CHAPTER 7 — Scuba Air Diving Operations
7-11
Witness float
Snorkel
Submersible cylinder pressure gauge
Chem light and strobe light
7-3.1
Protective Clothing. A diver needs some form of protection from cold water,
from heat loss during long exposure in water of moderate temperature, from chem-
ical or bacterial pollution in the water, and from the hazards posed by marine life
and underwater obstacles. Protection can be provided by wet suit, or a dry suit
with or without thermal underwear in Figure 7-5.
7-3.1.1
Wet Suits. The wet suit is a form-fitting suit, usually made of closed-cell
neoprene. The suit traps a thin layer of water next to the diver’s skin, where it is
warmed by the diver’s body. Wet suits are available in thicknesses of 1/8-, 3/16-,
3/8-, and 1/2-inch, with the thickest providing better insulation. The selection of
the type of wet suit used is left to each diver. Standard size suits are available at
most commercial diving shops. Proper fit is critical in the selection of a wet suit.
The suit must not restrict the diver’s movements. A custom-fitted suit is recom-
mended. The performance of a suit depends upon suit thickness, water
temperature, and water depth.
Figure 7-5. Protective Clothing.
Dry Suit
Underclothing affords
insulating air space
Wet Suit
Water warmed to
body temperature
Foam Neoprene
(insulator)
Sheet Rubber
Leg
Leg
