The responsibilities and activities of the SDP include:
- Establish standards and implement procedures for conducting safe diving operations.
- Train and certify research scientists and technicians in diving and diving medical related subjects.
- Provide safe, state-of-the-art, and well maintained dive equipment.
- Provide guidance and expertise to the diving community.
- Investigate and implement new diving technologies and techniques.
- Foster cooperative working relationships with other diving programs.
- Promote the SI and the SDP through educational outreach.
- Provide equipment, personnel, and expertise in support of SI field operations, as needed.
SI policy regarding diving activities conducted under its auspices can be found in the SI-SCIENTIFIC DIVING SAFETY MANUAL.