How often should surface-supplied diving equipment be inspected?

• A. Before each dive
• B. After each dive
• C. Before and after each dive
• D. Once a week

Answer: (C)

Inspecting surface-supplied diving gear both before and after each dive ensures readiness and catches issues that could affect safety. Before the dive, you confirm the gas supply is correct and uncontaminated, hoses and connections are secure, regulators and emergency devices function, the helmet or hood, suit, and communications are in good condition, and the umbilical is intact with no leaks. You also perform a quick functional test and leak check and verify that backup gas and emergency procedures are ready. After the dive, you look for any signs of damage, wear, corrosion, loose fittings, leaks, or contamination that may have occurred during use, and you document findings so equipment can be repaired or replaced before the next dive. This approach protects the diver by ensuring the gear is safe both for immediate use and for continued use, whereas inspecting only once a week or only before or after a dive could miss problems that arise during operation.