The IDSA DIVER TRAINING STANDARDS

The IDSA Diver Training System is based on a modular approach. Each Standard, or Level of Competence, is made up from a combination of modules (see Tables below) modules may be taught in two ways:

Either: Combined as an integrated course

Modules may be combined to run a course leading to one of the IDSA Levels, for example, if modules A & B are combined, successful students would be eligible to receive the IDSA Level I (SCUBA qualification).

Or: Individually

Note:

TABLE 1 : The IDSA DIVER TRAINING MODULES

  MODULE TYPE DETAIL  
A Preparatory Diving principles and theory common to both SCUBA and Surface Supply. Must be combined with either the Scuba or Standard Surface Supply Modules. Theory Only
B Commercial SCUBA Diver Training and assessment in the use of SCUBA and simple work tasks 30msw
C Surface Supplied Inshore Air Diver Training and assessment in the use of Surface Orientated Air Diving Equipment and common inland/inshore work tasks 30msw
D Surface Supplied Offshore Diver Training and assessment in air diving operations using an open (wet) bell acting as Bellman and Diver and/or using a Hot Water suit 50msw
E Closed Bell/Mixed Gas Training and assessment in the use and operation of a closed bell - acting as Bellman and Diver using the appropriate breathing gas mixture 100m

TABLE 2 : The IDSA DIVER TRAINING MODULES - DEFINITIONS LEVELS 1,2,3 AND 4

IDSA STANDARD MADE UP OF MODULES DETAIL Note 1
IDSA Level 1 (Commercial SCUBA Diver) A + B Competent to dive safely using open circuit self-contained air breathing equipment. Has a working knowledge of the following tasks : Elementary rigging, the Use of Lifting Bags, Diver search Techniques, the Use of Hand Tools and Visual Inspection - See Note 2.. 30msw
IDSA Level 2 (Surface Supplied Inshore Air Diver) A + B + C Competent to dive safely both inland & inshore using open circuit self-contained air breathing equipment and surface orientated air diving equipment. Has a working knowledge of the Level 1 tasks plus Chamber Operations, the use of Power Tools, thermal Arch Cutting equipment, Air Lifts and Jetting equipment, simple Underwater Construction tasks - see Note 2. The principles of the following subjects are also taught, but in-water experience is not mandatory - Bolt Guns, Explosives, Wet Welding, Diving in Polluted Waters 30msw
IDSA Level 3 (Surface Supplied Offshore Air Diver) A + B + C + D Competent to dive inland, inshore & offshore using, open circuit self-contained air breathing equipment, surface orientated air diving equipment, and from an open bell. Able to use a hot-water suit. Has a working knowledge of the work tasks listed in Levels 1 & 2. 50msw
IDSA Level 4 (Closed Bell/Mixed Gas Diver)

A + B + C + D + E

      or

A + C + D + E

Competent to take part in closed bell operations, acting as Bellman and Diver, using the appropriate breathing gas mixture. 100msw

Notes

1. DEPTH LIMITS : The depths shown in the right hand column of the tables above are those which a diver is competent to achieve on successful completion of training. He/she may go deeper with further experience and/or training as assessed by a Diving Contractor and allowed by National Legislation.

2. TASK TRAINING : The Task training will provide the trainee with a general appreciation of the techniques and problems involved in carrying out the specified underwater work. For the diver to be considered a competent worker it will generally be necessary for further specialist training to be undertaken, especially for cutting, welding, explosives, NDT and offshore air diving.

IDSA STANDARD MADE UP OF MODULES DETAIL Note 1
Level 1 (Commercial SCUBA Diver) A + B Competent to dive safely using open circuit self-contained air breathing equipment. Has a working knowledge of the following tasks : Elementary rigging, the Use of Lifting Bags, Diver search Techniques, the Use of Hand Tools and Visual Inspection - See Note 2.. 30msw