Saturation diving (commercial)

Saturation diving means a diver stays at depth for long periods. This method allows workers to live in pressurized chambers. They do not return to the surface between shifts.

Commercial teams use this for oil rig maintenance or deep pipeline repairs. Divers often stay at depths exceeding 100 m for weeks. They breathe a helium-oxygen mix called heliox. This prevents nitrogen narcosis during long working hours.

Decompression takes days or even weeks because the body absorbs massive amounts of gas. A common mistake is rushing the chamber bell ascent. You must follow strict decompression schedules to avoid the bends. Always check your gas mixes before every shift.