You have probably heard it many times before, diving is a relatively safe sport, especially when you take into consideration that we are going into a realm where we can’t breathe without relying on our equipment and we breathe compressed gas at depth. Not all dive centers have the highest regard for safety when it comes to taking others diving, therefore you need to know what to look out for so that you can make the ultimate decision about who to dive with and make sure you are not choosing an unsafe dive center.
The underwater world is fascinating, exciting and fun, even if it can be a bit daunting and scary at times. This makes it easy for us to forget the safety factors and it might not even cross your mind that some dive centers aren’t going to be taking the best care of you.
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Check out this list of warning signs to watch out for in a dive center:
1. Poor Equipment Maintenance.
High-quality dive centers invest in their equipment. If you see gear that appears neglected, old, or faulty, this could be an indication of how the training center regards safety. A well-maintained setup should be non-negotiable. Ask to see the center’s equipment room, this will give you a better idea of how their equipment is treated. Is it all hung up nicely, able to dry properly between dives?
2. Lack of Certifications or Not Affiliated to a Training Agency.
All instructors must have valid certifications from recognized organizations such as SSI, NAUI, or PADI.. If the center’s staff cannot provide these certifications or seem evasive when asked, it’s best to consider other options. The dive center should also have a membership license to prove that they are currently affiliated to a training agency for that calendar year.
3. The Dive Center is Dirty and Unorganised.
Hygiene is often overlooked but is of great importance. A dive center that doesn’t maintain cleanliness can be a health risk, and it might also suggest overall poor management. The same dive center may be unorganized, you may notice the reception area is messy and chaotic with equipment on the floor and paperwork all over the desk. This dive center probably isn’t able to conduct a dive safely and dont forget, if you are renting equipment you want to ensure that hygiene and cleanliness is top priority.
4. The Compressor Room Is not in Good Shape.
Ask to see where they fill the tanks, does everything look clean, rust free and does the air inside the room seem clean. Ensure the compressor is not in a location where it may take in polluted air such as dirt from the road, car pollution, smoking area, etc. Is the person responsible for filling the tanks smoking? The second hand smoke could be getting inside your tank.
5. They Don’t Ask to See a Valid Diving Certification Prior to Diving.
Some dive centers may just accept your word that you are certified, without actually asking to see a certification. Additionally you may be taken on a dive that isn’t suitable to your experience level. Whether you enjoy the dive or not, the fact is that the dive center is taking risks with your life and that of others by taking your deeper or on more extreme dives than you are trained for. Quality instruction requires focus and commitment. If the staff seem rushed, distracted, or uninterested, this could indicate a lack of professionalism.
6. Ignoring Safety Standards.
Safety should be the topmost priority for any dive center. If the instructors dismiss safety rules or don’t take time to explain them, it’s a clear sign that you should look elsewhere. For example, They encourage you to do a dive above your experience level or do not suggest you do a refresher dive, even after a year or more of not diving. Ultimately it is up to you, and if you refuse a refresher dive the dive center can still take you diving, but any dive center that truly cares about your safety would recommend that you do a refresher or check dive upon arrival, even if its just to get used to your rental equipment, the conditions and to ensure you are properly weighted.
7. Overcrowded Dive Groups
While it might be more profitable for a dive center to have larger groups, this practice can significantly decrease the level of supervision and overall safety. A reputable center will keep group sizes manageable for the benefit of its divers. A manageable dive group will vary depending on the conditions, dive site, as well as divers level, so it isn’t always easy to judge, but if you feel that the dive professional is not able to offer you assistance when needed due to the amount of divers, then the group is probably too big.
8. Insufficient Briefings
A thorough dive briefing should be a standard part of every dive. If the center rushes through this vital step or neglects it entirely, it’s a clear indication of a lack of regard for safety. A good briefing shouldn’t only include what you might see underwater, but should give you an idea of the conditions, how to react to possible situations that might arise as well as explain the emergency procedures of that dive center. If emergency procedures are not explained, it could mean there are none, if you are unsure, or concerned, ask your dive leader and while you are at it ask to see the emergency oxygen and first aid kit.
9. Negative Reviews and Reputation.
Of course, reviews must be taken with a pinch of salt. Some people like to see the negative in everything and also not everyone’s opinion is the same. Check online reviews and ask around within the diving community. If you notice a pattern of negative feedback, especially in regards to treatment and safety or hear about poor experiences, it’s worth reconsidering your choice.
10. Trust Your Instinct.
Are you not greeted in a friendly way? Are your concerns waived and you are told not to worry, without getting an explanation or being put at ease? Are you being put in a dive group that doesn’t match your skill set? Trust your gut feeling, even if you are being concerned about nothing, it is better to find a dive shop you feel comfortable with where you can enjoy your dives in a relaxed manner, than to stick with a dive center you don’t trust and feel worried and stressed out during a dive, don’t forget that stress can accumulate and while the initial pre-dive stress may be small, it could become something bigger underwater.
Remember, your safety and enjoyment are paramount. When choosing a dive center, take your time and make sure you select a reputable and professional operation that values your well-being above all else.
Stay safe and happy diving!
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