Scuba Diving Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Excessive nitrogen absorption — Plan dives to remain within no-decompression limits and conduct safety stops on all dives. Ensure divers monitor their nitrogen levels using dive computers and follow conservative dive profiles. Instructors should brief divers on the risks of excessive nitrogen absorption.
• Lost diver scenario — Brief divers on lost buddy protocols, including search patterns and signaling devices. Divers should stay close to the dive group and use underwater lights or strobes in low visibility. Surface marker buoys should be used if separation occurs at the surface. Instructors should be ready to coordinate search efforts.
• Sudden weather changes — Monitor weather forecasts closely and cancel or adjust dives if sudden weather changes, such as storms, are expected. Surface support should be prepared to evacuate divers if weather conditions deteriorate during a dive. Instructors should prioritize safety in rapidly changing conditions.
• Adverse weather — Monitor weather conditions closely and have a contingency plan for severe weather, including delaying, moving, or canceling the dive. Ensure all divers have proper thermal protection for cold conditions or sun protection for hot conditions. Provide shelter during surface intervals.
• Ability levels — Assess participants' dive experience and physical condition prior to the dive. Ensure dive plans match the abilities of all divers, providing additional support for those with less experience. Avoid complex dives for beginner divers and encourage self-assessment of personal limits.