PADI Divemaster Certification Practice Exam

The first step in using the Recreational Dive Planner (RDP) is to utilize the RDP table to find the no-stop limit. This step is crucial because the no-stop limit indicates the maximum time a diver can spend at a given depth without needing to make a decompression stop during ascent. Before diving, understanding the no-stop limits helps ensure that divers can plan their dives effectively and safely.

Once divers know their planned maximum depth, they can refer to the RDP table to locate the corresponding no-stop limit for that depth. This information is essential for maintaining safe diving practices and avoiding the risks associated with extended times at depth, such as decompression sickness.

Determining the maximum depth, looking for the pressure group, and checking for added dive time are all important steps that follow the initial determination of no-stop limits, but they do not represent the first action in the planning process using the RDP.