What is the recommended maximum ascent rate for recreational scuba diving?

The recommended maximum ascent rate for recreational scuba diving is 30 feet per minute. This guideline is widely accepted in the scuba diving community to ensure the safety of divers as they ascend. Ascending too quickly can lead to decompression sickness, also known as "the bends," which occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the body due to rapid changes in pressure. By adhering to the 30 feet per minute ascent rate, divers can allow their bodies adequate time to safely eliminate the excess nitrogen absorbed during their dive. This rate also provides divers the opportunity to conduct safety stops, particularly at 15 feet for at least three minutes, further enhancing safety by allowing for additional off-gassing of nitrogen before surfacing.