On-the-Fly Decompression

Program Content

The On-the-Fly Decompression course is a great tool designed as a backup to dive tables and/or a computer. When divers need to make unforeseen changes to their dives, this method helps to calculate an alternative while in-water. The idea for calculating a decompression schedule using On-the-Fly Decompression is actually simple. The following represents a simplified summary of the process.

The starting point is to decide on a total bottom time and depth. You can then make changes during the dive that effect your total decompression time if the environment demands it. In most cases the amount of total decompression time is equal to the total bottom time. This ratio is fixed by reference to depth and time. The theory is that most dives will operate within a range of normalcy, such as a limited depth and gas mixes. Certain depths establish certain ratios; a 1:1 ratio occurs at approximately 150 feet (46 m); a 2:1 ratio occurs at approximately 220 feet (67 m). Between these depths, for each 10 feet (3 m) deeper or shallower than a fixed ratio depth, the diver will then add or subtract a specified number of minutes to their total decompression time.

"On-the-Fly" is a system of applying a set of rules to develop a decompression strategy that will work for you in your range of diving. These rules are derived from a combination of the best of different theories, software profiles and ideologies, combined into one easy to use.

The course is one four-hour class followed by one dive.

Prerequisites

• At least 21 years of age
• Appropriate equipment
• Basic Technical certification
• Logged proof of 100 dives

Course Limits

• Student to instructor ratio 8:1 for one four-hour class

Tuition
All fees are in Canadian dollars

• Tuition fee: $250
• Certification fees, manuals, dive gases, boat fees and other course expenses are extra and are subject to change

At H2O Madness our courses are designed to help students find the tools they need in order to expand their knowledge and meet their diving goals. When you take a course form us you are not paying for a certification, you are purchasing training. Certification will only be issued if the student completes the program in the required time and to the satisfaction of the primary instructor.