Since the introduction of sport diving rebreathers in the mid-1990’s, to improve diving safety, there have been significant advancements in rebreather training standards and methodology. Complementing this is the introduction of the European rebreather standard EN14143, which forms part of consumer legislation within Europe that has helped establish a broader global rebreather manufacturing standard and underwater life support certification benchmark. Despite these advancements, the number of rebreather fatalities remains disproportionately high when compared to open circuit diving, with drowning being the single largest cause of death following Loss of Consciousness (LoC). The use of a Mouthpiece Retaining Strap may be of benefit in such cases.
The RTC have issued the following policy statement in this respect:
“The RTC recognizes the use of a Mouthpiece Retaining Strap (MRS) may reduce the likelihood of drowning by preserving the airway should a person become unconscious while diving, but there are no strong data to what degree an MRS reduces risk for recreational divers. Divers who choose to use MRS devices should ensure they are properly configured and adjusted according to manufacturer specifications. MRS users should adhere to the policies for the specific CCR model as set forth by the CCR manufacturer. MRS devices should not be seen as an independent solution, but may offer some protection from drowning, especially when used properly, and in concert with other safe diving practices (e.g. completing pre-dive checklists, careful monitoring of gas supplies, buddy/team-based diving, progressive experience building, and skill refinement). It should be noted that MRS use could have negative effects on risk, but few data regarding this exist.
Seeking more clarity on this important subject, the RTC and Diver’s Alert Network (DAN) US and Europe have come to an agreement to design a survey for rigorous evaluation of MRS utility within contemporary diving practices and across diverse market segments.”
For more information about the use of an MRS, go to the following resources:
Increasing the probability of surviving loss of consciousness underwater when using a rebreather