Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to perform surface and in-water standby diver activities, provide assistance in an emergency situation and perform a self-rescue ascent during occupational surface-supplied breathing apparatus (SSBA) diving operations.
The unit applies to individuals who work as occupational divers in the seafood industry, which includes performing the duties of standby diver and providing assistance in emergency situations.
Occupational licensing, legislative and certification requirements apply to this unit but vary according to state/territory requirements. Occupational diving is regulated independently by each state and territory work health and safety authority. Users are advised to check with the relevant authority to confirm current requirements.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Perform surface standby SSBA diver activities | 1.1 Ensure surface standby-diver activities conform to appropriate emergency and rescue procedures and equipment used 1.2 Maintain a state of readiness to ensure effective response in the event of an emergency |
2. Perform in-water standby SSBA diver activities | 2.1 Ensure in-water standby-diver activities conform to appropriate emergency or rescue procedures and equipment used 2.2 Maintain communication lines with the surface team to ensure all necessary rescue action is undertaken |
3. Assist in SSBA emergency situations | 3.1 Give assistance in the recovery of an unconscious or injured diver from the surface to dry land or the deck of a dive platform in a manner that prevents further injury 3.2 Manage ascent in an emergency situation by controlling buoyancy, while identifying circumstances where shedding weights may be necessary 3.3 Assess the needs of a diving casualty and provide first aid as required 3.4 Assist in the treatment of diving-related health conditions and illnesses |
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.
Skill | Description |
Numeracy | Makes calculations involving pressure, volume and temperature relationships Uses decompression information while underwater Reads instruments |
Reading | Follows dive tables Reads diving-specific general and technical information, first aid literature, regulatory requirements and industry guidelines Interprets an emergency action plan |
Writing | Completes dive accident medical information forms and related records |
Navigate the world of work | Understands the role of a surface standby SSBA diver and how it contributes to the work of others in the immediate work context Takes responsibility for decisions about when and how to complete tasks, and coordinates with others |
Interact with others | Uses appropriate terminology, hand and lifeline signals relevant to emergency procedures in SSBA diving operations |
Sectors
Diving (DIV)