What is the function of a standby diver?

• A. Rescue or assist the working diver in an emergency
• B. Monitor depth
• C. Adjust buoyancy
• D. Record dive time

Answer: (A)

The standby diver exists to provide immediate rescue or assistance to the working diver if something goes wrong. In dive operations, emergencies can develop rapidly—air supply issues, entanglement, equipment failure, or an exhausted diver—and having a nearby standby diver ready to act reduces the time to respond, which can prevent serious injury or drowning. This diver is equipped and trained to initiate rescue procedures, help with a safe ascent, share gas if needed, and assist with removing gear or stabilizing the diver until surface support takes over. While monitoring equipment or depth and maintaining communication are important parts of the operation, the primary purpose of the standby diver is to be ready to rescue or aid the working diver in an emergency.