi-closed-circuit scuba - Free diving or breathhold diving, where the diver completes the dive on a single breath of air taken at the surface before the dive.
- Snorkel allows breathing at the surface with the face submerged, and is used as an adjunct to free diving and scuba.
- Atmospheric diving suitAtmospheric diving suitAn atmospheric diving suit or ADS is a small one-man articulated submersible of anthropomorphic form which resembles a suit of armour, with elaborate pressure joints to allow articulation while maintaining an internal pressure of one atmosphere...
s and other submersibles which isolate the diver from the ambient environment. These are not considered here. - Liquid breathingLiquid breathingLiquid breathing is a form of respiration in which a normally air-breathing organism breathes an oxygen-rich liquid , rather than breathing air....
systems are extremely rare and at an early experimental stage. It is hoped that some day practical systems allow very deep diving. This is not considered here.
Personal diving equipment
This is the diving equipment worn by or carried by the diver for personal protection or comfort, or to facilitate the diving aspect of the activity, and may include a selection from:Underwater breathing apparatus
- Scuba equipment: Primary cylinder(s)Diving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
and open circuit regulator(s)Diving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
, or rebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
sets. Alternative air source such as bailout bottleBailout bottleThe term Bailout bottle or Bailout cylinder refers to a scuba cylinder carried by an underwater diver for use as an emergency supply of breathing gas in the event of a primary gas supply failure. A Bailout cylinder may be carried by a scuba diver in addition to the primary scuba set, or by a...
or pony bottlePony bottleA pony bottle is a small independently filled diving cylinder, often of only a few litres capacity, which forms an extended scuba set and which is fitted with its own independent regulator. In an emergency, such as exhaustion of the diver's main air supply, it can be used as an alternate air...
, and decompressionDecompression (diving)Decompression in the context of diving derives from the reduction in ambient pressure experienced by the diver during the ascent at the end of a dive or hyperbaric exposure and refers to both the reduction in pressure and the process of allowing dissolved inert gases to be eliminated from the...
cylinders and their associated regulators. - Surface supplied equipment: HelmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
or full face mask, bailout block, bailout cylinder and regulator.
Exposure protection
Thermal, sting and abrasion protection.- In cold water, a diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
such as a dry suitDry suitA dry suit or drysuit provides thermal insulation or passive thermal protection to the wearer while immersed in water, and is worn by divers, boaters, water sports enthusiasts, and others who work or play in or near cold water. A dry suit normally protects the whole body except the head, hands, and...
(at temperatures of 0-10°C), a wet suit (at temperatures of 21-25°C), or a Hot water suit (surface supplied diving only). - Boiler suit overalls are often worn over the thermal protection suit by commercial divers as abrasion protection
- In very warm water (temperatures of 26-30°C), many types of tough, long, everyday clothing provide protection, as well as purpose made garments such as dive skins (made of lycra) and shorty wetsuits. In some cases, simple regular swimsuits are also used.
- Diving gloveGloveA glove is a garment covering the hand. Gloves have separate sheaths or openings for each finger and the thumb; if there is an opening but no covering sheath for each finger they are called "fingerless gloves". Fingerless gloves with one large opening rather than individual openings for each...
s - Diving hoods
- Diving boots - With dry suits, the boots are usually integrated.
- Safety helmet for scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
. (Not part of the breathing apparatus. May have a built-in forehead light. Images at http://www.flashbackscuba.com/museum/rediscovery/rediscovery.html.) - Diving chain mailChain Mail"Chain Mail" is a single by Mancunian band James, released in March 1986 by Sire Records, the first after the band defected from Factory Records. The record was released in two different versions, as 7" single and 12" EP, with different artworks by John Carroll and, confusingly, under different...
may be used as protection against bites by large marine animals - Diver's cagesShark proof cageA shark proof cage is an extremely strong metal cage used by a SCUBA diver to safely examine dangerous types of sharks up close, such as the Great White shark or bull shark. Shark proof cages are built to withstand being rammed by large, powerful sharks. The cages provide a visual and tactile...
may be used as protection against large predators
In-water stabilisation and movement
- A backplateBackplate and wingthumb|right|A stainless steel backplate, wing and manifolded twinsetA backplate and wing , is a type of Scuba harness with buoyancy compensation device worn by scuba divers. Unlike most other BCDs, the backplate and wing is a modular system, in that it consists of separable components...
is a structural device linking the buoyancy of the wing with the weight of the diving cylinders and harnessed around the diver's body - Buoyancy compensator, Buoyancy Control Device, BCD or BC - many names for a buoyancy adjusting and life-saving buoyancy device
- Diver Propulsion VehicleDiver Propulsion VehicleA diver propulsion vehicle is an item of diving equipment used by scuba and rebreather divers to increase range underwater...
- to increase the range of the diver underwater - Diving weighting systemDiving weighting systemDivers wear weighting systems, weight belts or weights, generally made of lead, to counteract the buoyancy of other diving equipment, such as diving suits and aluminium diving cylinders...
- to counteract the buoyancy of the diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
and diver to allow descent. Professional divers may use additional weighting to ensure stability when working on the bottom - FinsSwimfinSwimfins, swim fins, fins or flippers are worn on the foot or leg and made from finlike rubber or plastic, to aid movement through the water in water sports activities such as swimming, bodyboarding, bodysurfing, kneeboarding, riverboarding, and various types of underwater diving.Scuba divers use...
for efficient propulsion
Equipment for dive monitoring and navigation
- Depth gaugeDepth gaugeA depth gauge is a pressure gauge that displays the equivalent depth in water. It is a piece of diving equipment often used by SCUBA divers.Most modern diving depth gauges have an electronic mechanism and digital display. Older types used a mechanical mechanism and analogue display.A diver uses a...
lets the diver monitor depth, particularly maximum depth and, when used with a watch and Decompression tables, also allows the diver to monitor decompression requirements. Some digital depth gauges also indicate ascent rate which is an important factor in avoiding decompression sickness - Pneumofathometer is the surface supplied diving depth gauge which displays the depth of the diver at the surface control panel.
- Dive ComputerDive computerA dive computer or decompression meter is a device used by a scuba diver to measure the time and depth of a dive so that a safe ascent profile can be calculated and displayed so that the diver can avoid decompression sickness.- Purpose :...
helps the diver to avoid decompression sicknessDecompression sicknessDecompression sickness describes a condition arising from dissolved gases coming out of solution into bubbles inside the body on depressurization...
by indicating the decompression stops needed for the dive profileDive profileA dive profile is a two dimensional graphical representation of a dive showing depth and time.It is useful as an indication of the risks of decompression sickness and oxygen toxicity and also the volume of open-circuit breathing gas needed for a planned dive as these depend in part upon the depth...
. Most dive computers also indicate depth, time and ascent rate. Some also indicate oxygen toxicityOxygen toxicityOxygen toxicity is a condition resulting from the harmful effects of breathing molecular oxygen at elevated partial pressures. It is also known as oxygen toxicity syndrome, oxygen intoxication, and oxygen poisoning...
exposure and water temperature. - Diving watchDiving watchA diving watch is a watch designed for underwater diving that features, as a minimum, a water resistance greater than , the equivalent of . The typical diver's watch will have a water resistance of around , though modern technology allows the creation of diving watches that can go much deeper...
is used with depth gauge for decompression monitoring on decompression tables. - CompassCompassA compass is a navigational instrument that shows directions in a frame of reference that is stationary relative to the surface of the earth. The frame of reference defines the four cardinal directions – north, south, east, and west. Intermediate directions are also defined...
for underwater navigationUnderwater navigationUnderwater navigation is the common reference term for navigation techniques learned by Scuba divers in order to accurately navigate in an underwater environment....
. - Submersible pressure gauge, also known as a "contents gauge" is used to monitor the remaining breathing gas supply in scuba cylinders.
- Distance lineDistance lineA distance line, penetration line or guideline is an item of diving equipment used by SCUBA divers as a means of returning to a safe starting point in conditions of low visibility, water currents or where pilotage is difficult...
can used to guide the diver back to the start point and safety in poor visibility. - A cave line is a line laid by a diver while pnetrating a cave to ensure that the way out is known. Permanent cave lines are marked with line markerLine markerIn cave diving, line markers are used for orientation. Directional markers point the way to an exit ; non-directional markers are purely personal markers that mark specific spots, or the direction of one's own exit at line intersections / T's...
s at all junctions, indicating the direction along the line toward the nearest exit.
Vision and communication
- MaskDiving maskA diving mask is an item of diving equipment that allows scuba divers, free-divers, and snorkelers to see clearly underwater. When the human eye is in direct contact with water as opposed to air, its normal environment, light entering the eye is refracted by a different angle and the eye is unable...
allows the diver to see clearly underwaterUnderwater visionLight rays bend when they travel from one medium to another; the amount of bending is determined by the refractive indices of the two media. If one medium has a particular curved shape, it functions as a lens. The cornea, humours, and crystalline lens of the eye together form a lens that focuses...
and protects the eyes. - Full face mask protects the face from dirty or cold water and increases safety by securing the gas supply to the diver's face. If it contains no mouthpiece, the diver can talk allowing the use of communications equipment.
- Diving helmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
s are often used with surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
. They provide the same benefits as the full face mask but provide a very secure connection of the gas supply to the diver and additionally protect the head. - Underwater writing slateSlate (writing)A writing slate is a piece of flat material used as a medium for writing.In the 19th century, writing slates were made of slate, which is more durable than paper and was cheap at the time when paper was expensive. It was used to allow children to practice writing...
s and pencilPencilA pencil is a writing implement or art medium usually constructed of a narrow, solid pigment core inside a protective casing. The case prevents the core from breaking, and also from marking the user’s hand during use....
s are used to transport pre-dive plans underwater, to record facts whilst underwater and to aid communication with other divers. - Torches or flashlightsFlashlightA flashlight is a hand-held electric-powered light source. Usually the light source is a small incandescent lightbulb or light-emitting diode...
are essential for safety in low visibility or dark environments such as night divingNight divingNight diving is a type of recreational diving which takes place in darkness. The diver can experience a different underwater environment at night, because many marine animals are nocturnal....
and wreck and cave penetration. They are useful for communication and signalling both underwater and on the surface at night. Divers need artificial light even in shallow and clear water to reveal the red end of the spectrum of light which is absorbed as it travels through water. - Hand-held sonarSonarSonar is a technique that uses sound propagation to navigate, communicate with or detect other vessels...
for a diver.
Safety equipment
- Diver's safety harness
- Lifeline
- Surface marker buoy
- Cutting tool
- KnifeKnifeA knife is a cutting tool with an exposed cutting edge or blade, hand-held or otherwise, with or without a handle. Knives were used at least two-and-a-half million years ago, as evidenced by the Oldowan tools...
to cut lines, nets or to pry or dig. Can also be used for personal protection against underwater predators if needed, however not recommended as generally ineffective. - Diver's net or line cutter. This is a small handheld tool carried by scuba divers to extricate themselves if trapped in fishing netFishing netA fishing net or fishnet is a net that is used for fishing. Fishing nets are meshes usually formed by knotting a relatively thin thread. Modern nets are usually made of artificial polyamides like nylon, although nets of organic polyamides such as wool or silk thread were common until recently and...
or fishing lineFishing lineA fishing line is a cord used or made for angling. Important parameters of a fishing line are its length, material, and weight...
. It has a small sharp blade such as a replaceable scalpelScalpelA scalpel, or lancet, is a small and extremely sharp bladed instrument used for surgery, anatomical dissection, and various arts and crafts . Scalpels may be single-use disposable or re-usable. Re-usable scalpels can have attached, resharpenable blades or, more commonly, non-attached, replaceable...
blade inside the small notch. There is a small hole at the other end to for a lanyard to tether the cutter to the diver.
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
Underwater diving
Underwater diving is the practice of going underwater, either with breathing apparatus or by breath-holding .Recreational diving is a popular activity...
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
Classes of underwater breathing apparatus
- Surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
- mostly used in professional diving. This category includes: - Surface oriented surface supplied diving (Bounce diving), where the diver starts and finished the dive at normal atmospheric pressure.
- Saturation divingSaturation divingSaturation diving is a diving technique that allows divers to reduce the risk of decompression sickness when they work at great depth for long periods of time....
, where the diver remains under pressure in a underwater habitatUnderwater habitatUnderwater habitats are underwater structures in which people can live for extended periods and carry out most of the basic human functions of a 24-hour day, such as working, resting, eating, attending to personal hygiene, and sleeping...
or saturation spread between underwater excursions. - Standard diving dressStandard diving dressA standard diving dress consists of a metallic diving helmet, an airline or hose from a surface supplied diving air pump, a canvas diving suit, diving knife and boots...
- mostly used in professional diving. Mainly of historical interest now. - Airline or Hookah diving.
- "Compressor divingCompressor divingCompressor diving is a method of surface-supplied diving used in some tropical sea areas including the Philippines and the Caribbean. The divers swim with an eyes-and-nose diving mask and fins and are supplied air by plastic hoses from an air compressor of the type commonly used to supply...
" - a rudimentary form of surface supplied diving used in the PhilippinesPhilippinesThe Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
by artisanal fishermen. - Recreational forms like snubaSnubaSnuba is an underwater breathing system developed by Snuba International.The word Snuba is a portmanteau of "snorkel" and "scuba". The swimmer uses swimfins, a diving mask, weights, and diving regulator as in scuba diving....
. - Scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
- The use of self contained underwater breathing apparatus. This category includes: - Open-circuit scuba consisting of diving cylinderDiving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
(s) and diving regulatorDiving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
(s) - RebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
, closed-circuit or semi-closed-circuit scuba - Free diving or breathhold diving, where the diver completes the dive on a single breath of air taken at the surface before the dive.
- Snorkel allows breathing at the surface with the face submerged, and is used as an adjunct to free diving and scuba.
- Atmospheric diving suitAtmospheric diving suitAn atmospheric diving suit or ADS is a small one-man articulated submersible of anthropomorphic form which resembles a suit of armour, with elaborate pressure joints to allow articulation while maintaining an internal pressure of one atmosphere...
s and other submersibles which isolate the diver from the ambient environment. These are not considered here. - Liquid breathingLiquid breathingLiquid breathing is a form of respiration in which a normally air-breathing organism breathes an oxygen-rich liquid , rather than breathing air....
systems are extremely rare and at an early experimental stage. It is hoped that some day practical systems allow very deep diving. This is not considered here.
File:Working Diver 02.jpg|A US Navy diver
United States Navy Diver
A Navy Diver refers to a member of the community of Unrestricted Line Officer Officers, Medical Corps Officers and enlisted personnel in the United States Navy who are qualified in underwater open/closed circuit breathing apparatus, deep sea type diving apparatus and saturation diving. Personnel...
at work. The umbilical supplying air from the surface is clearly visible
Image:Standard_diving_dress_1.jpg|Diver in standard diving dress entering water at Stoney Cove, England
File:Buzo.jpg|Scuba diver with single cylinder and open circuit regulator
Image:Apnea monofin.jpg|Free-diver with monofin
Monofin
A monofin is a type of swimfin typically used in finswimming and free-diving. It consists of a single surface attached to footpockets for both of the free-diver's feet.-History and production:...
, ascending
File:Newtsuit atmospheric diving suit.jpg|The Newtsuit
Newtsuit
The Newtsuit is an atmospheric diving suit designed and originally built by Phil Nuytten.The suit is used for work on ocean drilling rigs, on pipelines, salvage jobs, photographic surveys, and is standard equipment in many of the world’s navies....
is an atmospheric diving suit which has fully articulated, rotary joints in the arms and legs.
Personal diving equipment
This is the diving equipment worn by or carried by the diver for personal protection or comfort, or to facilitate the diving aspect of the activity, and may include a selection from:Underwater breathing apparatus
- Scuba equipment: Primary cylinder(s)Diving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
and open circuit regulator(s)Diving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
, or rebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
sets. Alternative air source such as bailout bottleBailout bottleThe term Bailout bottle or Bailout cylinder refers to a scuba cylinder carried by an underwater diver for use as an emergency supply of breathing gas in the event of a primary gas supply failure. A Bailout cylinder may be carried by a scuba diver in addition to the primary scuba set, or by a...
or pony bottlePony bottleA pony bottle is a small independently filled diving cylinder, often of only a few litres capacity, which forms an extended scuba set and which is fitted with its own independent regulator. In an emergency, such as exhaustion of the diver's main air supply, it can be used as an alternate air...
, and decompressionDecompression (diving)Decompression in the context of diving derives from the reduction in ambient pressure experienced by the diver during the ascent at the end of a dive or hyperbaric exposure and refers to both the reduction in pressure and the process of allowing dissolved inert gases to be eliminated from the...
cylinders and their associated regulators. - Surface supplied equipment: HelmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
or full face mask, bailout block, bailout cylinder and regulator.
File:Aqualung 1st stage.jpg|Aqualung regulator 1st stage
File:Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator from 1960.jpg|A 1960s era Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator with "J" Valve incorporated
Exposure protection
Thermal, sting and abrasion protection.- In cold water, a diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
such as a dry suitDry suitA dry suit or drysuit provides thermal insulation or passive thermal protection to the wearer while immersed in water, and is worn by divers, boaters, water sports enthusiasts, and others who work or play in or near cold water. A dry suit normally protects the whole body except the head, hands, and...
(at temperatures of 0-10°C), a wet suit (at temperatures of 21-25°C), or a Hot water suit (surface supplied diving only). - Boiler suit overalls are often worn over the thermal protection suit by commercial divers as abrasion protection
- In very warm water (temperatures of 26-30°C), many types of tough, long, everyday clothing provide protection, as well as purpose made garments such as dive skins (made of lycra) and shorty wetsuits. In some cases, simple regular swimsuits are also used.
- Diving gloveGloveA glove is a garment covering the hand. Gloves have separate sheaths or openings for each finger and the thumb; if there is an opening but no covering sheath for each finger they are called "fingerless gloves". Fingerless gloves with one large opening rather than individual openings for each...
s - Diving hoods
- Diving boots - With dry suits, the boots are usually integrated.
- Safety helmet for scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
. (Not part of the breathing apparatus. May have a built-in forehead light. Images at http://www.flashbackscuba.com/museum/rediscovery/rediscovery.html.) - Diving chain mailChain Mail"Chain Mail" is a single by Mancunian band James, released in March 1986 by Sire Records, the first after the band defected from Factory Records. The record was released in two different versions, as 7" single and 12" EP, with different artworks by John Carroll and, confusingly, under different...
may be used as protection against bites by large marine animals - Diver's cagesShark proof cageA shark proof cage is an extremely strong metal cage used by a SCUBA diver to safely examine dangerous types of sharks up close, such as the Great White shark or bull shark. Shark proof cages are built to withstand being rammed by large, powerful sharks. The cages provide a visual and tactile...
may be used as protection against large predators
In-water stabilisation and movement
- A backplateBackplate and wingthumb|right|A stainless steel backplate, wing and manifolded twinsetA backplate and wing , is a type of Scuba harness with buoyancy compensation device worn by scuba divers. Unlike most other BCDs, the backplate and wing is a modular system, in that it consists of separable components...
is a structural device linking the buoyancy of the wing with the weight of the diving cylinders and harnessed around the diver's body - Buoyancy compensator, Buoyancy Control Device, BCD or BC - many names for a buoyancy adjusting and life-saving buoyancy device
- Diver Propulsion VehicleDiver Propulsion VehicleA diver propulsion vehicle is an item of diving equipment used by scuba and rebreather divers to increase range underwater...
- to increase the range of the diver underwater - Diving weighting systemDiving weighting systemDivers wear weighting systems, weight belts or weights, generally made of lead, to counteract the buoyancy of other diving equipment, such as diving suits and aluminium diving cylinders...
- to counteract the buoyancy of the diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
and diver to allow descent. Professional divers may use additional weighting to ensure stability when working on the bottom - FinsSwimfinSwimfins, swim fins, fins or flippers are worn on the foot or leg and made from finlike rubber or plastic, to aid movement through the water in water sports activities such as swimming, bodyboarding, bodysurfing, kneeboarding, riverboarding, and various types of underwater diving.Scuba divers use...
for efficient propulsion
Equipment for dive monitoring and navigation
- Depth gaugeDepth gaugeA depth gauge is a pressure gauge that displays the equivalent depth in water. It is a piece of diving equipment often used by SCUBA divers.Most modern diving depth gauges have an electronic mechanism and digital display. Older types used a mechanical mechanism and analogue display.A diver uses a...
lets the diver monitor depth, particularly maximum depth and, when used with a watch and Decompression tables, also allows the diver to monitor decompression requirements. Some digital depth gauges also indicate ascent rate which is an important factor in avoiding decompression sickness - Pneumofathometer is the surface supplied diving depth gauge which displays the depth of the diver at the surface control panel.
- Dive ComputerDive computerA dive computer or decompression meter is a device used by a scuba diver to measure the time and depth of a dive so that a safe ascent profile can be calculated and displayed so that the diver can avoid decompression sickness.- Purpose :...
helps the diver to avoid decompression sicknessDecompression sicknessDecompression sickness describes a condition arising from dissolved gases coming out of solution into bubbles inside the body on depressurization...
by indicating the decompression stops needed for the dive profileDive profileA dive profile is a two dimensional graphical representation of a dive showing depth and time.It is useful as an indication of the risks of decompression sickness and oxygen toxicity and also the volume of open-circuit breathing gas needed for a planned dive as these depend in part upon the depth...
. Most dive computers also indicate depth, time and ascent rate. Some also indicate oxygen toxicityOxygen toxicityOxygen toxicity is a condition resulting from the harmful effects of breathing molecular oxygen at elevated partial pressures. It is also known as oxygen toxicity syndrome, oxygen intoxication, and oxygen poisoning...
exposure and water temperature. - Diving watchDiving watchA diving watch is a watch designed for underwater diving that features, as a minimum, a water resistance greater than , the equivalent of . The typical diver's watch will have a water resistance of around , though modern technology allows the creation of diving watches that can go much deeper...
is used with depth gauge for decompression monitoring on decompression tables. - CompassCompassA compass is a navigational instrument that shows directions in a frame of reference that is stationary relative to the surface of the earth. The frame of reference defines the four cardinal directions – north, south, east, and west. Intermediate directions are also defined...
for underwater navigationUnderwater navigationUnderwater navigation is the common reference term for navigation techniques learned by Scuba divers in order to accurately navigate in an underwater environment....
. - Submersible pressure gauge, also known as a "contents gauge" is used to monitor the remaining breathing gas supply in scuba cylinders.
- Distance lineDistance lineA distance line, penetration line or guideline is an item of diving equipment used by SCUBA divers as a means of returning to a safe starting point in conditions of low visibility, water currents or where pilotage is difficult...
can used to guide the diver back to the start point and safety in poor visibility. - A cave line is a line laid by a diver while pnetrating a cave to ensure that the way out is known. Permanent cave lines are marked with line markerLine markerIn cave diving, line markers are used for orientation. Directional markers point the way to an exit ; non-directional markers are purely personal markers that mark specific spots, or the direction of one's own exit at line intersections / T's...
s at all junctions, indicating the direction along the line toward the nearest exit.
File:diving regulator contents guage.JPG|A depth gauge
Depth gauge
A depth gauge is a pressure gauge that displays the equivalent depth in water. It is a piece of diving equipment often used by SCUBA divers.Most modern diving depth gauges have an electronic mechanism and digital display. Older types used a mechanical mechanism and analogue display.A diver uses a...
and submersible pressure gauge
File:Pressure guage close up.jpg|Suunto submersible pressure gauge
File:Surface supply air panel for 4 divers P3053737.jpg|A surface supply panel for four divers showing four pneumofathometer gauges
Image:Suunto D9 Dive Computer.jpg|A watch
Watch
A watch is a small timepiece, typically worn either on the wrist or attached on a chain and carried in a pocket, with wristwatches being the most common type of watch used today. They evolved in the 17th century from spring powered clocks, which appeared in the 15th century. The first watches were...
sized dive computer incorporating an electronic compass and the ability to display cylinder pressure when used with an optional transmitter (Suunto
Suunto
Suunto Oy, based in Finland, is a company that produces and markets sports precision instruments for Diving, Training and Outdoor sports. Headquartered in Vantaa, Suunto employs more than 500 people worldwide, and its products are sold in over 100 countries...
D9)
Image:Dive computer logbook.jpg|Uwatec Aladin Pro dive computer showing the log of a previous dive
Image:UW Navigation tools.jpg|Nav finder and underwater compass - basic underwater navigation tools.
Image:Distance line.JPG|50 metres of line on a reel
File:Line_Arrow_of_Agnes_Milowka.jpg|Line Arrow Marker|alt=Line Arrow Marker
Vision and communication
- MaskDiving maskA diving mask is an item of diving equipment that allows scuba divers, free-divers, and snorkelers to see clearly underwater. When the human eye is in direct contact with water as opposed to air, its normal environment, light entering the eye is refracted by a different angle and the eye is unable...
allows the diver to see clearly underwaterUnderwater visionLight rays bend when they travel from one medium to another; the amount of bending is determined by the refractive indices of the two media. If one medium has a particular curved shape, it functions as a lens. The cornea, humours, and crystalline lens of the eye together form a lens that focuses...
and protects the eyes. - Full face mask protects the face from dirty or cold water and increases safety by securing the gas supply to the diver's face. If it contains no mouthpiece, the diver can talk allowing the use of communications equipment.
- Diving helmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
s are often used with surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
. They provide the same benefits as the full face mask but provide a very secure connection of the gas supply to the diver and additionally protect the head. - Underwater writing slateSlate (writing)A writing slate is a piece of flat material used as a medium for writing.In the 19th century, writing slates were made of slate, which is more durable than paper and was cheap at the time when paper was expensive. It was used to allow children to practice writing...
s and pencilPencilA pencil is a writing implement or art medium usually constructed of a narrow, solid pigment core inside a protective casing. The case prevents the core from breaking, and also from marking the user’s hand during use....
s are used to transport pre-dive plans underwater, to record facts whilst underwater and to aid communication with other divers. - Torches or flashlightsFlashlightA flashlight is a hand-held electric-powered light source. Usually the light source is a small incandescent lightbulb or light-emitting diode...
are essential for safety in low visibility or dark environments such as night divingNight divingNight diving is a type of recreational diving which takes place in darkness. The diver can experience a different underwater environment at night, because many marine animals are nocturnal....
and wreck and cave penetration. They are useful for communication and signalling both underwater and on the surface at night. Divers need artificial light even in shallow and clear water to reveal the red end of the spectrum of light which is absorbed as it travels through water. - Hand-held sonarSonarSonar is a technique that uses sound propagation to navigate, communicate with or detect other vessels...
for a diver.
Image:Scubamask.jpg|A diving half mask provides clear sight and protection for the eyes.
Image:Diving-torch.jpg|A "canister" style dive light
Safety equipment
- Diver's safety harness
- Lifeline
- Surface marker buoy
- Cutting tool
- KnifeKnifeA knife is a cutting tool with an exposed cutting edge or blade, hand-held or otherwise, with or without a handle. Knives were used at least two-and-a-half million years ago, as evidenced by the Oldowan tools...
to cut lines, nets or to pry or dig. Can also be used for personal protection against underwater predators if needed, however not recommended as generally ineffective. - Diver's net or line cutter. This is a small handheld tool carried by scuba divers to extricate themselves if trapped in fishing netFishing netA fishing net or fishnet is a net that is used for fishing. Fishing nets are meshes usually formed by knotting a relatively thin thread. Modern nets are usually made of artificial polyamides like nylon, although nets of organic polyamides such as wool or silk thread were common until recently and...
or fishing lineFishing lineA fishing line is a cord used or made for angling. Important parameters of a fishing line are its length, material, and weight...
. It has a small sharp blade such as a replaceable scalpelScalpelA scalpel, or lancet, is a small and extremely sharp bladed instrument used for surgery, anatomical dissection, and various arts and crafts . Scalpels may be single-use disposable or re-usable. Re-usable scalpels can have attached, resharpenable blades or, more commonly, non-attached, replaceable...
blade inside the small notch. There is a small hole at the other end to for a lanyard to tether the cutter to the diver.
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
Underwater diving
Underwater diving is the practice of going underwater, either with breathing apparatus or by breath-holding .Recreational diving is a popular activity...
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
Classes of underwater breathing apparatus
- Surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
- mostly used in professional diving. This category includes: - Surface oriented surface supplied diving (Bounce diving), where the diver starts and finished the dive at normal atmospheric pressure.
- Saturation divingSaturation divingSaturation diving is a diving technique that allows divers to reduce the risk of decompression sickness when they work at great depth for long periods of time....
, where the diver remains under pressure in a underwater habitatUnderwater habitatUnderwater habitats are underwater structures in which people can live for extended periods and carry out most of the basic human functions of a 24-hour day, such as working, resting, eating, attending to personal hygiene, and sleeping...
or saturation spread between underwater excursions. - Standard diving dressStandard diving dressA standard diving dress consists of a metallic diving helmet, an airline or hose from a surface supplied diving air pump, a canvas diving suit, diving knife and boots...
- mostly used in professional diving. Mainly of historical interest now. - Airline or Hookah diving.
- "Compressor divingCompressor divingCompressor diving is a method of surface-supplied diving used in some tropical sea areas including the Philippines and the Caribbean. The divers swim with an eyes-and-nose diving mask and fins and are supplied air by plastic hoses from an air compressor of the type commonly used to supply...
" - a rudimentary form of surface supplied diving used in the PhilippinesPhilippinesThe Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
by artisanal fishermen. - Recreational forms like snubaSnubaSnuba is an underwater breathing system developed by Snuba International.The word Snuba is a portmanteau of "snorkel" and "scuba". The swimmer uses swimfins, a diving mask, weights, and diving regulator as in scuba diving....
. - Scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
- The use of self contained underwater breathing apparatus. This category includes: - Open-circuit scuba consisting of diving cylinderDiving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
(s) and diving regulatorDiving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
(s) - RebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
, closed-circuit or semi-closed-circuit scuba - Free diving or breathhold diving, where the diver completes the dive on a single breath of air taken at the surface before the dive.
- Snorkel allows breathing at the surface with the face submerged, and is used as an adjunct to free diving and scuba.
- Atmospheric diving suitAtmospheric diving suitAn atmospheric diving suit or ADS is a small one-man articulated submersible of anthropomorphic form which resembles a suit of armour, with elaborate pressure joints to allow articulation while maintaining an internal pressure of one atmosphere...
s and other submersibles which isolate the diver from the ambient environment. These are not considered here. - Liquid breathingLiquid breathingLiquid breathing is a form of respiration in which a normally air-breathing organism breathes an oxygen-rich liquid , rather than breathing air....
systems are extremely rare and at an early experimental stage. It is hoped that some day practical systems allow very deep diving. This is not considered here.
File:Working Diver 02.jpg|A US Navy diver
United States Navy Diver
A Navy Diver refers to a member of the community of Unrestricted Line Officer Officers, Medical Corps Officers and enlisted personnel in the United States Navy who are qualified in underwater open/closed circuit breathing apparatus, deep sea type diving apparatus and saturation diving. Personnel...
at work. The umbilical supplying air from the surface is clearly visible
Image:Standard_diving_dress_1.jpg|Diver in standard diving dress entering water at Stoney Cove, England
File:Buzo.jpg|Scuba diver with single cylinder and open circuit regulator
Image:Apnea monofin.jpg|Free-diver with monofin
Monofin
A monofin is a type of swimfin typically used in finswimming and free-diving. It consists of a single surface attached to footpockets for both of the free-diver's feet.-History and production:...
, ascending
File:Newtsuit atmospheric diving suit.jpg|The Newtsuit
Newtsuit
The Newtsuit is an atmospheric diving suit designed and originally built by Phil Nuytten.The suit is used for work on ocean drilling rigs, on pipelines, salvage jobs, photographic surveys, and is standard equipment in many of the world’s navies....
is an atmospheric diving suit which has fully articulated, rotary joints in the arms and legs.
Personal diving equipment
This is the diving equipment worn by or carried by the diver for personal protection or comfort, or to facilitate the diving aspect of the activity, and may include a selection from:Underwater breathing apparatus
- Scuba equipment: Primary cylinder(s)Diving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
and open circuit regulator(s)Diving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
, or rebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
sets. Alternative air source such as bailout bottleBailout bottleThe term Bailout bottle or Bailout cylinder refers to a scuba cylinder carried by an underwater diver for use as an emergency supply of breathing gas in the event of a primary gas supply failure. A Bailout cylinder may be carried by a scuba diver in addition to the primary scuba set, or by a...
or pony bottlePony bottleA pony bottle is a small independently filled diving cylinder, often of only a few litres capacity, which forms an extended scuba set and which is fitted with its own independent regulator. In an emergency, such as exhaustion of the diver's main air supply, it can be used as an alternate air...
, and decompressionDecompression (diving)Decompression in the context of diving derives from the reduction in ambient pressure experienced by the diver during the ascent at the end of a dive or hyperbaric exposure and refers to both the reduction in pressure and the process of allowing dissolved inert gases to be eliminated from the...
cylinders and their associated regulators. - Surface supplied equipment: HelmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
or full face mask, bailout block, bailout cylinder and regulator.
File:Aqualung 1st stage.jpg|Aqualung regulator 1st stage
File:Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator from 1960.jpg|A 1960s era Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator with "J" Valve incorporated
Exposure protection
Thermal, sting and abrasion protection.- In cold water, a diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
such as a dry suitDry suitA dry suit or drysuit provides thermal insulation or passive thermal protection to the wearer while immersed in water, and is worn by divers, boaters, water sports enthusiasts, and others who work or play in or near cold water. A dry suit normally protects the whole body except the head, hands, and...
(at temperatures of 0-10°C), a wet suit (at temperatures of 21-25°C), or a Hot water suit (surface supplied diving only). - Boiler suit overalls are often worn over the thermal protection suit by commercial divers as abrasion protection
- In very warm water (temperatures of 26-30°C), many types of tough, long, everyday clothing provide protection, as well as purpose made garments such as dive skins (made of lycra) and shorty wetsuits. In some cases, simple regular swimsuits are also used.
- Diving gloveGloveA glove is a garment covering the hand. Gloves have separate sheaths or openings for each finger and the thumb; if there is an opening but no covering sheath for each finger they are called "fingerless gloves". Fingerless gloves with one large opening rather than individual openings for each...
s - Diving hoods
- Diving boots - With dry suits, the boots are usually integrated.
- Safety helmet for scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
. (Not part of the breathing apparatus. May have a built-in forehead light. Images at http://www.flashbackscuba.com/museum/rediscovery/rediscovery.html.) - Diving chain mailChain Mail"Chain Mail" is a single by Mancunian band James, released in March 1986 by Sire Records, the first after the band defected from Factory Records. The record was released in two different versions, as 7" single and 12" EP, with different artworks by John Carroll and, confusingly, under different...
may be used as protection against bites by large marine animals - Diver's cagesShark proof cageA shark proof cage is an extremely strong metal cage used by a SCUBA diver to safely examine dangerous types of sharks up close, such as the Great White shark or bull shark. Shark proof cages are built to withstand being rammed by large, powerful sharks. The cages provide a visual and tactile...
may be used as protection against large predators
In-water stabilisation and movement
- A backplateBackplate and wingthumb|right|A stainless steel backplate, wing and manifolded twinsetA backplate and wing , is a type of Scuba harness with buoyancy compensation device worn by scuba divers. Unlike most other BCDs, the backplate and wing is a modular system, in that it consists of separable components...
is a structural device linking the buoyancy of the wing with the weight of the diving cylinders and harnessed around the diver's body - Buoyancy compensator, Buoyancy Control Device, BCD or BC - many names for a buoyancy adjusting and life-saving buoyancy device
- Diver Propulsion VehicleDiver Propulsion VehicleA diver propulsion vehicle is an item of diving equipment used by scuba and rebreather divers to increase range underwater...
- to increase the range of the diver underwater - Diving weighting systemDiving weighting systemDivers wear weighting systems, weight belts or weights, generally made of lead, to counteract the buoyancy of other diving equipment, such as diving suits and aluminium diving cylinders...
- to counteract the buoyancy of the diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
and diver to allow descent. Professional divers may use additional weighting to ensure stability when working on the bottom - FinsSwimfinSwimfins, swim fins, fins or flippers are worn on the foot or leg and made from finlike rubber or plastic, to aid movement through the water in water sports activities such as swimming, bodyboarding, bodysurfing, kneeboarding, riverboarding, and various types of underwater diving.Scuba divers use...
for efficient propulsion
Equipment for dive monitoring and navigation
- Depth gaugeDepth gaugeA depth gauge is a pressure gauge that displays the equivalent depth in water. It is a piece of diving equipment often used by SCUBA divers.Most modern diving depth gauges have an electronic mechanism and digital display. Older types used a mechanical mechanism and analogue display.A diver uses a...
lets the diver monitor depth, particularly maximum depth and, when used with a watch and Decompression tables, also allows the diver to monitor decompression requirements. Some digital depth gauges also indicate ascent rate which is an important factor in avoiding decompression sickness - Pneumofathometer is the surface supplied diving depth gauge which displays the depth of the diver at the surface control panel.
- Dive ComputerDive computerA dive computer or decompression meter is a device used by a scuba diver to measure the time and depth of a dive so that a safe ascent profile can be calculated and displayed so that the diver can avoid decompression sickness.- Purpose :...
helps the diver to avoid decompression sicknessDecompression sicknessDecompression sickness describes a condition arising from dissolved gases coming out of solution into bubbles inside the body on depressurization...
by indicating the decompression stops needed for the dive profileDive profileA dive profile is a two dimensional graphical representation of a dive showing depth and time.It is useful as an indication of the risks of decompression sickness and oxygen toxicity and also the volume of open-circuit breathing gas needed for a planned dive as these depend in part upon the depth...
. Most dive computers also indicate depth, time and ascent rate. Some also indicate oxygen toxicityOxygen toxicityOxygen toxicity is a condition resulting from the harmful effects of breathing molecular oxygen at elevated partial pressures. It is also known as oxygen toxicity syndrome, oxygen intoxication, and oxygen poisoning...
exposure and water temperature. - Diving watchDiving watchA diving watch is a watch designed for underwater diving that features, as a minimum, a water resistance greater than , the equivalent of . The typical diver's watch will have a water resistance of around , though modern technology allows the creation of diving watches that can go much deeper...
is used with depth gauge for decompression monitoring on decompression tables. - CompassCompassA compass is a navigational instrument that shows directions in a frame of reference that is stationary relative to the surface of the earth. The frame of reference defines the four cardinal directions – north, south, east, and west. Intermediate directions are also defined...
for underwater navigationUnderwater navigationUnderwater navigation is the common reference term for navigation techniques learned by Scuba divers in order to accurately navigate in an underwater environment....
. - Submersible pressure gauge, also known as a "contents gauge" is used to monitor the remaining breathing gas supply in scuba cylinders.
- Distance lineDistance lineA distance line, penetration line or guideline is an item of diving equipment used by SCUBA divers as a means of returning to a safe starting point in conditions of low visibility, water currents or where pilotage is difficult...
can used to guide the diver back to the start point and safety in poor visibility. - A cave line is a line laid by a diver while pnetrating a cave to ensure that the way out is known. Permanent cave lines are marked with line markerLine markerIn cave diving, line markers are used for orientation. Directional markers point the way to an exit ; non-directional markers are purely personal markers that mark specific spots, or the direction of one's own exit at line intersections / T's...
s at all junctions, indicating the direction along the line toward the nearest exit.
File:diving regulator contents guage.JPG|A depth gauge
Depth gauge
A depth gauge is a pressure gauge that displays the equivalent depth in water. It is a piece of diving equipment often used by SCUBA divers.Most modern diving depth gauges have an electronic mechanism and digital display. Older types used a mechanical mechanism and analogue display.A diver uses a...
and submersible pressure gauge
File:Pressure guage close up.jpg|Suunto submersible pressure gauge
File:Surface supply air panel for 4 divers P3053737.jpg|A surface supply panel for four divers showing four pneumofathometer gauges
Image:Suunto D9 Dive Computer.jpg|A watch
Watch
A watch is a small timepiece, typically worn either on the wrist or attached on a chain and carried in a pocket, with wristwatches being the most common type of watch used today. They evolved in the 17th century from spring powered clocks, which appeared in the 15th century. The first watches were...
sized dive computer incorporating an electronic compass and the ability to display cylinder pressure when used with an optional transmitter (Suunto
Suunto
Suunto Oy, based in Finland, is a company that produces and markets sports precision instruments for Diving, Training and Outdoor sports. Headquartered in Vantaa, Suunto employs more than 500 people worldwide, and its products are sold in over 100 countries...
D9)
Image:Dive computer logbook.jpg|Uwatec Aladin Pro dive computer showing the log of a previous dive
Image:UW Navigation tools.jpg|Nav finder and underwater compass - basic underwater navigation tools.
Image:Distance line.JPG|50 metres of line on a reel
File:Line_Arrow_of_Agnes_Milowka.jpg|Line Arrow Marker|alt=Line Arrow Marker
Vision and communication
- MaskDiving maskA diving mask is an item of diving equipment that allows scuba divers, free-divers, and snorkelers to see clearly underwater. When the human eye is in direct contact with water as opposed to air, its normal environment, light entering the eye is refracted by a different angle and the eye is unable...
allows the diver to see clearly underwaterUnderwater visionLight rays bend when they travel from one medium to another; the amount of bending is determined by the refractive indices of the two media. If one medium has a particular curved shape, it functions as a lens. The cornea, humours, and crystalline lens of the eye together form a lens that focuses...
and protects the eyes. - Full face mask protects the face from dirty or cold water and increases safety by securing the gas supply to the diver's face. If it contains no mouthpiece, the diver can talk allowing the use of communications equipment.
- Diving helmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
s are often used with surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
. They provide the same benefits as the full face mask but provide a very secure connection of the gas supply to the diver and additionally protect the head. - Underwater writing slateSlate (writing)A writing slate is a piece of flat material used as a medium for writing.In the 19th century, writing slates were made of slate, which is more durable than paper and was cheap at the time when paper was expensive. It was used to allow children to practice writing...
s and pencilPencilA pencil is a writing implement or art medium usually constructed of a narrow, solid pigment core inside a protective casing. The case prevents the core from breaking, and also from marking the user’s hand during use....
s are used to transport pre-dive plans underwater, to record facts whilst underwater and to aid communication with other divers. - Torches or flashlightsFlashlightA flashlight is a hand-held electric-powered light source. Usually the light source is a small incandescent lightbulb or light-emitting diode...
are essential for safety in low visibility or dark environments such as night divingNight divingNight diving is a type of recreational diving which takes place in darkness. The diver can experience a different underwater environment at night, because many marine animals are nocturnal....
and wreck and cave penetration. They are useful for communication and signalling both underwater and on the surface at night. Divers need artificial light even in shallow and clear water to reveal the red end of the spectrum of light which is absorbed as it travels through water. - Hand-held sonarSonarSonar is a technique that uses sound propagation to navigate, communicate with or detect other vessels...
for a diver.
Image:Scubamask.jpg|A diving half mask provides clear sight and protection for the eyes.
Image:Diving-torch.jpg|A "canister" style dive light
Safety equipment
- Diver's safety harness
- Lifeline
- Surface marker buoy
- Cutting tool
- KnifeKnifeA knife is a cutting tool with an exposed cutting edge or blade, hand-held or otherwise, with or without a handle. Knives were used at least two-and-a-half million years ago, as evidenced by the Oldowan tools...
to cut lines, nets or to pry or dig. Can also be used for personal protection against underwater predators if needed, however not recommended as generally ineffective. - Diver's net or line cutter. This is a small handheld tool carried by scuba divers to extricate themselves if trapped in fishing netFishing netA fishing net or fishnet is a net that is used for fishing. Fishing nets are meshes usually formed by knotting a relatively thin thread. Modern nets are usually made of artificial polyamides like nylon, although nets of organic polyamides such as wool or silk thread were common until recently and...
or fishing lineFishing lineA fishing line is a cord used or made for angling. Important parameters of a fishing line are its length, material, and weight...
. It has a small sharp blade such as a replaceable scalpelScalpelA scalpel, or lancet, is a small and extremely sharp bladed instrument used for surgery, anatomical dissection, and various arts and crafts . Scalpels may be single-use disposable or re-usable. Re-usable scalpels can have attached, resharpenable blades or, more commonly, non-attached, replaceable...
blade inside the small notch. There is a small hole at the other end to for a lanyard to tether the cutter to the diver.
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
Underwater diving
Underwater diving is the practice of going underwater, either with breathing apparatus or by breath-holding .Recreational diving is a popular activity...
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
Classes of underwater breathing apparatus
- Surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
- mostly used in professional diving. This category includes: - Surface oriented surface supplied diving (Bounce diving), where the diver starts and finished the dive at normal atmospheric pressure.
- Saturation divingSaturation divingSaturation diving is a diving technique that allows divers to reduce the risk of decompression sickness when they work at great depth for long periods of time....
, where the diver remains under pressure in a underwater habitatUnderwater habitatUnderwater habitats are underwater structures in which people can live for extended periods and carry out most of the basic human functions of a 24-hour day, such as working, resting, eating, attending to personal hygiene, and sleeping...
or saturation spread between underwater excursions. - Standard diving dressStandard diving dressA standard diving dress consists of a metallic diving helmet, an airline or hose from a surface supplied diving air pump, a canvas diving suit, diving knife and boots...
- mostly used in professional diving. Mainly of historical interest now. - Airline or Hookah diving.
- "Compressor divingCompressor divingCompressor diving is a method of surface-supplied diving used in some tropical sea areas including the Philippines and the Caribbean. The divers swim with an eyes-and-nose diving mask and fins and are supplied air by plastic hoses from an air compressor of the type commonly used to supply...
" - a rudimentary form of surface supplied diving used in the PhilippinesPhilippinesThe Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
by artisanal fishermen. - Recreational forms like snubaSnubaSnuba is an underwater breathing system developed by Snuba International.The word Snuba is a portmanteau of "snorkel" and "scuba". The swimmer uses swimfins, a diving mask, weights, and diving regulator as in scuba diving....
. - Scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
- The use of self contained underwater breathing apparatus. This category includes: - Open-circuit scuba consisting of diving cylinderDiving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
(s) and diving regulatorDiving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
(s) - RebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
, closed-circuit or semi-closed-circuit scuba - Free diving or breathhold diving, where the diver completes the dive on a single breath of air taken at the surface before the dive.
- Snorkel allows breathing at the surface with the face submerged, and is used as an adjunct to free diving and scuba.
- Atmospheric diving suitAtmospheric diving suitAn atmospheric diving suit or ADS is a small one-man articulated submersible of anthropomorphic form which resembles a suit of armour, with elaborate pressure joints to allow articulation while maintaining an internal pressure of one atmosphere...
s and other submersibles which isolate the diver from the ambient environment. These are not considered here. - Liquid breathingLiquid breathingLiquid breathing is a form of respiration in which a normally air-breathing organism breathes an oxygen-rich liquid , rather than breathing air....
systems are extremely rare and at an early experimental stage. It is hoped that some day practical systems allow very deep diving. This is not considered here.
Personal diving equipment
This is the diving equipment worn by or carried by the diver for personal protection or comfort, or to facilitate the diving aspect of the activity, and may include a selection from:Underwater breathing apparatus
- Scuba equipment: Primary cylinder(s)Diving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
and open circuit regulator(s)Diving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
, or rebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
sets. Alternative air source such as bailout bottleBailout bottleThe term Bailout bottle or Bailout cylinder refers to a scuba cylinder carried by an underwater diver for use as an emergency supply of breathing gas in the event of a primary gas supply failure. A Bailout cylinder may be carried by a scuba diver in addition to the primary scuba set, or by a...
or pony bottlePony bottleA pony bottle is a small independently filled diving cylinder, often of only a few litres capacity, which forms an extended scuba set and which is fitted with its own independent regulator. In an emergency, such as exhaustion of the diver's main air supply, it can be used as an alternate air...
, and decompressionDecompression (diving)Decompression in the context of diving derives from the reduction in ambient pressure experienced by the diver during the ascent at the end of a dive or hyperbaric exposure and refers to both the reduction in pressure and the process of allowing dissolved inert gases to be eliminated from the...
cylinders and their associated regulators. - Surface supplied equipment: HelmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
or full face mask, bailout block, bailout cylinder and regulator.
Exposure protection
Thermal, sting and abrasion protection.- In cold water, a diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
such as a dry suitDry suitA dry suit or drysuit provides thermal insulation or passive thermal protection to the wearer while immersed in water, and is worn by divers, boaters, water sports enthusiasts, and others who work or play in or near cold water. A dry suit normally protects the whole body except the head, hands, and...
(at temperatures of 0-10°C), a wet suit (at temperatures of 21-25°C), or a Hot water suit (surface supplied diving only). - Boiler suit overalls are often worn over the thermal protection suit by commercial divers as abrasion protection
- In very warm water (temperatures of 26-30°C), many types of tough, long, everyday clothing provide protection, as well as purpose made garments such as dive skins (made of lycra) and shorty wetsuits. In some cases, simple regular swimsuits are also used.
- Diving gloveGloveA glove is a garment covering the hand. Gloves have separate sheaths or openings for each finger and the thumb; if there is an opening but no covering sheath for each finger they are called "fingerless gloves". Fingerless gloves with one large opening rather than individual openings for each...
s - Diving hoods
- Diving boots - With dry suits, the boots are usually integrated.
- Safety helmet for scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
. (Not part of the breathing apparatus. May have a built-in forehead light. Images at http://www.flashbackscuba.com/museum/rediscovery/rediscovery.html.) - Diving chain mailChain Mail"Chain Mail" is a single by Mancunian band James, released in March 1986 by Sire Records, the first after the band defected from Factory Records. The record was released in two different versions, as 7" single and 12" EP, with different artworks by John Carroll and, confusingly, under different...
may be used as protection against bites by large marine animals - Diver's cagesShark proof cageA shark proof cage is an extremely strong metal cage used by a SCUBA diver to safely examine dangerous types of sharks up close, such as the Great White shark or bull shark. Shark proof cages are built to withstand being rammed by large, powerful sharks. The cages provide a visual and tactile...
may be used as protection against large predators
In-water stabilisation and movement
- A backplateBackplate and wingthumb|right|A stainless steel backplate, wing and manifolded twinsetA backplate and wing , is a type of Scuba harness with buoyancy compensation device worn by scuba divers. Unlike most other BCDs, the backplate and wing is a modular system, in that it consists of separable components...
is a structural device linking the buoyancy of the wing with the weight of the diving cylinders and harnessed around the diver's body - Buoyancy compensator, Buoyancy Control Device, BCD or BC - many names for a buoyancy adjusting and life-saving buoyancy device
- Diver Propulsion VehicleDiver Propulsion VehicleA diver propulsion vehicle is an item of diving equipment used by scuba and rebreather divers to increase range underwater...
- to increase the range of the diver underwater - Diving weighting systemDiving weighting systemDivers wear weighting systems, weight belts or weights, generally made of lead, to counteract the buoyancy of other diving equipment, such as diving suits and aluminium diving cylinders...
- to counteract the buoyancy of the diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
and diver to allow descent. Professional divers may use additional weighting to ensure stability when working on the bottom - FinsSwimfinSwimfins, swim fins, fins or flippers are worn on the foot or leg and made from finlike rubber or plastic, to aid movement through the water in water sports activities such as swimming, bodyboarding, bodysurfing, kneeboarding, riverboarding, and various types of underwater diving.Scuba divers use...
for efficient propulsion
Equipment for dive monitoring and navigation
- Depth gaugeDepth gaugeA depth gauge is a pressure gauge that displays the equivalent depth in water. It is a piece of diving equipment often used by SCUBA divers.Most modern diving depth gauges have an electronic mechanism and digital display. Older types used a mechanical mechanism and analogue display.A diver uses a...
lets the diver monitor depth, particularly maximum depth and, when used with a watch and Decompression tables, also allows the diver to monitor decompression requirements. Some digital depth gauges also indicate ascent rate which is an important factor in avoiding decompression sickness - Pneumofathometer is the surface supplied diving depth gauge which displays the depth of the diver at the surface control panel.
- Dive ComputerDive computerA dive computer or decompression meter is a device used by a scuba diver to measure the time and depth of a dive so that a safe ascent profile can be calculated and displayed so that the diver can avoid decompression sickness.- Purpose :...
helps the diver to avoid decompression sicknessDecompression sicknessDecompression sickness describes a condition arising from dissolved gases coming out of solution into bubbles inside the body on depressurization...
by indicating the decompression stops needed for the dive profileDive profileA dive profile is a two dimensional graphical representation of a dive showing depth and time.It is useful as an indication of the risks of decompression sickness and oxygen toxicity and also the volume of open-circuit breathing gas needed for a planned dive as these depend in part upon the depth...
. Most dive computers also indicate depth, time and ascent rate. Some also indicate oxygen toxicityOxygen toxicityOxygen toxicity is a condition resulting from the harmful effects of breathing molecular oxygen at elevated partial pressures. It is also known as oxygen toxicity syndrome, oxygen intoxication, and oxygen poisoning...
exposure and water temperature. - Diving watchDiving watchA diving watch is a watch designed for underwater diving that features, as a minimum, a water resistance greater than , the equivalent of . The typical diver's watch will have a water resistance of around , though modern technology allows the creation of diving watches that can go much deeper...
is used with depth gauge for decompression monitoring on decompression tables. - CompassCompassA compass is a navigational instrument that shows directions in a frame of reference that is stationary relative to the surface of the earth. The frame of reference defines the four cardinal directions – north, south, east, and west. Intermediate directions are also defined...
for underwater navigationUnderwater navigationUnderwater navigation is the common reference term for navigation techniques learned by Scuba divers in order to accurately navigate in an underwater environment....
. - Submersible pressure gauge, also known as a "contents gauge" is used to monitor the remaining breathing gas supply in scuba cylinders.
- Distance lineDistance lineA distance line, penetration line or guideline is an item of diving equipment used by SCUBA divers as a means of returning to a safe starting point in conditions of low visibility, water currents or where pilotage is difficult...
can used to guide the diver back to the start point and safety in poor visibility. - A cave line is a line laid by a diver while pnetrating a cave to ensure that the way out is known. Permanent cave lines are marked with line markerLine markerIn cave diving, line markers are used for orientation. Directional markers point the way to an exit ; non-directional markers are purely personal markers that mark specific spots, or the direction of one's own exit at line intersections / T's...
s at all junctions, indicating the direction along the line toward the nearest exit.
Vision and communication
- MaskDiving maskA diving mask is an item of diving equipment that allows scuba divers, free-divers, and snorkelers to see clearly underwater. When the human eye is in direct contact with water as opposed to air, its normal environment, light entering the eye is refracted by a different angle and the eye is unable...
allows the diver to see clearly underwaterUnderwater visionLight rays bend when they travel from one medium to another; the amount of bending is determined by the refractive indices of the two media. If one medium has a particular curved shape, it functions as a lens. The cornea, humours, and crystalline lens of the eye together form a lens that focuses...
and protects the eyes. - Full face mask protects the face from dirty or cold water and increases safety by securing the gas supply to the diver's face. If it contains no mouthpiece, the diver can talk allowing the use of communications equipment.
- Diving helmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
s are often used with surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
. They provide the same benefits as the full face mask but provide a very secure connection of the gas supply to the diver and additionally protect the head. - Underwater writing slateSlate (writing)A writing slate is a piece of flat material used as a medium for writing.In the 19th century, writing slates were made of slate, which is more durable than paper and was cheap at the time when paper was expensive. It was used to allow children to practice writing...
s and pencilPencilA pencil is a writing implement or art medium usually constructed of a narrow, solid pigment core inside a protective casing. The case prevents the core from breaking, and also from marking the user’s hand during use....
s are used to transport pre-dive plans underwater, to record facts whilst underwater and to aid communication with other divers. - Torches or flashlightsFlashlightA flashlight is a hand-held electric-powered light source. Usually the light source is a small incandescent lightbulb or light-emitting diode...
are essential for safety in low visibility or dark environments such as night divingNight divingNight diving is a type of recreational diving which takes place in darkness. The diver can experience a different underwater environment at night, because many marine animals are nocturnal....
and wreck and cave penetration. They are useful for communication and signalling both underwater and on the surface at night. Divers need artificial light even in shallow and clear water to reveal the red end of the spectrum of light which is absorbed as it travels through water. - Hand-held sonarSonarSonar is a technique that uses sound propagation to navigate, communicate with or detect other vessels...
for a diver.
Safety equipment
- Diver's safety harness
- Lifeline
- Surface marker buoy
- Cutting tool
- KnifeKnifeA knife is a cutting tool with an exposed cutting edge or blade, hand-held or otherwise, with or without a handle. Knives were used at least two-and-a-half million years ago, as evidenced by the Oldowan tools...
to cut lines, nets or to pry or dig. Can also be used for personal protection against underwater predators if needed, however not recommended as generally ineffective. - Diver's net or line cutter. This is a small handheld tool carried by scuba divers to extricate themselves if trapped in fishing netFishing netA fishing net or fishnet is a net that is used for fishing. Fishing nets are meshes usually formed by knotting a relatively thin thread. Modern nets are usually made of artificial polyamides like nylon, although nets of organic polyamides such as wool or silk thread were common until recently and...
or fishing lineFishing lineA fishing line is a cord used or made for angling. Important parameters of a fishing line are its length, material, and weight...
. It has a small sharp blade such as a replaceable scalpelScalpelA scalpel, or lancet, is a small and extremely sharp bladed instrument used for surgery, anatomical dissection, and various arts and crafts . Scalpels may be single-use disposable or re-usable. Re-usable scalpels can have attached, resharpenable blades or, more commonly, non-attached, replaceable...
blade inside the small notch. There is a small hole at the other end to for a lanyard to tether the cutter to the diver.
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
Underwater diving
Underwater diving is the practice of going underwater, either with breathing apparatus or by breath-holding .Recreational diving is a popular activity...
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
Classes of underwater breathing apparatus
- Surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
- mostly used in professional diving. This category includes: - Surface oriented surface supplied diving (Bounce diving), where the diver starts and finished the dive at normal atmospheric pressure.
- Saturation divingSaturation divingSaturation diving is a diving technique that allows divers to reduce the risk of decompression sickness when they work at great depth for long periods of time....
, where the diver remains under pressure in a underwater habitatUnderwater habitatUnderwater habitats are underwater structures in which people can live for extended periods and carry out most of the basic human functions of a 24-hour day, such as working, resting, eating, attending to personal hygiene, and sleeping...
or saturation spread between underwater excursions. - Standard diving dressStandard diving dressA standard diving dress consists of a metallic diving helmet, an airline or hose from a surface supplied diving air pump, a canvas diving suit, diving knife and boots...
- mostly used in professional diving. Mainly of historical interest now. - Airline or Hookah diving.
- "Compressor divingCompressor divingCompressor diving is a method of surface-supplied diving used in some tropical sea areas including the Philippines and the Caribbean. The divers swim with an eyes-and-nose diving mask and fins and are supplied air by plastic hoses from an air compressor of the type commonly used to supply...
" - a rudimentary form of surface supplied diving used in the PhilippinesPhilippinesThe Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
by artisanal fishermen. - Recreational forms like snubaSnubaSnuba is an underwater breathing system developed by Snuba International.The word Snuba is a portmanteau of "snorkel" and "scuba". The swimmer uses swimfins, a diving mask, weights, and diving regulator as in scuba diving....
. - Scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
- The use of self contained underwater breathing apparatus. This category includes: - Open-circuit scuba consisting of diving cylinderDiving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
(s) and diving regulatorDiving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
(s) - RebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
, closed-circuit or semi-closed-circuit scuba - Free diving or breathhold diving, where the diver completes the dive on a single breath of air taken at the surface before the dive.
- Snorkel allows breathing at the surface with the face submerged, and is used as an adjunct to free diving and scuba.
- Atmospheric diving suitAtmospheric diving suitAn atmospheric diving suit or ADS is a small one-man articulated submersible of anthropomorphic form which resembles a suit of armour, with elaborate pressure joints to allow articulation while maintaining an internal pressure of one atmosphere...
s and other submersibles which isolate the diver from the ambient environment. These are not considered here. - Liquid breathingLiquid breathingLiquid breathing is a form of respiration in which a normally air-breathing organism breathes an oxygen-rich liquid , rather than breathing air....
systems are extremely rare and at an early experimental stage. It is hoped that some day practical systems allow very deep diving. This is not considered here.
File:Working Diver 02.jpg|A US Navy diver
United States Navy Diver
A Navy Diver refers to a member of the community of Unrestricted Line Officer Officers, Medical Corps Officers and enlisted personnel in the United States Navy who are qualified in underwater open/closed circuit breathing apparatus, deep sea type diving apparatus and saturation diving. Personnel...
at work. The umbilical supplying air from the surface is clearly visible
Image:Standard_diving_dress_1.jpg|Diver in standard diving dress entering water at Stoney Cove, England
File:Buzo.jpg|Scuba diver with single cylinder and open circuit regulator
Image:Apnea monofin.jpg|Free-diver with monofin
Monofin
A monofin is a type of swimfin typically used in finswimming and free-diving. It consists of a single surface attached to footpockets for both of the free-diver's feet.-History and production:...
, ascending
File:Newtsuit atmospheric diving suit.jpg|The Newtsuit
Newtsuit
The Newtsuit is an atmospheric diving suit designed and originally built by Phil Nuytten.The suit is used for work on ocean drilling rigs, on pipelines, salvage jobs, photographic surveys, and is standard equipment in many of the world’s navies....
is an atmospheric diving suit which has fully articulated, rotary joints in the arms and legs.
Personal diving equipment
This is the diving equipment worn by or carried by the diver for personal protection or comfort, or to facilitate the diving aspect of the activity, and may include a selection from:Underwater breathing apparatus
- Scuba equipment: Primary cylinder(s)Diving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
and open circuit regulator(s)Diving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
, or rebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
sets. Alternative air source such as bailout bottleBailout bottleThe term Bailout bottle or Bailout cylinder refers to a scuba cylinder carried by an underwater diver for use as an emergency supply of breathing gas in the event of a primary gas supply failure. A Bailout cylinder may be carried by a scuba diver in addition to the primary scuba set, or by a...
or pony bottlePony bottleA pony bottle is a small independently filled diving cylinder, often of only a few litres capacity, which forms an extended scuba set and which is fitted with its own independent regulator. In an emergency, such as exhaustion of the diver's main air supply, it can be used as an alternate air...
, and decompressionDecompression (diving)Decompression in the context of diving derives from the reduction in ambient pressure experienced by the diver during the ascent at the end of a dive or hyperbaric exposure and refers to both the reduction in pressure and the process of allowing dissolved inert gases to be eliminated from the...
cylinders and their associated regulators. - Surface supplied equipment: HelmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
or full face mask, bailout block, bailout cylinder and regulator.
File:Aqualung 1st stage.jpg|Aqualung regulator 1st stage
File:Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator from 1960.jpg|A 1960s era Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator with "J" Valve incorporated
Exposure protection
Thermal, sting and abrasion protection.- In cold water, a diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
such as a dry suitDry suitA dry suit or drysuit provides thermal insulation or passive thermal protection to the wearer while immersed in water, and is worn by divers, boaters, water sports enthusiasts, and others who work or play in or near cold water. A dry suit normally protects the whole body except the head, hands, and...
(at temperatures of 0-10°C), a wet suit (at temperatures of 21-25°C), or a Hot water suit (surface supplied diving only). - Boiler suit overalls are often worn over the thermal protection suit by commercial divers as abrasion protection
- In very warm water (temperatures of 26-30°C), many types of tough, long, everyday clothing provide protection, as well as purpose made garments such as dive skins (made of lycra) and shorty wetsuits. In some cases, simple regular swimsuits are also used.
- Diving gloveGloveA glove is a garment covering the hand. Gloves have separate sheaths or openings for each finger and the thumb; if there is an opening but no covering sheath for each finger they are called "fingerless gloves". Fingerless gloves with one large opening rather than individual openings for each...
s - Diving hoods
- Diving boots - With dry suits, the boots are usually integrated.
- Safety helmet for scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
. (Not part of the breathing apparatus. May have a built-in forehead light. Images at http://www.flashbackscuba.com/museum/rediscovery/rediscovery.html.) - Diving chain mailChain Mail"Chain Mail" is a single by Mancunian band James, released in March 1986 by Sire Records, the first after the band defected from Factory Records. The record was released in two different versions, as 7" single and 12" EP, with different artworks by John Carroll and, confusingly, under different...
may be used as protection against bites by large marine animals - Diver's cagesShark proof cageA shark proof cage is an extremely strong metal cage used by a SCUBA diver to safely examine dangerous types of sharks up close, such as the Great White shark or bull shark. Shark proof cages are built to withstand being rammed by large, powerful sharks. The cages provide a visual and tactile...
may be used as protection against large predators
In-water stabilisation and movement
- A backplateBackplate and wingthumb|right|A stainless steel backplate, wing and manifolded twinsetA backplate and wing , is a type of Scuba harness with buoyancy compensation device worn by scuba divers. Unlike most other BCDs, the backplate and wing is a modular system, in that it consists of separable components...
is a structural device linking the buoyancy of the wing with the weight of the diving cylinders and harnessed around the diver's body - Buoyancy compensator, Buoyancy Control Device, BCD or BC - many names for a buoyancy adjusting and life-saving buoyancy device
- Diver Propulsion VehicleDiver Propulsion VehicleA diver propulsion vehicle is an item of diving equipment used by scuba and rebreather divers to increase range underwater...
- to increase the range of the diver underwater - Diving weighting systemDiving weighting systemDivers wear weighting systems, weight belts or weights, generally made of lead, to counteract the buoyancy of other diving equipment, such as diving suits and aluminium diving cylinders...
- to counteract the buoyancy of the diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
and diver to allow descent. Professional divers may use additional weighting to ensure stability when working on the bottom - FinsSwimfinSwimfins, swim fins, fins or flippers are worn on the foot or leg and made from finlike rubber or plastic, to aid movement through the water in water sports activities such as swimming, bodyboarding, bodysurfing, kneeboarding, riverboarding, and various types of underwater diving.Scuba divers use...
for efficient propulsion
Equipment for dive monitoring and navigation
- Depth gaugeDepth gaugeA depth gauge is a pressure gauge that displays the equivalent depth in water. It is a piece of diving equipment often used by SCUBA divers.Most modern diving depth gauges have an electronic mechanism and digital display. Older types used a mechanical mechanism and analogue display.A diver uses a...
lets the diver monitor depth, particularly maximum depth and, when used with a watch and Decompression tables, also allows the diver to monitor decompression requirements. Some digital depth gauges also indicate ascent rate which is an important factor in avoiding decompression sickness - Pneumofathometer is the surface supplied diving depth gauge which displays the depth of the diver at the surface control panel.
- Dive ComputerDive computerA dive computer or decompression meter is a device used by a scuba diver to measure the time and depth of a dive so that a safe ascent profile can be calculated and displayed so that the diver can avoid decompression sickness.- Purpose :...
helps the diver to avoid decompression sicknessDecompression sicknessDecompression sickness describes a condition arising from dissolved gases coming out of solution into bubbles inside the body on depressurization...
by indicating the decompression stops needed for the dive profileDive profileA dive profile is a two dimensional graphical representation of a dive showing depth and time.It is useful as an indication of the risks of decompression sickness and oxygen toxicity and also the volume of open-circuit breathing gas needed for a planned dive as these depend in part upon the depth...
. Most dive computers also indicate depth, time and ascent rate. Some also indicate oxygen toxicityOxygen toxicityOxygen toxicity is a condition resulting from the harmful effects of breathing molecular oxygen at elevated partial pressures. It is also known as oxygen toxicity syndrome, oxygen intoxication, and oxygen poisoning...
exposure and water temperature. - Diving watchDiving watchA diving watch is a watch designed for underwater diving that features, as a minimum, a water resistance greater than , the equivalent of . The typical diver's watch will have a water resistance of around , though modern technology allows the creation of diving watches that can go much deeper...
is used with depth gauge for decompression monitoring on decompression tables. - CompassCompassA compass is a navigational instrument that shows directions in a frame of reference that is stationary relative to the surface of the earth. The frame of reference defines the four cardinal directions – north, south, east, and west. Intermediate directions are also defined...
for underwater navigationUnderwater navigationUnderwater navigation is the common reference term for navigation techniques learned by Scuba divers in order to accurately navigate in an underwater environment....
. - Submersible pressure gauge, also known as a "contents gauge" is used to monitor the remaining breathing gas supply in scuba cylinders.
- Distance lineDistance lineA distance line, penetration line or guideline is an item of diving equipment used by SCUBA divers as a means of returning to a safe starting point in conditions of low visibility, water currents or where pilotage is difficult...
can used to guide the diver back to the start point and safety in poor visibility. - A cave line is a line laid by a diver while pnetrating a cave to ensure that the way out is known. Permanent cave lines are marked with line markerLine markerIn cave diving, line markers are used for orientation. Directional markers point the way to an exit ; non-directional markers are purely personal markers that mark specific spots, or the direction of one's own exit at line intersections / T's...
s at all junctions, indicating the direction along the line toward the nearest exit.
File:diving regulator contents guage.JPG|A depth gauge
Depth gauge
A depth gauge is a pressure gauge that displays the equivalent depth in water. It is a piece of diving equipment often used by SCUBA divers.Most modern diving depth gauges have an electronic mechanism and digital display. Older types used a mechanical mechanism and analogue display.A diver uses a...
and submersible pressure gauge
File:Pressure guage close up.jpg|Suunto submersible pressure gauge
File:Surface supply air panel for 4 divers P3053737.jpg|A surface supply panel for four divers showing four pneumofathometer gauges
Image:Suunto D9 Dive Computer.jpg|A watch
Watch
A watch is a small timepiece, typically worn either on the wrist or attached on a chain and carried in a pocket, with wristwatches being the most common type of watch used today. They evolved in the 17th century from spring powered clocks, which appeared in the 15th century. The first watches were...
sized dive computer incorporating an electronic compass and the ability to display cylinder pressure when used with an optional transmitter (Suunto
Suunto
Suunto Oy, based in Finland, is a company that produces and markets sports precision instruments for Diving, Training and Outdoor sports. Headquartered in Vantaa, Suunto employs more than 500 people worldwide, and its products are sold in over 100 countries...
D9)
Image:Dive computer logbook.jpg|Uwatec Aladin Pro dive computer showing the log of a previous dive
Image:UW Navigation tools.jpg|Nav finder and underwater compass - basic underwater navigation tools.
Image:Distance line.JPG|50 metres of line on a reel
File:Line_Arrow_of_Agnes_Milowka.jpg|Line Arrow Marker|alt=Line Arrow Marker
Vision and communication
- MaskDiving maskA diving mask is an item of diving equipment that allows scuba divers, free-divers, and snorkelers to see clearly underwater. When the human eye is in direct contact with water as opposed to air, its normal environment, light entering the eye is refracted by a different angle and the eye is unable...
allows the diver to see clearly underwaterUnderwater visionLight rays bend when they travel from one medium to another; the amount of bending is determined by the refractive indices of the two media. If one medium has a particular curved shape, it functions as a lens. The cornea, humours, and crystalline lens of the eye together form a lens that focuses...
and protects the eyes. - Full face mask protects the face from dirty or cold water and increases safety by securing the gas supply to the diver's face. If it contains no mouthpiece, the diver can talk allowing the use of communications equipment.
- Diving helmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
s are often used with surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
. They provide the same benefits as the full face mask but provide a very secure connection of the gas supply to the diver and additionally protect the head. - Underwater writing slateSlate (writing)A writing slate is a piece of flat material used as a medium for writing.In the 19th century, writing slates were made of slate, which is more durable than paper and was cheap at the time when paper was expensive. It was used to allow children to practice writing...
s and pencilPencilA pencil is a writing implement or art medium usually constructed of a narrow, solid pigment core inside a protective casing. The case prevents the core from breaking, and also from marking the user’s hand during use....
s are used to transport pre-dive plans underwater, to record facts whilst underwater and to aid communication with other divers. - Torches or flashlightsFlashlightA flashlight is a hand-held electric-powered light source. Usually the light source is a small incandescent lightbulb or light-emitting diode...
are essential for safety in low visibility or dark environments such as night divingNight divingNight diving is a type of recreational diving which takes place in darkness. The diver can experience a different underwater environment at night, because many marine animals are nocturnal....
and wreck and cave penetration. They are useful for communication and signalling both underwater and on the surface at night. Divers need artificial light even in shallow and clear water to reveal the red end of the spectrum of light which is absorbed as it travels through water. - Hand-held sonarSonarSonar is a technique that uses sound propagation to navigate, communicate with or detect other vessels...
for a diver.
Image:Scubamask.jpg|A diving half mask provides clear sight and protection for the eyes.
Image:Diving-torch.jpg|A "canister" style dive light
Safety equipment
- Diver's safety harness
- Lifeline
- Surface marker buoy
- Cutting tool
- KnifeKnifeA knife is a cutting tool with an exposed cutting edge or blade, hand-held or otherwise, with or without a handle. Knives were used at least two-and-a-half million years ago, as evidenced by the Oldowan tools...
to cut lines, nets or to pry or dig. Can also be used for personal protection against underwater predators if needed, however not recommended as generally ineffective. - Diver's net or line cutter. This is a small handheld tool carried by scuba divers to extricate themselves if trapped in fishing netFishing netA fishing net or fishnet is a net that is used for fishing. Fishing nets are meshes usually formed by knotting a relatively thin thread. Modern nets are usually made of artificial polyamides like nylon, although nets of organic polyamides such as wool or silk thread were common until recently and...
or fishing lineFishing lineA fishing line is a cord used or made for angling. Important parameters of a fishing line are its length, material, and weight...
. It has a small sharp blade such as a replaceable scalpelScalpelA scalpel, or lancet, is a small and extremely sharp bladed instrument used for surgery, anatomical dissection, and various arts and crafts . Scalpels may be single-use disposable or re-usable. Re-usable scalpels can have attached, resharpenable blades or, more commonly, non-attached, replaceable...
blade inside the small notch. There is a small hole at the other end to for a lanyard to tether the cutter to the diver.
Diving equipment is equipment used by underwater divers
Underwater diving
Underwater diving is the practice of going underwater, either with breathing apparatus or by breath-holding .Recreational diving is a popular activity...
for the purpose of facilitating diving activities. This may be equipment primarily intended for this purpose, or equipment intended for other puprposes which is found to be suitable for diving use.
Equipment which is used for underwater work or other activities which is not directly related to the activity of diving, or which has not been designed or modified specifically for underwater use by divers is excluded.
The fundamental item of diving equipment used by divers is underwater breathing apparatus, such as scuba equipment, and surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving
Surface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
equipment, but there are other important pieces of equipment that make diving safer, more convenient or more efficient.
Classes of underwater breathing apparatus
- Surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
- mostly used in professional diving. This category includes: - Surface oriented surface supplied diving (Bounce diving), where the diver starts and finished the dive at normal atmospheric pressure.
- Saturation divingSaturation divingSaturation diving is a diving technique that allows divers to reduce the risk of decompression sickness when they work at great depth for long periods of time....
, where the diver remains under pressure in a underwater habitatUnderwater habitatUnderwater habitats are underwater structures in which people can live for extended periods and carry out most of the basic human functions of a 24-hour day, such as working, resting, eating, attending to personal hygiene, and sleeping...
or saturation spread between underwater excursions. - Standard diving dressStandard diving dressA standard diving dress consists of a metallic diving helmet, an airline or hose from a surface supplied diving air pump, a canvas diving suit, diving knife and boots...
- mostly used in professional diving. Mainly of historical interest now. - Airline or Hookah diving.
- "Compressor divingCompressor divingCompressor diving is a method of surface-supplied diving used in some tropical sea areas including the Philippines and the Caribbean. The divers swim with an eyes-and-nose diving mask and fins and are supplied air by plastic hoses from an air compressor of the type commonly used to supply...
" - a rudimentary form of surface supplied diving used in the PhilippinesPhilippinesThe Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
by artisanal fishermen. - Recreational forms like snubaSnubaSnuba is an underwater breathing system developed by Snuba International.The word Snuba is a portmanteau of "snorkel" and "scuba". The swimmer uses swimfins, a diving mask, weights, and diving regulator as in scuba diving....
. - Scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
- The use of self contained underwater breathing apparatus. This category includes: - Open-circuit scuba consisting of diving cylinderDiving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
(s) and diving regulatorDiving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
(s) - RebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
, closed-circuit or semi-closed-circuit scuba - Free diving or breathhold diving, where the diver completes the dive on a single breath of air taken at the surface before the dive.
- Snorkel allows breathing at the surface with the face submerged, and is used as an adjunct to free diving and scuba.
- Atmospheric diving suitAtmospheric diving suitAn atmospheric diving suit or ADS is a small one-man articulated submersible of anthropomorphic form which resembles a suit of armour, with elaborate pressure joints to allow articulation while maintaining an internal pressure of one atmosphere...
s and other submersibles which isolate the diver from the ambient environment. These are not considered here. - Liquid breathingLiquid breathingLiquid breathing is a form of respiration in which a normally air-breathing organism breathes an oxygen-rich liquid , rather than breathing air....
systems are extremely rare and at an early experimental stage. It is hoped that some day practical systems allow very deep diving. This is not considered here.
File:Working Diver 02.jpg|A US Navy diver
United States Navy Diver
A Navy Diver refers to a member of the community of Unrestricted Line Officer Officers, Medical Corps Officers and enlisted personnel in the United States Navy who are qualified in underwater open/closed circuit breathing apparatus, deep sea type diving apparatus and saturation diving. Personnel...
at work. The umbilical supplying air from the surface is clearly visible
Image:Standard_diving_dress_1.jpg|Diver in standard diving dress entering water at Stoney Cove, England
File:Buzo.jpg|Scuba diver with single cylinder and open circuit regulator
Image:Apnea monofin.jpg|Free-diver with monofin
Monofin
A monofin is a type of swimfin typically used in finswimming and free-diving. It consists of a single surface attached to footpockets for both of the free-diver's feet.-History and production:...
, ascending
File:Newtsuit atmospheric diving suit.jpg|The Newtsuit
Newtsuit
The Newtsuit is an atmospheric diving suit designed and originally built by Phil Nuytten.The suit is used for work on ocean drilling rigs, on pipelines, salvage jobs, photographic surveys, and is standard equipment in many of the world’s navies....
is an atmospheric diving suit which has fully articulated, rotary joints in the arms and legs.
Personal diving equipment
This is the diving equipment worn by or carried by the diver for personal protection or comfort, or to facilitate the diving aspect of the activity, and may include a selection from:Underwater breathing apparatus
- Scuba equipment: Primary cylinder(s)Diving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
and open circuit regulator(s)Diving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
, or rebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
sets. Alternative air source such as bailout bottleBailout bottleThe term Bailout bottle or Bailout cylinder refers to a scuba cylinder carried by an underwater diver for use as an emergency supply of breathing gas in the event of a primary gas supply failure. A Bailout cylinder may be carried by a scuba diver in addition to the primary scuba set, or by a...
or pony bottlePony bottleA pony bottle is a small independently filled diving cylinder, often of only a few litres capacity, which forms an extended scuba set and which is fitted with its own independent regulator. In an emergency, such as exhaustion of the diver's main air supply, it can be used as an alternate air...
, and decompressionDecompression (diving)Decompression in the context of diving derives from the reduction in ambient pressure experienced by the diver during the ascent at the end of a dive or hyperbaric exposure and refers to both the reduction in pressure and the process of allowing dissolved inert gases to be eliminated from the...
cylinders and their associated regulators. - Surface supplied equipment: HelmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
or full face mask, bailout block, bailout cylinder and regulator.
File:Aqualung 1st stage.jpg|Aqualung regulator 1st stage
File:Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator from 1960.jpg|A 1960s era Sportsways "Waterlung" Regulator with "J" Valve incorporated
Exposure protection
Thermal, sting and abrasion protection.- In cold water, a diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
such as a dry suitDry suitA dry suit or drysuit provides thermal insulation or passive thermal protection to the wearer while immersed in water, and is worn by divers, boaters, water sports enthusiasts, and others who work or play in or near cold water. A dry suit normally protects the whole body except the head, hands, and...
(at temperatures of 0-10°C), a wet suit (at temperatures of 21-25°C), or a Hot water suit (surface supplied diving only). - Boiler suit overalls are often worn over the thermal protection suit by commercial divers as abrasion protection
- In very warm water (temperatures of 26-30°C), many types of tough, long, everyday clothing provide protection, as well as purpose made garments such as dive skins (made of lycra) and shorty wetsuits. In some cases, simple regular swimsuits are also used.
- Diving gloveGloveA glove is a garment covering the hand. Gloves have separate sheaths or openings for each finger and the thumb; if there is an opening but no covering sheath for each finger they are called "fingerless gloves". Fingerless gloves with one large opening rather than individual openings for each...
s - Diving hoods
- Diving boots - With dry suits, the boots are usually integrated.
- Safety helmet for scuba divingScuba divingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a scuba set to breathe underwater....
. (Not part of the breathing apparatus. May have a built-in forehead light. Images at http://www.flashbackscuba.com/museum/rediscovery/rediscovery.html.) - Diving chain mailChain Mail"Chain Mail" is a single by Mancunian band James, released in March 1986 by Sire Records, the first after the band defected from Factory Records. The record was released in two different versions, as 7" single and 12" EP, with different artworks by John Carroll and, confusingly, under different...
may be used as protection against bites by large marine animals - Diver's cagesShark proof cageA shark proof cage is an extremely strong metal cage used by a SCUBA diver to safely examine dangerous types of sharks up close, such as the Great White shark or bull shark. Shark proof cages are built to withstand being rammed by large, powerful sharks. The cages provide a visual and tactile...
may be used as protection against large predators
In-water stabilisation and movement
- A backplateBackplate and wingthumb|right|A stainless steel backplate, wing and manifolded twinsetA backplate and wing , is a type of Scuba harness with buoyancy compensation device worn by scuba divers. Unlike most other BCDs, the backplate and wing is a modular system, in that it consists of separable components...
is a structural device linking the buoyancy of the wing with the weight of the diving cylinders and harnessed around the diver's body - Buoyancy compensator, Buoyancy Control Device, BCD or BC - many names for a buoyancy adjusting and life-saving buoyancy device
- Diver Propulsion VehicleDiver Propulsion VehicleA diver propulsion vehicle is an item of diving equipment used by scuba and rebreather divers to increase range underwater...
- to increase the range of the diver underwater - Diving weighting systemDiving weighting systemDivers wear weighting systems, weight belts or weights, generally made of lead, to counteract the buoyancy of other diving equipment, such as diving suits and aluminium diving cylinders...
- to counteract the buoyancy of the diving suitDiving suitA diving suit is a garment or device designed to protect a diver from the underwater environment. A diving suit typically also incorporates an air-supply .-History:...
and diver to allow descent. Professional divers may use additional weighting to ensure stability when working on the bottom - FinsSwimfinSwimfins, swim fins, fins or flippers are worn on the foot or leg and made from finlike rubber or plastic, to aid movement through the water in water sports activities such as swimming, bodyboarding, bodysurfing, kneeboarding, riverboarding, and various types of underwater diving.Scuba divers use...
for efficient propulsion
Equipment for dive monitoring and navigation
- Depth gaugeDepth gaugeA depth gauge is a pressure gauge that displays the equivalent depth in water. It is a piece of diving equipment often used by SCUBA divers.Most modern diving depth gauges have an electronic mechanism and digital display. Older types used a mechanical mechanism and analogue display.A diver uses a...
lets the diver monitor depth, particularly maximum depth and, when used with a watch and Decompression tables, also allows the diver to monitor decompression requirements. Some digital depth gauges also indicate ascent rate which is an important factor in avoiding decompression sickness - Pneumofathometer is the surface supplied diving depth gauge which displays the depth of the diver at the surface control panel.
- Dive ComputerDive computerA dive computer or decompression meter is a device used by a scuba diver to measure the time and depth of a dive so that a safe ascent profile can be calculated and displayed so that the diver can avoid decompression sickness.- Purpose :...
helps the diver to avoid decompression sicknessDecompression sicknessDecompression sickness describes a condition arising from dissolved gases coming out of solution into bubbles inside the body on depressurization...
by indicating the decompression stops needed for the dive profileDive profileA dive profile is a two dimensional graphical representation of a dive showing depth and time.It is useful as an indication of the risks of decompression sickness and oxygen toxicity and also the volume of open-circuit breathing gas needed for a planned dive as these depend in part upon the depth...
. Most dive computers also indicate depth, time and ascent rate. Some also indicate oxygen toxicityOxygen toxicityOxygen toxicity is a condition resulting from the harmful effects of breathing molecular oxygen at elevated partial pressures. It is also known as oxygen toxicity syndrome, oxygen intoxication, and oxygen poisoning...
exposure and water temperature. - Diving watchDiving watchA diving watch is a watch designed for underwater diving that features, as a minimum, a water resistance greater than , the equivalent of . The typical diver's watch will have a water resistance of around , though modern technology allows the creation of diving watches that can go much deeper...
is used with depth gauge for decompression monitoring on decompression tables. - CompassCompassA compass is a navigational instrument that shows directions in a frame of reference that is stationary relative to the surface of the earth. The frame of reference defines the four cardinal directions – north, south, east, and west. Intermediate directions are also defined...
for underwater navigationUnderwater navigationUnderwater navigation is the common reference term for navigation techniques learned by Scuba divers in order to accurately navigate in an underwater environment....
. - Submersible pressure gauge, also known as a "contents gauge" is used to monitor the remaining breathing gas supply in scuba cylinders.
- Distance lineDistance lineA distance line, penetration line or guideline is an item of diving equipment used by SCUBA divers as a means of returning to a safe starting point in conditions of low visibility, water currents or where pilotage is difficult...
can used to guide the diver back to the start point and safety in poor visibility. - A cave line is a line laid by a diver while pnetrating a cave to ensure that the way out is known. Permanent cave lines are marked with line markerLine markerIn cave diving, line markers are used for orientation. Directional markers point the way to an exit ; non-directional markers are purely personal markers that mark specific spots, or the direction of one's own exit at line intersections / T's...
s at all junctions, indicating the direction along the line toward the nearest exit.
File:diving regulator contents guage.JPG|A depth gauge
Depth gauge
A depth gauge is a pressure gauge that displays the equivalent depth in water. It is a piece of diving equipment often used by SCUBA divers.Most modern diving depth gauges have an electronic mechanism and digital display. Older types used a mechanical mechanism and analogue display.A diver uses a...
and submersible pressure gauge
File:Pressure guage close up.jpg|Suunto submersible pressure gauge
File:Surface supply air panel for 4 divers P3053737.jpg|A surface supply panel for four divers showing four pneumofathometer gauges
Image:Suunto D9 Dive Computer.jpg|A watch
Watch
A watch is a small timepiece, typically worn either on the wrist or attached on a chain and carried in a pocket, with wristwatches being the most common type of watch used today. They evolved in the 17th century from spring powered clocks, which appeared in the 15th century. The first watches were...
sized dive computer incorporating an electronic compass and the ability to display cylinder pressure when used with an optional transmitter (Suunto
Suunto
Suunto Oy, based in Finland, is a company that produces and markets sports precision instruments for Diving, Training and Outdoor sports. Headquartered in Vantaa, Suunto employs more than 500 people worldwide, and its products are sold in over 100 countries...
D9)
Image:Dive computer logbook.jpg|Uwatec Aladin Pro dive computer showing the log of a previous dive
Image:UW Navigation tools.jpg|Nav finder and underwater compass - basic underwater navigation tools.
Image:Distance line.JPG|50 metres of line on a reel
File:Line_Arrow_of_Agnes_Milowka.jpg|Line Arrow Marker|alt=Line Arrow Marker
Vision and communication
- MaskDiving maskA diving mask is an item of diving equipment that allows scuba divers, free-divers, and snorkelers to see clearly underwater. When the human eye is in direct contact with water as opposed to air, its normal environment, light entering the eye is refracted by a different angle and the eye is unable...
allows the diver to see clearly underwaterUnderwater visionLight rays bend when they travel from one medium to another; the amount of bending is determined by the refractive indices of the two media. If one medium has a particular curved shape, it functions as a lens. The cornea, humours, and crystalline lens of the eye together form a lens that focuses...
and protects the eyes. - Full face mask protects the face from dirty or cold water and increases safety by securing the gas supply to the diver's face. If it contains no mouthpiece, the diver can talk allowing the use of communications equipment.
- Diving helmetDiving helmetDiving helmets are worn mainly by professional divers engaged in surface supplied diving, though many models can be adapted for use with scuba equipment....
s are often used with surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
. They provide the same benefits as the full face mask but provide a very secure connection of the gas supply to the diver and additionally protect the head. - Underwater writing slateSlate (writing)A writing slate is a piece of flat material used as a medium for writing.In the 19th century, writing slates were made of slate, which is more durable than paper and was cheap at the time when paper was expensive. It was used to allow children to practice writing...
s and pencilPencilA pencil is a writing implement or art medium usually constructed of a narrow, solid pigment core inside a protective casing. The case prevents the core from breaking, and also from marking the user’s hand during use....
s are used to transport pre-dive plans underwater, to record facts whilst underwater and to aid communication with other divers. - Torches or flashlightsFlashlightA flashlight is a hand-held electric-powered light source. Usually the light source is a small incandescent lightbulb or light-emitting diode...
are essential for safety in low visibility or dark environments such as night divingNight divingNight diving is a type of recreational diving which takes place in darkness. The diver can experience a different underwater environment at night, because many marine animals are nocturnal....
and wreck and cave penetration. They are useful for communication and signalling both underwater and on the surface at night. Divers need artificial light even in shallow and clear water to reveal the red end of the spectrum of light which is absorbed as it travels through water. - Hand-held sonarSonarSonar is a technique that uses sound propagation to navigate, communicate with or detect other vessels...
for a diver.
Image:Scubamask.jpg|A diving half mask provides clear sight and protection for the eyes.
Image:Diving-torch.jpg|A "canister" style dive light
Safety equipment
- Diver's safety harness
- Lifeline
- Surface marker buoy
- Cutting tool
- KnifeKnifeA knife is a cutting tool with an exposed cutting edge or blade, hand-held or otherwise, with or without a handle. Knives were used at least two-and-a-half million years ago, as evidenced by the Oldowan tools...
to cut lines, nets or to pry or dig. Can also be used for personal protection against underwater predators if needed, however not recommended as generally ineffective. - Diver's net or line cutter. This is a small handheld tool carried by scuba divers to extricate themselves if trapped in fishing netFishing netA fishing net or fishnet is a net that is used for fishing. Fishing nets are meshes usually formed by knotting a relatively thin thread. Modern nets are usually made of artificial polyamides like nylon, although nets of organic polyamides such as wool or silk thread were common until recently and...
or fishing lineFishing lineA fishing line is a cord used or made for angling. Important parameters of a fishing line are its length, material, and weight...
. It has a small sharp blade such as a replaceable scalpelScalpelA scalpel, or lancet, is a small and extremely sharp bladed instrument used for surgery, anatomical dissection, and various arts and crafts . Scalpels may be single-use disposable or re-usable. Re-usable scalpels can have attached, resharpenable blades or, more commonly, non-attached, replaceable...
blade inside the small notch. There is a small hole at the other end to for a lanyard to tether the cutter to the diver.
File:Diver harness with weight pocketsPA268054.jpg|Front view of jacket style diver harness with removable weight pockets
Image:Gerber River Shorty.jpg|Gerber
Gerber Legendary Blades
Gerber Legendary Blades is a maker of consumer knives and multitools headquartered in Tigard, Oregon, United States, within the Portland metropolitan area. Currently Gerber is a sub-division of Fiskars Brands Inc, owned by the Fiskars company of Finland...
River Shorty, a river/diving knife, with serrated edge for cutting lines and straps, and a blunt tip for prying
File:Aa scuba netcutter.jpg|scuba diver's net cutter. 7 inches long
Personal tools and accessories
- CameraCameraA camera is a device that records and stores images. These images may be still photographs or moving images such as videos or movies. The term camera comes from the camera obscura , an early mechanism for projecting images...
, strobe (flash), video lights and housing - for underwater photographyUnderwater photographyUnderwater photography is the process of taking photographs while under water. It is usually done while scuba diving, but can be done while snorkeling or swimming.-Overview:...
or underwater videographyUnderwater videographyUnderwater videography is a video production, the branch of underwater photography concerned with capturing underwater moving images either as a recreational diving or commercial documentary, or filmmaking activity.-Limitations:... - Diving reel or spool to store and transport a distance line or line for a surface marker buoy
- Diving shotDiving shotthumb|right|Diagram of a diving shot upcurrent of a dive siteA diving shot is an item of diving equipment consisting of a weight, a line and a buoy. The weight is dropped on the dive site. The line connects the weight and the buoy and is used by divers to move between the surface and the dive site...
consisting of a weight, line and buoyBuoyA buoy is a floating device that can have many different purposes. It can be anchored or allowed to drift. The word, of Old French or Middle Dutch origin, is now most commonly in UK English, although some orthoepists have traditionally prescribed the pronunciation...
used to mark the location of a dive site, allowing divers to navigate to and from the surface and to do decompression stops at a safe location - Dry boxDry boxA dry box is a storage container in which the interior is kept at a low level of humidity.Dry boxes are used to safely store items which would otherwise be damaged or adversely affected by excessive humidity, such as cameras and lenses , and musical instruments...
to hold objects the diver needs to keep dry at depth (wallet, cell phone)
Surface detection aids
The purposes of this class of personal equipment are to:- allow the support boatBoatA boat is a watercraft of any size designed to float or plane, to provide passage across water. Usually this water will be inland or in protected coastal areas. However, boats such as the whaleboat were designed to be operated from a ship in an offshore environment. In naval terms, a boat is a...
to monitor and find divers on the surface during or after a dive - prevent the diver being struck by boatBoatA boat is a watercraft of any size designed to float or plane, to provide passage across water. Usually this water will be inland or in protected coastal areas. However, boats such as the whaleboat were designed to be operated from a ship in an offshore environment. In naval terms, a boat is a...
traffic - mark the diver's position when drift divingDrift divingDrift diving is a type of recreational diving where the diver is transported by the currents caused by the tide or in a river.The current gives the diver the impression of flying and allows the diver to cover long distances underwater, possibly seeing more habitats and formations than usual...
or while at the decompression stop - help rescue services in lifeboatLifeboat (rescue)A rescue lifeboat is a boat rescue craft which is used to attend a vessel in distress, or its survivors, to rescue crewmen and passengers. It can be hand pulled, sail powered or powered by an engine...
s and helicopterHelicopterA helicopter is a type of rotorcraft in which lift and thrust are supplied by one or more engine-driven rotors. This allows the helicopter to take off and land vertically, to hover, and to fly forwards, backwards, and laterally...
s to locate the diver
Surface detection aids include:
- Surface marker buoySurface Marker BuoyA surface marker buoy, SMB or simply a blob is an inflatable buoy used by scuba divers, with a line, to indicate the diver's position to their surface safety boat while the diver is underwater.- Standard buoy :...
, decompression buoy, delayed SMB, safety sausage or blob - Red or yellow collapsible flagFlagA flag is a piece of fabric with a distinctive design that is usually rectangular and used as a symbol, as a signaling device, or decoration. The term flag is also used to refer to the graphic design employed by a flag, or to its depiction in another medium.The first flags were used to assist...
- high visibility, robust, usually stored bungeed to cylinder - WhistleWhistleA whistle or call is a simple aerophone, an instrument which produces sound from a stream of forced air. It may be mouth-operated, or powered by air pressure, steam, or other means...
- cheap, will only be heard by people far from engine noise - Torch or flashlightFlashlightA flashlight is a hand-held electric-powered light source. Usually the light source is a small incandescent lightbulb or light-emitting diode...
- if at sea after nightfall - Strobe lightStrobe lightA strobe light or stroboscopic lamp, commonly called a strobe, is a device used to produce regular flashes of light. It is one of a number of devices that can be used as a stroboscope...
- needs long-lasting batteries - High pressure whistle - expensive but effective
- Orange water dyeDyeA dye is a colored substance that has an affinity to the substrate to which it is being applied. The dye is generally applied in an aqueous solution, and requires a mordant to improve the fastness of the dye on the fiber....
- increases diver's visibility from search helicopterHelicopterA helicopter is a type of rotorcraft in which lift and thrust are supplied by one or more engine-driven rotors. This allows the helicopter to take off and land vertically, to hover, and to fly forwards, backwards, and laterally...
s - MirrorMirrorA mirror is an object that reflects light or sound in a way that preserves much of its original quality prior to its contact with the mirror. Some mirrors also filter out some wavelengths, while preserving other wavelengths in the reflection...
such as a used compact discCompact DiscThe Compact Disc is an optical disc used to store digital data. It was originally developed to store and playback sound recordings exclusively, but later expanded to encompass data storage , write-once audio and data storage , rewritable media , Video Compact Discs , Super Video Compact Discs ,...
- to reflect sunlight or searchlights - Red pyrotechnic flareFlare (pyrotechnic)A flare, also sometimes called a fusee, is a type of pyrotechnic that produces a brilliant light or intense heat without an explosion. Flares are used for signalling, illumination, or defensive countermeasures in civilian and military applications...
s - for helicopters and lifeboats - ENOS Rescue-SystemENOS Rescue-SystemENOS-System stands for “Elektronisches Notruf – und Ortungssystem” an electronic rescue and locating system developed in Germany for use by divers at sea. ENOS allows people in distress to signal their location when drifting on the ocean’s surface so they can be quickly located and rescued...
- Emergency position-indicating rescue beacon (EPIRB)
- Glow stick - for night diving
Diving team tools and equipment
- A jackstay is a line laid along the bottom to guide the diver during a search or to and from the workplace.
- Lifting bagLifting bagA lifting bag is an item of diving equipment consisting of a robust and air-tight bag with straps, which is used to lift heavy objects underwater by means of the bag's buoyancy...
s, an item of diving equipment consisting of a robust and air-tight bag with straps, which is used to lift heavy objects underwater by means of the bag's buoyancy when filled with air. - Shot lineDiving shotthumb|right|Diagram of a diving shot upcurrent of a dive siteA diving shot is an item of diving equipment consisting of a weight, a line and a buoy. The weight is dropped on the dive site. The line connects the weight and the buoy and is used by divers to move between the surface and the dive site...
s are used to identify the ascent and descent point and to help control rate of ascent and descent. - Decompression trapeze is used to assist in maintaining correct depth during in-water decompression stops
- Diving bellDiving bellA diving bell is a rigid chamber used to transport divers to depth in the ocean. The most common types are the wet bell and the closed bell....
s and diving stages
Surface equipment connected with diving and underwater work
- Diver down flagDiver down flagA diver down flag, or scuba flag, is a flag used on the water to indicate that there is a diver below. It is red with a white stripe from the upper left corner to the lower right corner, and was designed and introduced in 1956 by Ted Nixon of U.S. Divers, from an idea of Navy veteran Denzel James...
is flown warning others that divers are underwater - Diving air compressorDiving air compressorA Diving Air Compressor is a gas compressor that can provide breathing air directly to a surface-supplied diver, or fill diving cylinders with high-pressure air pure enough to be used as a breathing gas.thumb|right|Filling a cylinder from the panel...
to fill diving cylinders with high pressure air or other gasses - Surface supplied divingSurface supplied divingSurface supplied diving refers to divers using equipment supplied with breathing gas using a diver's umbilical from the surface, either from the shore or from a diving support vessel sometimes indirectly via a diving bell...
breathing gas supply system, including: - Low pressure breathing air compressors
- High pressure gas storage equipment
- Breathing gas distribution panels
- Diver's umbilicals
- Diver voice communications equipment
- BoatBoatA boat is a watercraft of any size designed to float or plane, to provide passage across water. Usually this water will be inland or in protected coastal areas. However, boats such as the whaleboat were designed to be operated from a ship in an offshore environment. In naval terms, a boat is a...
s such as the rigid-hulled inflatable boatRigid-hulled inflatable boatA rigid-hulled inflatable boat, or rigid-inflatable boat is a light-weight but high-performance and high-capacity boat constructed with a solid, shaped hull and flexible tubes at the gunwale. The design is stable and seaworthy... - Echo sounderEcho soundingEcho sounding is the technique of using sound pulses directed from the surface or from a submarine vertically down to measure the distance to the bottom by means of sound waves. This information is then typically used for navigation purposes or in order to obtain depths for charting purposes...
- a SonarSonarSonar is a technique that uses sound propagation to navigate, communicate with or detect other vessels...
depth measuring and profiling device used for dive site location - GPS receiver - for locating dive sites
- Proton magnetometerProton magnetometerThe proton magnetometer, also known as the proton precession magnetometer , uses the principle of Earth's field nuclear magnetic resonance to measure very small variations in the Earth's magnetic field, allowing ferrous objects on land and at sea to be detected.It is used in land-based archaeology...
- for locating ferrous wrecks - Marine VHF radioMarine VHF radioMarine VHF radio is installed on all large ships and most seagoing small craft. It is used for a wide variety of purposes, including summoning rescue services and communicating with harbours, locks, bridges and marinas, and operates in the VHF frequency range, between 156 to 174 MHz...
- for communicating with rescue services and other boats - Saturation systems providing surface support for saturation divingSaturation divingSaturation diving is a diving technique that allows divers to reduce the risk of decompression sickness when they work at great depth for long periods of time....
. - Diving chamberDiving chamberA diving chamber has two main functions:* as a simpler form of submersible vessel to take divers underwater and to provide a temporary base and retrieval system in the depths;...
s for surface decompression and treatment of decompression illnessDecompression illnessDecompression Illness describes a collection of symptoms arising from decompression of the body.DCI is caused by two different mechanisms, which result in overlapping sets of symptoms. The two mechanisms are:... - Diving support vesselDiving support vesselA diving support vessel is a ship that is used as a floating base for professional diving projects.Commercial Diving Support Vessels emerged during the 1960s and 1970s when the need arose for diving operations to be performed below and around oil production platforms and associated installations in...
s
File:Air panels and comms box at a surface supplied diver training operation P3118538.jpg|Surface supply air panels. On the left for two divers, on the right for three divers
File:Surface supply diving communications box P3103773.jpg|A hard-wired diver communications unit mounted in a waterproof box for convenience of transport and protection.
File:US Navy 010707-N-3093M-003 Diver Transfer Capsule.jpg|Personnel Transfer Capsule - a dry bell
Special equipment for underwater work not carried by the diver
- Remotely operated underwater vehicle - for locating dive sites
Illustration
- 1) the diving maskDiving maskA diving mask is an item of diving equipment that allows scuba divers, free-divers, and snorkelers to see clearly underwater. When the human eye is in direct contact with water as opposed to air, its normal environment, light entering the eye is refracted by a different angle and the eye is unable...
- 2) the demand valve of the diving regulatorDiving regulatorA diving regulator is a pressure regulator used in scuba or surface supplied diving equipment that reduces pressurized breathing gas to ambient pressure and delivers it to the diver. The gas may be air or one of a variety of specially blended breathing gases...
- 3) the buoyancy compensator inflation and vent valves
- 4) an alternate buoyancy compensator vent valve
- 5) shoulder straps of the BCD, which can be released by another diver in case of emergency
- 6) a depth gaugeDepth gaugeA depth gauge is a pressure gauge that displays the equivalent depth in water. It is a piece of diving equipment often used by SCUBA divers.Most modern diving depth gauges have an electronic mechanism and digital display. Older types used a mechanical mechanism and analogue display.A diver uses a...
- showing 23 metres - 7) the contents gauge displaying remaining pressure in the diving cylinderDiving cylinderA diving cylinder, scuba tank or diving tank is a gas cylinder used to store and transport high pressure breathing gas as a component of a scuba set. It provides gas to the scuba diver through the demand valve of a diving regulator....
- showing 150 barBar (unit)The bar is a unit of pressure equal to 100 kilopascals, and roughly equal to the atmospheric pressure on Earth at sea level. Other units derived from the bar are the megabar , kilobar , decibar , centibar , and millibar...