What is the leading cause of dive-related incidents?

Human error is recognized as the leading cause of dive-related incidents due to the critical role diver decision-making plays in safety. Divers are responsible for a variety of choices, ranging from pre-dive planning and equipment checks to managing their actions underwater. Mistakes can occur due to a lack of experience, poor judgment, miscommunication, or failure to adhere to dive protocols. Factors such as stress, panic, and inadequate training can further exacerbate the likelihood of human error, leading to dangerous situations.

While equipment failure, environmental conditions, and physiological effects of diving can certainly contribute to incidents, they often stem from actions or oversights on the diver's part. For instance, if a diver neglects to perform proper maintenance on their equipment, leading to a failure during the dive, that is a result of human error in judgment or diligence. Similarly, an understanding of environmental conditions and how to respond to them is essential for divers; if a diver misjudges their navigation decisions in challenging conditions, it reflects human error.

Prioritizing training that promotes decision-making skills and situational awareness can significantly reduce the risk associated with human error, ultimately enhancing dive safety.