Scientific diver categories

Requirements

• Fulfill all minimum entry requirements 
• Dive under authorized supervision 
• Pass CAUS Level 1 Exam (≥80%) 

Restrictions

• Maximum diving depth: 18 m/60 ft 
• Must dive with DSO or authorized Scientific Diver I/II 
• Daylight hours only 
• No special modes/conditions  

Requirements

• Fulfill all minimum entry requirements 
• Completed all the competency requirements of the DIT 
• Qualified by the DSO 

Restrictions

• Maximum diving depth: 18 m/60 ft 
• May act as Surface Safety Attendant for dives <18 m/60 ft  

Pre-Requisites

• Qualified and Current Scientific Diver I (CAUS I)

Requirements

• Pass exam on deeper diving physics/physiology (≥80%) 
• Plan/execute 4 deep dives over 18m / 60 ft and one to 40m /130 ft under the direct supervision of the DSO
• Demonstrate proficiency in: 
  • Deep diving planning 
  • Redundant air systems 
  • Briefing procedures 
  • Equipment assembly 
  • Safety checks 
  • Buddy system 
  • Ascent rates 
  • Safety stops 
  • Post-dive activities 

Restrictions

• Maximum diving depth: 40 m / 130 ft 
• Must dive with DSO or another Scientific Diver II when >18 m/60 ft 
• May act as Surface Safety Attendant for dives >18 m/60 ft 

Requirements

• Current first aid and CPR certification 
• Current Emergency Oxygen Provider certification 
• Current Dive Accident Management certification 
• Completion of the Dive theory exam (≥80%) 
• Knowledge of diving equipment, systems, procedures 
• Knowledge of emergency accident management protocols 

Restrictions

• The Surface Safety Attendant must be capable of meeting the requirements of the Dive Supervisor at a dive site when the Diver in Charge is in the water.  

Qualification

• Minimum Scientific Diver Qualification of the maximum dive plan depth

Requirements

• Conducted Rescue exercises  
• Demonstrate proficiency in: 
  • Legal responsibilities 
  • Dive planning 
  • Role of diving supervisor 
  • Site emergencies 
  • Accident investigation 
  • Dive accident prevention/management 
  • Control of dive operation 
  • Competency definition 
  • Due diligence 
  • Supervisor’s daily diving log 
  • Worker’s rights 
  • Compliance practices 
  • Diving manual/site safety procedures 
  • Follow-up actions post-accident 
  • Hazard controls 

Restrictions

• The diver in charge must supervise all the diving activities and delegate these responsibilities to a qualified interim supervisor when required to enter the water. 

Requirements

• Letter of reciprocity (LoR) from home institute’s DSO 
• Evidence of certification, medical clearance, in accordance with WorkSafeBC
• International divers must complete the sections on Standards and DCIEM tables from the Theory exam (≥80%) 
• Check out dive with DSO prior to any in-water activities

Restrictions

• Visiting divers must comply with the UBC Standards and depths of qualification
• UBC Divers wishing to collaborate with other institutions will need to request a LoR from the DSO 2 – 4 weeks earlier to confirm all certifications and qualifications are current

Requesting a LoR

Submit your LoR request with the following information: 

• Number of total Dives 
• Number of CAUS Dives 
• Number of Recreational Dives 
• Number of dives in the last 12 months, specify how many CAUS vs recreational 
• How many deep, cold, drysuit, night, boat, current, other types. 
• Copy of your most recent regulator and equipment service 
• Be prepared to participate in an annual check out dive if needed.