What is the purpose of the Sea Level Equivalent Depth Table?

The purpose of the Sea Level Equivalent Depth Table is primarily to adjust decompression tables for altitude use. This adjustment is essential for divers operating in environments where the pressure at the water's surface deviates from that at sea level, as the decompression requirements for divers are affected by ambient pressure.

When divers are at higher altitudes, the barometric pressure is lower, meaning the physiological effects of diving are different compared to sea level. The table provides a method to standardize these calculations, helping divers to determine safe ascent rates and decompression stops. It ensures divers are using accurate data that reflects the conditions they are diving in, thereby enhancing safety and reducing the risk of decompression sickness.

Using this table, dive professionals can convert the depth they are diving to its equivalent depth at sea level. This process is crucial for maintaining safe diving practices in high-altitude locations or when transitioning from low to high pressure environments.