Temporary Diving Authorization
The Smithsonian may authorize diving activities
on a temporary basis for scientists visiting Smithsonian facilities
or projects.
Temporary diving authorization is the mechanism used to authorize
scientists who are not employed by AAUS organizational
member institutions. If you were previously certified by an
AAUS organizational member program, please have that diving
officer contact the Smithsonian.
Visiting divers must be on a submitted dive plan
6 weeks prior to diving activities AND ensure
all requirements are completed, current
and submitted 2 weeks in advance
to allow for Smithsonian scientific diving authorization.
To initiate the diving authorization process, the diver must
complete the following steps:
Once your diving is complete, you will be required
to enter your dive logs into DECOSTOP.
No diving under Smithsonian auspices is allowed
until:
1) the Smithsonian Temporary diving form has
been reviewed and all elements have been completed, including
the signatures of the scientific diver, home institution Diving
Officer, and Department Chairperson, and;
2) the submitted Smithsonian dive plan has been
reviewed by the Unit Diving Officer and approved by the Smithsonian
Scientific Diving Officer.
A dive plan authorization number emailed
to you constitutes Smithsonian diving authorization.