What is required before a dive can commence according to standard operating procedures?

Before a dive can commence, conducting a pre-dive safety briefing and equipment check is essential according to standard operating procedures. This process ensures that all divers are aware of the dive plan, including objectives, potential hazards, and emergency procedures. The safety briefing fosters communication among team members, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and situational awareness underwater.

The equipment check is a critical component that verifies all diving gear is functioning correctly, reducing the risk of equipment failure during the dive. By systematically reviewing each piece of equipment, divers can ascertain that they are properly equipped and prepared for the dive, prioritizing safety.

These procedures help to identify any potential issues before entering the water, thereby enhancing overall safety and operational effectiveness during diving operations. Maintaining such standards is a fundamental practice in diving to prevent accidents and ensure that all divers can perform their tasks as planned.