Log Book requirements for recreational and technical diving?

[Dutchman]

I would have a very difficult time producing my log book. I use a dive computer so I don’t have something else to lug around. I would be glad to show them my dive history on my computer and if they had the download kit, print it for them. That really is extreme. I would take my money to another operator.

That reminds me, better update my profile.

 

[Mike Newman]

I have been diving since 1990 and i have logged over 600 recreational and technical dives.

Recently, i have been doing some diving in the florida keys and a few times i ran into technical requirements with my log book.

1. Dive charter required all logged dives to have a buddy signature:Most of my bounded log books (ie. ones i purchased from a dive store) dont include a field to enter your buddy's name, let alone have them sign, so i have never dont this before. Also most of technical dives were "solo dives", so i wouldnt have a signature.

2. They dont accept unbounded log books and require log entries to be hand written:
As any serious diver knows, most bounded log books hold about 50 dives and cost about $12. Living in south florida, i log about 6-10 dives a week and it would be a financial burden to buy a new log book or refills every month or two. So about 400 dives ago i switched to log book software which allows me to keep my log book on my computer and print a hard copy of my dive log which i put in a ring binder and take with me. But, i have had charters not accept this because its not bounded or hand written.


So my questions are:

1. Is there any standard that all diving organizations accept, with regards to the minimum information a log book should contain? If yes, then what is it?

2. Must dive logs be bounded?

3. Must dive entries have a buddy signature?

4. Must dive logs be hand written?

5. Why arent computer log books accepted?

6. If i have a rollerdex of C-cards and i can demonstrate my knowledge and skill, why does anyone still need to show your log book? On a personal note, i rarely see any technical divers keep log books.

Sounds like someone is really more concerned about CYA than doing business with the dive community. You have had the answers to most of your questions, so I won't add to that line. I have to take issue with one point you made - all the logbooks I have ever come across, including electronic and online logs, have space for buddy details. Always worth recording - even if only to keep in touch with all the great friends you make on trips. I always try to grab an e-mail address.

 

[The Kraken]

Kirin,

As a few of the other posters requested, I too, would be interested in knowing the names of the charters that require such documentation.

Would you please share that information?

Thanx . . .

the K

 

[LSDeep]

i usually sign my students dives (and encourage them to log) and have them countersign for my files. other than that, i am happy with any form of log you provide to me to show me recent dive activity / required experience to start a course with me. anything like what they are asking just invites ppl to forge signatures on divelogs for no rational reason. some agencies even provide / promote software for dive logging - so no, there is absolutely no reason to have everything in print (or even more ridiculous handwritten). after all we have 2006 and not 1965. anyway, if you intend to take a course, confirm beforehand what you might need as proof (within reason), if you just want to dive, go to another shop (as others said).
keep in mind, many shops (especially in resort areas) like to see some proof of recent diving activity, or might require you to do a shallow "check out" dive with guide initially. in my experience a needed way to keep the "i need to go deep and long and have done it all" divers under control.