Dive safety general information

The UBC Dive Safety Program enables students, faculty, and staff to use SCUBA diving as a research tool safely and effectively. Faculty members wanting to include scientific diving within their research programs must submit their plans for approval by UBC’s Dive Safety Committee (aka the UBC Dive Control Board) prior to diving. Participation in UBC’s Dive Safety Program entitles them and their groups members to participate in scientific dive related training, including Dive Accident Management and Oxygen Provision. By adhering to the Canadian Association for Underwater Science (CAUS) standards for competency and training, as well as WorkSafe BC Part 24 for operations, the program equips researchers with the skills and knowledge needed to conduct their underwater studies safely. 

Detailed in the UBC Diving Safety Manual, the program reviews various diving techniques commonly used as scientific tools, allowing researchers to safely build competencies need to explore marine environments and perform quantitative assessments of biomass and biodiversity. Additionally, it fosters valuable networking opportunities with fellow diving researchers on campus, across British Columbia, North America, and around the world. 

How do you get started? 

The Introduction to Scientific Diving for Research will provide you with information regarding the UBC Dive Safety Program, from the structure, prerequisites, qualifications and how to become a qualified Scientific Diver at UBC. This course will also give you an overview of the time commitment, materials and equipment necessary for the program.