Divers
Divers are among the best ambassadors for protecting our marine and freshwater environments. Every dive gives us a chance to enjoy incredible underwater habitats, but it also comes with a responsibility to help prevent the spread of invasive species between sites. While most divers already take great care of their equipment, adding a few simple biosecurity habits to your routine can make a real difference.
Invasive species can hitchhike surprisingly easily on diving equipment and boats. Small fragments, larvae, or microscopic organisms may survive in trapped water or damp areas of gear long after a dive has finished.
- Report sightings of invasive species, if possible take a photograph or video for accurate identification.
- Do not touch or move any invasive species, as the fragments can break off and can be spread to new areas.
- Check Clean Dry all equipment and clothing before entering a new waterbody.
DIVE EQUIPMENT
Some parts of diving gear are especially easy to overlook. Personal BCDs, for example, can retain water because of the valve and bladder system. Pockets, seams, hoses and folded material can also stay damp for long periods. Even well-maintained gear may not dry fully if airflow cannot reach enclosed spaces. RIBs and dive boats can also play a role, particularly around the hull where water may remain trapped within double-membrane structures, even if the hull is drained after use.
CHECK CLEAN DRY
CHECK your equipment, clothing and boats before packing away gear, inspecting carefully for any visible plant material, mud or debris attached to gear. Pay particular attention to hidden areas such as BCD pockets, Velcro fastenings, fin straps, boot soles and ropes. Empty any standing water from BCD bladders and other equipment before leaving the site.
A quick check at the shoreline or slipway is far easier than discovering damp debris in a gear bag days later.
CLEAN equipment as soon as possible using freshwater. Where possible, use hot water above 45°C, when rinsing all gear, especially areas where water can collect and are hard to access.
Opening pockets, zips and compartments during cleaning helps remove trapped material and improves drying later.
DRY all equipment for as long as possible before using it at another site. This can sometimes be difficult, especially with bulky gear or unpredictable weather, but is an effective biosecurity measures.
Many invasive species can survive for a few weeks in damp conditions. Hang equipment in a well-ventilated area, open all pockets and compartments, allowing extra time for BCDs, thick wetsuits and ropes to dry internally as well as externally.
Gentle cleaning is usually enough for regular maintenance, but when complete drying is not possible, appropriate disinfectants can also be used as part of a biosecurity routine. As always, divers should follow manufacturer guidance to protect sensitive materials and equipment components. The goal is to balance effective biosecurity with proper gear maintenance.
Divers Guide
Hamill, R. and Wilson, R. (2026). A diver’s guide to identifying and recording 10 of Northern Ireland’s marine invasive species. National Museums NI.
For an extended guide to Marine Invasive Species please click here.