PADI Divemaster Certification Practice Exam

When should a divemaster intervene with a student diver?

1. During any minor issue

2. Only when safety is at risk

3. When the student is doing well

4. At the beginning of each dive

The correct answer is: Only when safety is at risk

The appropriate time for a divemaster to intervene with a student diver is when safety is at risk. Ensuring the safety of all divers is a primary responsibility of a divemaster, and intervention is crucial when a situation poses a potential danger, whether that be due to a lack of proper skills, a potential equipment failure, or unsafe diving behavior. A divemaster must remain vigilant and assess the divers’ situations continuously, stepping in only when necessary to prevent accidents or incidents. This prioritization of safety means that rather than intervening at the first sign of any issue—minor or not—or at times when the student seems to be doing well, the divemaster’s focus should be on significant safety concerns. Furthermore, intervening at the beginning of each dive isn’t necessarily practical or effective if divers are adequately prepared, as their safety should be addressed with situational awareness throughout the dive.