Deco Stop (Decompression Stop)
Definition
A deco stop is a required pause at a specific depth during ascent to allow safe elimination of inert gases from a diver’s body.
More on Deco Stop (Decompression Stop)
Decompression stops are essential when a diver exceeds no-decompression limits (NDLs). These stops allow nitrogen or helium that has saturated the tissues at depth to off-gas more safely during ascent, reducing the risk of decompression sickness (DCS). Dive computers calculate required stops based on time, depth, and gas mix. Unlike safety stops, which are precautionary, deco stops are mandatory. They are performed at designated depths (e.g., 15m, 12m, 9m, etc.) for set durations before ascending further.
Frequently Asked Questions
A deco stop is mandatory after exceeding no-decompression limits, while a safety stop is optional (but recommended) to add conservatism on shallower dives.
Your dive computer will notify you based on your depth/time profile. It shows the depth and duration of required stops in real-time.
Skipping decompression stops dramatically increases the risk of decompression sickness. Emergency recompression in a hyperbaric chamber may be needed.
Yes, divers often switch to high-oxygen mixes (like 50% or 100% O2) to accelerate off-gassing during decompression, if properly trained.
Divers use DSMBs, reels, and good buoyancy control to maintain stop depth, often with reference lines or anchors.