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7. BC EXAMINATION AND PROCEDURES
Pre-dive, dive and post dive BC examination helps to identify equipment problems
before unsafe conditions exist, helping to prevent diving accidents. All equipment
must be regularly inspected by an authorized SCUBAPRO equipment repair facility to
maintain its safe operation.
7.1 Pre-Dive Visual Inspection and Valve Test:
1. Examine the entire BC for cuts, punctures, frayed seams, excessive abrasion,
loose/missing hardware and other damage of any kind.
2. Inspect the TEK BPI (inflate button, deflate button, and inlet) and Manual Dump
Valve for cracks, damage or contamination.
3. Inflate the TEK BPI using the inflate button (with LP hose attached and charged
with gas pressure from a cylinder). Check that the Over Pressure Valve activates
on full inflation and reseals after releasing excess gas. Ensure the manual Dump
Valve operates correctly on activation and reseals completely.
4. Inflate the BC orally until it is full and firm via the TEK BPI unit’s mouth opening,
while depressing the deflate button on exhalation. Listen and check for leaks. Let
the BC stand inflated for 30 minutes or more and then check the BC for loss of
gas.
5. If applicable and when using the Single Tank Adapter, soak the cylinder bands in
water and fit the BC to a SCUBA cylinder. Pull up on the BC while it is attached on
the SCUBA cylinder, checking that the BC is secure and will not slip while diving.
6. While wearing the BC, adjust all straps on the BC for a comfortable fit that does
not restrict breathing. Make these adjustments with the BC inflated and while
wearing the exposure suit you intend to dive with.
7. Check quick release weight pockets or systems that retain weight (if your BC
is equipped with them). Make sure that their retention systems are fully and
securely engaged. Confirm that they can be quickly released and the weight
freely removed from the system.
8. Do a buddy check with your dive partner confirming that all valves operate
correctly prior to entering the water.
