Flooded Mask
Incident Date
2003-12-04
Incident Description
Diver proceeded some 20 minutes into a resurgence during which time a slight leak into the mask became progressively worse. Despite numerous attempts the mask could not be reseated and the diver made a most unpleasant 20 minute exit with a half-full mask. Increased stress exposed the diver to an increased risk of a subsequent incident however a safe exit was eventually made. Later examination of the mask could find no defect and the problem did not reoccur.
Lessons Learned
Ensure mask fits well at surface. Practice mask clearing to reduce the stress of mask failure.
| Factors |
|
| Line Management |
Negligible |
| Gas Management |
Negligible |
| Equipment Management |
Major |
| Equipment Failure |
Negligible |
| Training |
Minor |
| Medical |
Negligible |
| Planning |
Negligible |
| Procedural Error |
Negligible |
| Cave Environment |
Negligible |
| Weather |
Negligible |
| Other Factor |
Unknown |
