Education and Qualifications
The IMCA International Code of Practice for Offshore Diving recognises a number of diver training certificates (for the full list see www.imca-int.com/diving) but national or regional regulators may have additional requirements. Certain countries mutually recognise each other’s certificates (see www.hse.gov.uk/diving) and this is the basis of the IMCA-recognised list and the following information for those wishing to enter the industry.
The code recommends that offshore divers should hold a current first aid certificate, as is the case under a number of regulatory regimes. Training for that should now be included as part of the diver’s basic training but is only valid for three years. Divers working offshore may need to complete a refresher qualification before their certificates run out.
PADI, BSAC and other sport diving qualifications or medical certificates do not count as far as commercial diving is concerned.
Skills and Training
Diver training exists in a variety of countries, and is generally found at four levels:
- SCUBA
- Inshore air diving
- Offshore air diving
- Offshore bell/saturation diving
IMCA is concerned only with offshore air diver training and bell diver training. Recognised diver training courses are quite expensive, but there is no short cut into the industry. For more details on training courses and certification, you will need to contact the relevant certification body - links to a number of these are on our website at www.imca-int.com/certification.
To work offshore in any capacity it is usually necessary to complete a basic offshore safety induction and emergency training (BOSIET) course. This generally includes first aid, safety at sea, the basics of fire and fire fighting and helicopter underwater escape training (HUET). In many regions, someone who has not successfully completed a course of this nature will not be permitted to work offshore.
Medical Fitness
All divers at work must have a valid certificate of medical fitness to dive issued by a suitable doctor. The certificate of medical fitness to dive must be renewed prior to expiry if a diver wishes to continue at work. The certificate of medical fitness to dive is a statement of a diver's fitness to perform work under water and is valid for as long as the doctor certifies, up to a maximum of 12 months.
The medical examination looks at the diver's overall fitness for purpose. It includes the main systems of the body - cardio-vascular system, respiratory system, central nervous system, and ears, nose and throat - capacity for exercise and also dentition.
Working Conditions and Prospects
It should be understood that contractors tend to give preference to the more experienced divers and, therefore, finding employment in the first year or so can be very difficult for a newly qualified diver.
Further Information
IMCA members include a number of diving contractors all over the world. For an up-to-date list, including links to their websites for contact purposes, see www.imca-int.com/members.
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