FAIRNESS, INCLUSION AND RESPECT (FIR) POLICY
Purpose
This policy sets out our commitment to creating and maintaining a working environment where every member of our diving team — divers, supervisors, tenders, support crew, and contractors — is treated fairly, included fully, and respected at all times. We recognise that commercial diving requires exceptional teamwork, trust, and communication. A culture of fairness and respect directly supports safety, performance, and wellbeing.
Scope
This policy applies to:
- All employees, freelance divers, and subcontractors
- All supervisors, managers, and company representatives
- All work undertaken on vessels, barges, pontoons, shore-based sites, workshops, and offices
- All work-related interactions, including travel, training, and digital communication
Our Commitments
Fairness
We commit to:
- Providing equal opportunities in recruitment, training, and progression
- Making decisions based on competence, qualifications, and operational needs
- Ensuring work is allocated fairly and transparently
- Addressing concerns or complaints promptly and impartially
Inclusion
We commit to:
- Creating a team culture where everyone feels valued and able to contribute
- Encouraging open communication and listening to all voices, regardless of role or seniority
- Removing barriers that prevent individuals from participating fully in work activities
- Supporting neurodiverse, disabled, or otherwise disadvantaged team members with reasonable adjustments where possible
Respect
We commit to:
- Treating all colleagues, clients, and stakeholders with dignity
- Maintaining professional behaviour on-site, offshore, and during travel
- Promoting a zero-tolerance approach to bullying, harassment, discrimination, or victimisation
- Respecting differences in background, culture, beliefs, and working styles
Expected Behaviour
All personnel are expected to:
- Communicate clearly, calmly, and professionally — especially during safety-critical operations
- Follow instructions from supervisors and respect the chain of command
- Challenge unsafe or disrespectful behaviour appropriately and without fear of retaliation
- Support colleagues, especially new or less experienced divers
- Maintain a positive, cooperative attitude in high-pressure environments
Unacceptable Behaviour
The following behaviours are not tolerated under any circumstances:
- Bullying, intimidation, or verbal abuse
- Discriminatory remarks or actions relating to race, gender, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or any protected characteristic
- Hazing or initiation practices
- Deliberate exclusion of team members from briefings, tasks, or social interaction
- Misuse of authority or seniority
- Retaliation against anyone who raises a concern
Reporting Concerns
Responsibilities
Management
- Lead by example and uphold FIR principles
- Ensure supervisors and team leaders receive appropriate training
- Investigate concerns and take corrective action
- Promote a culture of openness and accountability
Supervisors
- Maintain a respectful and inclusive dive team environment
- Address inappropriate behaviour immediately
- Ensure all team members are briefed, supported, and heard
- Encourage reporting without fear
All Personnel
- Follow this policy at all times
- Treat colleagues with fairness, inclusion, and respect
- Report concerns promptly
- Support a positive team culture
Training and Awareness
We will provide:
- FIR awareness training for all staff
- Additional support for supervisors and managers
- Regular reminders during toolbox talks, dive briefs, and safety meetings
Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or following any significant incident, regulatory change, or operational development. Feedback from divers and staff will be incorporated into future revisions
APPROVED BY:

Sam Connelly
Director – Feb 2026
