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NOAA Diving Manual, Diving for Science and Technology, edited by James T Joiner
NOAA Diving Manual, Diving for Science and Technology, edited by James T Joiner
With the recent news that the frequently updated US Navy Manuals which are the bible for many serious divers are no longer to be published, the latest NOAA Diving Manual from the States takes on new significance. This hefty volume is aimed principally at diving scientists, but it is so comprehensive and well written and illustrated that it could be usefully employed by any diver who wants to expand his or her knowledge.
The NOAA is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the US agency responsible for managing marine resources.
More than 100 specialist divers have contributed to this fourth edition over a period of three years, so the book represents a major rewrite.
Apart from chapters on diving physics, physiology, techniques and so on, there are authoritative sections on more unusual subjects such as rebreathers, polluted-water diving, diving under special conditions and habitat diving.
Surprisingly, the historical introductory section has not been updated to correct the long-held misconception that Augustus Siebe invented the diving helmet in 1819. Perhaps the Deane brothers will receive their rightful recognition in the fifth edition!
The book includes plentiful colour and monochrome photographs and well-designed colour diagrams, and for such a big volume is very user-friendly.
John Bevan
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| NOAA Diving Manual, Diving for Science and Technology, edited by James T Joiner (AquaPress, 01702 462466). Hardback, £79.95 (also on CD-Rom at £99) |
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