The Microdive Basic Diver is a course designed to teach individuals how to dive safely with open circuit scuba equipment to depths of 5 metres/16 feet.
The course teaches you how to use scuba type equipment correctly, and is seen as an essential requirement for those using compressed air within the safety cell, in the event of an accident or should you require the rescue services to administer air underwater.
In the event of an accident, having had this training, you will be better equipped to prolong the use of your air and have a better understanding of your equipment’s functionality.
When and why was it introduced?
The course was introduced following a recommendation from the "Osprey Powerboat Rescue Team", that further scuba training and use of diving equipment and air systems be integrated into annual Immersion testing for competitors.
How do drivers (Pilots) go about taking these qualifications?
What happens if the drivers (Pilots) don’t take the courses or fail?
The courses are mandatory and could be life-saving..
So if drivers (Pilots) do not pass they will have to re-sit the test(s) or they will not be able to race in a boat with a restraint system.
This is also suitable as an introductory course for rescue personnel with no or very little diving experience. It will give them a qualification and a capability to carry out the role of rescue divers for Powerboat Racing Rescue. This course also provides the first stage of training towards the full diving qualification for deeper diving.
Why is it important for the drivers or rescue personnel with no or very little diving experience to do these qualifications / tests?
Although safety response times are extremely good in our sport, and rescue standards are high, unfortunately with all the best will in the world incidents/accidents do happen!
The immersion test is designed to be able to assist drivers in being able to safely extract themselves from their boat in the result of an incident, whereas the Microdive Basic Diver course teaches the driver how to use scuba type equipment correctly, and therefore in the event of an accident they will be better equipped to prolong the use of the air to aid in prolonging their lives, or risk of serious injury should they become trapped underwater.
