1. History of Deep Air Diving

• Overview of the evolution of deep air diving techniques and practices.

2. Physics

• a. Review of pressure concepts and their implications for diving.

• b. Formulas for solving dive planning problems, including Maximum Operating Depth (MOD) and optimal gas mixes.

3. Physiology

• a. Understanding hypoxia and its effects on divers.

• b. Recognizing carbon dioxide toxicity (CO₂) and its impact on breathing.

• c. Identifying the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure.

• d. Managing hyperthermia and its symptoms.

• e. Recognizing hypothermia and prevention strategies.

4. Decompression Options

• a. Use of air as a primary gas.

• b. Benefits and considerations of using Nitrox.

• c. Oxygen utilization for decompression.

5. Equipment Considerations

• a. Evaluating twin cylinder vs. single cylinder configurations.

• b. Exploring stage cylinder options for extended range dives.

• c. Choosing appropriate regulator options.

• d. Understanding harness and BCD configurations.

• e. Utilizing dive computers, depth gauges, and bottom timers.

• f. Implementing ascent and navigation reels.

• g. Deploying lift bags and surface marker buoys for drifting or free decompression.

• h. Considering dive lights for visibility.

• i. Using redundant masks and knives for safety.

• j. Understanding the purpose of Jon-lines and Garvin clips.

6. Dive Tables

• a. Introduction and review of various models, including Bühlmann, DCIEM, and U.S. Navy recommendations.

• b. Overview of computer-generated dive tables.

7. Dive Planning

• a. Operational Planning:

  • i. Support systems and resources.

  • ii. Team organization and roles.

• b. Team Planning:

  • i. Gas requirements and calculations.

  • ii. Understanding oxygen limitations.

• c. Oxygen Toxicity:

  • i. Whole body (OTUs) and central nervous system considerations.

• d. Understanding nitrogen narcosis and its effects.

• e. Managing nitrogen absorption and elimination.

• f. Setting nitrogen limitations for dive safety.

• g. Emergency Planning:

  • i. Procedures for omitted decompression.

  • ii. Managing oxygen toxicity situations.

  • iii. Recognizing and responding to decompression sickness.

  • iv. General emergency protocols.

8. Procedures

• a. Managing bottom, travel, and decompression gases:

  • i. Standard operational procedures.

  • ii. Response to failure, loss, or inadequate emergency procedures.

  • iii. Dive analysis and logging.

• b. Descent:

  • i. Methods of entry, using down lines, or free descent techniques.

  • ii. Recognizing symptoms of narcosis.

  • iii. Breathing techniques during descent.

  • iv. Organizing equipment carried by the diver.

• c. Ascent:

  • i. Managing variable ascent rates.

  • ii. Maintaining trim and compensation during ascent.

  • iii. Support systems during ascent.

• d. Navigation:

  • i. Navigating from shore.

  • ii. Using descent lines for navigation.

  • iii. Navigating from a live-aboard vessel.

1. Equipment Familiarization

• Donning and doffing the extended range diving equipment, including twin cylinders and regulators.

• Adjusting harness and BCD for optimal fit and comfort.

2. Buoyancy Control

• Achieving and maintaining neutral buoyancy in the confined water environment.

• Demonstrating controlled hovering at various depths without using hands or feet.

3. Trim and Positioning

• Maintaining proper horizontal trim during various phases of the session.

• Demonstrating trim adjustments while managing gear and positioning.

4. Gas Management

• Demonstrating proper gas switching techniques between cylinders.

• Monitoring and calculating remaining gas supply throughout the session.

5. Emergency Procedures

• Practicing emergency ascent techniques and maintaining safety protocols.

• Simulating out-of-gas situations and practicing gas-sharing exercises.

6. Descent Techniques

• Executing controlled descents using various methods (down lines, free descent).

• Managing buoyancy and trim during the descent phase.

7. Ascent Techniques

• Performing controlled ascents with variable ascent rates.

• Practicing safety stops and maintaining buoyancy during ascent.

8. Navigation Skills

• Navigating using reference points and understanding situational awareness.

• Practicing navigation from designated entry points in confined water.

9. Regulator Management

• Demonstrating proficiency in managing multiple regulators and gas supplies.

• Performing regulator recovery drills and identifying potential failures.

10. Lift Bag Deployment

• Practicing the deployment of lift bags for ascent assistance and buoyancy control.

• Demonstrating how to properly manage lift bags in the water.

11. Team Dynamics

• Engaging in buddy checks and pre-dive briefings.

• Practicing effective communication and teamwork during exercises.

12. Controlled Breathing Techniques

• Practicing relaxed and controlled breathing to enhance buoyancy control.

• Applying breathing techniques to manage stress and anxiety underwater.

13. Emergency Equipment Management

• Familiarizing with redundant systems (e.g., secondary regulators, knives).

• Practicing the use of additional safety equipment and tools.

14. Equipment Analysis and Logging

• Learning to log dive data, including depth, duration, and gas usage.

• Understanding the importance of equipment checks and maintenance.

1. 1. Pre-Dive Equipment Checks

   • Conducting thorough pre-dive checks of all gear, including cylinders, regulators, and BCDs.

   • Ensuring proper gas supply and verifying that equipment is functioning correctly.

   2. Descent Techniques

   • Executing controlled descents using various methods (e.g., down lines, free descent).

   • Demonstrating buoyancy control and maintaining trim during descent.

   3. Buoyancy Control

   • Maintaining neutral buoyancy while moving through the water column.

   • Hovering at designated depths without using hands or feet.

   4. Trim Management

   • Demonstrating proper trim throughout all phases of the dive, including descent, bottom, and ascent.

   • Making adjustments to trim in response to changes in gear or gas supply.

   5. Gas Management and Switching

   • Performing gas switches between cylinders during the dive.

   • Monitoring gas consumption and calculating remaining gas supplies.

   6. Emergency Procedures

   • Simulating out-of-gas scenarios and practicing gas-sharing techniques with a buddy.

   • Executing emergency ascents while maintaining buoyancy and trim.

   7. Ascent Techniques

   • Performing controlled ascents with attention to ascent rates and safety stops.

   • Managing buoyancy and trim during the ascent phase.

   8. Navigation Skills

   • Navigating to designated points using reference markers or natural features.

   • Practicing navigation techniques from the descent line or other entry points.

   9. Regulator Management

   • Demonstrating proficiency in handling and managing multiple regulators.

   • Recovering from regulator failures and switching to backup systems.

   10. Lift Bag Deployment

   • Practicing the deployment of lift bags for ascent assistance and emergency buoyancy.

   • Managing lift bags during ascent and ensuring proper buoyancy control.

   11. Team Dynamics and Communication

   • Engaging in effective communication with dive buddies throughout the dive.

   • Practicing buddy checks and pre-dive briefings.

   12. Environmental Awareness

   • Demonstrating awareness of the diving environment and its potential hazards.

   • Practicing conservation techniques and minimizing environmental impact.

   13. Emergency Equipment Handling

   • Utilizing redundant systems, such as secondary regulators and dive knives.

   • Practicing the deployment and management of safety equipment.

   14. Post-Dive Procedures

   • Conducting post-dive equipment checks and logging dive data.

   • Discussing the dive experience and any issues encountered with the dive team.