SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/scuba-hand-signal-ok

Which hand signal means OK to a scuba buddy?

Thumb and index finger touching in a circle, other fingers up.

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  1. Thumb up
  2. Open palm waved side to side
  3. Thumb and index finger in a circle ✔

Why: Touch your thumb and index finger to make an O, with the other three fingers pointing up. It asks 'Are you OK?' and also answers it.

Huh, didn't know that: Some cave and technical divers use a closed fist for OK, so agree on signals before the dive.

The dad joke
Why did the diver make a circle with his fingers? He was OK with being under pressure.
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References

Answer: Thumb and index finger in a circle. Touch your thumb and index finger to make an O, with the other three fingers pointing up. It asks 'Are you OK?' and also answers it.

  1. SSI: Basic Hand Signals Every Diver Needs to Know www.divessi.com/blog/basic-hand-signals-every-diver-needs-to-know-8837.html
    your index finger creates an "O" by touching tips with your thumb. The other three fingers point upwards.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. DAN Alert Diver: What's That You Say? dan.org/alert-diver/article/whats-that-you-say
    the more traditional open hand with the thumb and forefinger coming together in a circle
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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