Divers in Thailand › PADI Scuba Hand Signals Chart
Scuba Diving Sign Language
Divers will find our review of PADI underwater scuba hand signs and symbols a useful resource. They make up the language and gestures used in diver communication.
The chart lists the common scuba diving hand signals (e.g. OK sign, numbers, air pressure, fish signs). You should always review divers sign language if you dive with an unfamiliar buddy.
How to Communicate while Scuba Diving?
Divers cannot speak through the mouthpiece of a conventional scuba regulator.
You would need an electronic system or a full face dive mask to have a reasonable conversation by voice while submerged.
Instead, we use PADI dive signals and hand movements underwater to interact with each other.
PADI diver training teaches you how to communicate and get attention underwater using standardised scuba signals or plastic writing slates.
Even so, it is worth noting that surface and underwater diving signs do vary among many of the different scuba training agencies (e.g. BSAC, CMAS, SSI) in Thailand.
Therefore, it is prudent to review common hand gestures and an appropriate emergency recall system during your pre-dive safety check (e.g. BWRAF).
Furthermore, you should always review the basic scuba diving hand signals chart below if you will go diving with a new buddy.
Note: Being able to understand fingers and hand gesticulation underwater (and body movements) helps to reduce confusion, anxiety, and it increases safety.
PADI Scuba Hand Signals
We use a set of established PADI dive signals and common arm gestures on all dives as part of the scuba diving buddy system.
The okay hand sign is one of the most used of all body signs underwater. It is a technique used to ask, and then confirm, that you are 'OK' in diver sign language (i.e. you are feeling fine).
Hence, displaying a circle created by your thumb and forefinger underwater, or at the surface, means you do not have a problem.
But wait - there's more:
We also use basic PADI hand signals to show our intended direction (e.g. let's go up, go down, or stop). Whereas, other scuba signals that divers use, will show:
- Both hands to form the letter 'T' shape signals 100 bar (meaning the tank pressure is half used).
- Low tank pressure (such as a clenched fist for 50 bar).
- The procedures for making a 3-minute safety stop (using 3 fingers to mean the number 'three').
- You want to share air supply with a buddy (after making the slitting throat signal).
Using your fingers is an efficient way of indicating numbers underwater, such as when showing how much air you have remaining in the tank.
Apart from the recognised PADI dive signals, most divers use some really cool scuba hand signals - together with some funny body movements - to represent fish family species and other aquatic animals.
Scuba Diving Hand Signals for Fish
There is no standard PADI hand signals PDF used for communicating the different signals for fishes and sea life creatures.
Okay... no problem! So, here is a list of hand gestures and body motions that almost all divers will use to make fish signs underwater:
- Jellyfish: Sweep your hand and fingers horizontally through the water in a way that mimics the drifting movement of jellyfishes in the water column.
- Moray Eels: Fingers and thumb closing and opening to represent the way morays move their jaw as part of their breathing mechanism.
- Pufferfish: Expanding clasped hands to represent the way pufferfishes will 'puff up' like a balloon as part of their defence mechanism that they use when threatened.
- Sharks: Place a hand vertical near to your head to denote the large dorsal fin that makes almost all sharks easily recognisable.
- Shrimps: Point a finger upwards at the side of your head (one each side) to mimic crustacean antennae.
- Triggerfish: Pointing a finger (like holding an imaginary pistol) to imitate the caudal fin that these fish will erect during periods of aggressive behaviour.
- Turtles: Have one hand resting on top of the other hand to represent the carapace (the hard shell) that sea turtles have.
FAQ about Scuba Hand Signals
Can Divers Hear Boat Motors in the Water?
It is not always obvious to determine the exact direction of sounds while you are below the surface. But, in most cases, you should be able to hear the noises that boat engines make.
Moreover, understanding boat propeller safety rules is of utmost importance for all divers and snorkelers – especially beginners.
Important: Sound travels about four times faster in water than it does in air. Even so, wearing a neoprene dive hood may affect a diver's hearing thresholds.
How Do I Signal My PSI for Diving?
Most divers will use the PADI hand signals PDF for guidance. But, some may differ (e.g. when using agency crossovers and equivalents).
Buddies communicate by pressing one (1) finger on their arm to represent 1,000 PSI. Lifting one (1) finger up indicates 100 PSI of air pressure remains in their tank.
Note: If a diver presses one finger to their arm, followed by four fingers held up, they will be showing that they have 1,400 pound-force per square inch (PSI) left.
How Do Scuba Divers Talk Underwater?
To be able to talk while submerged, there needs to be a transducer attached to the face mask. This device can convert voice sounds into an ultrasound signal.
Assuming your fellow diver has an ultrasound receiver, they will be able to accept the signal. Converting it back to a sound that they can hear allows for underwater chatter and communication.
Note: Another section explains more about how scuba divers communicate at the surface and when using underwater recall systems.
How to Get Someone's Attention Underwater?
Scuba accessories and underwater gadgets come in all shapes and sizes. Many of them are used purely for personal comfort and enjoyment.
But, carrying a few basic devices will increase your safety and make it easier to get someone's attention in an emergency.
How to Interact with Underwater Organisms?
Divers share a common responsibility to protect and conserve nature. As a result, passive interaction with aquatic animals helps to safeguard delicate and sensitive sea life.
What Mistakes Do New Divers Make?
Some simple diver errors progress from mere frustration and embarrassment, to costly financial mistakes, and even worse.
But, there are common mistakes beginners make on a regular basis - and some experienced professionals do too!
PADI Scuba Hand Signals Chart
