Policy

Smithsonian Institution (SI) policy regarding diving activities conducted under its auspices are defined in the SCIENTIFIC DIVING SAFETY MANUAL.  The Smithsonian Scientific Diving Program (SDP) is a research based diving program. The SDP does not support recreational or citizen science diving. 

See REQUIREMENTS to learn about qualifications necessary to participate in SI Diving activities.

See AUTHORIZATION to learn about diving authorization procedures at SI. 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), U.S. Department of Labor permits scientific diving to be exempted from OSHA standards applicable to commercial diving [29 CFR Part 1910, Subpart T].  All scientific diving conducted under the auspices of the SI is to be performed safely and in a manner consistent with applicable regulations and prevailing accepted practices and procedures for safe scientific diving in the United States. The diver certification, diving criteria and procedures, and all safety standards shall comply in all respects with the guidelines and regulations of OSHA GUIDELINES FOR SCIENTIFIC DIVING .

The SDP is a current Organizational Member of the AMERICAN ACADEMY OF UNDERWATER SCIENCES.