Which person is primarily responsible for the safe handling of the diver's umbilical during a surface-supplied dive?

• A. The diver
• B. The tender
• C. The supervisor
• D. The safety officer

Answer: (B)

The tender is the person at the surface who physically manages the diver’s umbilical. Their job is to guide the line, control slack and tension, and keep the umbilical clear of obstacles and snag risks as the diver moves in and out of the water. This hands-on responsibility ensures the diver can breathe, communicate, and receive any line-related assistance quickly, which is essential for safe ascent, descent, and emergency response. The diver relies on signals and operates underwater, while the supervisor oversees the operation and safety plan, and the safety officer ensures compliance and risk controls. But the actual safe handling of the umbilical during the dive falls to the tender, making them the primary person for this task.