NDSTC FAQs

An audiogram is required for commissioning or enlistment. The initial audiogram for service members is recorded on DD 2215, also known as the Reference Audiogram. Periodic audiograms following the initial Reference Audiogram are recorded on DD 2216E also known as the Hearing Conservation Data form. Abnormal audiograms which display hearing loss outside the acceptable limits are disqualifying for diving duty; however it is possible to obtain a medical waiver for this condition. The examining physician should initiate a waiver of physical standards for this condition. Once a waiver has been approved, a candidate may begin initial dive training.

A positive reaction to a PPD requires that you be evaluated by a physician. In most cases, this will require treatment with a medication known as INH. Once INH therapy has been initiated, an Undersea Medical Officer should be contacted to determine when you will be eligible to begin initial dive training.

A PPD is a common medical test performed to evaluate whether or not you have been exposed to the organism that causes Tuberculosis. It is possible to be exposed to Tuberculosis, be a carrier of the disease, transmit it to others, and not feel “sick” therefore it is very important to test for exposure to this disease. All diving candidates must have a current PPD test prior to receiving a pressure test within a hyperbaric chamber or initiating dive training. The PPD test should be documented on the Adult Immunizations Record (NAVMED 6230/4) and the Adult Preventive and Chronic Care Flowsheet (DD Form 2766).

A Valsalva Maneuver is a maneuver that forces air from the pharynx into the middle ear via the Eustachian tubes. Most divers accomplish this by blocking the nasal passages, closing the mouth, and simultaneously increasing the pressure within the airway in the same manner as exhaling a breath.
 

A diver is exposed to pressures greater than that experienced in the normal environment. In order to successfully tolerate this increase in pressure, a diver must equalize the pressure differential between the environment and his or her middle ear. This pressure equalization is achieved via a Valsalva Maneuver. The TM’s should be visualized on a physical exam while the diving candidate successfully performs the Valsalva Maneuver.

All medical standards for U.S. Navy personnel are found in the Manual of the Medical Department (MANMED), NAVMED P-117, Chapter 15 (Physical Examinations and Standards). All standards found within Chapter 15 are applicable to candidates initiating dive training at the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center (NDSTC) regardless of branch of service. In addition to these requirements, Articles 15-102 (Diving Duty Examinations and Standards) and 15-105 (Naval Special Warfare and Special Operations) state more stringent requirements that are applicable to divers and diving candidates.
***All candidates attending training at NDSTC must meet the applicable standards for his or her training program, including candidates from the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Coast Guard.***