When free divers began reaching previously unattainable depths during the mid-20th century, a new challenge presented itself. If they ascended too rapidly, dissolved gases in the blood reacted to the changes in pressure, producing bubbles that caused extreme pain, and could result in paralysis and death. The primary solution still in use is to slowly equalize internal pressure in a specially designed surface room. A decompression chamber service keeps that process running smoothly.

Also called hyperbaric chambers, they were adapted originally from steel boilers in ship power plants. Because they were already meant for high-pressure uses, boilers could be easily redesigned as sealed rooms with a capacity for more than one person. This solution proved successful, and that original concept is still being used, although greatly modified for increased safety.

Metal cylinders are still used for pressure equalization, but most modern units are acrylic plastic, and in some locations resemble a standard hospital treatment room. To make the time spent inside pass more pleasantly, many facilities are equipped with sound and entertainment systems, have advanced methods of fire suppression, and are controlled by computers. The emphasis is on patient comfort.

Those designed for one person at a time are called monoplace chambers, and can be pressurized and the air inside replaced with pure oxygen. These models are featured by most manufacturers, and cost slightly more than those made of metal. The safety records associated with this design show a high level of reliability, and allow patients to be closely observed and medically monitored.

Multiplace chambers are intended for use by several people, and also contain advanced monitoring systems. There may be more than one airlock used to maintain room integrity, and individual oxygen is supplied by a mask or hood, or sometimes through an endotracheal tube. This makes it unnecessary to completely fill the room with pure oxygen, and reduces the possibility of fire. People with different degrees of distress can be treated simultaneously .

The same type of pressurized chamber is widely used by many hospitals today to help those having problems healing normally. Hyperbaric chambers are used to aid those suffering from diabetic open wounds, people with severe burns requiring skin grafts or who have been accidentally crushed, or patients undergoing intensive chemotherapy. Breathing oxygen under pressure increases levels more efficiently.

Because of these systems are integral during emergencies, unexpected down-time is unacceptable. Specific services exist today that specialize not only in the installation of these facilities, but also help maintain them in peak operating condition. The emphasis today is on rapid employee deployment whenever mechanical repair issues arise, and remote computer diagnostics allows developing problems to be discovered quickly.

These specialized businesses not only keep their products operational, but may also provide targeted training for hospital operators and administrators in centers that replicate the latest procedures and equipment. Their goal is to significantly reduce the time necessary for routine service and upgrades, and to enable all locations using decompression to provide a high level of readiness.