Northern Diver ORIGIN User manual

NEOPRENE DRYSUIT MANUAL

NDiver Drysuit Manual | East Quarry, Appley Lane North, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9AE, UK
Thank you for the purchase of your new Northern Diver neoprene drysuit. You have
joined countless divers around the world - sport, technical, commercial and military
- who use and trust our equipment. Within this manual you will find information on
additional products, such as thermal protection, which you can use to configure
your own ultimate drysuit system.
To show our thanks for your custom, use the code MANUAL18 online or over the
phone to claim 10% off your next order.
Code can be used for one order only, not valid in conjunction with any other offer.
This manual provides you with easy access to the key features and functions of
our neoprene drysuits, along with recommendations on how best to service and
care for your suit. Should you wish to know more about Northern Diver diving
equipment, please visit our website www.ndiver.com. The neoprene drysuits
are tested to EN 14225-2:2017 and meet the regulation (EU) 2016/425 of The
European Parliament and of the Council

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MANUAL CONTENTS
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 04
Key Neoprene Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05
Drysuit Zip Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06
Rear and front entry zips
BDM metal drysuit zip
Latex/Neoprene Neck & Wrist Seals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08
Trimming the latex seals to fit
Storage & maintenance
Possible allergy risk
What is a latex allergy?
Neoprene neck & wrist seals
Fitting of a Drysuit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 09
Donning the drysuit
Removing the drysuit
Removing neoprene neck and wrist seals
Applications for Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Pre-dive suit checks
Post-dive suit checks
Inspection intervals
Risk Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Hyper/hypothermia
Change of buoyancy with depth
Loss of thermal insulation at depth
Fitting the suit
Inflation gases
Correct maintenance & allergies
Trouble Shooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Leaks and leak testing your suit
Repairing a Leak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Emergency Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Valve issues
Drysuit becomes flooded
Dropped or lost weight belt
Other Important Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Maintenance, Repair & Modification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Cleaning, disinfection, decontamination & drysuit storage
Safe Disposal, Suit Labels & Drysuit Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
What’s Included With My Drysuit? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

NDiver Drysuit Manual | East Quarry, Appley Lane North, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9AE, UK
Congratulations on the purchase of a high quality Northern Diver neoprene drysuit.
These products will open a new world of comfort and security in your diving
adventures.
Drysuit diving demands specific techniques and training beyond those required for
wetsuit diving. If you have not dived in a drysuit before, we strongly recommend
you contact a local instructor for education and practice using your new drysuit
under controlled conditions.
Both inexperienced and experienced users should thoroughly read and understand
this manual before diving in the drysuit. If for any reason you have questions
that are not covered by this manual or your instructor, do not hesitate to contact
Northern Diver.
The following are important safety guidelines every diver should adopt before
diving in a drysuit:
Undertake a complete drysuit diving course with a certified instructor and from an
officially recognized approved training agency.
Always dive with a buoyancy compensator.
Become familiar with all your equipment before diving.
Practice drysuit diving skills in safe conditions until confident of your ability.
Ensure your buddy/partner is completely familiar with and understands all your
drysuit diving systems.
Weight should be set to achieve neutral buoyancy with an empty tank. Do not add
more weight than this. You should be able to achieve a 5-minute safety stop at 3
meters (10 feet), neutrally buoyant with a tank containing around 30 bar (500 psi)
or less.
Inspect the zip, seals and valves for damage before each dive.
Perform regular preventative maintenance on the suit, valves, zip and seals.
Only allow qualified individuals to perform service on the suit.
Understand your personal diving limitations. Do not exceed them.
WARNING
ALL DIVERS MUST UNDERGO TRAINING AND FAMILIARISATION WITH A
CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR BEFORE USING THIS PRODUCT.
Introduction

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This manual describes all types of Northern Diver neoprene drysuit styles. All
suits share several basic features, including the main waterproof zip, inflation and
exhaust valves, low-pressure inflator hose, vulcanised neoprene boots or socks,
neoprene hood, and storage bag/changing mat. Each model is equipped with a
specific maintenance kit.
Neoprene
Neoprene suits are constructed from compressed foam neoprene, laminated
on both sides. The exterior side is a heavier weave to better withstand wear
and abrasion, while the inside is designed for comfort and heat reflection. The
compressed foam neoprene is very dense, resisting compression at depth. This
means the suit loses a smaller percentage of its surface buoyancy, requiring less
air to be added via the inflation valve to remain neutrally buoyant. Neoprene also
retains more thermal efficiency at depth, unlike tri-laminate material, neoprene
has inherent thermal protection and buoyancy within the material structure and
generally requires less added insulation worn under the suit than the
tri-laminate, for most conditions. Every seam receives an application of three coats
of neoprene adhesive. The outside is sewn with a two thread locking blind stitch,
while the inside is reinforced with a proprietary liquid polymer that penetrates the
interior nylon layer and fuses to the neoprene itself. This creates a tough and long
lasting waterproof seam.
The neoprene drysuits are tested to EN 14225-2:2017 and meet the regulation
(EU) 2016/425 of The European Parliament and of the Council.
Notified Body No: 2452
Vojenský technický ústav, s.p.
odštěpný závod VTÚPV
Víta Nejedlého 691
682 01 Vyškov
Czech Republic
The EU Declaration of Conformity can be found on the Northern Diver (Int) Ltd
product pages in the download section, please visit our website:
www.ndiver-commercial.com/trilaminate-suits
WARNING
NEVER DEPEND ON ANY DRYSUIT AS YOUR SOLE SOURCE OF FLOTATION
AND BUOYANCY CONTROL. ALWAYS DIVE WITH A SUITABLE BUOYANCY
CONTROL DEVICE EQUIPPED WITH A SEPARATE INFLATION SYSTEM.
All of our brochures and manuals are available in various languages
upon request and can be supplied on memory sticks or as a download
from our website - www.ndiver.com
Key Specications

NDiver Drysuit Manual | East Quarry, Appley Lane North, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9AE, UK
Your drysuit will be fitted with a BDM metal
dry zip. The zip teeth must be kept clean to
operate properly for long product life.
Your drysuit zip is situated either
horizontally across the shoulders (rear
entry), or diagonal on the front section
of the torso (front entry). It is usually
positioned so that it closes from left to
right. This is because most people are right
handed and will be less likely to damage
the zip, or catch clothes or foreign objects
in the zip while closing it. You/your buddy
must place one finger directly in front of
the slider as it is closed, helping to guide
the undergarment or foreign objects away
from the zip teeth. Also make sure that you/
your buddy fully tucks in the interior zip flap
before closing the zip.
All drysuit zips should be washed after each dive and lubricated (see page 7).
Always pull the slider slowly and in the direction it is travelling (never pull it at an
angle). Ensure that there is no hair or clothing caught in the zip and that the zip
has been fully opened before you put on your drysuit. Failure to open completely
may result in the zip being damaged.
The zip must be fully opened before you remove your drysuit. Clean the zip with
fresh clean water. If the zip is particularly dirty, a toothbrush can be used. If using
a toothbrush, do so gently. Mild soapy water can be used for heavy soiling. Close
the zip when you hang / store the drysuit. Do not fold, bend or apply pressure to
the zip (other than the small amount of pressure required to open and close it).
Rear entry zips
Do not attempt to close the zip yourself. To close the zip with the least chance of
damage, extend your arms level in front of you. Advise your buddy to draw the zip
closed from left to right, keeping one finger in front of the slider to prevent clothing
and foreign object damage to the teeth. Make sure the slider is drawn tight up
against the rubber stop on the right hand side. If the slider is not tight against the
stop, the zip will leak.
Front entry zips
The closing-opening operation can be done without the help of your buddy.
However, it is suggested to use the same precautions described for the rear entry
zip configuration (above).
Drysuit Zip Information

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A. BDM metal drysuit zip
Before using the drysuit you must close the zip and lubricate it using Northern
Diver Zip Wax (supplied with the drysuit), applying the lubricant to the brass
elements on the outside and the teeth on the inside.
Do not over lubricate the teeth, a light coating is sufficient.
It is important to do this. If not regularly lubricated, the zip may seize up and
possibly fail. If your drysuit is fitted with an anti-magnetic zip, the zip slider is
connected to the pull handle by a special bronze wire. We advise you to lubricate
the zip before every use to prevent the wire from detaching from the slider. If too
much force is applied, which can be caused by lack of lubrication, this can make
the zip difficult to close.
WARNING
CLOTHING OR FOREIGN OBJECTS CAUGHT BETWEEN THE ZIP TEETH WILL
CAUSE THEM TO SEPARATE, DESTROYING THE WATERPROOF INTEGRITY
OF THE ZIP. THIS DAMAGE IS NORMALLY PERMANENT AND IS NOT
NORMALLY REPAIRABLE. YOU/ YOUR BUDDY MUST EXERCISE CARE WHEN
CLOSING/OPENING THE ZIP. IF THIS HAPPENS GET A COMPETENT PERSON
TO CHECK THE ZIP IS NOT DAMAGED BEFORE USING THE SUIT AGAIN.
Drysuit Zip Information Zip Lubrication Information

NDiver Drysuit Manual | East Quarry, Appley Lane North, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9AE, UK
Latex / Neoprene Neck & Wrist Seals
Some models of Northern Diver drysuits are fitted with flexible latex neck and wrist
seals for watertight integrity.
Trimming latex seals to fit
Latex seals have concentric raised ridges
functioning as cutting guides to assist you
to accurately trim the seals to fit. The seals
are slightly tapered so they get larger when
trimmed. Using a sharp pair of scissors,
trim one ring off at a time until the seal is
comfortable but still snug on your neck and
wrists. Use care and precision with sharp
scissors when trimming ridges. Leave a
smooth surface, as ragged edges can allow
tears to form, which will require replacement
of the seal.
WARNING
Do not trim too much, or the seals become too loose and may leak. Make
sure you cut the seals cleanly and leave no nicks that can develop into
a tear. Blood flow can be restricted by seals that are too tight, which can
ultimately lead to injury or death. Do not wear the seals too tight.
Storage & maintenance
Store the drysuit so the seals are dry, cool (below 25°C) and out of direct sunlight.
Ultraviolet light will degrade the latex over time. If the seals have been exposed
to cold temperatures, they will become stiff and lose their flexibility. This condition
is not permanent and can be resolved by a brief immersion in warm water. Before
storing the suit for any length of time, dust the seals inside and out with pure talc
(supplied in the maintenance kit) as a preservative. Do not use perfumed cosmetic
talc, as it contains oils, which can damage the latex. Do not use oils or lotion on
the seals. Avoid contact with copper.
Possible allergy risk
A small percentage of people have an allergic reaction to natural latex, the material
from which the neck and wrist seals of some models are manufactured. This
allergy can range from mild to severe skin rash and itching. It is the responsibility
of the user to pre-determine if he or she has a latex allergy, or to recognise it
during use, and discontinue use of the suit until the problem can be rectified.
This usually means removing the latex seals, and installing new seals made of
alternative materials.
If you are in any doubt regarding your ability to trim the seal correctly, call into
Northern Diver or return your suit with instructions of how many rings you require
to be removed. This work will be carried out free of charge, but may be subject to
postage/courier charges.
Maintenance/How To Adjust: Drysuit Seals

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What is a latex allergy?
A latex allergy is a reaction to certain proteins in latex rubber. The amount of latex
exposure needed to produce sensitization or an allergic reaction is unknown.
Increasing the exposure to latex proteins increases the risk of developing allergic
symptoms. In sensitized persons, symptoms usually begin within minutes of
exposure; but they can occur hours later and can be quite varied. Mild reactions
to latex involve skin redness, rash, hives, or itching. More severe reactions may
involve respiratory symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, scratchy
throat and asthma (difficult breathing, coughing spells, and wheezing). Rarely,
shock may occur; however, a life-threatening reaction is seldom the first sign of
latex allergy.
WARNING
Determine if you have a latex allergy, and to what extent, before purchasing
or using a drysuit with latex seals.
Fitting Of A Drysuit
- First remove your watch and any rings/jewellery that could tear wrist seals.
- Drysuits in general are designed to fit less snugly than neoprene wetsuits.
However, a good fit is still required. You should be able to reach both hands over
your head, and be able to squat on your knees without restriction, while wearing
the drysuit and the heaviest undergarments you intend to wear.
- The suit should not be tight in the crotch, or too long.
- If legs are too long, air volume in the suit can dislodge the boots off your feet if
you become inverted.
To ensure a good fit:
- Wear the bulkiest undergarment you are likely to wear under the suit.
- Make sure the suit is not restrictive in any area.
- Make sure you can raise both hands above your head, touch your toes, and
squat to your knees without restriction.
- Make sure the crotch (with braces properly adjusted) is not more than 10cm
(4 inches) below your crotch.
- Make sure you can easily reach both valves.
NOTE:
You will be considerably more bulky in a drysuit than with a wetsuit, and the boots
are bigger. If you already own a BCD, make sure that it will properly fit over the
drysuit. Also make sure that your feet in the drysuit boots fit all the way into your
fins, or else purchase larger fins. Having fins that are too small to wear properly
will result in foot cramps and lost fins, both potentially dangerous situations.
Neoprene neck & wrist seals
Neoprene seals can become more supple with use. If you find they are
unpleasantly tight, the seals can be stretched simply by plugging the wrist and
neck seals with objects of a suitable size and leaving for 12 to 24 hours.
How To Comfortably Put Your Drysuit On

NDiver Drysuit Manual | East Quarry, Appley Lane North, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9AE, UK
Donning the drysuit
First remove your watch as it could tear wrist seals, lay the suit out flat and do a quick
overall inspection to ensure it is in good order.
Dust the inside of the latex seals with Northern Diver Talc or lubricate the neoprene
seals using Northern Diver Drysuit Seal Lubricant (supplied in the maintenance kit).
Lubricate the zip with Northern Diver Zip Wax for BDM drysuit zips (supplied in the
maintenance kit).
Remove all jewellery – sharp edges can destroy the seals.
Fold the torso of the suit inside out over the legs to about waist level, so the braces (if
equipped) are exposed.
Make sure the braces (if equipped) are correctly attached, and are not tangled or
twisted.
Sit down if possible and insert foot first into the suit, making sure you do not tangle
foot in braces (if equipped).
Grasp suit material at calf level and gently ease foot into boot. Pull up on leg.
Repeat with other leg.
Grasp torso and ease suit up so that the crotch of the suit is correctly positioned.
Raise braces (if equipped) over shoulders and adjust so they support the weight of the
suit.
When present, fold the neoprene outer cuffs back away from the seals.
Insert first arm all the way, taking care with the seal when pushing hand through.
Repeat with second arm. Try to make sure the inside zip flap is not curled under during
this process. Make sure that if the drysuit undergarment is equipped with thump loops,
they are fully retracted, and not caught between the seal and your wrist. This will cause
a leak.
Grasp the top edge of the neck seal with both hands, fingers on the inner surface,
thumbs on the outside. Make sure your fingernails do not tear the latex or smooth skin
neoprene. Spread the opening wide enough to draw the neck seal over your head,
and adjust so it is comfortable. (Note: some divers prefer to don the neck seal first,
inserting the arms after. This is a matter of personal preference).
If you have long hair, you may find it easier to wear a nylon stocking or similar over
your head when pulling your head through the neck seal. If your drysuit has a neoprene
neck seal, the neck seal should be inverted so that the smooth side is in contact with
your skin; this forms the seal. Have your buddy make sure the drysuit undergarment is
correctly positioned under the seal so that there will be no cold spots.
How To Comfortably Put Your Drysuit On

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Instruct your buddy to draw the zip closed from left to right, keeping one finger in
front of the slider to prevent clothing and foreign object damage to the teeth. Make
sure the slider is drawn tight up against the rubber stop on the right hand side. If the
slider is not tight against the stop, the zip will leak.
Attach the low pressure hose with quick disconnect fitting to the inflate valve by
pulling back on the fitting and inserting it over the valve stem. Depress the side
inflate button briefly to ensure the valve is working properly. Air will enter the suit,
partially inflating it. Disconnect the low pressure inflate hose.
To check the proper function of the exhaust valve, turn it to the “OPEN” or “+”
position and crouch to your knees. The suit should deflate and you should hear the
air escaping from the valve.
Removing the drysuit
To take off the drysuit, follow the same procedures for donning the suit, but in
reverse order.
Removing a neoprene neck seal
Once your zip is undone you can remove your neck seal.
1. Pull the inverted section of the
neck seal out.
DO NOT attempt to remove
the neck seal whilst it is still
inverted. This will damage the
seal.
2. Make sure you pull the seal up
with both hands and not just finger
tips which may cause your nails to
damage the seals. Whilst pulling up
duck your head down into the neck
seal.
Standard adjustable
exhaust valve
Commercial double
mushroom adjustable
exhaust valve
Non magnetic
adjustable exhaust
valve
Locking cuff dump/
exhaust valve
Fitting Of A Drysuit & Valve Functions

NDiver Drysuit Manual | East Quarry, Appley Lane North, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9AE, UK
3. Gently pull the seal up over
your head in one continuous swift
motion. You must try not to panic, if
the seal went on it will come off.
4. Neck seal is now removed in
the best way possible to avoid any
damage.
Removing a neoprene wrist seals
Make sure you zip is undone and neck seal has been removed before
attempting to remove the cuffs.
1. To remove the wrist seal pull on
the lower arm to release your elbow
inside the suit.
Push down allowing the suits arm
to roll over the wrist seal creating a
fold.
2. Using your other hand pull the
fold down over the wrist and hand.
Get your buddy to help if you
need assistance.
IMPORTANT! Cuff seals and neck seals are a consumable item and not
covered within the 12 month warranty, so follow these instructions to
achieve the best life expectancy.
Removing Neoprene Neck & Wrist Seals

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Applications for Use
Our neoprene drysuits are made of the finest materials and to extremely high
standards of workmanship. However, they must be used within reasonable limits.
WARNING - DO NOT:
- Exceed the maximum depth to which you are currently certified.
- Use the drysuits in toxic or hydrocarbon-rich environments.
- Use the drysuit as a buoyancy-lifting device.
- Use the drysuit without a separate buoyancy control device.
- Use inflation gases other than air except argon (only use if you are qualified).
- Use the suit with any weight harness or other weight system that is not equipped
with a quick-release system.
Pre-dive suit checks
Before EVERY dive, make sure the suit is in good condition by checking the
following:
- No visible damage to materials or accessories anywhere on the suit.
- Check latex or smooth-skin neoprene seals for small tears or holes.
- Verify inflate and exhaust valves are intact and functioning properly.
Check low-pressure hose and fittings are intact, undamaged and properly
connected. Inspect waterproof zip for excess wear or any damage.
Post-dive suit checks
After EVERY dive, complete all the pre-dive checks listed above, and inspect suit
for any possible new damage. Repair any damage immediately, or take the suit to
Northern Diver for repair.
3. Make sure you fingers are
together and pointed so the seal
can slide over the hand without
damage. Pull out the inverted wrist
seal from the arm when hand is
free.
4. Do not pull on the wrist seal.
Pulling directly on the wrist seal will
damage them and is not advised.
Warning Notes

NDiver Drysuit Manual | East Quarry, Appley Lane North, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9AE, UK
When you have finished diving for the day, thoroughly rinse the outside of the
drysuit with fresh clean water to remove any dirt, sand or salt. Any stubborn stains
can be removed by rubbing the area gently with soapy water. Clean seals with
fresh water. Occasionally rinse the inside, which can be treated with a proprietary
deodoriser.
Always wear socks inside your drysuit, over a 1 hour dive i.e. kitting up to taking
your drysuit off, you will perspire and produce an average half cup of liquid. If you
are wearing light coloured under garments you may notice patches of liquid on the
suit in the areas of the valves and zip where the perspiration condenses around
these cold areas. Without socks your feet will become wet in some cases and this
can make the suit smell.
Inspection intervals
In addition to the checks listed above to be performed before every dive, the
valves should be inspected and serviced on an annual basis.
Risk Assessment
Drysuit diving, as with any other aspect of advanced SCUBA diving activity, carries
a degree of inherent risk. These include:
Hyper/hypothermia
Drysuits are often used in extreme temperature conditions, where there may be
combinations of cold surface conditions and cold water, or hot surface conditions
and cold water. It is important to know your own personal thermal safe range, to
avoid over heating, or becoming chilled. While a drysuit and warm undergarment
have excellent thermal protection, they do have limits and your safe and enjoyable
time in the water is variable based on water temperature and condition, workload,
and your own body type. Hypothermia is the cooling of the body core to unsafe
levels. Hyperthermia is the overheating of the body core to unsafe levels.
Hyperthermia in drysuit use is most often experienced during surface intervals in
hot weather, or during periods of excessive workload in warm, shallow water.
WARNING
Learn your own limitations and learn to recognise discomfort as a danger
signal. Avoid Hyperthermia & Hypothermia as both can be harmful or fatal.
Monitor your work rate during all diving activities to avoid excessive air
consumption, fatigue, over heating and other symptoms.
Change of buoyancy with depth
Neoprene: all neoprene products used in scuba diving incorporate closed cell foam
to provide thermal protection. Under increasing pressure as depth increases, these
bubbles diminish in size, resulting in a loss of buoyancy as the diver descends.
Learning to compensate for this loss of buoyancy is one of the vital skills that must
be learned in the proper use of a drysuit.
Warnings Of Diving Risks

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WARNING
Buoyancy control in a drysuit is more complex than in a wetsuit and is a
vital skill to be learned during the instruction in the use of a drysuit.
Loss of thermal insulation at depth
Drysuits in general provide thermal insulation by creating an air space between the
diver and the cold water.
Neoprene: in a neoprene suit, the neoprene material becomes thinner under
pressure and loses not only buoyancy at depth, but also some insulation value.
Divers planning to spend time at greater depths must account for the diminished
thermal protection at depth by wearing added undersuit protection.
Fitting the suit
Proper fit in a drysuit is very important. Too loose a fit will allow such hazards as
too much air moving around in the suit, difficult buoyancy control and if the legs
are too long, the boots can slip off the divers’ feet. Seals that are too loose will
leak. Too tight a fit can result in restriction of blood flow causing loss of feeling
in the extremities, or lack of oxygen to the brain. Seals that are too tight will also
restrict blood flow.
Inflation gases
We recommend using air for inflation. Properly trained divers can use argon. Do
not use gas mixes with elevated oxygen levels, or with helium (Tri-Mix, etc.).
Helium is an excellent heat conductor, and will significantly reduce the thermal
efficiency of the suit, risking hypothermia.
Correct maintenance
A drysuit is a complex piece of equipment designed to keep a diver comfortable
in extreme conditions. Treat it with respect, maintain it correctly, and inspect it for
wear and damage BEFORE & AFTER each dive. Failure to take these precautions
may be hazardous.
Allergies
In addition to the possible allergic reaction to latex used in the neck and wrist
seals, a small percentage of people are known to experience allergic reaction to
neoprene. Although this is less of a problem with drysuits than with wetsuits, as
the diver normally wears an undersuit to separate the drysuit from his or her body
Some exposure can still result. Be sure to determine you are free from neoprene
allergy before purchasing any neoprene product.

NDiver Drysuit Manual | East Quarry, Appley Lane North, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9AE, UK
NOTE: A properly functioning drysuit is a closed environment and a certain amount
of condensation on the inside of the suit is natural. Divers exerting a lot of energy
or spending time above water on a warm day with the suit closed will notice this
more.
Zip leaks
Slider not closed all the way – have your buddy check for full closure.
Zip has failed – inspect for split in closed teeth.
Zip material failed – can either be punctured or damaged by abrasion.
Foreign material caught in teeth – dirt, sand, debris, or the drysuit undergarment is
frequently the trouble.
The zip is old, worn out, or damaged in some other way – have it replaced.
Improper or inadequate lubrication of the zip.
Valve leaks
Installation has loosened. Check back plate screw for tightness. This sometimes
happens in neoprene suits, as the neoprene may continue to compress over time.
Tighten if needed.
The exhaust valve may be improperly adjusted, or there may be debris (sand, hair,
etc.) under the seal.
Valve parts may need servicing or replacement due to use and wear.
Seal leaks
Seals leak for two reasons, damage or interference.
Check the seals for holes or tears caused by sharp objects, wear and tear, or
chemical damage.
Check that there are no foreign objects such as hair and sections of undergarment.
Check for over trimming.
Check they adjusted properly and do not have folds that can create leaking
channels, especially around the tendons in wrists.
Damage to suit fabric
The suit fabric may leak due to wear, abrasion, puncture or tearing.
Avoid sharp and abrasive objects.
Divers exposed to corrosive chemicals must take extra care cleansing and rinsing
the suit after each exposure. Some chemicals can degrade or de-laminate the suit
materials to the point of failure.
Leak testing your suit
Your drysuit can be tested for leaks by plugging the wrist
and neck seals with objects of suitable size, closing the
zip and using the low-pressure inflation hose attached
to the inflate valve to inflate the suit. Wrap an elastic
band around the seal to help the plug stay in place under
pressure. Start with the adjustable exhaust valve set at
the lowest release pressure, and gradually increase until
the suit is firm, but not hard. This way you will not stress
the seals, fabric or seams of the suit.
Troubleshooting & Suit Testing

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WARNING
DO NOT use GLASS objects to plug the neck or wrist seals. Occasionally,
the internal pressure will blow the plug out of the seal. Glass can shatter,
causing injury.
Once the suit is inflated, submerge it a section at a time in the bathtub, and inspect
for leaks. Small bubbles will appear if a leak is present. Alternately, lay the inflated
suit down outside, and slowly pour warm soapy water over the suspected areas.
The soap solution will blow small bubbles, or create fine foam over the leak. Once
the leaks are located, mark the area, rinse and dry the suit thoroughly, and repair
the leak or book your suit in for a professional repair service at Northern Diver. In
some cases if your suit is dry we can repair it immediately if you call to see us.
Repairing a Leak
Ensure the drysuit is completely dry. Wear protective gloves, such as latex gloves.
Mark the puncture on the outside of the drysuit, and use this mark to mark the
same area on the inside of the drysuit, always make the repair on the inside
of the suit. Clean the puncture area by rubbing with sandpaper or a stiff brush,
and remove any loose particles. Apply 3 layers of Suit Seal (supplied in the
maintenance kit), allowing 15 minutes’ drying time between each application.
Note: Rub the first coat of Suit Seal in thoroughly until it soaks into the material –
ensure the Suit Seal isn’t just ‘floating’ on the material’s surface, as this will make
the repair less effective.
Apply 3 layers of Suit Seal to a repairs patch (supplied in the maintenance kit),
again allowing 15 minutes’ drying time between each application. Place repairs
patch on the damaged area of the drysuit and use a roller to push out any air
bubbles and ensure the patch and suit are firmly bonded together.
Allow 3 hours for the Suit Seal to dry, once dry test your suit again to ensure the
leak has been repaired.
If you prefer, Northern Diver can provide this service.
With over 25 years’ experience, our repairs and alterations department has your
drysuit in safe hands. When suits come in for repair they are inspected, tested, worked
upon and tested again before they return to the customer.
Custom options are also available on Northern Diver drysuits if you wish to add
different elements to what you have purchased. We can change neck, wrists,
socks, and boots to suit your requirements or add pockets, reflective panels and
Kevlar® reinforcement on high wear areas.
Visit www.ndiver.com/divewear/suit-spare-parts for more details.
If you would like your suit repairing please use our online booking service,
visit our website www.ndiver.com/repairs

NDiver Drysuit Manual | East Quarry, Appley Lane North, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9AE, UK
Diving should never be undertaken without adequate training under qualified
supervision. We offer some suggestions for rectifying problems here, but this is
merely scratching the surface and may not be suitable for any particular situation.
Remember, training in a safe environment with a suitably qualified instructor is
essential.
Inflator valve is stuck open
If your drysuit inflator valve becomes stuck open, meaning the drysuit is inflating
uncontrollably, disconnect the inflation hose and press your dump valve at the
same time. This exercise should be practised in a safe environment while wearing
normal diving gloves. If you have a cuff dump, you will be able to dump the excess
air by raising your arm. In an extreme case, such as when you can’t vent sufficient
air through the exhaust valve, raise your arm while lifting your wrist seal, or pull
the neck seal away from your skin (no need to raise your arm). These procedures
will allow air to quickly escape from the drysuit, but will also allow water to enter
the drysuit.
If you experience an uncontrolled ascent due to over inflation, it is important
to exhale as you ascend. We recommend that you do not undertake any diving
without adequate backup or redundancy in your buoyancy device (ensure you are
trained in the use of your buoyancy device) to ensure a safe return to the surface.
Inflator valve is stuck closed
Use your training to ascertain the correct method for returning to the surface, such
as buoyancy control, ditching of weights etc.
Exhaust valve is stuck open
If your drysuit exhaust valve becomes stuck open, your drysuit will not retain air
and will therefore not give proper buoyancy. Water is very likely to enter the drysuit
via the valve. Abort the dive and use your buoyancy device to return to the surface,
and follow what was learned in your training.
Exhaust valve is stuck closed
If your drysuit exhaust valve becomes stuck closed, it may not be possible to
vent air from your drysuit. This could result in an uncontrollable ascent. Air can
be dumped by pulling the wrist or neck seals away from the skin, allowing air to
escape. This action may cause water to enter the drysuit.
Water enters through exhaust valve
This may be caused by dirt etc. under the valve or a damaged diaphragm. Abort
the dive immediately and use your buoyancy device to return to the surface.
Air leaks through inflator valve
If this occurs, you should disconnect the inflator hose from your drysuit and use
your buoyancy device to return to the surface. Air will need to be dumped as usual
when ascending.
Emergency Procedures

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Drysuit becomes flooded
In the unlikely event of this occurring (probably caused by a tear, seal failure or zip
failure etc.), use your buoyancy device to return to the surface.
It may help to keep the leaking area as low in the water as possible - this will help
keep any remaining air inside the drysuit. Cold water in the drysuit means that it
should be removed as soon as possible after surfacing.
Be aware that it is normal for the inside of a drysuit to be damp with perspiration,
and a small amount of water should not be assumed to be because of a leak or
drysuit failure.
Dropped or lost weight belt
To practise this procedure, do so with consultation and supervision from a suitably
qualified instructor in a controlled environment – they will guide you through what
to do.
Do not attempt to drop your weight belt until you are absolutely clear about the
procedure. You must be thoroughly trained.
Remember, dropping your weight belt can injure other divers and marine life.
Other Important Information
1. Follow all instructions. Improper use of a drysuit can cause loss of buoyancy
control, including uncontrolled descents and ascents, and a risk of serious injury or
death.
2. Improper use or misuse of a drysuit can result in exposure to thermal hazards
and rapid body overheating or cooling, which could result in stroke, seizure,
hypothermia and death.
3. This manual is NOT a substitute for proper qualified drysuit instruction and
is NOT supplied as such. This manual is supplied as a guideline for drysuit
maintenance only.
4. Diving in conditions that contain chemical, biological or nuclear contaminants is
extremely hazardous and should NOT be attempted without being specially trained
and equipped. In most cases, the Northern Diver drysuit you have purchased has
NOT been adapted for use in polluted or abnormal conditions and is therefore NOT
covered under warranty. Some drysuits that we manufacture are suitable for these
conditions, but prior to use you MUST seek advice from us to ensure the drysuit
will fully protect you.
5. Military drysuits – if the drysuit is to be used in conditions where the drysuit
requires a non-magnetic signature, please carry out adequate checks to confirm
that the zips and valves fitted to the drysuit comply with the directive relating to
this use. Non-magnetic inflation and exhaust valves can be identified with this
symbol -
To use the non-magnetic symbol for our diving suits and equipment
we have our products independently tested at QinetiQ, Portland.
We advise you to ensure your kit has been tested before entering
any hazardous area.
Other Important Information

NDiver Drysuit Manual | East Quarry, Appley Lane North, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9AE, UK
Degreasing
If the suit is exposed to oil or grease, clean with a mild grease cutting detergent
and a soft brush. Rinse with clean fresh water.
DO NOT ALLOW OIL OR GREASE RESIDUE TO REMAIN ON SUIT FOR ANY
LENGTH OF TIME – IT MAY DEGRADE THE MATERIAL.
Decontamination
Recreational divers should take care to avoid exposure to contaminated water and
environments. Professional, commercial, rescue and military divers who may be
forced to dive in contaminated conditions must identify the contaminant and take
appropriate steps to remove the contaminant from the suit before it can be used
again. Do not enter any contaminated area or water unless you have the required
training and additional Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Storage & Transport
Once the suit is thoroughly clean and dry with the zip lubricated, store in a cool dry
place out of the sun. Many suits have been damaged by cats and rodents nesting
in them when in storage, take care to store the suit away from areas accessible
to them. Keep copper away from the latex seals. Drysuits are best stored on the
Northern Diver Multi Purpose Hanger (see page 27) that hangs the suit upside
down by the feet with the zip closed. Additional advice may be found in specific
sections above. Transport the suit in the storage bag / changing mat provided. Try
to clean excessive dirt and sand from the suit before placing it in the bag.
Maintenance, Repair & Modification
It is not within the scope of this manual to provide complete and detailed repair
instructions for all the situations that may be found. Basic maintenance for the suit,
the materials and individual components such as zip, seals, and valves, etc., may
be found under those individual headings.
Cleaning, disinfection & decontamination
After each use:
Rinse outside of suit with clean fresh water.
Wipe seals clean with clean fresh water.
Rinse valves with clean fresh water.
Hang suit upside down to dry.
If the suit got wet inside:
Clean inside with clean fresh water, or a
disinfectant solution to prevent bacterial
development.
Latex seals
Lightly dust with non-perfumed talc (supplied in
the maintenance kit).
Buy talc online at www.ndiver.com/talc
Other Important Information