Scientific Diving & Boating Safety
Scientific Diving & Boating Safety

ensuring safety of researchers on and in the water
The Diving Safety office oversees all Scientific Diving that is to occur throughout any discipline at USF. In addition, the office is also responsible for the oversight of diving that occurs through the Florida Institute of Oceanography (FIO) whether at the FIO lab or onboard any of the USF or FIO owned research vessels. Obtaining clearance for diving projects can be a timely process. Sufficient time for preparations should be considered.
The USF Scientific Diving Program is a participating member in good standing of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS). By being a member of AAUS, USF adheres to the community standards for Scientific
Diving as outlined by the AAUS Scientific Diving Standards. USF also gets to participate
in reciprocity offered by over 125 other AAUS organizational members.
The USF Boating program is responsible for all USF sanctioned research activities involving the use of small
vessels. This widespread reach applies to all individuals who wish to operate any
vessel used for research under the auspices of the USF regardless of ownership. This
includes all disciplines at the University of South Florida and the Florida Institute
of Oceanography along with any of the USF affiliate groups.