What is a critical part of dive planning?

Identifying potential hazards and establishing a safety plan is a critical part of dive planning because it addresses the safety of the divers involved in the operation. This aspect of planning involves recognizing risks such as poor visibility, strong currents, marine life interactions, equipment malfunction, and environmental factors that could jeopardize diver safety. By anticipating these hazards before the dive, a dive team can implement measures to mitigate risks, such as divers being briefed on safety protocols, ensuring adequate emergency procedures are in place, and designating rescue divers if necessary. This proactive approach to safety is essential for managing dive operations effectively, thereby enhancing the overall safety and success of the dive.

While calculating dive duration, choosing equipment, and drafting schedules are important elements of dive planning as well, they do not address immediate risks that could arise during the dive. Properly recognizing and managing hazards is foundational to ensuring that divers return safely from their excursions underwater.