Counter-Errorism in Diving: Applying Human Factors to Diving

Join us as we dive into a fascinating debrief from a Human Factors in Diving liveaboard trip, where a challenging dive sparked discussions on team communication, decision-making, and safety. A sandy slope, strong currents, and mixed team responses led to valuable insights during the post-dive debrief, transforming frustrations into learning moments. With psychological safety at the core, participants improved their teamwork, communication, and situational awareness. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/debriefing-a-challenging-dive-a-real-life-experience Links: Blog about the liveaboard: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-first-human-factors-in-diving-liveaboard DEBrIEF model: https://www.thehumandiver.com/debrief Tags: English, Debrief, Jenny Lord

Mike Mason explores how effective decision-making in diving depends on both intuitive (System 1) and analytical (System 2) thinking, highlighting the crucial role of checklists in bridging the gap between these systems. Checklists serve as prompts to prevent errors caused by cognitive shortcuts, ensuring safety-critical steps are not missed. Effective checklists should be simple, logical, and standardised, encouraging team coordination through techniques like point-touch-verbalise and peer checks. However, their value depends on proper integration into workflows and a culture that sees them as tools for managing human variability, not mere box-ticking. When used correctly, checklists enhance safety, accountability, and decision-making in high-risk environments. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/designing-checklists-that-work-slowing-down-to-get-it-right   Tags:  English, Checklists, Decision Making, Decision-Making, Mike Mason

In this episode of The Human Diver, Mike Mason and I dive into the complexities of online storytelling, the double-edged nature of sharing experiences, and the power of constructive debriefing. We explore how narratives can both create learning opportunities and, at times, lead to misinterpretation, judgment, or defensive responses. You will discover how high-risk industries like aviation use culture, structured debriefs, and role-based feedback to focus on behaviours rather than individuals. We discuss the importance of capacity, mental models, and situational awareness, and how these principles can translate into diving and online education. Key Takeaways: -Focusing on behaviours and actions, not people, fosters learning and reduces defensiveness. -Online narratives can easily be derailed, so approach feedback with curiosity and humility. -Capacity and situational awareness are critical in high-pressure environments and translate directly into diving. -Constructive dialogue requires patience, perspective, and sometimes the use of tools like AI to frame responses effectively. -Multi-perspective storytelling encourages empathy and a just culture, reducing judgment and promoting better understanding.   HF in Diving Conference 2026 www.hf-in-diving-conference.com The blog by Betari Box https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/my-attitude-impacts-your-behaviour  

The phrase "loss of situation awareness" is often misused as a simplistic explanation for diving incidents, focusing on blame rather than understanding the context and contributing factors. Situation awareness involves perceiving the environment, comprehending its significance, and projecting future outcomes to make informed decisions. It can be compromised by factors like fixation, poor communication, or inadequate preparation. To improve situation awareness, divers should practice key skills on land, conduct thorough dive briefings, and engage in reflective debriefings to identify lessons learned. By moving beyond oversimplified explanations and fostering curiosity, divers can enhance safety and teamwork underwater. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/they-lost-situation-awareness   Links: UNITED-C model: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/Why%20are%20dive%20briefings%20important%3F%20How%20to%20deliver%20them%20effectively Further reading: Situation Awareness and Mental Models Selective Attention Exists! 5 Tips to Increase Situational Awareness in Diving Unleashing Your Sixth Sense: Building capacity and directing attention Running out of gas- Why does this happen and how can we prevent it? How do I improve my Situation Awareness? You can't pay MORE attention: the myth of 'loss of situation awareness' Tags:  English, Decision Making, Hindsight Bias, Incident Analysis, John Strobridge, Situation Awareness, Situational Awareness

Psychological safety is essential for building trust and fostering open communication in diving teams, yet creating it can be a challenge in high-pressure environments like open-water certification weekends. Helene Pellerine explores how leaders, particularly instructors, play a crucial role in setting the tone for a safe and supportive atmosphere where divers feel seen, heard, and free to share concerns or mistakes. By modeling openness, responding non-judgmentally to questions, and encouraging reflection, instructors can instill these values in students, who can then carry them into future diving experiences. While psychological safety can be nurtured in small moments, it requires ongoing effort to sustain and must be prioritized for safe and enjoyable dives. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-challenge-of-psychological-safety   Links: Building a Team (Stages 1-4) - Part 1 of 4 Building a Short-Term Team HF in Diving for Dummies: Psychological Safety Tags:  English, Helene Pellerin, Leadership, Psychological Safety

In this episode, we examine a near-miss incident involving a CCR diver who narrowly avoided a hypoxic event during a liveaboard dive. Using this real-life scenario, we explore the importance of understanding human factors and causal reasoning in diving, focusing on how fatigue, stress, environmental distractions, and system design can shape performance and decision-making. We discuss the dangers of hindsight bias, the need to learn from "work-as-done" rather than idealized procedures, and how moving beyond blame helps identify systemic issues to improve safety and resilience. Tune in to discover how these lessons can help you dive safer and smarter.   Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/ccr-diver-goes-hypoxic-on-the-surface   Links: “If Only…” documentary: https://www.thehumandiver.com/ifonly HFiD: Essentials class: https://www.thehumandiver.com/essentials-2025 HFiD: Masterclass: https://www.thehumandiver.com/masterclass-2025 More about the WITH model: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/don-t-just-focus-on-the-errors Dirty Dozen Pre-Splash Checklist: https://thedirtydozenexpeditions.com/s/THD_DD-Splash-Checklist-40.pdf Work as done vs work as imagined: https://youtu.be/vtgIwHrUWVQ?si=nKE--HgZPzMaJV7C Diving Talks; Heroes and Villains in Diving: https://youtu.be/gXUhFLK2j3M Video about the Linnea Mills case: https://youtu.be/3b1Mm8zXUow Sign up for LFUO courses here: https://www.thehumandiver.com/lfuo   Tags:  English, CCR, Gareth Lock, Incident Analysis, Just Culture

In this episode, we dive into the impact of human factors on decision-making in diving, focusing on how environmental elements like fatigue and cold temperatures can shape performance. We explore how jet lag from travel affects cognitive ability and the strategies to mitigate its effects, as well as how cold water impacts dexterity, buoyancy, and mental processing. With insights into the physiological and mental challenges these conditions create, we discuss practical steps to reduce their impact and emphasize the importance of awareness in making better, safer decisions underwater. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-effect-of-your-environment-on-your-decision-making-performance-shaping-factors-in-diving   Links: Diver performance and the effects of cold: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/001872086801000501   Tags:  English, Guy Shockey, Performance Shaping Factors

In this episode, we explore the critical role of understanding hazards in diving and the importance of effective risk management. From the everyday threat of drowning to the more abstract risks like decompression sickness, we discuss how divers rely on equipment, training, and planning to mitigate dangers. The conversation highlights overlooked hazards like differential pressure (DeltaP), which can be deadly when misunderstood, as illustrated by tragic real-world examples. We also examine the psychology of risk normalization, emphasizing that ignorance of hazards can lead to complacency and tragedy. By raising awareness and promoting informed decision-making, this episode underscores the necessity of knowledge, preparation, and humility in diving safety. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/you-can-t-risk-assess-a-hazard-you-don-t-know-about-deltap   Links: Risk or Uncertainty blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/risk-or-uncertainty Ignaz Semmelweis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ignaz_Semmelweis Video of a toy diver experiencing Delta P: https://youtu.be/uI0WOdX7cfU?t=350 Video of diver clearing lock gate: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWGFEZ1tpsg Incompetent and Unaware presentation: https://youtu.be/pGBYj1BNhvI?si=fioKreIdIS_5nX1F Follow up video to lock gate clearance: https://youtu.be/nKp8duCNvyQ?si=-8jAyHQVGWTP8Ov7 Normalisation of risk blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/normalisation-of-deviance-not-about-rule-breaking Differential pressure hazards in diving - Diving Information Sheet No. 13Delta P ADCI Checklist Tags:  English, Decision-Making, Gareth Lock, Risk, Risk Management

In this episode, we explore how a liveaboard trip in Indonesia integrated Human Factors training to transform the diving experience. Jenny Lord from The Human Diver, Brent Webb from Scuba Adventures in Texas and Mark from Master Liveaboards collaborated to create a unique environment focused on psychological safety, teamwork, and debriefing. Over a week, 19 divers, with varying levels of Human Factors training, participated in engaging talks on topics like decision-making, situation awareness, and leadership, alongside dive debriefs that fostered shared understanding and growth. The trip highlighted the power of open communication, self-reflection, and learning from mistakes, leaving participants inspired to bring these skills to their own diving practices and beyond. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-first-human-factors-in-diving-liveaboard   Tags:  English, Communication, Debrief, Jenny Lord, Learning, Psychological Safety

Speaking up when something feels off—whether on the dive boat, in a briefing, or underwater—is key to building a safe and inclusive dive culture. In this episode, we explore how small interventions, from a simple pause to a well-placed question, can shift group dynamics and reinforce psychological safety. Using real-world diving scenarios, research-backed strategies, and insights from human factors, we discuss how to challenge problematic comments without escalating conflict. Tune in to learn how small moments can shape dive team culture and why speaking up, even subtly, can make a big difference. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/wtf-did-you-just-say-i-said-nothing   Links: Reel from Kenny Dyal and Sweetwater Scuba: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1385836736105494 Blog from Nic Emery: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/what-are-we-pretending-not-to-know Psychological safety blogs from THD: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog?tag=psychological+safety “How to say when it’s not ok” paper: https://www.lboro.ac.uk/media/media/campaigns/iwd/how-to-say-when-its-not-okay.pdf THD wetnotes: https://the-human-diver.myshopify.com/collections/frontpage/products/thd-wetnotes-divers-notebook Asch conformity experiments: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEhABrJ4T2Y   Tags:  English, Communications, Gareth Lock, Leadership, Psychological Safety, Teamwork

Effective dive briefings are key to safe and successful dives, yet many divers overlook their importance. In this episode, we explore how structured briefings help build a shared mental model, reducing misunderstandings and improving team coordination. Using the UNITED-C framework—covering goals, roles, risks, contingencies, and more—we break down how to deliver clear, effective dive briefings that set your team up for success. Tune in to learn how small changes in briefing style can enhance safety, teamwork, and overall dive experience. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/Why%20are%20dive%20briefings%20important%3F%20How%20to%20deliver%20them%20effectively   Links: Get The Human Diver wetnotes here: https://the-human-diver.myshopify.com/collections/frontpage/products/thd-wetnotes-divers-notebook   Tags:  English, Brief, Mike Mason, Team, Teamwork

Show Notes Summary: In this episode, we dive into the challenges of effective communication, especially in multicultural and high-stakes environments like diving. Using a real-life example from a Human Factors in Diving class, we discuss how cultural misunderstandings and non-verbal cues can lead to confusion and unintended consequences. We explore the importance of tailoring messages to your audience, breaking communication into manageable chunks, and using techniques like pauses, closed-loop communication, and clear written formatting to ensure understanding. Whether on land or underwater, making your message "land well" is key to building shared understanding and effective teamwork. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/being-understood-not-just-transmitting   Links: Another blog about Situation Awareness: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/unleashing-your-sixth-sense   Tags:  English, Communication, Communications, Debrief, Jenny Lord, Situation Awareness, Team

Show Notes Summary: In this episode, we explore the concept of normalization of deviance and how it applies to diving. Inspired by a Divemaster's comment about surfacing gas reserves, we discuss how divers can unknowingly drift from safety standards over time, often influenced by social norms or perceived authority. Normalization of deviance, coined by Diane Vaughan, describes how repeated deviations from acceptable standards become normalized when no immediate consequences occur. We contrast this with constructive deviation—deliberate, researched changes to improve safety—and share practical steps to guard against normalization of deviance in diving: establish clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), conduct thorough pre-dive briefs, and hold regular debriefs. Building a culture of psychological safety is essential for divers to feel empowered to question and challenge unsafe practices. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/normalization-of-deviance-risk-how-socially-accepted-drift-can-impact-your-diving   Links: NOD isn’t about rule breaking blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/normalisation-of-deviance-not-about-rule-breaking Debrief model” https://www.thehumandiver.com/debrief   Tags:  English, Decision-Making, John Strobridge, Normalisation of Deviance, Normalization of Deviance, Risk

Diving is often seen as a safe and relaxing sport, but true safety goes beyond avoiding accidents—it requires building resilience and learning from mistakes. In this episode, we explore how incidents often stem from systemic pressures and "practical drift," not just individual errors. Through real-world examples from diving and other high-risk industries, we highlight the importance of open debriefs, a just culture, and robust training to prepare divers for real-world challenges. By embracing transparency and focusing on system-level improvements, we can create a safer, more adaptive diving community that prioritizes learning and continuous improvement. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/linnea-mills-death-hf-systems-lens   Links: “Bad Apples”: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/from_blaming_to_learning Just a Routine Operation video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzlvgtPIof4 Court submission for Linnea Mills death: https://www.scribd.com/document/555406095/Mills-v-Gull-Dive-Center-PADI-2nd-Amended-Complaint History as a cause: https://www.montana.edu/rmaher/engr125/CAIB-History%20as%20a%20cause.pdf Restorative Just Culture checklist: https://safetydifferently.com/restorative-just-culture-checklist/ Laura Walton’s Fit to Dive: https://www.fittodive.org/ Diving incidents often remain hidden: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DRXqeQvRFK0 Sidney Dekker’s tunnel: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/its-obvious-why-it-happened Research about sharing stories in diving: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DRXqeQvRFK0 Blogs on THD about psychological safety: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog?tag=psychological+safety Blogs on THD about why context matters: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/search?q=context+matters Asking questions about local rationality: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/learning-reviews-in-diving   Tags:  English, Gareth Lock, Healthcare, Incident Analysis, Just Culture, Normalisation of Deviance, Psychological Safety

In this episode, we explore why situational awareness (SA) is the most critical skill for divers, even more so than technical abilities like buoyancy control or propulsion. SA isn’t just about noticing and processing information—it’s about projecting it into the future to anticipate outcomes. Through real-world examples, we highlight how building mental models—scripts based on experience and “what if” thinking—helps divers make quicker, better decisions in complex scenarios. We also discuss the vital role of structured debriefs in turning experiences into actionable insights, ultimately creating divers who can handle challenges with confidence and skill. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/situation-awareness-and-mental-models-making-it-easier-to-the-do-the-right-thing   Links: Further reading from The Human Diver blog: Selective Attention Exists! 5 Tips to Increase Situational Awareness in Diving Unleashing Your Sixth Sense: Building capacity and directing attention Running out of gas- Why does this happen and how can we prevent it? How do I improve my Situation Awareness? You can't pay MORE attention: the myth of 'loss of situation awareness'   Tags:  English, Debrief, Guy Shockey, Situation Awareness

In this episode, we explore the challenges and lessons from diving in the Baltic Sea, where high-pressure conditions tested both skill and decision-making. We delve into the concepts of just culture and psychological safety, emphasizing their importance in fostering open communication, learning from mistakes, and creating safer systems. Drawing parallels to regulated industries like aviation, we discuss how divers can benefit from sharing experiences without fear of judgment and how understanding the "why" behind errors leads to meaningful improvements. Through real-world examples, we highlight the value of trust, reflection, and teamwork in making diving safer and more enjoyable for everyone. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/what-if-just-culture-and-psychological-safety-is-not-enough   Links: Discussing dives when things go wrong: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/why-is-it-so-hard-to-talk-about-failure Sensitive System Syndrome: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11700375/   Tags:  English, Andrzej Górnicki, Just Culture, Psychological Safety

In this episode, we explore the critical role of leadership in diving, focusing on the responsibilities dive professionals take on as role models. From following standard operating procedures to fostering psychological safety, we discuss how every action, intentional or not, shapes the behavior of students and less experienced divers. We emphasize the importance of admitting mistakes to build trust and create a learning environment where open dialogue thrives. Additionally, we highlight the value of continued education to stay empathetic and relatable as instructors. Ultimately, great dive leadership extends beyond technical skills, shaping safer and more confident divers. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-diving-professional-leadership-is-not-optional   Links: Blogs about Leadership: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog?tag=leadership   Tags:  English, Guy Shockey, Leadership, Psychological Safety

The holiday season often highlights how stress can strain relationships and impact decision-making, both in everyday life and high-stakes activities like scuba diving. Stress narrows our focus, making it easy to miss critical information or react impulsively. Using tools like Viktor Frankl's concept of the space between stimulus and response, or the mantra "Stop, Think, Breathe, Act," we can pause and respond thoughtfully under pressure. Real-life diving scenarios—like an instructor managing a student emergency, a diver dealing with damaged gear, or a Dive Master handling group separation—illustrate how stress can shape outcomes. By identifying stressors using the HALT method (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired) and reflecting on events with curiosity rather than judgment, we can learn, grow, and make better decisions, both underwater and on land. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/stress-a-challenge-we-all-face   Tags:  English, Mike Mason, Performance Shaping Factors, Stress

In this episode, we dive into what makes an effective team, both above and below the surface. Using insights from a dive centre in Egypt, we explore how teamwork goes beyond buddy pairs, emphasizing shared goals, mutual accountability, and trust. We discuss why planning, adaptability, and understanding each other's roles are key to working interdependently, especially in dynamic environments like diving. Whether you're guiding, learning, or just enjoying the dive, every diver is part of the team. Join us as we reflect on how small changes can strengthen teamwork and improve safety and enjoyment for everyone. How does your team measure up? Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/teams-buddies-the-difference   Tags:  English, Jenny Lord, Team, Teamwork, Trust

In this episode, we explore how asking the right questions can transform communication, whether during a dive briefing or a post-dive debrief. We discuss the difference between closed questions, which provide quick answers, and open questions, which encourage deeper understanding and learning. Using techniques like TEDS (Tell, Explain, Describe, Show), we can foster better communication, ensure alignment within the team, and create an environment where everyone feels safe to speak up. We also cover how to frame debrief questions to focus on events rather than individuals, encouraging growth and collaboration. Effective communication is all about how you ask, not just what you ask. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/communications-ask-better-questions   Tags:  English, Brief, Communication, Communications, Debrief, Mike Mason

In this episode, we explore how cognitive biases like hindsight bias, severity bias, outcome bias, and confirmation bias impact our ability to learn from accidents and incidents, both in diving and beyond. Using recent Red Sea liveaboard tragedies as a backdrop, we discuss why some events seem “obvious” only in hindsight, how severe outcomes lead to harsher judgments, and the danger of stopping investigations once a single cause is found. By understanding how biases shape our reactions, we can shift from judgment to learning, asking better questions and uncovering the deeper factors behind decisions and actions. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/we-are-all-biased   Links: BBC articles: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp3z0k72yw3o https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c87dxx41lvvo Sea story sinking news report (in German): https://taucher.net/diveinside-safariboot_sea_story_im_roten_meer_gesunken-kaz9391 List of Red Sea dive boat sinkings: https://matthiasmunz.de/Sunken_Diving_Safari_Boats_Egypt/ Tags: English, Cognitive Biases, Decision Making, Decision-Making, Gareth Lock, Hindsight Bias, Jenny Lord

In this episode, we dive into the story of a diver’s lost fin to explore the challenges of decision-making, task fixation, and situation awareness underwater. Through the lens of a training dive gone awry, we uncover how both students and instructors can fall into cognitive traps, focusing narrowly on immediate tasks while losing sight of broader risks. Highlighting the importance of structured debriefing, reflective discussions, and the DEBrIEF model, we discuss how understanding "how it made sense" in the moment can lead to better mental models and a culture of learning in diving. This tale is a reminder that diving isn’t just about technical skills—it’s about building awareness, fostering teamwork, and learning from every experience. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-lost-fin-a-lesson-in-situation-awarness   Tags:  English, Andrzej Górnicki, Debrief, Decision-Making, Hindsight Bias, Situation Awareness

This podcast dives into the analysis of a cave diving fatality at Cenote Nariz in Mexico, based on a detailed report by the Creer Line and Safety Committee. The incident highlights critical lessons for divers in all environments, emphasizing the importance of understanding human factors, decision-making, and context in adverse events. While the exact cause of the diver's seizure remains uncertain, likely contributors include hypercapnia or hyperoxia, exacerbated by equipment and procedural factors. Broader lessons focus on fostering safety cultures, avoiding the normalization of risk, maintaining equipment rigor, and embracing systems that encourage learning without blame. Join us to explore how these insights can improve safety and awareness across diving disciplines. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/change-your-language-change-the-world   Links: Podcast ‘Hidden Brain’- are our memories real?: https://hiddenbrain.org/podcast/are-your-memories-real/ Blog about Agency: https://indepthmag.com/the-role-of-agency-when-discussing-diving-incidents-an-adverse-event-occurs-an-instructor-makes-a-mistake/ Learning Reviews: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/learning-reviews-in-diving Podcast ‘How did it make sense’: https://www.humaninthesystem.co.uk/hits-hdims How language changes the way we think TED talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKK7wGAYP6k The Power and Pitfalls of Language in Accident Investigation: https://nescacademy.nasa.gov/video/2c1ea826930946ff8659621ee83bec931d The Power Of Language: https://mindsetleadership.co.uk/2023/09/01/the-power-of-language/   Tags:  English, Cognitive Biases, Communication, Gareth Lock, Incident Analysis, Incident Reporting

This podcast dives into the analysis of a cave diving fatality at Cenote Nariz in Mexico, based on a detailed report by the CREER Line and Safety Committee. The incident highlights critical lessons for divers in all environments, emphasizing the importance of understanding human factors, decision-making, and context in adverse events. While the exact cause of the diver's seizure remains uncertain, likely contributors include hypercapnia or hyperoxia, exacerbated by equipment and procedural factors. Broader lessons focus on fostering safety cultures, avoiding the normalization of risk, maintaining equipment rigor, and embracing systems that encourage learning without blame. Join us to explore how these insights can improve safety and awareness across diving disciplines. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/mx-singlefatality-report   Links: CREER: https://creer-mx.com/ Accident report: https://creer-mx.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Single-Diver-Fatality-in-Cenote-Nariz-on-3-February-2024.pdf A Just Culture is not a 'just do it' culture: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/a-just-culture-is-not-a-just-do-it-culture Counterfactuals: I would have lined in: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/counterfactuals Why is it so hard to admit our mistakes?: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/why-is-it-so-hard-to-admit-to-our-mistakes Tags:  English, Cave Diving, Gareth Lock, Incident Analysis, Just Culture

This episode explores the power of small, intentional changes to improve teamwork, leadership, and performance in diving. Drawing from the Human Diver team's experience with a new training platform, we discuss how focusing on key skills like communication, task prioritization, and role clarity can create significant improvements. By embracing curiosity, running effective debriefs, sharing stories, and taking actionable steps, we can build safer, more effective diving practices. Change starts with small actions, and owning that change is the key to lasting impact. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/what-one-thing   Links: Marginal gains: https://jamesclear.com/marginal-gains DEBrIEF guide: https://www.thehumandiver.com/debrief If Only… documentary: https://www.thehumandiver.com/ifonly The Human Diver blogs: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog Contact Gareth: https://www.thehumandiver.com/contact The Essentials class: https://www.thehumandiver.com/HFiD-Essentials Level 1 Webinar: https://www.thehumandiver.com/hfid-level-1-webinar-series Face-to-Face program: https://www.thehumandiver.com/hfid-level-2 2 relevant blogs: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/knowledge-is-not-enough-we-must-apply https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-power-of-one   Tags:  English, Debrief, Decision-Making, Gareth Lock, If Only, Just Culture, Leadership

Leadership in diving is critical for navigating uncertain situations and achieving successful outcomes, whether you're teaching students, leading a dive project, or running a dive center. Drawing lessons from Ernest Shackleton's legendary leadership and modern theories of influence, this episode explores how effective leaders go beyond authority and management to inspire trust, foster psychological safety, and build personal connections. We discuss six key strategies for diving instructors, including defining a clear purpose, embracing humility, managing conflict constructively, learning from mistakes, adapting leadership styles, and showing genuine care for others. Tune in for actionable insights to enhance your leadership in the water and beyond. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/follow-me-trust-me-i-am-your-leader   Links: Building psychological safety in a team (part 1): https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/team-building-psych-safety-1 Trust is based on 1:1 relationships: https://www.forbes.com/sites/shanesnow/2020/04/27/this-common-approach-to-earning-trust-completely-backfires-on-leaders/?sh=515264702fcb Goodheart’s law: https://humanisticsystems.com/2019/10/24/shorrocks-law-of-limits/ Double-loop learning: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Double-loop_learning The Ladder of Inference: https://thesystemsthinker.com/the-ladder-of-inference/ Self Discovery techniques: https://spectrumofteachingstyles.org/index.php?id=21 The Myth of the Advert: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/shackleton-probably-never-took-out-an-ad-seeking-men-for-a-hazardous-journey-5552379/   Tags:  English, Communication, Gareth Lock, Leadership, Psychological Safety, Teamwork

Debriefs are vital for learning and improvement, but making them effective can be challenging. This episode explores how the DEBrIEF framework, inspired by aviation and human factors experts, provides a structured approach to debriefing that fosters psychological safety. We discuss the importance of vulnerability, showing that even experienced divers make mistakes, and how leading by example encourages honest self-reflection. Real-world examples highlight how debriefs can move beyond surface-level feedback, helping teams identify areas for growth and create meaningful solutions. With the right structure and environment, debriefs can become powerful tools for continuous improvement in diving and beyond. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-importance-of-psychological-safety-in-debriefs   Links: The DEBrIEF model: https://www.thehumandiver.com/debrief Jenny and Mike’s Briefing and Debriefing presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTM_Lh7HtmA&t=591s   Tags:  English, Communication, Debrief, Gareth Lock, Psychological Safety, Teamwork

In this episode, we explore the meaning of accountability and its role in learning and improvement. Is accountability about assigning blame, or can it be a tool for growth? We discuss the difference between backward-looking accountability, which focuses on punishment, and forward-looking accountability, which emphasizes understanding, empathy, and systemic change. Drawing on lessons from healthcare and diving, we highlight the importance of hearing multiple perspectives, addressing the needs of those impacted, and fostering a culture of responsibility over blame. By sharing real-world examples, we show how open conversations and a Just Culture approach can lead to better outcomes, stronger relationships, and meaningful improvements in safety and performance. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/accountability-or-another-word-for-blame   Links: Two approaches to accountability: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-94-007-1878-4_3 Accountability and Responsibility defined: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/324582377_Accountability_and_responsibility_defined Helping people understand what happened: https://www.aamc.org/news-insights/best-response-medical-errors-transparency Communications and Resolutions Programmes: https://communicationandresolution.org/communication-and-resolution-programs/ ‘Work as Imagined’ and “Work as Done’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtgIwHrUWVQ&list=PLNXuyLsCTX6hHS3newpcROfJ_JiI27q3C&index=24&t=1s Restorative Just Culture in The Merseyside NHS Trust: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/331284479_Restorative_Just_Culture_a_Study_of_the_Practical_and_Economic_Effects_of_Implementing_Restorative_Justice_in_an_NHS_Trust Restorative Just Culture: http://www.safetydifferently.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/RestorativeJustCultureChecklist-1.pdf Second and Thrid victims: https://youtu.be/YeSvCEpg6ew   Tags:  English, Gareth Lock, Incidents, Just Culture

In this episode, we dive into how to integrate human factors and non-technical skills into dive training and businesses. We explore the importance of understanding and applying these concepts in real-world scenarios, from effective communication to structured debriefing. Discover practical tools like blogs, workshops, and the Essentials of Human Factors in Diving course to deepen your knowledge and improve safety. Learn how abstraction, open questions, and storytelling can enhance learning and problem-solving in diving. Tune in to hear actionable advice on making human factors a core part of your diving practice. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/knowledge-is-not-enough-we-must-apply   Links: Human Factors in Diving Conference videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNXuyLsCTX6hHS3newpcROfJ_JiI27q3C Blog page: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog Dummies series: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog?tag=dummies DeBRIEF guide: https://www.thehumandiver.com/debrief If Only…documentary: https://www.thehumandiver.com/ifonly Gareth’s contact for Mandated Essentials class, or Affiliate link: https://www.thehumandiver.com/contact   Tags: English, Gareth Lock

In this episode, we explore why calling a dive can be so difficult and why safety ultimately allows us to dive more. We discuss how small issues and stressors, combined with the sunk cost fallacy, can lead divers to push boundaries they wouldn’t normally cross. Drawing on personal experiences, we highlight the challenges of making safety-focused decisions and why they’re essential for long-term enjoyment of the sport. Safety may seem like a small loss in the moment, but it guarantees the chance for many more dives in the future. Listen in to learn how to balance risk and reward to keep diving safe and fun. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/sunk-costs   Links: Guaranteed small loss vs possibly big loss blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-choices-guaranteed-small-loss-or-a-probable-large-loss-injury-or-fatality   Tags:  English, Cognitive Biases, Decision-Making, Jenny Lord    

Why is safety often seen as boring in diving? In this episode, we discuss a story of high-current dives, questionable guiding practices, and the stigma of prioritizing safety over thrill. While safety briefings and precautions might seem dull or restrictive, they’re the key to longevity in diving—and life. A safe diver isn’t boring; they’re the one who gets to dive again tomorrow. We explore the value of being the “boring” diver, how safety builds trust among dive buddies, and why prioritizing safety ensures more adventures in the long run. Don’t let “fun” override your commitment to coming home safe. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/safety-is-boring   Links: Safety is nothingness blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/safety-is-nothingness   Tags:  English, Jenny Lord, Safety, Safety Culture

What can WWII bombers teach us about diving? The story of Abraham Wald’s counterintuitive armor placement on planes highlights the importance of analyzing what’s not immediately visible—a lesson diving can embrace. Success in diving isn’t just about avoiding accidents but understanding why things go well and whether it’s skill or luck. Reflecting on successes and failures through effective debriefs can enhance learning. Additionally, survivorship bias can skew our perception, as we often focus on thriving divers and ignore those who leave the sport. Incorporating human factors and non-technical skills, like communication and psychological safety, is crucial for safer, more enjoyable diving. Change starts with action—let’s bring these lessons to the forefront of the diving industry. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/were-you-lucky-or-were-you-good   Links: Abraham Wald: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abraham_Wald Operations Research and Management Science Applied to Marketing: https://www.decisionanalyst.com/whitepapers/bulletholesinbombers/ DeBRIEF model: https://www.thehumandiver.com/debrief Close Calls: https://stratiskas.com/closecalls/ Under Pressure: https://www.thehumandiver.com/underpressure   Tags:  English, Decision-Making, Gareth Lock, Incident Analysis, Incident Investigation

Mistakes are an essential part of learning, but in the highly regulated world of diving, the fear of judgment often stifles open discussion. Unlike other extreme sports where mistakes are embraced as learning opportunities, diving culture tends to focus on blame. This discourages growth and progress within the community. A "Just Culture" encourages sharing mistakes—large or small—without fear, fostering learning and improvement for everyone. Divers, especially those in leadership roles, are urged to lead by example by sharing their stories, explaining how their mistakes made sense at the time, and how they’ve adapted since. Join the movement to normalize learning from errors by engaging in safe spaces like the Human Factors in Diving Facebook group. Let’s change the culture together. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/we-ve-got-an-attitude-problem   Links: The Human Diver Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/184882365201810 My Biggest Mistake blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/my-biggest-mistake Just Culture: https://gue.com/blog/is-a-just-culture-needed-to-support-learning-from-near-misses-and-diving-accidents/ Blaming blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/surely-if-we-blame-and-punish-things-will-be-safer Building a psychologically safe team: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/team-building-psych-safety-2   Tags:  English, Decision-Making, Jenny Lord, Just Culture, Psychological Safety

When diving accidents occur, the immediate response often blames rule-breaking, but reality is far more complex. Rules are designed to enhance safety, yet accidents can happen even when rules are followed—and sometimes rules are broken without incident. Diving operations occur within a web of technical, social, and cultural conditions, which can provoke deviations. This highlights the gap between “work as imagined” (rules and procedures) and “work as done” (real-world practice). Understanding why rules are broken requires looking at the system rather than focusing solely on individuals. A Just Culture, where context-rich stories can be shared without fear of punishment, helps address underlying issues and drives meaningful improvements in safety. Punishment alone rarely deters rule-breaking if systemic conditions remain unchanged. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/they-broke-the-rules   Links: Root Cause blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-root-cause-of-an-accident Identifying violation-provoking conditions in a healthcare setting: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18941971/ The Extent of Conditions: https://preaccidentpodcast.podbean.com/e/papod-399-the-extent-of-condition-episode/ Normalisation of Deviance from the Challenger launch decision: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Challenger-Launch-Decision-Technology-Deviance/dp/0226851761   Tags:  English, Decision-Making, Gareth Lock, Just Culture, Normalisation of Deviance, Normalization of Deviance

Murphy’s Law suggests that if something can go wrong, it will, but this oversimplifies reality. Most of the time, things go right, even when procedures are ignored or actions are flawed, which can create a false sense of safety. Instead of focusing on outcomes alone, we need to examine the processes that led to success or failure, using tools like structured debriefs. By asking questions like “Were we good, or were we lucky?” and exploring both what went well and what needs improvement, we can identify and address risks before they lead to serious consequences. Near-misses and incidents, like the recent tragic chlorine gas leak in Aqaba, offer critical learning opportunities, revealing how systemic issues often underlie individual errors. Ultimately, effective safety management comes from understanding and addressing the deeper factors that influence behavior, not just following rules blindly or blaming outcomes. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/murphy-was-wrong   Links: Chlorine blast in Jordan: https://youtu.be/iMBEfa-5wbs DeBRIEF guide: https://www.thehumandiver.com/debrief The illusion of Safety blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/quarks-and-meows-the-state-of-diving-safety   Tags:  English, Decision-Making, Gareth Lock, Risk, Risk Management

In this episode, we discuss a controversial Facebook post about a novice diver being taken beyond their certification limits to 45 meters by an instructor, sparking a heated debate on blame, punishment, and safety in the diving community. We explore key issues like authority gradients, risk-reward perceptions, and the normalization of deviant behaviors that lead to unsafe practices. Instead of focusing solely on punitive actions, we delve into how changing the environment and promoting a culture of learning and accountability can better address systemic issues. Tune in to understand why context, education, and proactive management are crucial for improving diving safety and culture. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/surely-if-we-blame-and-punish-things-will-be-safer   Links: Building psychological safety blog series, Part 1: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/team-building-psych-safety-1 Crew Resource Management: https://skybrary.aero/articles/crew-resource-management-crm Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons: https://www.rcsed.ac.uk/events-courses/course-details-non-technical-skills-for-surgeons-notss Anaesthetists Non-Technical Skills: https://academic.oup.com/bja/article/105/1/38/307710 Well Operations Crew Resource Management: https://www.iogp.org/bookstore/product/guidelines-for-implementing-well-operations-crew-resource-management-training/ The Human Diver courses: https://www.thehumandiver.com/hfid-training-2025  Normalisation of Deviance blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/being-a-deviant-is-normal Experience or Expertise blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-importance-of-experience Sharing mistakes you make blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/my-biggest-mistake Bad Apples blog: https://gue.com/blog/do-bad-apples-actually-exist/ High Reliability Organisations: https://www.aihs.org.au/sites/default/files/A%20Practical%20Guide%20to%20becoming%20a%20High%20Reliability%20Organisation%20-%20Andrew%20Hopkins.pdf   Tags:  English, Gareth Lock, Just Culture, Leadership, Psychological Safety

This blog explores the challenges of integrating Human Factors into diving, starting with the very nature of human factors themselves. Diving incidents often get oversimplified as “diver error,” ignoring the broader system and context influencing decisions. From cognitive shortcuts to commercial pressures, Gareth Lock unpacks how biases, complacency, and industry practices affect safety. The blog emphasizes the value of non-technical skills—such as decision-making, teamwork, and situational awareness—not just for critical incidents but for enhancing the overall diving experience. It also invites divers to start small, such as with an Essentials class, to gain insights into performance and safety. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the_problem_with_human_factors_is   Links: Types of Human Factors: https://humanisticsystems.com/2017/08/11/four-kinds-of-human-factors-1-the-human-factor/ How the langauge we use matters: https://gue.com/blog/the-role-of-agency-when-discussing-diving-incidents-an-adverse-event-occurs-an-instructor-makes-a-mistake/ Biases and Heuristics: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/i-am-biased-you-are-biased-we-are-all-biased Drawing video: https://youtu.be/x9wn633vl_c Efficiency vs complacency: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/complacency-the-silent-killer-but-it-s-not-that-simple Outcome and severity bias: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/joining-dots-is-easy-if-you-know-the-outcome Status-quo bias: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/status-quo The Essentials Class: https://www.thehumandiver.com/HFiD-Essentials If Only… documentary: https://www.thehumandiver.com/ifonly   Tags:  English, Decision-Making, Gareth Lock, Human Factors, Non-Technical Skills

In this episode, we dive into the complex nature of safety in diving and explore why it’s not as simple as just following rules or avoiding accidents. Safety is shaped by people, technology, processes, and culture, creating a socio-technical system where risks must be managed dynamically. We discuss how perceptions of safety differ among individuals and organisations, the influence of rewards and biases on decision-making, and the balance between taking risks and achieving goals. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own approach to diving safety, develop skills to manage uncertainties, and embrace a mindset of continuous learning to build resilience and mitigate failures. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/quarks-and-meows-the-state-of-diving-safety   Links: Rasmussen’s Drift: https://youtu.be/SPa9Th9Fwh4 Schrodinger's cat: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schr%C3%B6dinger%27s_cat Hindsight bias: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/joining-dots-is-easy-if-you-know-the-outcome The importance of experience: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-importance-of-experience High-reliability teams and organisations: https://www.high-reliability.org/the-five-principles-of-weick-sutcliffe High reliability organisations are learning organisations too: https://gue.com/blog/improvement-requires-learning-learning-happens-at-the-organizational-level-too/   Tags:  English, Decision-Making, Gareth Lock, Leadership, Safety Culture

In this episode, we explore the unintended consequences of rewarding specific behaviors and metrics in both high-risk industries and diving. From the infamous Cobra Effect in colonial India to modern-day challenges in reporting safety metrics, we examine how well-intentioned systems can backfire when rewards drive undesirable behaviors. In the diving world, certifications, dive counts, and reporting systems can be gamed, undermining safety and learning. We discuss how fostering a culture of psychological safety, shared learning, and context-driven discussions can transform mistakes into opportunities for growth. The key takeaway? Be mindful of what you reward—learning and improvement should always take precedence over punitive measures or superficial metrics. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/are-there-cobras-in-diving   Links: Goodhart’s Law: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goodhart%27s_law Scuba Accidents and Risk Management Techniques for Divers Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1612046102342961 The Human Diver: Human Factors in Diving Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/184882365201810 Weak signals: https://skybrary.aero/articles/weak-signals-approach-ansp-safety-performance BMW celebrating failure: https://www.deepdyve.com/lp/emerald-publishing/the-acclaim-of-failure-why-bmw-reward-employee-mistakes-qmDonsLAav   Tags:  English, Decision Making, Gareth Lock, Just Culture, Leadership, Psychological Safety, Teamwork

In this episode, we explore the role of punishment in learning and accident investigations, challenging the idea that punishment fosters accountability or safety. Drawing from research by Heraghty, Dekker, and Rae, we discuss how punishment often stifles honesty, trust, and meaningful learning by creating a culture of fear. Using real-world examples, like a tragic drysuit diving accident and the grounding of a liveaboard vessel, we examine systemic issues that contribute to failures and how biases like hindsight and severity affect our responses. Instead of focusing on blame, we advocate for systemic, science-based approaches to foster psychological safety, support accountability, and promote learning to prevent future incidents. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/blame-or-learn   Links: Modifying an accident process and its justice system: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S092575352100093X?via%3Dihub Punishment doesn’t change behaviours associated with errant behaviours: https://www.simplypsychology.org/operant-conditioning.html Managing accidents using retributive justice mechanisms: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0925753520300746?via%3Dihub Linnea Mills case: https://divernet.com/scuba-news/12m-lawsuit-follows-suit-squeeze-death/ Mission Improbable: Using Fantasy Documents to Tame Disaster: https://www.jstor.org/stable/3791858?seq=1 The likelihood of drift: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/being-a-deviant-is-normal Modifying an accident process and its justice system: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S092575352100093X?via%3Dihub CIEHF Guide to Learning from Adverse Events: https://ergonomics.org.uk/resource/learning-from-adverse-events.html Socorro Vortex grounding: https://www.deeperblue.com/socorro-vortex-liveaboard-runs-aground/ Report from the Danish MAritime Accident Investigation Board: https://dmaib.com/reports/2021/beaumaiden-grounding-on-18-october-2021/ Cognitive biases that limit learning: https://gue.com/blog/drift-is-normal-being-a-deviant-is-normal-heres-why/ Identifying error prone or error producing conditions: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/human-error-in-diving-is-it-really-that-simple Stoney Cove “Safety Stop” case: https://divernet.com/scuba-diving/diving-instructor-cleared-in-safety-stop-death-case/ Sidney Dekker’s Restorative Just Culture Checklist: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Vkg0o4Fc8XWsAul-mkXNqD5lwokQ0ntP/view?usp=sharing   Tags:  English, Gareth Lock, Incident Analysis, Incident Investigation, Incident Reporting, Just Culture, Leadership, Psychological Safety

In this episode, we explore how systems, not just individuals, shape safety outcomes in aviation, diving, and daily life. We discuss historical lessons, such as redesigning cockpit controls in WWII B-17 bombers to prevent pilot errors, and modern examples like changes to ATM processes to reduce card loss. Diving safety is also examined, highlighting the recurring nature of incidents and the limitations of focusing solely on human error without addressing systemic issues. Drawing on insights from safety science and Professor James Reason's work, we emphasize the importance of creating conditions that support human performance rather than blaming individuals for predictable mistakes. Tune in to learn how understanding and improving systems can lead to safer, more effective outcomes. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/fix-the-diver   Links: ‘Bad Apples’ blog: https://gue.com/blog/do-bad-apples-actually-exist/ Study from Denoble et al: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/23955484_Common_causes_of_open-circuit_recreational_diving_fatalities BSAC annual diving incident report: https://www.bsac.com/safety/diving-incidents/annual-diving-incident-report/ Forcing functions to reduce catastrophic failures: https://psnet.ahrq.gov/primer/human-factors-engineering Types of error: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/mistakes-errors-words-have-meaning Perception of risk paper: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/271767726_Perception_of_Risk   Tags:  English, Decision-Making, Gareth Lock, Non-Technical Skills

Status Quo Bias is the tendency to stick with familiar choices, even when better options exist, and it impacts decisions in many areas, including diving. From Coca-Cola's "New Coke" failure to nitrox's initial resistance in the diving world, this bias highlights our preference for the familiar and reluctance to embrace change. It shows up in dive site routes we repeat, equipment setups we hesitate to adjust, and training paths we follow without exploring alternatives. Being aware of this bias can help us question our habits, seek new perspectives, and make more informed decisions in diving and beyond. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/status-quo   Links: Maintaining the Status Quo: https://www.academia.edu/8285384/The_Psychology_of_Preferences? …If there is choice overload: https://econweb.umd.edu/~masatlioglu/DKM.pdf …if there are costs to consider: https://philarchive.org/archive/NEBSQB   Tags:  English, Cognitive Biases, Decision-Making, Leadership, Mike Mason

This episode dives into the complexities of risk, decision-making, and resilience, blending personal experience with critical lessons for divers and beyond. Host Gareth Lock recounts his journey from peak physical fitness to surviving a near-fatal cardiac event, emphasizing the importance of recognizing weak signals, confronting cognitive biases, and understanding that safety isn’t just about training or equipment but also mindset and preparedness. Gareth challenges us to think critically about risk, share vulnerabilities, and prioritize health and safety—not just for ourselves, but for those around us. This episode is a powerful reminder that resilience and change start with awareness and action. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/risks-decisions-lessons   Links: Fitness for Rescues video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOiHkpvp2NU Willful blindness: https://www.ted.com/talks/margaret_heffernan_the_dangers_of_willful_blindness?language=en UK-DMC Post COVID score: https://www.ukdmc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/UKDMC_COVID-19_diver_scorecard_Rev_1_20220209.pdf   Tags:   English, Cognitive Biases, Decision-Making, Gareth Lock

This episode explores the Efficiency Thoroughness Trade-Off (ETTO), a concept by Erik Hollnagel that explains how we balance being thorough and efficient in everyday tasks, including diving. Using relatable examples like incomplete checks and forgotten tasks, we discuss how time pressures and biases often lead us to prioritize productivity over safety—usually with successful outcomes, but occasionally with costly mistakes. We examine how ETTO influences individual and organizational decisions, highlighting strategies like checklists and clear communication to counteract its risks. By understanding these trade-offs, we can learn from past incidents and create safer, more effective systems in diving and beyond. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/ETTO   Links: If Only documentary: https://www.thehumandiver.com/ifonly Behavioural economics: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-bend-is-uninteresting-the-related-decisions-are-much-more-so ETTO paper: https://erikhollnagel.com/onewebmedia/ETTO.pdf System 1 to System 2 thinking: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cfd8z3l3TYk   Tags:  English, Decision Making, Gareth Lock, Incident Analysis, Non-technical Skills

This episode dives into a powerful, real-life story of a cave diving incident that highlights the importance of psychological safety, trust, and clear communication in high-stakes environments. The narrative explores how a seemingly small misunderstanding about gas pressure spiraled into a stressful situation, showcasing the impact of doubt and unspoken concerns within a team. Lessons learned include the value of speaking up, taking responsibility, and building a culture of questioning and trust. The story serves as a reminder that even experienced divers can learn from mistakes, reinforcing the idea that addressing doubts early can prevent cascading problems and improve team dynamics. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/whenever-there-is-any-doubt-there-is-no-doubt   Tags:  English, Decision Making, Gareth Lock, Leadership Psychological Safety, Teamwork

Why do we do things the way we do? This question is at the heart of a story about a family’s tradition of cutting the ends off meat before cooking—a habit traced back to a Great Grandmother’s small tray. The tale highlights how unexamined habits can persist long after their original purpose is gone. In diving, the same applies to the debate over teaching students on their knees versus neutrally buoyant. While the former method made sense in the past, equipment advancements and new techniques now show better results with neutral buoyancy. Change, though, is hard—habits, convenience, and social norms all play a role. But by questioning the status quo, we open doors to improvements, whether it’s in teaching techniques, post-dive debriefs, or even gas analysis. Change may require effort, but the rewards can make it worthwhile. So, ask yourself: why have we always done it that way? Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/why-change-is-hard-in-diving   Tags:  English, Decision Making, Jenny Lord, Leadership

In this episode, we discuss the complexities of learning from mistakes and adverse events in diving and beyond. Using real-world examples, including a technical diving error and a high-profile medical case, we explore how systemic pressures, biases like hindsight and confirmation bias, and the gap between "work as imagined" and "work as done" influence decisions. We highlight the importance of Just Culture in fostering open discussions and meaningful learning, emphasizing that improving safety means addressing systemic issues, not just individual actions. Join us to rethink how we approach errors and build resilience in high-pressure environments. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/joining-dots-is-easy-if-you-know-the-outcome   Links: Last week’s blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/my-biggest-mistake HFiD Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/184882365201810 Some cognitive biases: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/from_blaming_to_learning RaDonda Vaught verdict: https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/03/25/1088902487/former-nurse-found-guilty-in-accidental-injection-death-of-75-year-old-patient Learning from RaDonda Vaught case: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/reckless-homicide-vanderbilt-just-culture-analysis-david-marx/ The learning line (page 7, section 6): http://sunnyday.mit.edu/16.863/rasmussen-safetyscience.pdf Learning organisation: https://gue.com/blog/improvement-requires-learning-learning-happens-at-the-organizational-level-too/   Tags:  English, Decision Making, Gareth Lock, Hindsight Bias, Just Culture, Psychological Safety

In this episode, we explore how context drives behavior and how mistakes can happen even to experienced professionals. Sharing a personal story about a diving oversight, we examine how time pressures, language barriers, and assumptions led to a dangerous error—and the lessons learned from it. Highlighting the importance of psychological safety and robust pre-dive checks, we discuss why understanding "how it made sense at the time" is key to improving safety and preventing future mistakes. Tune in to rethink how we approach errors and learn from unintended outcomes. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/my-biggest-mistake   Links: Gareth’s blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/from_blaming_to_learning   Tags:  English, Cognitive Biases, Communications, Decision Making, Jenny Lord, Just Culture, Psychological Safety

Mistakes, slips, and lapses are a natural part of human performance, influenced by factors like training, time pressures, and equipment design. While rule-breaking may seem deliberate, it's often shaped by context, social pressures, and the perceived benefits of deviation. Biases like hindsight, outcome, and severity distort how we interpret incidents, leading to blame rather than understanding. Effective learning requires exploring why decisions made sense at the time and avoiding counterfactual judgments like "should have" or "could have." By shifting from blame to understanding and investigating systemic factors, we can improve safety and performance in diving and beyond. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/from_blaming_to_learning   Links: Research about anaesthetists: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18941971/ Bad apples: https://gue.com/blog/do-bad-apples-actually-exist/ Attribution of agency: https://gue.com/blog/the-role-of-agency-when-discussing-diving-incidents-an-adverse-event-occurs-an-instructor-makes-a-mistake/ Further reading: To blame is human. To fix is to engineer. https://www.academia.edu/527985/People_or_Systems_To_blame_is_human_The_fix_is_to_engineer  The Field Guide to Understanding Human Error. S. Dekker.   Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors: Learning from Adverse Events https://ergonomics.org.uk/resource/learning-from-adverse-events.html  US Forest Service - Learning Review Guide. https://www.fs.usda.gov/rmrs/coordinated-response-protocol-learning-review  "Blame is the Enemy of Safety" from Engineering a Safer World by Nancy Leveson. Tags:  English, Gareth Lock, Incident Analysis, Incident Investigation, Incident Reporting, Just Culture

In this episode, we explore how instructors can balance leadership with fostering psychological safety in diving education. Psychological safety, defined as a "rewarded vulnerability," is crucial for creating environments where mistakes, questions, and challenges to the status quo are welcomed without fear of ridicule or blame. By understanding and implementing the four stages of psychological safety—Inclusion, Learner, Contributor, and Challenger safety—diving leaders can create teams that thrive on collaboration, trust, and continuous learning. We discuss practical strategies, like sharing mistakes, setting ground rules, and encouraging constructive feedback, to nurture this safety and improve outcomes for both instructors and students. Original blog: https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/challenger-safety-control   Tags:  English, Gareth Lock, Just Culture, Leadership, Psychological Safety