Who is responsible for initiating the initial forward movement during touch contact?

In caverns diving, the initial forward movement during touch contact is typically initiated by the rear diver. This is due to the structure of the dive team and the dynamics of their positioning in tight spaces. The rear diver often has the best overview of their entire team and can ensure that the movement is both coordinated and safe.

By starting the forward movement, the rear diver makes sure that they can maintain effective communication with the lead diver and partner divers, particularly in low visibility or confined conditions common in cavern diving. The rear diver is also responsible for maintaining awareness of the team’s spacing and ensuring that everyone is ready to proceed, minimizing the risk of entanglement or other issues.

This role is critical in maintaining the group's safety and efficiency while navigating the potentially hazardous environment of a cavern. Thus, the rear diver's responsibility encompasses not only initiating movement but also managing the pace and ensuring that everyone is accounted for as they proceed further into the underwater landscape.