CHAPTER 22 — Recompression Chamber Operation
Change A 22-11
rized for Navy Use (ANU) List, is allowed inside the chamber. Because of the
possibility of fire or explosion when working in an oxygen or compressed air
atmosphere, all electrical wiring and equipment used in a chamber shall meet
required specifications.
22-3
STATE OF READINESS
Since a recompression chamber is emergency equipment, it must be kept in a state
of readiness. The chamber shall be well maintained and equipped with all neces-
sary accessory equipment. A chamber is not to be used as a storage compartment.
The chamber and the air and oxygen supply systems shall be checked prior to each
use with the Predive Checklist and in accordance with PMS instructions. All
diving personnel shall be trained in the operation of the recompression chamber
equipment and should be able to perform any task required during treatment.
22-4
GAS SUPPLY
A recompression chamber system must have a primary and a secondary air supply
system that satisfies Table 22-2. The purpose of this requirement is to ensure the
recompression chamber system, at a minimum, is capable of conducting a TT6A.
22-4.1
Capacity. Either system may consist of air banks and/or a suitable compressor.
The primary recompression chamber support system must be capable of pressur-
izing the inner lock to a depth of 165 feet.
Primary System Capacity:
Cp
=
(5 x Vil) + (10 x Vol) + RV
Where:
Cp
=
minimum capacity of primary system in SCF
Vil
=
volume of inner lock
Vol
=
volume of outer lock
5
=
atmospheres equivalent to 165 fsw
10
=
twice the atmospheres equivalent to 165 fsw
RV
=
required ventilation. See paragraph 22-5.4 for Category A and B
ventilation requirements. Not used for Category C, D, and E.
Secondary System Requirement:
Cs
=
(5 x Vil) + (5 x Vol) + RV
Where:
Cs
=
minimum capacity of secondary system in SCF
Vil
=
volume of inner lock
Vol
=
volume of outer lock
5
=
atmospheres equivalent to 165 fsw
RV
=
required ventilation. For Category A, B, and C, use 4,224 for
ventilation rate of 70.4 scfm for one hour. For Category D and E,
calculate air or NITROX required for two patients and one tender to
breathe BIBS (when not on O2) during one TT6A with maximum
extensions.
