PADI Divemaster Certification 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Holding the BCD at the shoulder is a good general method for making direct contact with a student diver because it provides both control and safety. Gripping the BCD at the shoulder allows the instructor or divemaster to stabilize the student without causing any distress or confusion. This method keeps the diver oriented and secure while minimizing the risk of inadvertent injuries.

Using this technique, the diver is still able to manage their buoyancy and maintain a proper posture in the water. Additionally, this contact point is less intrusive compared to grabbing at the arms, where a diver might feel threatened or restricted. Holding the tank can interfere with the diver's buoyancy and might not provide effective control in all situations. Relying solely on hand signals without physical contact may not be sufficient to guide or assist a student in more complicated scenarios, especially in stressful conditions or turbulence. Therefore, holding the BCD at the shoulder strikes a balance between guidance and comfort for the student diver.