H Valve Mistake

Diver 1 - Intro Cave, Doubles

Diver 2 - Cavern, Doubles

Diver 3 (S3) - Cavern, Single Tank w/ H Valve


This incident started with a planned penetration to the sign in Upper Orange grove, with D1 leading, S3 (single tank) in the middle, and D2 in the rear.


Earlier in the day, all 3 divers had done succesful penetrations in Peacock 1 to the signs, while practing reel skills. Before the initial setup, it was noted that S3 had a single tank with H valve, and 2 full sets of regs. An attempt was made to remove the extra hoses and configure the 2 second stages to HOgarthian standard, however, not enough port plugs were available to plug the holes, so the plan was scrapped, and S3 was to use the single tank with one 2nd stage and other port left closed. As stated, Peacock 1 dives went fine.


For the 2nd dive at OG, the 3 divers again practiced reeling, and finally D1 led into the upper orange grove cave. About halfway to the sign, D1 heard hissing, and D2 flashed D1. Turning around D1 noticed bubbles streaming from S3. S3 has bumped the cieling and rolled on the closed, but bare valve. Assuming D2 would take care of the problem, D1 started to reel in, noticed the valve still bubbling, and so dropped the reel and bolted for S3. D2 and S3 had made the decision to start out since they could not get the valve off. D1 managed to get to S3, turn off the valve, and follow the team up to the tie off at the tree.


D1 signalled S3, questioning air, and S3 showed guage at 500psi. All divers proceeded to safety stop, and made sure s3 got out. D1 and D2, then proceeded to retrieve the reel.


The obvious mistake that was made here was using an h valve with a bare opening, as well as using the h valve without practicing valve drills. Later discussion revealed after inability to turn off valve, D2 has offered long hose to S3, who signalled no, then exit. Its possible communication could have been better between all members, but for the level of training and experience, the incident was handled well.