who controlls the agencies?

Question
hello scott

My question is very simple, I wanted to know if there is a government or federal structure in the U.S.A. that controls, regulates and sets the standards for the various diving agencies.

Best Regards
Enzo

Answer
The agencies have to abide by the normal federal regulations for businesses, however there is no federal agency that regulates or attempts to set the training standards for the diving agencies.  The agencies are self governing and can set their own standards.  

The agencies do tend to meet a minimum set of training standards set by World Recreational Scuba Training Council (WRSTC) but this is not mandatory.  For the most part all the agencies have a similar set of training standards for recreational scuba diving.

More specialized scuba diving such as cave diving and technical diving also set their own standards.

It is all a good example of self-governing bodies at work to to ensure people enjoy the sport without hurting themselves and the environment.

Certain other aspects of the sport are regulated to some degree.  Most notably, the use of, cleaning, manufacturing, and filling of scuba cylinders.

Equipment manufacturers have certain federal regulations of course.

The dive boats and operations also fall within certain regulations.