Planning to take the leap and become a commercial diver? This is one of the coolest jobs, as you go away from the typical 9-5 shifts while you get the chance to travel and explore the great waters! However, before you even begin looking for schools to study in, there are things you need to know. Knowing more about commercial diving and its requirements can help you figure out what you need, what to expect, and if this is really the best choice. Here are the top things to learn before commercial diving!
- What is Commercial Diving Anyway?
Before you decide to get a diving degree and certification to become a commercial diver, you first have to know what you’re getting into.
There are actually different types of commercial divers you can be, depending on the type of diving you’d like to achieve and where you want to work. Each diver will require different training and certifications, such as:
- Scientific divers are those that mainly focus on research. These divers are typically scientists then divers, using diving as a means to complete fieldwork
- Aquaculture divers are divers who support farmed marine species production like salmon or tuna. They are responsible for ensuring net integrity and the wellbeing of aquatic organisms
- Onshore construction divers are those that work inland and up to a maximum depth of 50 meters. They can do a wide range of tasks with diverse work portfolios, with the usual workload involving construction activities
- Offshore divers are trained commercial divers that work in supporting exploration and production sectors in the oil and gas industry. They are employed to do construction, inspection, as well as maintenance tasks on offshore vessels like oil rigs and subsea pipelines
Deep ocean divers are those that work underwater in depths beyond the typical certification depth (50 meters). This type of diving will require special equipment and training, as well as the usage of closed bells and/or a saturation system
- The Specific Training and Certification
As mentioned, commercial diving is a professional career, which requires specific training and certification for the type of diver you’d like to become. It isn’t just about breathing underwater, but it also requires knowledge about the equipment to use, the safety precautions, awareness about the risks of your work environment, as well as the apply the acquired knowledge from training in real-life situations.
There are various diving schools that offer training and certifications according to what you want to become. Take note that not all are equal, with certain certificates not being internationally recognized, being eligible in local regions. That’s why proper research is a must before choosing your certification and commercial diving course.
As for those wondering about prerequisites, the basic requirement is a high school diploma or its equivalent, as well as the completion of commercial diving training.
- Is There an Age Limit?
Age is another crucial factor, especially when hiring divers. Prospect companies would prefer hiring people between 18-35 years old. However, there are a few employers who hire people above 35 years old, with training given only after a waiver is signed.
Why?
Age is a part of the selection process because of physiological reasons. Professional divers who are beyond 45 years old would be restricted for deep diving.
But even when companies prefer hiring younger people, it doesn’t hinder the opportunities for those who are a bit older. With passion, determination, and skill, you can still be a great commercial diver working in good companies.
- The Required Health Condition and Physical Exam
Besides age, another important consideration employers look for is one’s health. Of course, companies want to make sure to get healthy applicants, as commercial divers will need to respond to dangerous situations and challenging tasks. All applicants must be fit to work, taking a medical test that involves the general physical test, hearing test, vision test, drug screening, and urinalysis.
A medical certificate should be provided before training and applying for a job, and depending on the results, it can be valid for up to two years.
Wrapping It Up
When you’re planning to become a commercial diver, it’s best to be prepared, starting with the right information. This can help you learn what to expect and measure the pros and cons of your chosen career. Once you’re ready to start studying to become a commercial diver, it’s time to search for a reputable commercial diving company near you, which is another step closer to your dreams coming true!
I hope that this article helped you learn what you should know before you begin commercial diving. Look into the right diving schools that work well with you and your goals now. Good luck and share your questions or experiences about commercial diving in the comments section below!
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