Commercial diving/Scuba diving practical assessment criteria

Assessment criteria for scuba practical skills. The detailed specification of what the candidate must do to be considered competent.

To be used in conjunction with a checklist to ensure that each skill is assessed and the results recorded.

General criteria for Snorkel and Scuba Skills assessment.

 * As a general principle competence in a composite skill implies competence in the component skills. RPL assessment should target the composite skill to save time.
 * Skills must be practiced and assessed until each one can be performed competently.
 * If the assessor has any doubts that a critical skill can be consistently performed the skill should be demonstrated competently 3 times in succession
 * RPL assessment may be done in open water.
 * Several skills may be assessed together when convenient (integrated assessment).
 * Any practicable combination of these skills may be summatively assessed during an open water dive. Skills should be summatively assessed on scuba unless specified on snorkel.
 * Whenever practicable the skill should be personally observed by the assessor. This may be done by diving with the candidate/learner, through a window in a tank, via CCTV or by video recording. Where this is not possible, another instructor or assistant instructor should observe the demonstration. The assessor/instructor is not required to dive using the same mode as the learner.

Specific skills listed by category:

Category: Set up site
Specific skills

Sub-category: Safety

 * Identify hazards at a dive site:
 * List hazards at a dive site which are visible
 * List probable hazards at a dive site which can be deduced from available information
 * Differentiate between hazards which can be mitigated by standard equipment and procedures and those which can not.
 * Use required PSE
 * Appropriate use of overalls, gloves, work boots, safety glasses, ear defenders, hard hats, lifejackets etc as required by site or workshop conditions.

Sub-category: Scuba

 * Select equipment for a scuba diving operation:
 * Select appropriate personal equipment for a planned dive
 * Prior to deployment to the dive site all equipment is inspected carefully for signs of deterioration, damage or corrosion; and is tested for proper operation where required
 * Assembly and checks at the dive site


 * Prepare Scuba equipment for a diving operation:
 * Confirm all equipment is present and still free from damage
 * Check communications equipment is adequate for the planned diving operation and is assembled and tested in accordance with authorised procedures
 * Standard pre-dive assembly and check procedures are followed and readiness of equipment is personally verified by the diver
 * In all cases equipment which does not conform to requirements is promptly reported to the supervisor. Failed equipment is marked accordingly and removed from service


 * Load and transport equipment for a diving operation;
 * Use checklist to ensure that all required equipment is loaded
 * Handle equipment with due care to avoid damage and personal injury
 * Wear appropriate PPE
 * TBA

Sub-category: Seamanship

 * Stow equipment on boat:
 * Follow instructions from skipper or crewperson allocated to supervise loading
 * Stow equipment where it is suitably protected and secure
 * Fasten in position as instructed
 * TBA


 * Prepare small craft for slipway or beach launch:
 * TBA


 * Assist in launch of small craft from beach or slipway:
 * TBA


 * Handle mooring lines and fenders:
 * Tie up at jetty or dockside
 * Set up fenders as instructed
 * TBA


 * Observe boating safety procedures:
 * Wear appropriate PPE
 * Sit as instructed
 * TBA


 * Keep lookout for divers and other vessels
 * TBA

Category: Snorkel diver procedures

 * Fit and operation:
 * Snorkel is attached to mask strap or inserted under strap
 * Snorkel does not get in the way of other equipment or fall off when not held by the mouth
 * Snorkel tip reaches clear air


 * Breathing style:
 * Diver breathes through snorkel without getting too much water
 * Snorkel is cleared of occasional water by blast clearing without the diver raising the head from the water
 * Breathing rate is sufficiently deep and slow to effectively ventilate without risk of hyperventilation or CO2 build-up


 * Snorkel displacement clear:
 * Surface from dive and clear the snorkel by tilting the head back and exhaling to fill the tube before breaking the surface


 * Snorkel blast clear:
 * Surface from dive and clear the snorkel by exhaling sharply to blow out the water in the tube


 * 50 m surface swim snorkel only:
 * Swim 50m on the surface without a mask while breathing through the snorkel.
 * The diver may hold the snorkel in place but not pinch the nose


 * Remove and replace:
 * Diver finning face down at the surface removes snorkel from mouth and replaces and clears without raising the head
 * This is repeated consistently at short intervals at least 5 times


 * Displacement mask clear:
 * Diver floods mask underwater and effectively clears (water below bottom of eyes) on breath hold


 * Duck dive (snorkel):
 * Diver starts floating face down at the surface
 * Dive is initiated by bending body about 90° at the hips so that head points down
 * Hands may be brought down to point in line with upper part of body.
 * One or both legs may be lifted out of the water as the hips are straightened, and the weight of the legs pushes the diver down.
 * The arms may be pulled back to help the diver down
 * Once the fins are submerged they are used to push the diver down to the required depth.
 * The diver must effectively bend forward and dive in a head downward attitude to a depth not less than 3m. Ears, sinuses and mask should be equalised as required.


 * Drop dive (snorkel):
 * Diver starts floating vertical in water
 * Diver thrusts upward by finning and optional arm strokes, then drops down below surface with optional assistance of arm strokes, rolls forward to head down attitude and fins downward.
 * Splashing should be minimised
 * The diver must effectively drop down, bend forward and dive in a head downward attitude to a depth not less than 3m. Ears, sinuses and mask should be equalised as required.


 * Remove and replace weights (snorkel):
 * Take off ditchable weights at surface and replace in original configuration

Category: Scuba Diver Standard Operating Procedures
(Integrate skill definitions from old criteria list}}

Sub-category: Prepare for dive
Specific skills


 * Dress for dive:
 * Dress in exposure suit, weight system
 * Dress in harness and scuba
 * Dress in fins mask, etc


 * Wetsuit fit and operation:
 * Wetsuit is comfortable and snug fit on diver, and is of suitable thickness for the planned dive and conditions.
 * Zips, velcro, buckles and clips fitted to the suit are closed or fastened as appropriate
 * Diver fits suit components in correct configuration and logical order.
 * Time taken is reasonable.


 * Booties / gloves / hood:
 * Wet suit booties, gloves and hood are worn when appropriate.


 * Dry suit fit and operation:
 * Suit is checked before dressing
 * Seals are suitably lubricated if necessary
 * Suit is fitted in logical sequence and correct configuration.
 * Seals are adjusted and fit correctly
 * Zip is closed fully and checked by the diver
 * Diver may request help to close zip
 * Fit of suit is checked for freedom of movement and correct boot fit


 * Undersuit:
 * Suitable undergarments are worn for the expected conditions
 * Undergarments fit the diver (allow full range of motion permitted by the suit}


 * Weights fit and operation:
 * Weight system fits diver, is stable and comfortable, does not move around during a dive, and does not restrict the diver’s movements
 * Weights can be shed easily and quickly using either hand (not all weights need to be shed at the same time)
 * Sufficient weight can be shed to ensure positive buoyancy of diver at surface with no equipment inflated.
 * Trim weights are optional but must not prevent positive buoyancy when ditchable weights have been shed


 * Remove and replace weights (scuba):
 * Take off ditchable weights at surface and replace in original configuration
 * Take off ditchable weights under water (at bottom?) and replace in original configuration
 * TBA Split? (predive and postdive parts)


 * Hand up and retrieve weights:
 * Take off ditchable weights at surface and pass up to tender on shore or boat.
 * Recover ditchable weights from tender and refit in original configuration
 * Diver may hold on to shore or boat, but must remove and refit weights without assistance
 * TBA Split? (predive and postdive parts)


 * FFM fit and operation:
 * Mask fits diver comfortably and without leaks. (slight leaks around lower edge due to facial hair may be tolerated)
 * Diver wears mask under edges of hood, and clears hair from mask skirt. (masks which are designed to seal over a hood may be worn that way)
 * Mask straps hold mask in position effectively (secure and essentially leak free) and are not twisted
 * Positive pressure masks do not free-flow excessively.
 * Diver is able to block nose to clear ears
 * Note that some masks will not properly fit some faces. The candidate should not be penalised for this if the mask is supplied by the school.


 * Half mask fit and operation:
 * Mask fits diver comfortably and without leaks. (minor leaks at lower edge due to facial hair may be tolerated)
 * Diver wears mask under edges of hood, and clears head hair from mask skirt
 * Mask strap holds mask in position effectively and is not twisted
 * Diver is able to block nose to clear ears


 * Pre dive checks:
 * See Checklists for scuba: Fill in at least one checklist of each type correctly and append to PoE


 * Scuba fit and operation:
 * Hose routing does not cause side or twist loads on diver’s mouth
 * DV is orientated correctly when in use
 * Diver can achieve full head rotation and movement without dislodging DV
 * Diver achieves comfortable seal on mouthpiece
 * Diver can operate purge button


 * BCD Fit and operation:
 * There is no restriction on the configuration of BCD as long as the fit and function meets all requirements.
 * Harness is adjusted to suit diver
 * Power inflation hose fits without significant leaks and valve operates without leaks
 * Diver can reach and operate inflator mechanism and dump valves

Sub-category: Enter water in a controlled and safe manner, using any necessary aids

 * Stride entry:
 * Diver steps forward while remaining upright
 * Fins are separated before impact, and brought together in the water to slow immersion
 * Diver enters water vertically and in control of equipment
 * No equipment falls off or is significantly shifted during entry
 * Diver is buoyant on entry
 * Diver turns to control and signals OK


 * Back roll:
 * Diver sits on gunwale or equivalent with back to water
 * Diver rolls backwards on command
 * Diver enters water in control of equipment
 * No equipment falls off or is significantly shifted during entry
 * Diver is buoyant on entry
 * Diver surfaces immediately and signals OK


 * Walk:
 * Diver walks into water or climbs down shoreside
 * Diver enters water stable and in control of equipment
 * No equipment falls off or is significantly shifted during entry
 * Diver is buoyant on entry
 * Diver turns to control and signals OK


 * Seated:
 * Diver sits with legs over/in water
 * takes weight on hands and swings body round, then lowers self into water in controlled manner
 * Diver enters water vertically and in control of equipment
 * No equipment falls off or is significantly shifted during entry
 * Diver is buoyant on entry
 * Diver controls position and signals OK


 * Height (3m):
 * Diver jumps from platform 3 m above surface of water.
 * Diver checks water is safe to enter
 * Diver enters water vertically and in control of equipment
 * No equipment falls off or is significantly shifted during entry
 * Diver is buoyant on entry
 * Diver surfaces immediately and signals OK


 * Ladder:
 * TBA

Sub-category: Breathe underwater using scuba:

 * Surface checks:
 * Check scuba for correct function at shallow immersion
 * Harness does not float up under diver’s armpits when inflated, but remains in correct position on body.
 * Diver can orally inflate BCD at surface to provide positive buoyancy with all personal diving equipment to be used in place.
 * Diver can inflate BCD on surface using the power inflation valve to provide positive buoyancy with all personal diving equipment to be used in place
 * Inflated BCD does not prevent diver from maintaining a face-up attitude on the surface
 * Report ready to dive if checks OK


 * Breathing style:
 * Diver breathes slowly and deeply without holding breath between inhalation and exhalation


 * Demand valve clearing:
 * Clear by exhalation and by purge button on separate occasions


 * Remove and replace DV:
 * DV is removed from the mouth for at least 2 seconds and replaced.
 * DV is cleared by exhalation and by purge button on separate occasions
 * Diver does not lose balance or change depth during the exercise


 * FFM clearing:
 * Clear by exhalation and by purge button on separate occasions


 * Remove and replace FFM:
 * Full-face mask is removed from the face for at least 2 seconds and replaced. Straps must be clear of the head.
 * Full-face mask is cleared by exhalation and by purge button on separate occasions
 * Diver does not lose balance or change depth during the exercise
 * Straps are replaced correctly for effective seal and security


 * Half mask displacement clear:
 * Diver floods mask underwater and fully clears on Scuba
 * Diver does not lose balance during clearing
 * Mask is clear within two breaths


 * Half mask remove and replace:
 * Diver removes mask completely from head, refits correctly and fully clears within two breaths
 * Diver does not lose balance during exercise
 * Final assessment in mid-water. Diver maintains depth within 2m

Sub-category: Descend on scuba

 * Positive buoyancy at the surface:
 * Diver achieves positive buoyancy at the surface by inflating the BCD
 * TBA Maybe move to entries?


 * Negative buoyancy at the surface:
 * Weighting has been adjusted by adding or removing weights so that the diver can float at the surface with full lungs and sink on exhalation
 * This skill can be demonstrated for any equipment configuration used by the diver at the assessor’s discretion
 * Weights added for fine tuning may be non-ditchable.


 * Descend feet first on jackstay/shotline:
 * Depth for assessment should exceed 6m
 * Start descent on instruction from supervisor
 * Diver dumps air from suit and/or BCD and if necessary exhales to achieve negative buoyancy.
 * Diver sinks at controlled speed feet downwards maintaining contact with shotline
 * Ears are effectively equalised and rate of descent controlled by suit and BCD inflation and friction with shotline
 * Finning to control descent rate should be minimised
 * Follow line to worksite
 * Remain in visual/tactile contact with line during transit


 * Descent feet first (non contact descent):
 * Depth for assessment should exceed 6m
 * Start descent on instruction from supervisor
 * Diver dumps air from suit and/or BCD and if necessary exhales to achieve negative buoyancy. (exhalation should not be necessary if cylinder is full)
 * Diver sinks at controlled speed feet downwards.
 * Ears are effectively equalised and rate of descent controlled by suit and BCD inflation.
 * Finning to control descent rate should be minimised
 * Arms are not used to control descent rate by swimming motions
 * Diver stops descent short of bottom by inflating suit and/or BCD to neutral buoyancy


 * Descent in horizontal trim (non contact):
 * Depth for assessment should exceed 6m
 * Start descent on instruction from supervisor
 * Diver dumps air from suit and/or BCD and if necessary exhales to achieve negative buoyancy.
 * Diver sinks at controlled speed in approximately horizontal attitude, face down.
 * Trim may be adjusted for comfort and improved field of vision but should be within 30° of level. Arms and legs may be splayed for best directional and attitude control
 * Ears are effectively equalised and rate of descent controlled by suit and BCD inflation.
 * Finning to control descent rate should be minimised
 * Arms are not used to control descent rate by swimming motions
 * Diver stops descent short of bottom by inflating suit and/or BCD to neutral buoyancy

Sub-category: Effectively control buoyancy underwater

 * Neutral buoyancy on bottom (skill specified in DoL standard, but apparently not defined anywhere. Assumed to mean neutral buoyancy by use if BCD or suit inflation):
 * See BCD skills? Dry suit skills?
 * TBA


 * Exercise - Neutral buoyancy fin pivots:
 * Diver trims horizontal at the bottom
 * Diver adjusts buoyancy at bottom by inflating BCD to achieve neutral buoyancy and demonstrates ability to lift off bottom during inhalation and sink to bottom on exhalation Fin tips may remain in contact with the bottom during lift phase.


 * Exercise - Neutral buoyancy midwater:
 * Diver adjusts buoyancy in midwater by inflating BCD to achieve neutral buoyancy and maintains depth relative to a fixed object by adjusting depth of breathing for at least 30 seconds.
 * The arms and legs may not be used for depth control, and the diver may not hold on to any object to help control depth
 * Depth variation should not exceed 1m from the reference point


 * Neutral buoyancy level trim midwater:
 * The diver adjusts buoyancy to maintain a horizontal trim at a fixed depth in midwater.
 * The arms and legs may not be used for depth control, and the diver may not hold on to any object to help control depth
 * Depth variation should not exceed 1m from the reference point


 * Neutral buoyancy at last stop:
 * The diver achieves neutral buoyancy at a depth of 3m with less than 30 bar in the cylinder.


 * Exercise - Buoyancy control (+2 kg):
 * The diver follows the requirements for Neutral buoyancy midwater while carrying extra 2kg of weight beyond that required for neutral buoyancy at the surface


 * Exercise - Inflator malfunction:
 * The diver corrects a stuck open inflator valve by dumping if necessary and disconnecting the LP inflator hose.


 * Exercise - Remove and replace BCD:
 * The cylinder harness is removed and refitted. The BCD remains in its normal configuration, but may be inflated or deflated and straps and buckles adjusted to suit the diver during the demonstration with all straps correctly fastened and adjusted at completion.
 * This skill should be demonstrated on the bottom and at the surface.
 * The diver may hold on to the harness at the bottom, and should not float to the surface
 * The harness should be positively buoyant for this exercise at he surface.
 * Ditchable weights may be maneuvered to suit the diver, but must be correctly fitted at the end of the exercise


 * Dry suit inflation and buoyancy control:
 * Diver adjusts suit volume to prevent squeeze
 * Diver demonstrates ability to achieve neutral buoyancy by adjustment of suit volume. Diver hangs in mid water stationary relative to a fixed reference point or high resolution depth gauge. ( tolerance ±1m)


 * Dry suit deflation and ascent:
 * Diver controls suit volume during ascent by use of auto dump valve or cuff dump.
 * Diver remains neutral or slightly negative during swimming and shotline ascents


 * Dry suit dumping in emergency:
 * Dump by cuff lift


 * Dry suit inversion recovery and rolls:
 * Diver inverts (feet up) and recovers to feet down or horizontal attitude without significant change in depth (tolerance ±1m)

Sub-category: Underwater mobility
Use fins for propulsion:
 * Flutter kick (bicycle kick, freestyle kick):
 * Diver face down. Feet move alternately up and down to provide thrust. Splashing at surface should not be excessive
 * Depth, direction and trim are under control and the hands and arms are not used for propulsion or stabilisation
 * Use flutter kick to effectively propel the diver in a straight line on the surface and under water over a distance of 25m or more for each demonstration.
 * Diver should move at reasonable speed for equipment worn, and not be out of breath


 * Dolphin kick:
 * Feet stay together and move up and down together to provide thrust
 * Depth, direction and trim are under control and the hands and arms are not used for propulsion or stabilisation
 * Use dolphin kick to effectively propel the diver in a straight line under water over a distance of 25m or more
 * Diver should move at reasonable speed for equipment worn, and not be out of breath


 * Back flutter kick:
 * Diver face up (at the surface). Feet move alternately up and down to provide thrust. Splashing should not be excessive
 * Depth, direction and trim are under control and the hands and arms are not used for propulsion or stabilisation
 * Use back kick to effectively propel the diver in a straight line on the surface over a distance of 25m or more
 * Diver should move at reasonable speed for equipment worn, and not be out of breath


 * Frog kick (breaststroke kick):
 * Diver face down. Both feet are brought towards the body by bending the legs. Thrust is developed on the outstroke by extending the legs and on the closing stroke by twisting the ankles and bringing the legs together. Outstroke and closing stroke may blend smoothly.
 * Depth, direction and trim are under control and the hands and arms are not used for propulsion or stabilisation
 * Use dolphin kick to effectively propel the diver in a straight line under water over a distance of 25m or more
 * Diver should move at reasonable speed for equipment worn, and not be out of breath


 * Maneuvering:
 * Helicopter turns - turn on the spot on vertical axis both ways while trimmed horizontal using fins only. Depth should not vary.
 * Forward rolls - Roll 3 times forward without significant depth change. Start and finish trimmed horizontal
 * Backward rolls - Roll 3 times backward without significant depth change. Start and finish trimmed horizontal
 * Lateral rolls - Roll 3 times to left and to right without significant depth change. Start and finish trimmed horizontal
 * TBA

Sub-category: Communicate as a diver

 * Communicate with surface (voice):
 * Use conventional voice protocols
 * Inform surface control when:
 * Ready to enter water
 * Ready to leave surface
 * Arriving at bottom/worksite
 * Any incident occurs which the supervisor should know about
 * In difficulty
 * Another diver appears to be in difficulty
 * The work is completed or must be suspended
 * Leaving the bottom
 * Arriving at a decompression stop
 * Leaving a decompression stop
 * Arriving at the surface


 * Communicate with surface using conventional / standard or previously arranged line signals:
 * Give standard directional line signals as tender
 * Respond correctly to directional line signals as diver


 * Communicate with diver using conventional / standard or previously arranged hand signals:
 * Demonstrate and respond appropriately to standard diving hand signals

Sub-category: Monitor gas consumption and reserves

 * Monitor scuba contents and status:
 * Report main cylinder pressure to supervisor during pre-dive checks
 * Check main cylinder pressure at start of descent
 * Check main cylinder pressure at on request from buddy/in-water stand-by diver and signal pressure.
 * Check main cylinder pressure often enough to know within 10% the pressure remaining.
 * Terminate dive on reaching critical pressure
 * Notify other divers or surface and start ascent


 * Monitor bailout contents and status:
 * Check bailout cylinder pressure before entering water and report to supervisor
 * Check bailout cylinder pressure on request from buddy/in-water stand-by diver and signal pressure
 * Check bailout cylinder pressure at any time when switching to bailout underwater.
 * Check bailout pressure when reaching turnaround point of dive.


 * Defog and clear mask:
 * Rinse and clear mask to defog as required


 * Exercise situational awareness:
 * Remain aware of position of other divers in vicinity
 * Remain aware of position relative to overheads and other obstacles
 * Manoeuvre both in and out of the water to avoid entanglement, tripping and bumping into things


 * Avoid crossing and twisting lifelines and surface marker buoy lines
 * Avoid crossing other divers’ lifelines
 * Avoid crossing other lines known to be in the vicinity, such as mooring lines, shotlines etc

Sub-category: Ascend from dive:

 * Ascend shotline or jackstay:
 * Climb shotline hand over hand
 * Control buoyancy using BCD and/or suit inflation
 * Follow jackstay, using it to assist ascent as necessary


 * Ascend on surface marker buoy line:
 * Deploy DSMB from depth
 * Ascend taking up slack on reel or spool
 * Ascend at correct rate
 * Control buoyancy using BCD and/or suit
 * Stop for decompression as indicated
 * Surface with due attention to boat traffic
 * TBA


 * Ascend with no fixed reference in midwater:
 * TBA


 * Decompression stops:
 * Conduct simulated or required safety stops at depth and duration as instructed
 * Maintain depth accurately using available aids

Sub-category: Exit water

 * Exit water:
 * Exit water in controlled and stable manner
 * Use available aids
 * Avoid damaging equipment or bumping into personnel
 * Exits to boat, beach, rocky shore.

Sub-category: Undress after dive

 * Undress after dive (Undress correctly after completion of a Scuba diving operation B.5.1 – 4 occasions):
 * Undress without damaging equipment
 * Stow equipment securely
 * Ensure equipment is clean and neat after use
 * Report any damage or malfunctions to supervisor


 * Wet suit removal after dive:
 * Wet suit is removed in logical order and without damaging components.
 * Accessories are removed to facilitate suit removal.
 * Fasteners are released before attempting to remove suit
 * Diver remains in control and does not get trapped in partially removed suit.
 * Diver may be assisted where suit design or fit makes this necessary


 * Dry suit removal after dive:
 * Accessories are removed to allow suit to be removed
 * Suit is removed in logical sequence without undue stress or damage to seals and zip
 * Diver remains in control and does not become trapped in partly removed suit
 * Diver may request help for removal of cuff seals and opening zip


 * Strip-down scuba equipment(Carry out post dive equipment checks B.5.3 – 4 occasions):
 * Cylinder pressure checked, valve closed
 * DV purged, LP hose disconnected from BCD
 * Regulator unscrewed from valve and placed where it will not be contaminated (dry dust cover attached)
 * Cylinder removed from harness


 * After use maintenance (Decontaminate and clean equipment B,5.4 – 4 occasions, Ensure proper care and storage of equipment B.5.5 – 4 occasions):
 * Decontaminate (wash with detergent to remove hydrocarbons etc.)
 * Clean (rinsed in fresh water, dried out of direct sunlight)
 * Inspect. (check stitching, fasteners, seals, O-rings etc)
 * Tag defective items (attach label specifying fault, fix or book in for repair)
 * Maintain (lubricate dry suit zips, powder latex seals, )
 * Store in cool dry place out of sunshine

Sub-category: Report on dive

 * Report on dive:
 * (to category Administration?)
 * Oral reports:
 * Report on tasks completed, indicating quality.
 * Report on tasks not completed, giving reasons and current status
 * Report on contingencies experienced and how they were dealt with
 * Report on emergencies and how they were dealt with
 * Report any malfunctioning or lost equipment
 * Provide any written report required.

Category: Diver Emergency Procedures
Notes: Gas sharing initial training is to be using an octopus regulator, or donated primary where the donor switches to secondary, not buddy breathing from a shared second stage. Buddy breathing from a shared regulator may be used for confidence training/stress exposure training only after use of independent second stage is thoroughly familiar. In a crisis people tend to revert to the most familiar system, which must be a dedicated regulator, and any standby diver or diver operating in a buddy pair or three-diver team must carry a second stage for rescue in terms of the relevant Codes of Practice.

Sub-category: DV/FFM recovery

 * Arm sweep DV recovery:
 * Recover dropped DV by sweeping the straight arm down the side, back to the cylinder, as high as possible, then swing out and around to the front, to gather the dangling hose and replace in the mouth
 * DV is recovered effectively in a single sweep
 * Arm is swept in manner to prevent missing the hose.


 * Inverted DV recovery:
 * Tilt body so head is down and DV dangles in view
 * Grasp DV and fit and clear
 * Diver may tilt back to horizontal to help clear DV


 * Hose trace DV recovery:
 * Reach back to 1st stage and hook fingers round regulator hose
 * Pull hand along hose until DV is reached and refit and clear


 * Arm sweep FFM recovery:
 * Recover dislodged mask by sweeping the straight arm down the side, back to the cylinder, as high as possible up along the cylinder, then swing out and around to the front, to gather the dangling hose and replace mask on the head
 * Mask is recovered effectively in a single sweep
 * Arm is swept in manner to prevent missing the hose.


 * Inverted FFM recovery:
 * Tilt body so head is down and mask dangles in view
 * Grasp mask and fit and clear
 * Diver may tilt head back to help clear mask

Sub-category: Lost or flooded half-mask

 * Exercise - Surface swimming with DV but no mask:
 * Fin 50m on the surface without a mask, breathing on DV, without manually blocking the nose.


 * Exercise - Swim 50 m underwater with flooded mask
 * Diver swims 50m underwater at constant depth or along the bottom breathing on Scuba while mask remains flooded to above eye level
 * The nose may not be pinched except as necessary to equalise ears


 * Surface on shotline or reel with DV but no mask
 * Range: Half mask, open water more than 6m deep, no decompression obligation.
 * Diver removes mask at depth greater than 6m and ascends line at controlled speed
 * Diver makes safety stop for 3 minutes at 3m as indicated by buddy
 * Diver maintains appropriate buoyancy during ascent

Sub-category: Air sharing

 * Receive octopus regulator:
 * Distressed diver signals to stand-by diver to donate air
 * TBA


 * Receive primary:
 * Distressed diver signals to stand-by diver to donate air
 * TBA

Sub-category: Emergency ascents

 * Free swimming ascent:
 * This must not be done on the same day after dives deeper than 6m
 * Visibility should be at least 5m
 * The bottom time before ascent is started should be kept to a minimum unless dive is shallower than 6m
 * Buoyancy should be under control during the ascent
 * Diver should blow continuous and visible stream of bubbles during ascent
 * The diver should hold the DV in readiness for replacement in case of need. (not required if depth less than 6m)
 * There should be a stand-by diver at the bottom and in the water at the surface if the depth is more than 6m. The assessor may be one of the stand-by divers
 * Ascent rate should be controlled by finning upward
 * Ascent rate should be approximately 10m/minute for depths less than 10m
 * Depth must be more than 3m and should be less than 10m

TBA
 * Buoyant ascent

Sub-category: Bailout to gas source carried by the diver

 * Bailout to integrated reserve
 * Range (equipment): Reserve valve, manifolded twins with one cylinder normally isolated (manual balancing). To be done with full-face mask and half-mask.
 * Range (environment): To be done in low visibility or with blackout mask.
 * Pre-dive checks on reserve system, including function test of valves while wearing set.
 * Monitor reserve valve status during dive
 * Activate reserve system when gas pressure low
 * Terminate dive


 * Bailout to independent gas supply
 * Range (equipment): Back-mount independent twins or main and pony cylinder, Sidemount or sling bailout. Half-mask and independent DVs, Full-face mask with gas switching block (bailout block, bailout valve)
 * Range (environment): To be done in low visibility or with blackout mask.
 * Mount and check bailout cylinder, test function and return to standby mode, check access to all necessary controls (valves) while wearing set
 * Switch over to bailout cylinder when gas pressure low (assessor closes main gas supply under controlled conditions)
 * Terminate dive breathing from bailout cylinder

Sub-category: Establish positive buoyancy

 * Establish positive buoyancy by ditching weights at surface
 * Range (equipment): Weight belt or integrated weight system.
 * Range (environment): At surface in place where weight recovery is practicable, and no harm will be done by falling weights
 * Remove and drop weights when at surface to establish positive buoyancy
 * Ballast weights are disconnected and dropped away from diver.
 * Diver establishes adequate positive buoyancy with suit and BC deflated, or suit deflated and BC removed.

Category: Surface Tender procedures
Specific skills


 * Assist diver to dress for dive: (Assist another diver to dress correctly for entering the water for a Scuba diving operation A.1.3 – 4 occasions)


 * Secure lifeline:
 * Attach lifeline to diver using approved method
 * Check that lifeline does not snag on other equipment


 * Line handling:
 * Pay out and recover lifeline, ensuring that it does not tangle or have excess slack
 * Flake line in neat coils for easy deployment


 * Assist diver to undress after dive: (Assist another diver to undress correctly on completion of a Scuba diving operation B.5.2 – 4 occasions)

Category: Stand-by diver procedures
Specific skills

Sub-category: Rescue

 * Exercise - Tow unresponsive diver:
 * Tow unresponsive diver a distance of 20m on the surface while protecting the airway (rescue breathing?)


 * Exercise - Bring unresponsive diver to surface:
 * Distressed diver on bottom is assessed as Unresponsive
 * Rescuer ensures unresponsive diver is not unduly negatively buoyant
 * Rescuer takes firm hold of casualty
 * Rescuer protects airway of casualty
 * Casualty is brought to surface at rate which does not endanger rescuer
 * Buoyancy of casualty is adjusted so that it is unlikely to sink if it must be abandoned during ascent (casualty should be more buoyant than rescuer)


 * Assisted ascent - Donate primary DV (Buddy breathing):
 * Distressed diver signals for donation of air.
 * Donor diver passes DV to receiver without delay
 * Diver retains control of DV while allowing receiver to reach purge button and DV is in correct orientation.
 * Receiver takes initial breaths (this may exceed the standard two if necessary) then removes DV from mouth.
 * Donor takes two breaths and passes DV back to receiver
 * Divers stabilise situation and develop a rhythm before initiating exit/ascent
 * Divers assume positions which facilitate movement and security of air supply
 * Divers maintain secure contact during exit/ascent
 * Divers make controlled ascent at correct rate
 * Divers establish positive buoyancy on surface


 * Assisted ascent - Donate octopus second stage (secondary DV) or fixed bailout:
 * Either DV may be donated. If the primary is donated then the diver should switch over to secondary immediately and confirm that it is working.
 * Once the situation has stabilised ensure that the receiver has the DV with the longer hose then initiate ascent
 * Divers maintain secure contact during ascent
 * Divers assume positions which facilitate movement and security of air supply
 * Divers make controlled ascent at correct rate
 * Divers establish positive buoyancy on surface


 * Assisted ascent - Donate sling bailout (new):
 * Donor ensures that bailout cylinder valve is open, purges and passes over bailout DV.
 * Donor unclips sling cylinder and hands it off to receiver
 * Donor stands by to assist receiver to sling bailout cylinder if needed
 * Donor accompanies receiver during ascent.

Sub-category: First Aid

 * Recognise signs and symptoms of diving injuries:
 * Suggest possible causes of a given list of signs and symptoms
 * TBA

Category: Assist supervisor
Specific skill


 * Communication:
 * Demonstrate and understand standard lifting hand signals

Category: Miscellaneous exercises

 * Doff & don:
 * Diver removes harness including cylinder, mask and fins and leaves them on the bottom. Equipment may be clipped together at diver’s discretion to keep it all together. Equipment must remain on bottom.
 * Diver surfaces by free swimming ascent, ensuring not holding breath by blowing continuous fine stream of bubbles
 * Diver dives back to equipment on bottom and puts it back on.
 * Method of doffing and donning is at the diver’s discretion provided that it works reasonably effectively and is not inherently dangerous
 * The diver must remain under water during the removal and replacement of the equipment
 * Equipment must be returned to original configuration and securely fastened, with all straps and buckles correctly adjusted
 * The weight system may be retained by the diver
 * Depth should be between 3 and 6m.
 * Visibility must allow the diver to see the equipment from the surface

Ascent

Required range of scuba diving experience

 * As a general requirement, a dive should have a bottom time of at least 15 minutes unless the nature of the dive makes a shorter time appropriate.
 * Bottom time is measured as the time from leaving the surface to the time that ascent is started from the work site.
 * As a guideline, for efficient training, any dive should have at least one Task, as many Equipment and Orientation items as may be convenient, and may contain Rescue or Emergency exercises if required. Communication method should be specified. These items should all be logged during training to allow effective moderation.
 * Task: An activity specified as the objective of the dive, being an activity which is additional to the diving itself
 * Orientation: Experience of diving under a set of circumstances or conditions which are required experience for the diver
 * Equipment: Use of specified equipment during a diving operation
 * Emergency: Procedures used by a diver to solve a problem experienced by that diver
 * Rescue: Procedures used to solve a problem experienced by another diver
 * Communications: Procedures used for communication / modes of communication
 * If specific assessment of skills is done during a dive, this may also be noted in the diver’s logbook by the assessor. This is not compulsory as the assessment record must be kept in any case, but it allows easier moderation.
 * During a formal training program records of all training dives should be kept on a standard form supplied by the school to keep track of what has been done and so that at any time it is possible to see what must still be done.
 * A similar form should be used to compile evidence of experience for RPL.

Explanation of requirements for specified dives.

 * Communications - Rope signals:
 * 2 dives with lifeline . Tender gives standard directional signals to diver who follows these instructions


 * Communications - Voice:
 * 2 dives with functioning 2-way voice communication, Hard wire or wireless
 * Diver uses correct voice protocols


 * Communications - Hand signals:
 * Hand signals would be used on most dives. No specific number are required, but diver must be competent in their use


 * Equipment - Surface Snorkelling:
 * 2 snorkel dives. At least 1 in open water and including a dive to depth of more than 6m


 * Equipment - Half mask:
 * Half masks would be used on most dives. No specific number are required, but diver must be competent in their use


 * Equipment - Full mask:
 * 5 dives with full face masks. At least 2 in open water, at least one to depth greater than 9m.


 * Equipment – BCD:
 * 6 dives using a BCD in which neutral buoyancy control and horizontal trim must be demonstrated in mid water and during ascent


 * Equipment – Dry suit:
 * 3 dives with dry suit and appropriate undergarments during which buoyancy control and ability to recover from inversion must be demonstrated, At least one of which must be in open water to a depth exceeding 9m


 * Equipment - Reserve air:
 * Reserve air would be carried on most dives. No specific number of dives are required, but diver must be competent in monitoring remaining air pressure.
 * This skill is interpreted to mean that the diver must monitor air supply and surface with the specified reserve pressure remaining in the cylinder. Unless otherwise specified at the option of the supervisor this pressure will be assumed to be 50 bar.
 * Other possible interpretations are that the diver should have experience in the use of reserve valves, or independent bailout air supply (manifolded or independent twins, or pony bottle in any practical configuration). Both of these are desirable experiences.
 * During training each diver should carry an bailout cylinder or manifolded twins for dives deeper than 20m. Capacity of bailout cylinder must allow safe surfacing from any point in the dive including a safety stop.


 * Equipment - Wet suit:
 * Wet suits would be used on most dives. No specific number are required, but diver must be competent in use


 * Equipment -Lines - Life lines:
 * 2 dives using a life line secured to the diver and tended at the surface control point.


 * Equipment - Lines - Shot line / lazy shot:
 * 2 dives descending and ascending on a shot line


 * Equipment - Lines - Surface Marker Buoy:
 * 3 dives towing a surface marker buoy


 * Equipment - Lines - Tethered (buddy line) (This can also count as in-water standby diver):
 * 2 dives


 * Orientation - Natural navigation:
 * 2 dives navigating from and back to the entry point, shotline, or other specified position using underwater features as waypoints or for guidance


 * Orientation – Compass:
 * 2 dives navigating from and back to the entry point, shotline or other specified position using a compass for guidance


 * Orientation - Night dive:
 * 2 dives during full darkness of night (between half hour after sunset to half hour before sunrise)


 * Orientation - Zero viz:
 * 1 dive during which visibility at the bottom is less than 0.5m for at least 15 minutes


 * Rescue - Basic (including distressed and unconscious diver):
 * 1 each simulated rescue of a distressed diver and an unconscious diver on the surface and unconscious diver on the bottom


 * Rescue – Tethered:
 * 1 dive where a simulated rescue is done of the buddy while connected by buddy line (conscious diver under water)


 * Rescue – SMB:
 * 1 simulated rescue of a diver by following the SMB line under water to the distressed diver (diver signals distress using SMB)


 * Rescue - Life line:
 * 1 simulated rescue of a diver by following the lifeline under water to the distressed diver (diver signals distress using lifeline)


 * Task - Search - Jack stay (movable):
 * 2 dives including searches using movable jackstays


 * Task - Search – Pendulum:
 * 2 dives including pendulum searches. The tender may be at the surface or on the bottom


 * Task - Search – Circular:
 * 2 dives including circular searches. The datum point at the bottom may be a shot, a peg or a diver


 * Task - Search – Guided:
 * 1 dive including a guided search using either rope signals or voice communications equipment, where the diver is guided to a point and guided during the search by the surface controller


 * Task - Search - Swim lines:
 * 1 dive including a search using a line held by two or more divers to control their relative positions, and following a compass course. The line may be used to snag a large target or the search may be visual, with closer diver spacing.


 * Orientation - boat dive:
 * 2 dives from a small craft, including entries and exits


 * Equipment - Submersible Marker Buoy (neutral & negative deployment):
 * No specific number of dives is specified, but the diver should be competent to deploy a marker buoy from a reel or spool from the bottom and from mid-water without significant depth variation


 * Task - hand tools:
 * 2 dives including tasks requiring the use of simple hand tools.
 * At least one of these should be an assembly task using nuts, bolts or screws and the appropriate wrenches keys or drivers


 * 31 Orientation - 30 m dive:
 * 1 dive to a maximum depth between 28 and 30m No decompression should be planned


 * Orientation - Chamber dive:
 * Assist operator with pre-dive procedures.
 * 1 dive to a depth of 50m.
 * Decompression schedule may be extended for increased safety. Any decompression schedule may be used that can be shown to fall within the required minimum of a recognised decompression algorithm or set of tables
 * Witness operation of chamber including function and operation of air supply equipment and standard procedures
 * Assist operator with post dive procedures


 * Task - Inspection (day):
 * 1 dive including an inspection task which should involve either measurement or sketching of the object/s inspected. A written report should be made detailing the procedures and results of the inspection.


 * Orientation - decompression stops:
 * 4 dives which include simulated decompression stops.
 * At least one of these dives should be planned and carried out according to a written run-time schedule
 * stops must be at accurate depth and for the specified time.
 * It is recommended that these exercises should be done using a variety of depth control methods. E.g. Shot line, SMB line, Life line, Depth gauge mid water, bottom slope etc.


 * Orientation – Exits:
 * 3 different exit methods to suit the environment. Choose from among boat, beach, rocky shore, surf, etc.


 * Task - Lifting device:
 * 2 dives where a lift bag or other lifting device is used to move a heavy object (12kg to 100kg apparent weight) from one place to another
 * Safe rigging practices should be used


 * Task - Line attendant:
 * 2 occasions where the diver acts as a line tender to another diver


 * Orientation - Negative buoyancy:
 * 1 dive where extra ditchable weight is carried to allow the diver to walk and work on the bottom


 * Orientation - Neutral buoyancy:
 * The diver is expected to use neutral buoyancy on all dives where negative buoyancy is not required. There is no specified number of dives, but the diver is expected to be competent at neutralising buoyancy using BCD and manoeuvring at depth at neutral buoyancy. The diver is also expected to be competent at neutral buoyancy ascents.


 * Task – camera:
 * 1 dive using a digital still or video camera to take photographs or video of subject specified by the supervisor.


 * Orientation – Entry:
 * 3 different entry methods suitable for the site and conditions.
 * Choose from: Boat (backward roll), stride, high, rocky shore, surf, jetty etc.


 * Orientation - currents or surge:
 * 1 dive during which the diver is exposed to significant conditions of current or surge


 * Task - Compressor operation–fill cylinders:
 * No number of occasions is specified (recommend at least 4 separate days, each including full start up and shutdown of compressor), but the diver is expected to be competent at filling dive cylinders from a high pressure breathing air compressor and complying with the requirements of SANS 10019 or it’s replacement. A recognised certificate in high pressure breathing air Compressor Operation based on SABS 019 or SANS 10019 would be considered sufficient, but is not required.


 * Task - Witness air purity testing:
 * 1 occasion where the diver witnesses the procedures to test breathing air quality (usually by Draeger tube, but other methods of equivalent or better accuracy may be substituted)


 * Task – Surface stand-by diver:
 * 2 occasions where the diver acts as surface stand-by diver according to regulations and CoP


 * Task – In-water stand by diver:
 * At least 2 occasions. This is expected to be a default arrangement for most dives, however, diver should be allocated as stand-by diver to a diver allocated to main task in at least two dives which should be logged as such. On these dives the diver should not be allocated a specific task other than stand-by diver.


 * Task – Assist supervisor:
 * Continuous.


 * Task – Record times and dive data:
 * A least 2 occasions. Record dive details for diving operations log under guidance of the supervisor, including diver names, dive profile, decompression, times in and out, bottom time etc.


 * Task – Act as boat crew:
 * 1? boat based diving operation in which the diver assists the boat crew in launching, mooring and recovery of the vessel


 * Task – Act as lookout:
 * 1? Boat based diving operation in which the diver acts as a lookout during a dive to monitor traffic and conditions.


 * Orientation – Dive in fresh water:
 * 1 dive in fresh water (open water?)


 * Orientation – Dive in sea water:
 * 1 dive in sea water (open water?)


 * Orientation – Dive as part of a commercial diving team:
 * 3 dives minimum as a diver in a diving team which complies in all respects with the current Diving Regulations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, and the appropriate Approved Code of Practice for Diver Training
 * This requirement must be true by default for all dives on any commercial diver training program, and is added here to ensure that RPL candidates gain experience of working under the appropriate regulations and code of practice
 * These dives may be done as assessment dives, and all assessment dives must comply with the Diving Regulations and ACoP

Required range of rigging experience

 * Inspect hand tools for functionality and safety:
 * Identify tool
 * Report on any apparent defects
 * Report on whether the tool is appropriate for a given application


 * Inspect ropes, webbing and chain for condition and safety:
 * Inspect item and report on condition and visible defects
 * Report whether the item is suitable for a given application


 * Inspect splices, stitched webbing connections, shackles and other rigging components for condition and safety:
 * Inspect items and report wear and visible damage


 * Tie the required knots (Reef, sheet bend, bowline, clove hitch, round turn and two half hitches, rolling hitch? sheepshank? daisychain?):
 * Specified knot is tied correctly at first attempt and in reasonable time
 * Divers should preferably be able to tie a bowline, a sheet bend, and a round turn and two half hitches blindfolded, so they can use them in zero visibility, but this is not compulsory.


 * Coil a rope for storage:
 * Given rope is coiled neatly and without twists
 * Coils are of approximately even size
 * Coils are secured to prevent coming loose during ordinary handling


 * Flake a rope:
 * Flake a rope into a bag, box or bucket for free running deployment
 * Flake/coil a rope on a suitable surface for snag-free manual deployment


 * Rig a rope tackle to lift from a strong point:
 * Line rove correctly
 * Block/s fixed safely to strong point
 * Purchase appropriate for the task


 * Rig a chain block to lift from a strong point (?):
 * Block safely suspended
 * Chains free and not twisted


 * Rig an endless sling to lift a drum:
 * Sling positioned correctly on drum


 * Use appropriate personal safety equipment when rigging:
 * Hard hat, gloves and/or toecap boots worn as appropriate


 * Use a webbing tie-down with ratchet to secure a load to a vehicle or pallet:
 * Webbing hooked to appropriate points
 * No unnecessary twists
 * Ratchet neat and correctly applied
 * Loose ends secured
 * Webbing leads secure and safe, no excessive loads on cargo


 * Use a net to secure a load to a vehicle:
 * Net spread neatly over load,
 * Net secured with sufficient tension to prevent loss or shifting of load
 * Loose edges made neat and secured

Category: Dive planning
Specific skills:


 * Plan dive based on Decompression Tables:
 * Reliably use at least one set of recognised and readily available decompression tables
 * Find no stop limit for for single and repetitive dives of given depth and time at sea level and altitude
 * Find required decompression schedule for single and repetitive dives of given depth and time at sea level and altitude
 * Apply methods of compensation for perceived additional risk (safety factors, next greater depth and or time etc)


 * Open circuit scuba gas calculations:
 * Calculate breathing gas requirement for given dive profile using standard consumption rates and specified reserve
 * Calculate minimum cylinder size given air requirement and cylinder pressure
 * Calculate required cylinder pressure given cylinder volume and air volume requirement


 * Plan dives using open circuit scuba equipment:
 * Choose appropriate equipment for a given dive profile at a given site which is known to the diver.
 * Produce a run-time schedule for the dive with critical pressure for ascent for a dive without obligatory decompression stops.
 * List the required personnel for the dive


 * Plan buoyant lifting:
 * Estimate lift bag volume required to lift an object, given mass and volume of object to be lifted. State all assumptions and approximations. Specify size of bag/s to be used and rigging to be used


 * Identify site hazards:
 * Recognise visible hazards at a dive site
 * Deduce probable hidden hazards based on knowledge of similar sites


 * Use personal decompression computer to record dive profile and monitor decompression status during dives:
 * The school is responsible for downloading dive records from its own dive computers. They may require the student to carry one for dive logging if the student's computer is not compatible with school hardware or software
 * Operate own dive computer or one issued by the school. (The school is responsible for training the concepts of computer use, and operation details of issued computers. Operation details of own computer is responsibility of owner)
 * Identify readouts of current depth, elapsed dive time, remaining no-stop time and decompression obligation (ceiling and stop time) or such equivalents as provided on the particular model of computer.
 * Recall data from previous dive/s and use the planning function to find no-stop time available at a given depth.
 * Use a personal decompression computer to record dive profiles.
 * Use PDC to avoid decompression obligation
 * Access computer records to determine maximum depth, bottom time (if available) and dive time
 * State the meanings of the displayed data during and after a dive not requiring decompression stops
 * State how to recognise that decompression stops are required
 * State meaning and purpose of safety stop
 * State nominal maximum ascent rate for computer
 * State how to identify an error mode, what to do if it comes up, and what is likely to have caused it

Category: Administration
Specific skills:


 * Record personal dive history in log book: Keep regulation commercial diver’s logbook correctly filled in and up to date.
 * Fill in course paperwork: Under guidance of Instructor, complete application forms and administrative paperwork required for assessment and training records while attending training program or during process of recognition of prior learning.
 * Get certificate of medical fitness to dive: Arrange appointment for, and undergo approved Diving medical examination, and provide copy of certificate to Instructor/Assessor.
 * Logbook:
 * Diver’s logbook is correct and up to date
 * Diver’s logbook is correct and up to date


 * Record keeping:
 * Practical assessment records and class attendance records are correct and up to date


 * Report writing:
 * Report on diving inspection exercise is of acceptable standard (legible and logically laid out and adequately describes the subject of the inspection. Ability to use a word processor is recommended, though not compulsory)
 * Feedback forms and reports have been completed and provide useful information


 * Record a simulated accident history?:
 * TBA

Category: Safety

 * Compliance:
 * Diver complies with statutory and organisational safety requirements (Diving regulations, ACoP’s, Operations manual etc.)
 * Diver reports incidences of non-compliance to the appropriate authority


 * Situational awareness:
 * Diver pays attention to surroundings and appears aware of changes in circumstance which should be apparent.
 * Diver recognises changes in circumstances which may affect team safety
 * Diver alerts team to changes in circumstances that they should know about

Category: Teamwork

 * Contribution:
 * Diver does fair share of work taking physical and other abilities into account


 * Fitting in:
 * Diver acts as part of the team and does not alienate other members


 * Proactive:
 * Diver performs appropriate functions without having to be specifically requested each time.

Category: Communication

 * Communication:
 * Diver is able to communicate effectively with other members of the team
 * Diver communicates when appropriate and provides useful information.
 * Information provided is not known to be incorrect.
 * Diver timeously notifies diving team of information that he is required to provide (particularly relating to fitness to dive, hazards, non-compliance with safety requirements and equipment failure, loss and defects)

Category: Timekeeping

 * Punctuality:
 * Diver arrives at arranged times
 * Diver does not unduly hold up proceedings by tardy performance of tasks.


 * Availability:
 * Diver remains on site and available for tasks as required according to prior arrangements and standard procedures