Dekompressionsscheman

Dekompressionsscheman, often translated as decompression schedules or dive tables, are tools used in recreational scuba diving to determine the safe ascent rates and necessary decompression stops. They are essential for preventing decompression sickness (DCS), commonly known as "the bends." These schedules are based on the principle that the body absorbs nitrogen from breathing compressed air at depth. During ascent, this absorbed nitrogen must be released slowly to avoid forming bubbles in tissues and blood, which can cause pain, paralysis, or even death.

Diving tables, such as the PADI Recreational Dive Planner or the NAUI Dive Table, use a diver's maximum depth and bottom time to assign a "no-decompression limit" (NDL). If a diver stays within their NDL, they can ascend directly to the surface without mandatory decompression stops. However, if a diver exceeds the NDL, they enter a "decompression required" dive profile. In such cases, the table indicates specific depths and durations for required stops during the ascent. These stops allow dissolved nitrogen to be safely off-gassed.

Modern dive computers have largely replaced dive tables for recreational divers. Dive computers continuously monitor depth and time, calculating remaining NDL in real-time and providing live decompression information. Despite their widespread use, understanding the principles behind decompression schedules remains fundamental for all divers. They represent a crucial safety measure developed through extensive research and practical experience in underwater environments.