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Surface Support

Purpose

To outline the key responsibilities and tasks for the Surface Support role, ensuring the safety and preparedness of divers and equipment during dive operations.

Scope

This SOP applies to all dive crew members assigned to the Surface Support role.

Procedure

Core Responsibilities

  1. Review Contingency Plans: Collaborate with the Captain and Dive Guides to review contingency plans. Discuss roles and actions in scenarios such as increased current, dive aborts, or broken moorings.
  2. Prepare the Boat for Diving: Ensure the boat is fully prepared by setting up dive flags, the current line, tag line, ladder, and other necessary equipment.
  3. Check Tank Valves: Double-check that all tank valves are fully OPEN before divers enter the water.
  4. Diver Assistance: Provide assistance to divers entering and exiting the water to ensure safety and efficiency.
  5. Monitor Diver Safety: Continuously observe divers underwater by tracking their bubbles. This is a critical safety responsibility.
    • Avoid Distractions: Refrain from napping or playing music if it interferes with monitoring divers.
    • Adapt to Current Changes: Regularly check the current line. If currents strengthen, extend the tag line by attaching additional floating line.
  6. Housekeeping: While still maintaining situational awareness, perform the following tasks:

Equipment Inspection and Maintenance

  1. Tool Kit Inspection:

    • Inspect and clean the tool kit after each use.
    • Ensure all tools are present and in good working condition.
    • Notify immediately if tools are missing or broken.

  2. Oxygen (O2) and First Aid Kits:

    • Check the O2 kit and first aid kit for completeness.
    • Check the O2 pressure levels.
    • Notify immediately if anything is missing, needs service, or the O2 needs refilling. O2 kits can be refilled at the hyperbaric chamber.

  3. General Maintenance:

    • Use Ospho on rust.
      • Refer to instructions on how to use Ospho properly.
      • Avoid chemical usage without consulting the guides. Improper use can damage equipment or cause injury.
      • Relying on informal advice like "That's how I was told" is not acceptable. Always verify instructions.
      • Use the correct RainX for the windows if needed (specific RainX for plastic windows vs. glass. Using the wrong one will destroy the window).
      • Other tasks as you see the need to keep the boats clean and organized.

Danger

Use PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) when using chemicals. You do NOT want Ospho in your eyes.

Operational Tasks

  1. Organize Weights and Belts:

    • Tidy and organize the weights and belts to ease future use.

  2. Prepare Tanks and Gear:

    • Organize tanks and gear for the next dive.
    • Order more tanks/gear for the PM dive if needed. Stay organized.

  3. Manifest Completion:

    • Accurately fill out all information on the dive manifest.

  4. Personal Gear Preparation:

    • If applicable, have your own gear ready for the next dive.

Warning

  • Be Vigilant: Surface support is a critical role that requires constant attention and vigilance.
  • Communication: Promptly report any issues or shortages to ensure seamless dive operations.
  • Notify Issues Immediately: This can't be stressed enough. We can't fix unreported issues.

Accountability

All crew members assigned to Surface Support are responsible for following this SOP. Report any equipment issues or safety concerns to the Captain immediately.