The members of these two groups have the greatest effect on shipwrecks. Divers on the wrecks must resist the temptation to pick up artifacts and move them around the site. Handling artifacts may not only lead to breakage, but simply moving the artifacts from where they were originally used or came to rest compromises the ability of an archaeologist or historian to accurately interpret the wreck and the wreck incident.
In addition to offering a safe diving experience, charter boat operators must insure that divers from their boats do not remove artifacts from the wrecks illegally. Charter boat operators must moor or anchor their boats in a way that does not damage the wreck or disturb the debris field. They must also share the wreck with other dive groups. Inappropriate or careless mooring can easily damage and will ultimately destroy a fragile wreck.