Whose permission is required for planned scuba decompression?

Planned scuba decompression involves specific procedures that must be strictly followed to ensure the safety of divers. The person responsible for overseeing the dive and ensuring that protocols are in place is typically the Commanding Officer (CO) or Officer in Charge (OIC). Their permission is essential because they have the authority and responsibility to assess the dive plan, evaluate the risks involved, and determine whether the diving operations comply with safety standards and protocols.

This hierarchical structure is critical in diving operations, as it ensures that someone with the requisite training and experience makes decisions regarding potentially hazardous activities. While other roles like the Safety Officer, Senior Diver, or Chief Instructor also hold important positions in a dive operation, the CO or OIC has the ultimate authority over dive plans, including those that involve decompression stops and procedures. This ensures that safety is prioritized and adhered to throughout the diving operation.