What is the minimum crew configuration for a closed-space dive?

• A. One diver
• B. Minimum two divers hard tended and one diver tending from access point
• C. Three divers all outside
• D. Two divers with no tend

Answer: (B)

In confined-space or closed-space diving, safety hinges on redundancy and a clear rescue path. Having two divers inside the space ensures that if one encounters trouble, the other can assist, supervise, and share air or air-management tasks as needed. A dedicated diver at the access point, tending the entrants, provides continuous monitoring, communications, and a ready means to guide or pull divers out if a problem arises. Using a hard line to the divers enhances reliability of contact and control, even if surface radios fail, which is crucial in a tight, potentially hazardous environment. This combination—two divers inside who are hard tended, plus one diver outside tending from the entry—offers the necessary safety margin for a closed-space dive. The other options fall short because they either lack inside divers, lack an outside tending presence, or forego the essential continuous contact and supervision that a safe procedure requires.