What is the recommended ascension rate for a rescue diver?

The recommended ascension rate for a rescue diver is no faster than 30 feet (10 meters) per minute. This rate is established to minimize the risk of decompression sickness, which can occur when divers ascend too quickly. Ascending at a controlled speed allows for the proper elimination of nitrogen that has been absorbed by the body during the dive. It also provides time for divers to monitor their own physiology and assess any potential issues that may arise while ascending.

The significance of this ascension rate is highlighted in various dive training programs and safety guidelines, which emphasize the importance of slow ascents and the use of safety stops as necessary for further risk mitigation. The 30 feet per minute rate strikes a balance between efficiency in emergencies and maintaining diver safety, making it the widely accepted standard in the diving community.