When should divers perform a controlled ascent?

Performing a controlled ascent is essential for divers primarily to avoid decompression issues. As divers ascend, the pressure surrounding them decreases, and if they ascend too quickly, dissolved gases in their bodies can form bubbles. This can lead to decompression sickness, also known as "the bends," which can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.

A controlled ascent ensures that divers can safely release these gases from their bodies at a slow and manageable rate. This typically involves following specific ascent rates, which are often recommended to be no faster than 30 feet per minute, and sometimes pausing at designated safety stops, usually at 15 to 20 feet for a few minutes. By adhering to these practices, divers significantly mitigate the risks associated with rapid ascents and maintain their safety while diving.

While there are times that divers may feel tired, wish to explore shallower depths, or make decisions based on their physical condition or interest in the dive site, these factors do not prioritize safety as a controlled ascent does. In all cases, the protection against decompression issues remains a fundamental safety procedure that must be followed during every dive.