Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

In this episode, we examine a near-miss incident involving a CCR diver who narrowly avoided a hypoxic event during a liveaboard dive. Using this real-life scenario, we explore the importance of understanding human factors and causal reasoning in diving, focusing on how fatigue, stress, environmental distractions, and system design can shape performance and decision-making. We discuss the dangers of hindsight bias, the need to learn from "work-as-done" rather than idealized procedures, and how moving beyond blame helps identify systemic issues to improve safety and resilience. Tune in to discover how these lessons can help you dive safer and smarter.   Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/ccr-diver-goes-hypoxic-on-the-surface   Links: “If Only…” documentary: https://www.thehumandiver.com/ifonly HFiD: Essentials class: https://www.thehumandiver.com/essentials-2025 HFiD: Masterclass: https://www.thehumandiver.com/masterclass-2025 More about the WITH model: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/don-t-just-focus-on-the-errors Dirty Dozen Pre-Splash Checklist: https://thedirtydozenexpeditions.com/s/THD_DD-Splash-Checklist-40.pdf Work as done vs work as imagined: https://youtu.be/vtgIwHrUWVQ?si=nKE--HgZPzMaJV7C Diving Talks; Heroes and Villains in Diving: https://youtu.be/gXUhFLK2j3M Video about the Linnea Mills case: https://youtu.be/3b1Mm8zXUow Sign up for LFUO courses here: https://www.thehumandiver.com/lfuo   Tags:  English, CCR, Gareth Lock, Incident Analysis, Just Culture

In this episode, we dive into the impact of human factors on decision-making in diving, focusing on how environmental elements like fatigue and cold temperatures can shape performance. We explore how jet lag from travel affects cognitive ability and the strategies to mitigate its effects, as well as how cold water impacts dexterity, buoyancy, and mental processing. With insights into the physiological and mental challenges these conditions create, we discuss practical steps to reduce their impact and emphasize the importance of awareness in making better, safer decisions underwater. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-effect-of-your-environment-on-your-decision-making-performance-shaping-factors-in-diving   Links: Diver performance and the effects of cold: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/001872086801000501   Tags:  English, Guy Shockey, Performance Shaping Factors

In this episode, we explore the critical role of understanding hazards in diving and the importance of effective risk management. From the everyday threat of drowning to the more abstract risks like decompression sickness, we discuss how divers rely on equipment, training, and planning to mitigate dangers. The conversation highlights overlooked hazards like differential pressure (DeltaP), which can be deadly when misunderstood, as illustrated by tragic real-world examples. We also examine the psychology of risk normalization, emphasizing that ignorance of hazards can lead to complacency and tragedy. By raising awareness and promoting informed decision-making, this episode underscores the necessity of knowledge, preparation, and humility in diving safety. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/you-can-t-risk-assess-a-hazard-you-don-t-know-about-deltap   Links: Risk or Uncertainty blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/risk-or-uncertainty Ignaz Semmelweis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ignaz_Semmelweis Video of a toy diver experiencing Delta P: https://youtu.be/uI0WOdX7cfU?t=350 Video of diver clearing lock gate: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWGFEZ1tpsg Incompetent and Unaware presentation: https://youtu.be/pGBYj1BNhvI?si=fioKreIdIS_5nX1F Follow up video to lock gate clearance: https://youtu.be/nKp8duCNvyQ?si=-8jAyHQVGWTP8Ov7 Normalisation of risk blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/normalisation-of-deviance-not-about-rule-breaking Differential pressure hazards in diving - Diving Information Sheet No. 13Delta P ADCI Checklist Tags:  English, Decision-Making, Gareth Lock, Risk, Risk Management

In this episode, we explore how a liveaboard trip in Indonesia integrated Human Factors training to transform the diving experience. Jenny Lord from The Human Diver, Brent Webb from Scuba Adventures in Texas and Mark from Master Liveaboards collaborated to create a unique environment focused on psychological safety, teamwork, and debriefing. Over a week, 19 divers, with varying levels of Human Factors training, participated in engaging talks on topics like decision-making, situation awareness, and leadership, alongside dive debriefs that fostered shared understanding and growth. The trip highlighted the power of open communication, self-reflection, and learning from mistakes, leaving participants inspired to bring these skills to their own diving practices and beyond. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-first-human-factors-in-diving-liveaboard   Tags:  English, Communication, Debrief, Jenny Lord, Learning, Psychological Safety

Speaking up when something feels off—whether on the dive boat, in a briefing, or underwater—is key to building a safe and inclusive dive culture. In this episode, we explore how small interventions, from a simple pause to a well-placed question, can shift group dynamics and reinforce psychological safety. Using real-world diving scenarios, research-backed strategies, and insights from human factors, we discuss how to challenge problematic comments without escalating conflict. Tune in to learn how small moments can shape dive team culture and why speaking up, even subtly, can make a big difference. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/wtf-did-you-just-say-i-said-nothing   Links: Reel from Kenny Dyal and Sweetwater Scuba: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1385836736105494 Blog from Nic Emery: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/what-are-we-pretending-not-to-know Psychological safety blogs from THD: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog?tag=psychological+safety “How to say when it’s not ok” paper: https://www.lboro.ac.uk/media/media/campaigns/iwd/how-to-say-when-its-not-okay.pdf THD wetnotes: https://the-human-diver.myshopify.com/collections/frontpage/products/thd-wetnotes-divers-notebook Asch conformity experiments: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEhABrJ4T2Y   Tags:  English, Communications, Gareth Lock, Leadership, Psychological Safety, Teamwork

Effective dive briefings are key to safe and successful dives, yet many divers overlook their importance. In this episode, we explore how structured briefings help build a shared mental model, reducing misunderstandings and improving team coordination. Using the UNITED-C framework—covering goals, roles, risks, contingencies, and more—we break down how to deliver clear, effective dive briefings that set your team up for success. Tune in to learn how small changes in briefing style can enhance safety, teamwork, and overall dive experience. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/Why%20are%20dive%20briefings%20important%3F%20How%20to%20deliver%20them%20effectively   Links: Get The Human Diver wetnotes here: https://the-human-diver.myshopify.com/collections/frontpage/products/thd-wetnotes-divers-notebook   Tags:  English, Brief, Mike Mason, Team, Teamwork

Show Notes Summary: In this episode, we dive into the challenges of effective communication, especially in multicultural and high-stakes environments like diving. Using a real-life example from a Human Factors in Diving class, we discuss how cultural misunderstandings and non-verbal cues can lead to confusion and unintended consequences. We explore the importance of tailoring messages to your audience, breaking communication into manageable chunks, and using techniques like pauses, closed-loop communication, and clear written formatting to ensure understanding. Whether on land or underwater, making your message "land well" is key to building shared understanding and effective teamwork. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/being-understood-not-just-transmitting   Links: Another blog about Situation Awareness: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/unleashing-your-sixth-sense   Tags:  English, Communication, Communications, Debrief, Jenny Lord, Situation Awareness, Team

Show Notes Summary: In this episode, we explore the concept of normalization of deviance and how it applies to diving. Inspired by a Divemaster's comment about surfacing gas reserves, we discuss how divers can unknowingly drift from safety standards over time, often influenced by social norms or perceived authority. Normalization of deviance, coined by Diane Vaughan, describes how repeated deviations from acceptable standards become normalized when no immediate consequences occur. We contrast this with constructive deviation—deliberate, researched changes to improve safety—and share practical steps to guard against normalization of deviance in diving: establish clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), conduct thorough pre-dive briefs, and hold regular debriefs. Building a culture of psychological safety is essential for divers to feel empowered to question and challenge unsafe practices. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/normalization-of-deviance-risk-how-socially-accepted-drift-can-impact-your-diving   Links: NOD isn’t about rule breaking blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/normalisation-of-deviance-not-about-rule-breaking Debrief model” https://www.thehumandiver.com/debrief   Tags:  English, Decision-Making, John Strobridge, Normalisation of Deviance, Normalization of Deviance, Risk

Diving is often seen as a safe and relaxing sport, but true safety goes beyond avoiding accidents—it requires building resilience and learning from mistakes. In this episode, we explore how incidents often stem from systemic pressures and "practical drift," not just individual errors. Through real-world examples from diving and other high-risk industries, we highlight the importance of open debriefs, a just culture, and robust training to prepare divers for real-world challenges. By embracing transparency and focusing on system-level improvements, we can create a safer, more adaptive diving community that prioritizes learning and continuous improvement. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/linnea-mills-death-hf-systems-lens   Links: “Bad Apples”: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/from_blaming_to_learning Just a Routine Operation video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzlvgtPIof4 Court submission for Linnea Mills death: https://www.scribd.com/document/555406095/Mills-v-Gull-Dive-Center-PADI-2nd-Amended-Complaint History as a cause: https://www.montana.edu/rmaher/engr125/CAIB-History%20as%20a%20cause.pdf Restorative Just Culture checklist: https://safetydifferently.com/restorative-just-culture-checklist/ Laura Walton’s Fit to Dive: https://www.fittodive.org/ Diving incidents often remain hidden: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DRXqeQvRFK0 Sidney Dekker’s tunnel: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/its-obvious-why-it-happened Research about sharing stories in diving: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DRXqeQvRFK0 Blogs on THD about psychological safety: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog?tag=psychological+safety Blogs on THD about why context matters: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/search?q=context+matters Asking questions about local rationality: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/learning-reviews-in-diving   Tags:  English, Gareth Lock, Healthcare, Incident Analysis, Just Culture, Normalisation of Deviance, Psychological Safety

In this episode, we explore why situational awareness (SA) is the most critical skill for divers, even more so than technical abilities like buoyancy control or propulsion. SA isn’t just about noticing and processing information—it’s about projecting it into the future to anticipate outcomes. Through real-world examples, we highlight how building mental models—scripts based on experience and “what if” thinking—helps divers make quicker, better decisions in complex scenarios. We also discuss the vital role of structured debriefs in turning experiences into actionable insights, ultimately creating divers who can handle challenges with confidence and skill. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/situation-awareness-and-mental-models-making-it-easier-to-the-do-the-right-thing   Links: Further reading from The Human Diver blog: Selective Attention Exists! 5 Tips to Increase Situational Awareness in Diving Unleashing Your Sixth Sense: Building capacity and directing attention Running out of gas- Why does this happen and how can we prevent it? How do I improve my Situation Awareness? You can't pay MORE attention: the myth of 'loss of situation awareness'   Tags:  English, Debrief, Guy Shockey, Situation Awareness

In this episode, we explore the challenges and lessons from diving in the Baltic Sea, where high-pressure conditions tested both skill and decision-making. We delve into the concepts of just culture and psychological safety, emphasizing their importance in fostering open communication, learning from mistakes, and creating safer systems. Drawing parallels to regulated industries like aviation, we discuss how divers can benefit from sharing experiences without fear of judgment and how understanding the "why" behind errors leads to meaningful improvements. Through real-world examples, we highlight the value of trust, reflection, and teamwork in making diving safer and more enjoyable for everyone. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/what-if-just-culture-and-psychological-safety-is-not-enough   Links: Discussing dives when things go wrong: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/why-is-it-so-hard-to-talk-about-failure Sensitive System Syndrome: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11700375/   Tags:  English, Andrzej Górnicki, Just Culture, Psychological Safety

In this episode, we explore the critical role of leadership in diving, focusing on the responsibilities dive professionals take on as role models. From following standard operating procedures to fostering psychological safety, we discuss how every action, intentional or not, shapes the behavior of students and less experienced divers. We emphasize the importance of admitting mistakes to build trust and create a learning environment where open dialogue thrives. Additionally, we highlight the value of continued education to stay empathetic and relatable as instructors. Ultimately, great dive leadership extends beyond technical skills, shaping safer and more confident divers. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-diving-professional-leadership-is-not-optional   Links: Blogs about Leadership: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog?tag=leadership   Tags:  English, Guy Shockey, Leadership, Psychological Safety

The holiday season often highlights how stress can strain relationships and impact decision-making, both in everyday life and high-stakes activities like scuba diving. Stress narrows our focus, making it easy to miss critical information or react impulsively. Using tools like Viktor Frankl's concept of the space between stimulus and response, or the mantra "Stop, Think, Breathe, Act," we can pause and respond thoughtfully under pressure. Real-life diving scenarios—like an instructor managing a student emergency, a diver dealing with damaged gear, or a Dive Master handling group separation—illustrate how stress can shape outcomes. By identifying stressors using the HALT method (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired) and reflecting on events with curiosity rather than judgment, we can learn, grow, and make better decisions, both underwater and on land. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/stress-a-challenge-we-all-face   Tags:  English, Mike Mason, Performance Shaping Factors, Stress

In this episode, we dive into what makes an effective team, both above and below the surface. Using insights from a dive centre in Egypt, we explore how teamwork goes beyond buddy pairs, emphasizing shared goals, mutual accountability, and trust. We discuss why planning, adaptability, and understanding each other's roles are key to working interdependently, especially in dynamic environments like diving. Whether you're guiding, learning, or just enjoying the dive, every diver is part of the team. Join us as we reflect on how small changes can strengthen teamwork and improve safety and enjoyment for everyone. How does your team measure up? Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/teams-buddies-the-difference   Tags:  English, Jenny Lord, Team, Teamwork, Trust

In this episode, we explore how asking the right questions can transform communication, whether during a dive briefing or a post-dive debrief. We discuss the difference between closed questions, which provide quick answers, and open questions, which encourage deeper understanding and learning. Using techniques like TEDS (Tell, Explain, Describe, Show), we can foster better communication, ensure alignment within the team, and create an environment where everyone feels safe to speak up. We also cover how to frame debrief questions to focus on events rather than individuals, encouraging growth and collaboration. Effective communication is all about how you ask, not just what you ask. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/communications-ask-better-questions   Tags:  English, Brief, Communication, Communications, Debrief, Mike Mason

In this episode, we explore how cognitive biases like hindsight bias, severity bias, outcome bias, and confirmation bias impact our ability to learn from accidents and incidents, both in diving and beyond. Using recent Red Sea liveaboard tragedies as a backdrop, we discuss why some events seem “obvious” only in hindsight, how severe outcomes lead to harsher judgments, and the danger of stopping investigations once a single cause is found. By understanding how biases shape our reactions, we can shift from judgment to learning, asking better questions and uncovering the deeper factors behind decisions and actions. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/we-are-all-biased   Links: BBC articles: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp3z0k72yw3o https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c87dxx41lvvo Sea story sinking news report (in German): https://taucher.net/diveinside-safariboot_sea_story_im_roten_meer_gesunken-kaz9391 List of Red Sea dive boat sinkings: https://matthiasmunz.de/Sunken_Diving_Safari_Boats_Egypt/ Tags: English, Cognitive Biases, Decision Making, Decision-Making, Gareth Lock, Hindsight Bias, Jenny Lord

In this episode, we dive into the story of a diver’s lost fin to explore the challenges of decision-making, task fixation, and situation awareness underwater. Through the lens of a training dive gone awry, we uncover how both students and instructors can fall into cognitive traps, focusing narrowly on immediate tasks while losing sight of broader risks. Highlighting the importance of structured debriefing, reflective discussions, and the DEBrIEF model, we discuss how understanding "how it made sense" in the moment can lead to better mental models and a culture of learning in diving. This tale is a reminder that diving isn’t just about technical skills—it’s about building awareness, fostering teamwork, and learning from every experience. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-lost-fin-a-lesson-in-situation-awarness   Tags:  English, Andrzej Górnicki, Debrief, Decision-Making, Hindsight Bias, Situation Awareness

This podcast dives into the analysis of a cave diving fatality at Cenote Nariz in Mexico, based on a detailed report by the Creer Line and Safety Committee. The incident highlights critical lessons for divers in all environments, emphasizing the importance of understanding human factors, decision-making, and context in adverse events. While the exact cause of the diver's seizure remains uncertain, likely contributors include hypercapnia or hyperoxia, exacerbated by equipment and procedural factors. Broader lessons focus on fostering safety cultures, avoiding the normalization of risk, maintaining equipment rigor, and embracing systems that encourage learning without blame. Join us to explore how these insights can improve safety and awareness across diving disciplines. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/change-your-language-change-the-world   Links: Podcast ‘Hidden Brain’- are our memories real?: https://hiddenbrain.org/podcast/are-your-memories-real/ Blog about Agency: https://indepthmag.com/the-role-of-agency-when-discussing-diving-incidents-an-adverse-event-occurs-an-instructor-makes-a-mistake/ Learning Reviews: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/learning-reviews-in-diving Podcast ‘How did it make sense’: https://www.humaninthesystem.co.uk/hits-hdims How language changes the way we think TED talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKK7wGAYP6k The Power and Pitfalls of Language in Accident Investigation: https://nescacademy.nasa.gov/video/2c1ea826930946ff8659621ee83bec931d The Power Of Language: https://mindsetleadership.co.uk/2023/09/01/the-power-of-language/   Tags:  English, Cognitive Biases, Communication, Gareth Lock, Incident Analysis, Incident Reporting

This podcast dives into the analysis of a cave diving fatality at Cenote Nariz in Mexico, based on a detailed report by the CREER Line and Safety Committee. The incident highlights critical lessons for divers in all environments, emphasizing the importance of understanding human factors, decision-making, and context in adverse events. While the exact cause of the diver's seizure remains uncertain, likely contributors include hypercapnia or hyperoxia, exacerbated by equipment and procedural factors. Broader lessons focus on fostering safety cultures, avoiding the normalization of risk, maintaining equipment rigor, and embracing systems that encourage learning without blame. Join us to explore how these insights can improve safety and awareness across diving disciplines. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/mx-singlefatality-report   Links: CREER: https://creer-mx.com/ Accident report: https://creer-mx.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Single-Diver-Fatality-in-Cenote-Nariz-on-3-February-2024.pdf A Just Culture is not a 'just do it' culture: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/a-just-culture-is-not-a-just-do-it-culture Counterfactuals: I would have lined in: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/counterfactuals Why is it so hard to admit our mistakes?: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/why-is-it-so-hard-to-admit-to-our-mistakes Tags:  English, Cave Diving, Gareth Lock, Incident Analysis, Just Culture

This episode explores the power of small, intentional changes to improve teamwork, leadership, and performance in diving. Drawing from the Human Diver team's experience with a new training platform, we discuss how focusing on key skills like communication, task prioritization, and role clarity can create significant improvements. By embracing curiosity, running effective debriefs, sharing stories, and taking actionable steps, we can build safer, more effective diving practices. Change starts with small actions, and owning that change is the key to lasting impact. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/what-one-thing   Links: Marginal gains: https://jamesclear.com/marginal-gains DEBrIEF guide: https://www.thehumandiver.com/debrief If Only… documentary: https://www.thehumandiver.com/ifonly The Human Diver blogs: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog Contact Gareth: https://www.thehumandiver.com/contact The Essentials class: https://www.thehumandiver.com/HFiD-Essentials Level 1 Webinar: https://www.thehumandiver.com/hfid-level-1-webinar-series Face-to-Face program: https://www.thehumandiver.com/hfid-level-2 2 relevant blogs: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/knowledge-is-not-enough-we-must-apply https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-power-of-one   Tags:  English, Debrief, Decision-Making, Gareth Lock, If Only, Just Culture, Leadership