Training Available

All scientific divers are classified by AAUS standards as either a Diver-In-Training or Scientific Diver. The former has completed a basic scuba class and the entry procedures checklist. The latter has had 100 hours of training and 17 dives. The program will provide training to achieve completion of the 100 hours. Training at other establishments may also be applied toward the 100 hours. The DSSP currently has a 10 module program directed toward meeting the 99 of the 100 hour schedule. The last hour will be achieved by participation in 12 hours of sub-aquatic research

To facilitate the movement from Diver-In-Training status to Scientific Diver status as defined by AAUS, the DSSP will offer a ten module series of classes upon request. These will address primarily issues which contribute to diver competency and safety in the water. Since the initial evaluation to qualify includes an overview and explanation of the relationship of AAUS, DSSP, and OSHA as well as a check-out dive and quiz, credit toward the scientific diver status will be provided for that time. The class time will be approximately 60 hours with 12 dives included. Classes available from the community and the university dive programs may also be applied to the status up-grade. Classes include:

1. DSSP Program Introduction & Evaluation, (2 hours and 1 dive)

2. Legal Overview (2 hours and 1 dive)

3. Diver Accident Management - Bloodborne Pathogens First Aid, CPR, Oxygen Provider, (12 hours and no dive)

4. Introduction to research techniques,(2 hours)

5. Dive Planning & Risk Management (2 hours)

6. Review of Dive Physics and Physiology(2hours)

7. Deep Diving and Decompression Tables Basic Review (2 hours and 1 dive)

8. Mixed Gas (4 hours w/2 dives)

9. Rescue Procedures (16 hours w/2 dives)

10. Overhead Environment (12 hours w/5 dives)

11. Equipment Maintenance (4 hours)

Training Agency Affiliations - AAUS, IANTD, DAN, NACD, NAUI, YMCA (Agency certifications may be available for the above materials - costs may include travel, gas, text and certification.

In order to comply with University, American Academy of Underwater Scientists (AAUS) and Federal OSHA standards for scuba diving, any person using scuba diving as part of a scientific research or educational activity must become a Certified Scientific Diver. This can be achieved through the UFDSSP program. Scientific Diving is a tool used in science courses and by faculty, staff and student researchers. There are three options to achieve this certification. All options require an interview with the Diving Safety Officer to clarify your diving background and current scientific diving requirements. This should be done prior to planning to become a scientific diver since there is an extensive physical and paper work to be completed prior to certification.

Option 1. Take the PEN SCUBA classes (Basic Scuba, Advanced, Rescue - 12 dives) or their equivalent (local recreational dive stores) and then apply for the research divers modular package supplied by the DSSP.

Modular Package includes:

A. Introduction & orientation to UFDSSP/AAUS

B. Legal issues in scientific Diving

C. Diving Accident Management (Risk Management & O2 provider)

D. Introduction to diving research techniques

E. Nitrox

G. Review - Physics & Physiology

F. Deep Diving and Decompression Review

G. Overhead Environments

H. Seven dives are included in this package

Option 2. If you are already certified as a scientific Diver (AAUS standards) at another institution - reciprocity is available

Option 3. Complete appropriate courses in community and challenge the Modular format by documenting and demonstrating skills, knowledge and abilities. You should have at least 25 advanced training dives including rescue and deep diving.

Additional Requirements:

1. A current certification in First Aid and CPR

2. Certification as a diving Oxygen Provider

3. Completion of a general knowledge evaluation.

4. Demonstration of basic swim and scuba skills.

Maintaining Active Scientific Diver Status

There are four components for maintaining UFDSSP Scientific Diver Status

1. Proof of physical fitness - a AAUS diving physical every 3 years until age 40 and every 2 years thereafter and after any diving accident

2. Current CPR/1st aid and O2 administration

3. Submission of bi-monthly dive logs. You must log at least 12 dives annually and make 1 dive to your depth certification w/in the past 6 months.

4. Annual equipment (regulator, gauges, BCD, cylinder) inspection and testing.