What is the maximum allowable time for the third level of a multilevel dive at 12 m/40 ft?

The maximum allowable time for the third level of a multilevel dive at 12 meters (40 feet) is determined by a number of factors, including the depth of the dive and the cumulative exposure to nitrogen. The time limits for each level are informed by dive tables or dive computers, which are designed to help divers avoid decompression sickness by managing nitrogen absorption and saturation in the body.

At a depth of 12 meters, divers have a specific no-decompression limit that can vary based on the dive tables being referenced. The third level indicates that divers have already made two levels of ascent and are now at their third stop. For many standard dive tables, a diver at this depth would likely have a no-decompression limit that allows for a fairly extended time, which is generally more than what is allowable for the initial levels due to reduced nitrogen absorption as divers ascend.

In this case, the correct time indicated as allowable for this level is 79 minutes, which aligns with the considerations of safe diving practices and the principles of avoiding decompression sickness. This duration allows for a significant amount of time for the diver to engage with the underwater environment while still maintaining a safety margin to prevent issues related to nitrogen buildup in the body.

Understanding these time limits is crucial