What is the role of the Standby Diver?

• A. Maintain the dive plan and communicate changes to the crew.
• B. Remain ready to assist, monitor both divers, and initiate rescue if needed.
• C. Lead the dive from the surface using a remote-control device.
• D. Perform gas analysis and monitor gas purity.

Answer: (B)

The Standby Diver is the safety backup who stays ready to intervene at a moment’s notice. Their main role is to be prepared to assist, monitor both divers, and initiate rescue if needed. This means they’re positioned to respond quickly to any sign of trouble—air supply issues, equipment malfunctions, entanglement, or a diver in distress—and to take immediate action to bring someone to safety. They also maintain communication with the surface team and the dive supervisor to coordinate a rapid, organized response.

Other activities described in different roles don’t fit this responsibility. Planning the dive and communicating changes are functions of the dive supervisor, leading the dive from the surface with remote control isn’t a standard standby duty, and performing gas analysis or monitoring gas purity isn’t typically the standby diver’s job.