practice successful release, removal and replacement of the weight pouches from the Bc
retainers prior to diving. While wearing the BC with loaded weight pouches installed in the
BC retainers, you and your diving companion must both be able to successfully perform these
skills prior to diving. Obtain instruction in the performance of these skills from an instructor of a
recognized international training organization. Have an instructor also teach you how to properly
weight yourself, perform buoyancy compensation underwater, emergency ascent skills and
emergency buoyancy skills. Failure to adequately perform these skills by the wearer of the BC can
result in unsuccessful weight release during an emergency situation, which can result in serious
injury or death.
10. post-DIVe InspectIon proceDures
Upon completion of the dive, remove the weights from the pouches and rinse all your gear in fresh water.
Dry out of the sun. Long term direct exposure to sunlight can damage the fabric and also cause the BC
material to fade.
11. Bc eXamInatIon anD proceDures
Pre-dive, dive and post-dive BC examination helps to identify equipment problems before unsafe
conditions exist. Many BC related diving accidents are preventable by following these simple steps, and
by having all equipment regularly inspected by an authorized SUBGEAR dealer.
Do not DIVe with a Bc that does not pass any of the pre-Dive, Dive or post-Dive
inspection points and tests. Loss of buoyancy control or air holding integrity could occur,
resulting in serious injury or death. Have the BC inspected by an authorized repair facility.
pre-Dive Visual Inspection and Valve test:
1). examine the entire BC for cuts, punctures, frayed seams, excessive abrasion, loose/missing
hardware and other damage of any kind.
2). Inspect the Oral Valve, Power Inflation Valve, Manual Dump Valve and Over Pressure Valve(s) for
cracks, damage, or contamination. Ensure that the valves are firmly seated and securely attached
onto the BC.
3). operate the Power Inflation Valve (with the LP hose attached and charged with air pressure), Oral
Valve, Manual Dump Valve and Over Pressure Valve, checking for proper operation and resealing.
If the OP Valve has a Pull Dump, test it by pulling on the cord.
4). Inflate the BC through the Oral Valve until it is firm. Listen and check for leaks. Let the BC stand
inflated for 30 minutes or more, then check the BC for loss of air.
5). Fit the BC to a SCUBA cylinder, pull up on the BC while attached to the SCUBA cylinder, checking
that the BC will not slip while diving.
6). While wearing the BC, adjust the straps and other attachments on the BC for a comfortable fit
that does not restrict breathing. Make these adjustments with the BC inflated and while wearing
the exposure suit you intend to dive with.
7). check quick release weight pockets or systems that retain weight (if your BC is equipped with
them). Make sure that their retention systems are fully engaged and attached, can be released, and
the weight removed from your equipment quickly.
8). cross check all valves operation and visually inspect your BC with your dive partner before each
dive, prior to entering the water.
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