Commercial Scuba Diving Operations

'Diving is like being in space'

Programme Overview

This programme prepares the learners to work as commercial divers.   Anyone working as a diver must hold a Commercial Divers Certificate of Training.

Overview of what is covered in the programme

• History of diving underwater work, Diving physics rigging
• Diving physiology, Underwater search
• Diving first-aid inspection techniques, Cardiopulmonary
• resuscitation, Plant and equipment
• Non-diving related illnesses, Regulations
• Diving related illnesses, Maintenance and repair
• Standard decompression, Tables, Seamanship
• Communication systems Tides, Underwater hazards
• Chartwork & Navigation, Health & Safety
• Air chamber operations legislation

Programme Information

Next Programme Dates

2024

• 30 September – 25 October

Who is the Programme for

• Anyone interested in pursuing a career in the Irish aquaculture sector as a commercial diver.

• Anyone already working in the aquaculture industry as a diver who does not hold a commercial diving qualification.

• Anyone working in aquaculture who is interested in expanding their skill-set/experience.

• Divers currently holding a Commercial Scuba qualification are eligible to progress to the Surface Supplied diving course.

Location

National Fisheries College of Ireland (NFCI),
Castletownbere,
Co. Cork

Duration

Four weeks full time

Training Methodology

The Commercial SCUBA Diver course is the foundation programme for all commercial diver training. It covers the requisite dive theory and practices that are fundamental to commercial diving operations. Students will learn the principals of basic scuba equipment and how to use it in a commercial setting, with the addition of simple communication systems and the safety protocols, that define commercial diving.

Divers learn how to work underwater in a range of environments and how to use core tools to complete their underwater tasks. Diver search and recovery, rescue, underwater photography, use of hand tools, survey and inspection, dive tendering, communications are some of the  elements covered during the course.

Certification

QQI Level 6, 15 Credit, Special Purpose Award in Commercial Scuba Diving Operations.

The BIM Commercial Diving course is the only course in Ireland approved by the HSE UK. Under SI 254 Safety Health and Welfare at Work (diving) Regulations 2018.

Entry Requirements

• The ability to swim 200m
• Commercial divers medical completed by an approved Doctor
• Numeracy and Marlins Maritime English for seafarers
• National powerboat certificate or equivalent
• Occupational first-aid

Progression

Candidates can progress to Surface Supplied Diving Operations Certificate.

Employment Opportunities

Prepare divers for working inshore as a commercial diver. With experience and training, commercial divers can continue their career within the aquaculture industry.

Assessment

Written exam and practical assessment

Skills demonstration 50%

Examination – theory 40%

Portfolio/collection of work 10%

Fees

€5,500