What is one key feature of decompression tables?

Decompression tables serve as valuable tools for divers by providing guidelines for planning safe ascents. They are designed to help divers avoid decompression sickness, which can occur if a diver ascends too quickly after spending time at depth. The tables outline specific ascent profiles that include various depths and elapsed times, allowing divers to understand their exposure limits and necessary stop times during ascent to safely off-gas nitrogen absorbed during the dive.

These tables are utilized for both deep and shallow dives, and while they can inform surface intervals, their primary function centers on ensuring safe ascent protocols. It’s essential for divers to follow the guidelines put forth in the tables to mitigate risks associated with rapid ascents, such as decompression sickness. This underpins the importance of such tables in the overall safety framework for divers.