Divers must wear equipment properly. The dive team has a color scheme dictated by the state. Each piece of equipment worn by our divers must conform to this scheme. The only personal diving equipment allowed is diving masks conforming to the scheme. All other diving equipment is provided.

Masks:

All diving masks, straps and other mask accoutrements can be:

• If the diver purchases a mask, the mask must be approved by the DSO prior to it being used.
• All personal masks must be disinfected prior to use in the system.

Uniforms and personal appearance:

The Aquarium is only as professional as the persons representing it. The dive team creates a good first impression in both appearance and manner.

Personal appearance, cleanliness and dress:

• Only clean, non-wrinkled uniforms will be worn when performing duties at the aquarium.
• The dive team uniform consists of one of the provided dive team shirts, worn with khaki/tan slacks, shorts or skirts, bearing no emblems or logos. Closed toe shoes should be worn when not diving. A belt should be worn with slacks or skirts that have belt loops. Walking outside of the shower areas without shoes is unsafe; all divers will wear shoes or booties when not in the shower area.
• Shorts and skirts hems will not rest more than 5 inches higher than the kneecap.
• An Aquarium logo sweatshirt, sweater, or jacket may be worn during colder months.
• If a cap is worn, it must bear the Aquarium logo.
• Each diver is expected to provide their own slacks, skirts, shorts, shoes and belts. All these items are expected to be “non-controversial” in design.
• The nametag is part of the uniform. An identification badge may be worn on the belt, collar, etc, of persons normally not in contact with the public; otherwise a name badge will be worn on the breast of the dive team shirt. Name badges can be found in the docent lounge.
• Uniform items shall not be worn too tight or too loose. Slacks, skirts, and shorts will be worn in a manner that prevents exposure of under garments, or any part of the stomach or buttocks.
• Uniform shirts must be tucked into the lower garment or may be hemmed 3-4 inches below the waist if worn outside the lower garment.
• Caps should be worn with the bill in front.
• Suspenders, scarves, excessive jewelry and similar personal items are not authorized.
• Hair, beards, and nails should be kept, neat, clean, trimmed and combed.
• Hair colors will not be exotic. Hair styles and length will allow for safe operation of equipment. Long hair (below the collar) will be tied neatly in the back.
• Body art such as tattoos and piercings (except ears) are inconsistent with the image of the North Carolina Aquariums. Any visible tattoo cannot be controversial, or offensive; and must be modest.
• Earrings should be non-controversial, conservative, and limited to small buttons, posts, loops or designs consistent with professionalism.