Diving into the Dangers of Submarine Living Conditions

Submarine life, often glorified in movies and media, can be a daunting reality for many. While being confined to a narrow space below the water's surface may seem more of a nuisance than a true danger, the actual risks involved are far more complex and urgent. Let's explore the serious and often overlooked dangers that come with living and working on a submarine.

The Delinquent NUB Situations

On a submarine, 'delinquent NUB' (New submarine buck)—those who have not yet qualified—can end up in some highly dangerous situations. However, being delinquent is only the beginning. Watch movies instead of qualifying, and the danger multiplies exponentially. The Chief of the Boat (COB) has a vested interest in ensuring everyone is properly qualified, and any deviation from this can lead to severe consequences. These situations not only highlight the importance of proper training but also emphasize the penalties for negligence.

Your Qualification and Safety

It's important to acknowledge that submariners undergo extensive qualification procedures that take many months to complete. Without proper training, the risks of being on a submarine are indeed real. Personal failure to understand the handling of emergencies can be life-threatening. This underscores the critical nature of comprehensive training and constant vigilance.

Severe Scenarios in a Submarine

The intrinsic danger of being at sea on a submerged submarine is paramount. Living conditions, while challenging, are generally not the most pressing issues. The real threats come from unexpected emergencies such as:

Losing depth control due to flooding Mechanical malfunctions causing loss of plane control Atmospheric contamination or fire Toxic gas release Weapon malfunction Underwater collision Inability to surface safely

The confined nature of a submarine, coupled with its intricate control systems, can make any of these scenarios life-threatening. The unique challenges presented by a closed, pressurized environment necessitate careful management and constant monitoring.

Atmospheric Hazard Management

One of the critical atmospheric issues in submarines revolves around the buildup of gases. Humans exhale both carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO2) which accumulate over time. These gases are replenished through the electrolysis of water, producing oxygen and hydrogen. Unfortunately, hydrogen is highly flammable and can easily leak through seals, leading to potential explosions or asphyxiation.

To address this, submarines are equipped with a catalytic converter known as the 'CO-H2 burner.' This device operates at a high temperature of 850 degrees to convert and absorb the gases and other contaminants. However, if the submarine contains any traces of Freon, the heating process can lead to the formation of phosgene gas, a particularly dangerous compound.

It's worth noting that the use of aerosol cans and Freon-based air conditioners was strictly regulated due to the potential for such incidents. Today, modern submarines use alternative refrigerants to minimize the risk of Freon leaks and subsequent phosgene gas formation. Despite these precautions, the risks remain, underscoring the critical importance of continuous monitoring and strict safety protocols.

Conclusion

Living on a submarine is a unique and hazardous experience. While the confined living conditions pose some challenges, the real dangers arise from the unexpected emergencies that can happen at any time. Understanding and preparing for these risks is crucial for the safety of the crew. Whether it's mastering survival skills, understanding the critical systems, or continuously improving safety measures, the life of a submarine crew member is a delicate balance between preparation and unpredictability.