What procedure should a diving supervisor follow if a diver exceeds their surface interval but is asymptomatic?

The procedure that involves doubling the delay time and adding it to the diver's chamber stop is essential for ensuring the safety of the diver who has exceeded their surface interval. When a diver has a surface interval that is longer than recommended, even if they are asymptomatic, they may still be at risk for decompression sickness (DCS) due to potential nitrogen buildup in their tissues.

When an individual surfaces from a dive, they are supposed to adhere to specific surface intervals that allow their body to safely eliminate inert gases like nitrogen. If this guideline is not followed, a cautious approach must be taken to address potential risks. Doubling the delay time not only compensates for the extra time spent at the surface but also allows for a safety margin. Adding this additional time to the diver's required chamber stop is a prudent measure to ensure that any remaining nitrogen is adequately off-gassed.

This approach aligns with best practices in diving safety, highlighting the importance of precautionary measures even in the absence of symptoms. It emphasizes that safety protocols are critical and should never be overlooked based on a diver's current condition.