Operator performance in the one-atmosphere diving system JIM in water at 20 degrees C and 30 degrees C

Performance and physiology of five operators of the one-atmosphere diving system JIM were assessed when diving JIM in mild (20 degrees C) and warm (30 degrees C) water. Each operator completed a minimum of 3 dives at each water temperature; during each dive 5 walks of 18 m and 3 step maneuvers were accomplished. At the conclusion of 40-min dives in water at 30 degrees C, operator heart rate averaged 151 beats/min, system interior temperature averaged 32.6 degrees C, and the mean respiration rate of operators was 28 breaths/min. Task completion times were faster in warm water. Thermal considerations in the deployment of the JIM system are discussed in relation to these data.