Man as an Undersea Inhabitant and Worker

Abstract

Man is operating increasingly within the ocean either as a swimmer or as a component of submersible systems. As a diver, man is effective but much less effective than on dry land. To increase his effectiveness, research is required in the areas of psycho-physiology of diving, the effects of diving on sensory and motor functions, methodology of measuring performance underwater, ergonomics, personal equipment, undersea dwellings, and the selection, training and personality functions of divers. Both laboratory and field studies are required; the latter to assess, in particular, the effects of real stress factors on human performance.