PDC Course Dive Tender

The role of the tender is to assist the diver assembling the rig, kitting and de-kitting, checking the diver’s equipment as it is put on and double checking before they enter the water. The tender is also responsible for assisting the diver in and out of the water, tending the diver’s lifeline/comms line, communicating with the diver and providing clear communications to the supervisor.

Although no certification is needed to act as a tender, the assigned tender on a dive team must have a degree of relevant competence, understand diving issues and requirements: Ideally a 2 day course at Puffin Dive Centre trains the candidate on Diver control and Tender responsibilities and certification shows the competency of a diving tender when working in a dive team. It is always the supervisor’s responsibility to ensure that the tender is trained sufficiently for purpose.

Training and the checks made by the tender will include:

* Comfort check

* That Buoyancy via suit inflation and/or BCD is functional

* Weighting and method of securing the weights is appropriate

* Harness and buckles on all equipment including the tank are secure and functional

* Tanks are open, the switching block is functional, and air pressure is sufficient for the diving plan

* Functionality of the regulator set is acceptable to the diver and working normally

* Fins, hood, mask, and any ancillary equipment are correctly attached

* Lifeline and communications are connected and functional (some dives only)

* Tools are correct, attached and functioning.

* Diver understands brief and confirms confidence and readiness

During the dive, the tender will confirm air pressures. He will also monitor and record the progress whilst the divers follow the objective of the dive. The supervisor may curtail the dive at any point for drill or operational purposes.

Checks during the dive will include:

* Air quantity
* Time quantity
* Task progress
* Positional timings
* Confidence checks

Divers will respond to these checks in accordance with agreed communication procedures.  The tender will learn communication failure procedures through a drills and master rope signals.

Recommended additional training for the Tender are:

First Aid at Work 

Oxygen First Aid