Who manages the diver's umbilical during the dive?

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

Answer: (A)

The tender is responsible for managing the diver’s umbilical. On a surface-supplied dive, the tender stands on the surface and handles the line that connects the diver to the surface, paying out or reeling in as the diver moves and keeping the line under proper tension. This ensures a continuous supply of gas or air, maintains a clear route to prevent snagging, and provides immediate assistance if the diver needs to ascend or change position. The tender also communicates with the diver and with the dive supervisor to coordinate movements and safety signals.

The supervisor oversees the dive plan and overall safety, but does not physically manage the umbilical during the dive. The diver relies on the surface lines to supply air and to communicate, not to control the line themselves, while the safety officer ensures procedures are followed.