Studies of Divers' Performance During the SEALAB II Project

Abstract

Field studies of the three 10 men teams of divers participating in the SEALAB II project were undertaken. During each team's 15 day submergence at 205 feet, psychomotor tests and a vision test were conducted in the water, and a mental arithmetic test in the habitat. Compared to base line performance (dry-land and shallow water conditions), performance on the mental arithmetic test showed no deterioration while performance on the psychomotor tests showed considerable deterioration. Many divers found that their in-water work activities proceeded slowly; among other causes of a more physical nature, concern for one's safety may detract from the amount of attention one gives to the task at hand. The most active divers in the SEALAB group were those who indicated that they were least fearful and least aroused by the conditions and who were helpful, gregarious, and made least telephone contact with the outside world.