Master Diver

It contains elements of theory and open water training taught by qualified Instructors.

On satisfactory completion of the Training Programme the certificate may be completed and the candidate may then be recognised as a Master Diver. The depth limit for a Master diver is 40m; for depths of 40-50m a Master Diver must have Regional Coach approval or hold a recognised qualification to dive to 50m. Certificate is effective from the date of the RC's signature.

1. Safety and Emergency Procedures
2. Nitrogen Absorption and Narcosis
3. Advanced Decompression
4. Oxygen, Carbon Monoxide and Carbon Dioxide Poisoning
5. Underwater navigation and search methods
6. Basic Seamanship
7. Expedition Organisation
8. Compressor Operation

Following attendance at the above lectures, Candidates must pass a written assessment approved by the Regional Coach.

Carry out at least 10 dives in sequence at five or more different sites on five or more different days. A Master Diver Instructor, not acting as a participant in the assessment procedure, must witness all assessments.

1. At least sixty properly witnessed and varied dives of submerged duration of not less than 15 minutes each. Total dive time to exceed 30 hours logged underwater. (In addition to the ten dives logged for Sport Diver qualification)
   
   
   • 30 to a depth range between 9 - 20 metres
   • 20 to a depth range between 21 -30 metres
   • 10 to a depth of 31 m or more, implementing NDC Deep Diving Regulations.
     (The ten dives for Diver qualification shall not be included in these sixty dives.)
2. Act as a dive leader on four occasions, and lead a party of two other divers on at least two of these occasions.


3. Lead two open water expeditions in accordance with Diving Rules and Procedures to the satisfaction of the Branch Diving Officer. For this purpose an expedition must consist of a minimum of eight persons, of whom at least six must dive.


4. Plan and carry out a circular of other sweep search using a rope at a depth of at least 9m, whilst looking for a specific object.


5. Carry out a dive of at least 15 minutes to 15m making successful use of a surface marker buoy.


6. Carry out a dive of at least 15 minutes to 15m using a compass to complete a fixed course of not less than three directions of approximately 50m each.


7. Swim slowly for two minutes without a mask at a depth of 12m led by a companion.


8. Rescue Drill: to simulate the emergency rescue of a victim by a standby diver. With the victim simulating unconsciousness on the bottom at 15m make an emergency descent in quick, efficient and continuous manner. Without releasing weight belt, take control of the casualty. Take casualty to the surface ensuring that the correct rate of ascent is maintained and that the victim is breathing normally during the ascent. At the surface administer R.B. for 10 cycles then tow 100m landing on a boat or beach giving simulated R.B. and simulated CPR.


9. From a depth of 20m, conduct assisted ascents using an alternative air source, once as donor and once as recipient. Candidates should perform a safety stop(s) before proceeding to surface. Care must be taken not to exceed 10m/min on ascent. Partner must be of at least Sport Diver level.


10. From a depth of 30m, conduct assisted ascents using an alternative air source, once as donor and once as recipient. Candidates should perform suitable safety stop(s) before proceeding to surface. Care must be taken not to exceed 10m/min on ascent. Partner must be of at least Sport Diver level.


11. In 10m depth remove set disconnecting suit direct feeds; fin slowly for 2 minutes breathing from set held in hands. Refit set and feeds.