What is the oxygen vent rate for a working diver?

The correct oxygen vent rate for a working diver is 25 ACFM (Actual Cubic Feet per Minute). This figure is based on the requirements needed to ensure that a diver has an adequate supply of oxygen while also expelling the carbon dioxide produced during respiration. The vent rate is crucial for maintaining a safe and effective environment for divers who may be operating at depths where the atmospheric pressure is significantly elevated, thereby increasing their oxygen consumption.

The choice of 25 ACFM is designed to account for the physiological demands placed on divers as they work underwater, ensuring that they can perform tasks efficiently without the risk of hypoxia or buildup of carbon dioxide. This vent rate provides a balance between oxygen intake and the elimination of exhaled gases, which is critical in maintaining cognitive function and overall physical performance during dives.

Understanding the proper oxygen vent rate is essential for safety protocols in diving operations, as it directly impacts the diver's health and efficiency in the underwater environment.