Buoyancy Control Devices (BCD)
After cutting the end of a weight belt, singe the new cut to melt the nylon strands together and prevent fraying.
Weight Belt & BCD Inspection
Weight belts and BCs should be inspected before every dive to ensure dependable operation.
Inspect your weight belt for fraying. It's common for belts to fray at the end, and cutting the frayed portion from the belt easily repairs this. To prevent further fraying, singe the new cut with a match or lighter until the nylon strands melt together.
Most buckles and weight keepers are made of plastic, so check these for signs of cracks. A cracked buckle could break during a dive and result in a rapid ascent to the surface.
Check the BCD's operation before every dive. Make sure the power inflator inflates properly, and fully inflate the BCD to make sure the overpressure relief valves release excessive pressure.
The BCD should be inspected and serviced annually by an authorized technician. During this service, the technician will rebuild the power inflator and test the bladder for leaks.
Inspect your weight belt for fraying. It's common for belts to fray at the end, and cutting the frayed portion from the belt easily repairs this. To prevent further fraying, singe the new cut with a match or lighter until the nylon strands melt together.
Most buckles and weight keepers are made of plastic, so check these for signs of cracks. A cracked buckle could break during a dive and result in a rapid ascent to the surface.
Check the BCD's operation before every dive. Make sure the power inflator inflates properly, and fully inflate the BCD to make sure the overpressure relief valves release excessive pressure.
The BCD should be inspected and serviced annually by an authorized technician. During this service, the technician will rebuild the power inflator and test the bladder for leaks.
