TITANIC
What do saturation divers do? How much money do they make?
Saturation diving is a high-risk occupation as divers are exposed to hazards such as high waterpressure, freezing temperatures, and very poor visibility.
Saturation divers are specialised divers who work in the field of commercial diving, specifically in offshore operations. Their primary role is to perform underwater construction, which could include inspection, maintenance, and repair work in deep-sea environments.
The job involves living and working in a pressurised environment for an extended period, allowing divers to reach great depths and stay underwater for long durations without experiencing the effects of decompression sickness, also known as the bends.
What jobs saturation divers undertake
Saturation divers are capable of descending to extreme depths, often reaching several hundred meters or more, using specialised diving equipment and diving bells to transport themselves to and from the work site.
A key job is the construction and installation of underwater structures such as oil rigs, pipelines, and platforms. They also conduct inspections and maintenance on underwater equipment. This includes assessing the condition of pipelines, examining the integrity of underwater installations, and identifying any damage or potential issues that require repair.
When underwater structures or equipment become damaged or malfunction, saturation divers are called upon to carry out repairs. They utilise specialized techniques and tools to fix or replace faulty components.
Saturation divers may be involved in salvage operations to recover sunken vessels or equipment, as has would have been the case with the OceanGate implosion if it were not so deep.
How much money can saturation divers make?
Saturation diving is known to be a well-paid profession due to its demanding nature and the skills required.
Initial pay: could earn an annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000. At this stage, divers typically work on shorter contracts and may have limited experience in the field.
Experienced divers: Divers with several years of experience can earn salaries ranging from $80,000 to $150,000 per year or more. This could include postings in far-flung countries from a diver’s native land, increasing the wages.
Saturation divers who possess specialised skills such as underwater welding, non-destructive testing (NDT), or project management often command higher salaries. These additional skills and certifications can significantly enhance their earning potential.