By incorporating a totally independent breathing system into the total diving system a diver can avoid "out of air"/"loss of air" emergencies. As with any and all diving equipment proper training and equipment configuration are a must. While the latest "basic open water" diver programs now incorporate the use of an "RBS", a diver will need to practice in a controlled environment before "jumping in".

An RBS is comprised of a small high pressure cylinder, standard valve, regulator first stage, a second stage with a low pressure hose of 36" to 39", a mounting device for securing the system to the main cylinder and an optional cylinder pressure monitor.

Divers may wear the RBS on either the left or right side of the main cylinder. The choice of configuration is not arbitrary and depends on the make up of the main system.

A RBS while similar in components is very different in application than a "sling bottle" or "stage bottle". Keep in mind, many divers use theses terms interchangeable. In general, a sling bottle is worn on the front of a divers body. Yes, this may seem awkward above water but when rigged properly the cylinder hangs in line with the divers body while in a swimming attitude. Sling bottles like stage bottles, do not apply for "recreational" profiles. Stage bottles are not worn during the dive and rather positioned at points of the dive. As an example, a diver may securely position a "deco" mix on/by the ascent line to use during the ascent phase of the dive. Stage and sling bottles are often a different "mix" than what the diver is carrying with them and utilized to meet the gas and profile requirements of Technical/Extended Range/Tri-Mix dives. Here are some common application tips preferred by many recreational and technical divers alike for their redundant systems.

VALVE RING: Many divers have a brass ring installed at they cylinder neck. (The valve needs to be professionally taken off and reinstalled to do this). It provides an added place to attach clips and secure the second stage or hoses.

ADJUSTABLE SECOND STAGE: An adjustable second stage allows the regulator to be "tuned down" when it is out of the divers mouth therefore considerably less likely to free flow. The diver can readjust the second stage for easy breathing during use.

COVER YOUR CLAMPS: When using clamps the leftover tail should be covered and trimmed. The metal tail can hook and snag on equipment, lines, etc. Some divers completely cover the clamp with a tubular type of nylon webbing and tuck the leftover tail into it.

DUCT TAPE RULE: While the wonders of duct tape continue to amaze us all, it is not considered an appropriate mounting device. Avoid dive buddies with visible duct tape usage.

SECURE YOUR HOSES: Dangling gauges and second stages are always to be prevented. Equipment must be secured properly so it can be quickly deployed when needed. Unsecured hoses damage the reef/environment or the reef may damage them.

About the Author

Laura has grown up around diving, her experience in the industry spans more than 20 years. Her father, Ed Betts, is a co-founder of American Nitrox Divers, Inc. ("ANDI") and her family have been involved in diving for many years. Laura did her first trimix dive at the age of 17 to a wreck in 178ft of water in low viz and a strong current. She has logged more than 1100 dives. Laura now owns and operates 12