Recreational diving has become increasingly popular over the years. In recent decades, there has been a spectacular rise in the number of enthusiasts. Evidence of this is the proliferation of diving centres and clubs in every corner of Spain's coastal areas and around the world. 
Current Regulations in Spain for Scuba Diving
On 2 June 2020, a Royal Decree was published in the Official State Gazette (BOE) outlining safety regulations for underwater activities. Specifically, we refer to Royal Decree 550/2020 of 2 June. Although diving is primarily regulated at the regional level, the state established a general framework covering the most fundamental aspects.
Following this Royal Decree, recreational scuba diving in Spain is regulated by the following guidelines:
- All divers must possess "accident and civil liability insurance", either through their federation membership or by taking out private insurance covering any incidents during the activity.
- When planning dives, the no-decompression limit (safety curve) must not be exceeded, allowing for a safety margin beyond the time limit. Training programmes for certifications must include explanations and use of decompression tables.
- Decompression tables may be replaced by a dive computer.
- The maximum depth for recreational diving is limited to 40 metres with standard air or nitrox equipment.
- For dives beyond 40 metres, the use of surface communication equipment is advisable.
- Rescue and recovery operations may only be carried out by State Security Forces (Special Underwater Activities Unit of the Civil Guard, Navy Diving Centre, etc.) and/or professional divers, except in emergencies where intervention is necessary to protect human life.
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Nevertheless, there are multiple factors that may require our action. Underwater, in certain circumstances, a minor issue can escalate into something more serious if not addressed correctly. The importance of a dive buddy in these situations is unquestionable.
Rescuing a Diver in Difficulty Underwater
In case of a minor incident...- Severe cramp or difficulty swimming: if possible, gently stretch the affected area with assistance. If symptoms persist, ascend slowly to the surface via a clear path.
- Symptoms of nitrogen narcosis: ascend a few metres; symptoms will likely diminish or disappear. Otherwise, ascend slowly to the surface, checking their condition every five metres.
- Mask damage or loss. If no spare mask is available underwater, perform a slow, controlled ascent to the surface via a clear path.
- Signs of discomfort, weakness, dizziness, cold, anxiety, etc. Controlled ascent to the surface. If vomiting occurs, remember it is possible to cough, spit, or vomit with the regulator in place. Alternate breathing with these actions underwater. It is much safer not to remove the regulator due to the risk of swallowing water.
- A surface vessel must be available for diver assistance. All vessels used for diving activities must fly the International Code of Signals' Alpha flag. Other vessels must stay at least 50 metres away from a vessel displaying the Alpha flag.
- The minimum number of divers for scuba diving is two. Factors such as never diving alone and avoiding diving when tired, unwell, or unwilling should be considered.
In case of a serious accident...
When assisting an unconscious buddy, position yourself behind them to prevent regulator loss and facilitate air release, avoiding potential lung overexpansion (arterial gas embolism).
- Loss of consciousness or drowning symptoms
Stay calm and, even during a rapid ascent, slow down in the last ten metres. Continuously release air and press the casualty's chest with your right forearm to assist air expulsion from their lungs.
- Surface Action in Serious Cases
Remove the casualty's weights and gear while towing them face-up to the boat or shore. Check their vital signs: consciousness, breathing, and pulse. Speak to them and check their neck pulse (if no hood) or wrist pulse. Once aboard, recheck their vital signs.
- If unconscious
- In case of cardiorespiratory arrest
Start basic CPR (2 rescue breaths + 15 compressions if alone; 1 breath + 5 compressions if two rescuers) while evacuating. Recheck vital signs every 3-4 cycles; continue until handover to medical services.
What About Decompression Accidents?
If decompression sickness symptoms appear (excessive fatigue, widespread itching, headaches, muscle/joint pain, facial/body paralysis, or unconsciousness), radio medical services to arrange transfer to the nearest hyperbaric chamber. If onboard oxygen is available, a qualified person should administer it during transit.
Administering oxygen during evacuation can alleviate symptoms and prevent worsening. It helps eliminate nitrogen from tissues faster and oxygenates them, even if affected by gas embolism or pulmonary edema.
Also, avoid dehydration (which worsens decompression sickness) by giving fluids if conscious (never alcohol or carbonated drinks).
All dive centres have emergency/evacuation plans, including safety measures like support vessels, safety tanks at 3 metres, or onboard oxygen kits handled by qualified personnel.
When Is Diving Not Allowed?
Divers in poor physical/mental condition must not dive. Anxiety, drunkenness, drug effects, illness, or even sleepiness can significantly impair safe practice.
Avoid dives with currents exceeding 1 knot or when weather prevents safe support vessel operations.
Dives requiring decompression stops must be aborted if water conditions prevent precise stop depths.
What Comprises the Minimum Required Diving Equipment?
The mandatory minimum equipment for scuba divers includes:
- Buoyancy compensator (jacket or wing) with oral and automatic inflation systems (connected to the air supply via the regulator's first stage or a small cylinder).
- The cylinder must have a reserve mechanism or the regulator must include a pressure gauge (or dive computer transmitter).
- Watch, depth gauge, or dive computer.
- Dive knife.
- Two second-stage regulators (two independent regulators are recommended).
Proper emergency response requires prior training. Rescue courses are offered by diving organisations or medical services. Regularly practising drills with your dive buddy is highly advisable—just in case.
