Use of Surface-Supplied Gas for Scientific Diving

Many scientific diving entities face logistical challenges in their data collection, including high currents, low visibility, finite air supply, and high entanglement areas. This paper and presentation will discuss standard practices for the use of surface-supplied breathing gas for scientific applications to enhance both safety and efficiency of the scientific diver. The paper will examine the relevant regulatory requirements and applicable standards of the federal dive community (e.g., NOAA, EPA) relative to the application of scientific diving, as well as some pros/cons for the scientific diver of tether vs. surface-supply vs. free swimming. Lastly, the paper will make recommendations to advance the surface-supplied breathing gas mode within the scientific diving community.