What are the primary responsibilities of a dive tender?

The role of a dive tender is crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of diving operations. A dive tender is primarily responsible for assisting divers, which includes helping with equipment preparation, managing communication with the divers who are underwater, monitoring their well-being, and coordinating with the surface crew. This support is vital because it allows the divers to focus on their tasks while knowing that they have a reliable person managing their safety and communication.

Effective communication between the dive tender and the divers ensures that any issues can be swiftly addressed, and it facilitates a smooth operation. This role also includes the oversight of safety measures and readiness to follow emergency protocols if necessary, which underscores the tender's importance in the diving team structure.

While preparing diving equipment and performing maintenance are important aspects of dive operations, these tasks are typically performed by specialized personnel rather than the dive tender themselves. Leading the dive team is the responsibility of the dive supervisor or dive leader, as they have the skills and authority to make decisive operational choices during the dive. Thus, assisting divers and managing communication is the primary responsibility that aligns with the functions of a dive tender in ensuring a safe and successful dive.