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Welcome to the PADI Open Water Certification Course
Congratulations on deciding to become a certified scuba diver. The underwater world is a unique and exciting place that will provide you with experiences that cannot be found anywhere else.
Successful completion of the PADI Open Water Certification Course will provide you with the skills necessary to be a competent and safe scuba diver. Once certified you will be able to buy and rent equipment and participate in dive charters, both locally and at dive resorts around the world. You will be able to dive without direct instructor supervision.
This document is prepared by Scuba-Waves and is not endorsed by PADI. The information contained herein is in accordance with the various PADI programs.
Table of Contents
Instructor and
Staff Responsibilities
PADI Advanced Open Water Certification
Course
PADI Rescue Diver Certification
Course
PADI Divemaster Certification Course
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Introduction
The complete PADI Open Water Course is comprised of three parts:
The knowledge sessions provide a foundation of information regarding the physics, physiology, diving skills, environment, and equipment necessary to understand and be safe in the underwater world. This information will be presented through the use of the PADI Open Water Manual and the PADI Open Water Training video. Some students may make use of the PADI Open Water computer based training program. Your instructor will provide elaboration and explanation of the course information.
The sessions may be taught as separate classes (as is the case for the regular program) or by doing independent study with the instructor. Independent study allows you to progress at your own pace, but still ensures that the required knowledge is learned.
At the end of each session there is a short quiz to verify that the subject is learned. After all sessions are completed there will be a final exam, which must be passed for certification.
The physical skills necessary for scuba diving will be taught in a swimming pool. All skills will be explained and demonstrated to you by the instructor. You will be allowed to practice the skill and when ready will demonstrate your mastery of the skill to your instructor. During the course you will become familiar with the scuba equipment and will learn to assemble and disassemble the equipment on your own.
As these sessions are based upon successful demonstration of specific skills, the sessions are complete only at such time as the instructor has verified that you have mastered the skills for each session. Most students will be able to complete their skills development within the normal schedule sessions.
Final certification occurs after you successfully demonstrate specific skills learned in the pool but applied in an open water environment. This is accomplished by participating in 4 Scuba dives in open water. A maximum of 3 dives may be conducted per day. Therefore it will take at least 2 days to complete the training dives. As with the Skill Development sessions, you must perform the skills with the instructor to demonstrate mastery of each skill.
Your Instructor
Your instructor began their diving career with the same course that you are taking right now. This course is the foundation for more advanced dive training that is available from PADI. From the Open Water Course, your instructor has successfully completed the Advanced Open Water, Emergency First Response (First Aid), Rescue Diver, Divemaster, and finally the PADI Instructor Development Course and Instructor Exam. Most instructors have also taken additional training to develop their presentation and teaching skills, as well as participating in many equipment seminars offered by manufacturers.
Always remember that your instructor is a highly trained and experienced professional diver. They have the same goal that you do - to see you become a certified diver. Working together, you will accomplish this goal. If you are unsure of anything, please consult with your instructor.
Scuba-Waves Instructors are dedicated to making your first scuba experience fun and enjoyable.
Student Responsibilities
Diver training courses are meant to be fun and exciting, but like nay form of learning you will need to invest some time and effort reading and studying. By attending this course you are agreeing to adhere to the student responsibilities listed below
The student agrees to study independently as specified by the instructor. In general, this means that before each class session, the student will:
- Watch the appropriate assigned portion of the course video.
- Read the appropriate assigned section of the course manual, and complete the exercise questions within the section
- Complete the appropriate assigned Knowledge Review to be handed in at the start of the class
- Follow all course procedures as set forth by the instructor.
- Ask questions about anything not understood.
- Show up for all scheduled sessions on time, otherwise provide 24 hours notice for cancellations.
If additional training sessions are required because of a student's non-compliance with the above responsibilities, then a $20.00 fee will be charged for each additional session required. In scheduling and the assignment of additional fees it is recognized that unforeseen events, such as family emergencies, may occur and as such a certain amount of reasonable consideration will be applied to each situation and student.
Instructor and Staff Responsibilities
By attending this course, you are providing the instructor and assisting staff with the privilege of introducing you to the world of scuba diving. Additionally you are investing your time and effort.
To assist you in your successful completion, the course and staff agree to the following:
- Be ready to start each training session as scheduled.
- Provide a positive learning environment in which to master the course objectives
- Answer the student's questions to the best of their ability
- Assist the student through learning challenges.
If a student completes all work as assigned and is compliant with their specified areas of responsibility, the instructor and staff accepts responsibility for overcoming learning challenges. As all course objectives must be met prior to certification, the instructor and staff will provide additional training sessions (at no additional costs) as required until the student masters the course objectives or voluntarily withdraws from the course.
Knowledge Development
This section is a summary of all the topics that you will learn during the academic portion of your course. If you have any questions about a topic, or are having problems with the knowledge reviews, then consult with your instructor.
Buoyancy
Positive, Neutral and Negative
v Conserve Energy - not working to maintain position
v Keep yourself under control - not dragging on the bottom for example
Comfortable Descents
Proper equalization techniques
v Block your nose and attempt to gently blow your nose
v Swallow and wiggle your jaw from side to side
Comfortable Ascents
Maintain control when ascending
v Ascend at 60 feet per minute or less
v Never hold your breathe
Breathing Underwater
Always breathe slowly
v Maximize air use
v Never hold your breathe
Staying Warm
Maintaining normal body temperature through the use of equipment and warming up after a dive
v Use proper exposure suit for conditions
v Keep warm when out of the water
Streamline Yourself
Save energy by moving slowly and streamlining your equipment
v Maintain proper position in the water
v Have all equipment secured to your body
Diving Together
Buddy System
v Provides assistance with equipment
v Enhances safety
v Shared experience and fun
Diving Environment
Know what to look for when evaluating water conditions
v General factors to take into account
v Local conditions to be aware of.
Caring for Yourself
Keep diving safe and enjoyable
v Dive within your limitations
v Relax
v Maintain proper buoyancy
Caring for Others
Basic steps to assist other divers
v Positive buoyancy
v Reassurance
v Breathing control
v Physical assistance
Dealing with Problems
v Stop - Relax, control breathing
v Think - Determine best course of action
v Act - Execute problem resolution technique
Offshore Adventures
Boat Diving
v General layout of boats
v Boat diving etiquette
Nitrogen Narcosis
The effects of nitrogen on the body
v Increased pressure causes nitrogen to create a feeling of intoxication
Decompression
Sickness
The effects of nitrogen on the body
v Excess nitrogen in your body can cause injury
v Controlled ascents help prevent decompression sickness'
Dive Tables
Introduction
Planning dives to ensure safety
v Dive terms
v Table limits
Using the
Recreational Dive Planner (RDP)
How to use the dive table
v Calculating pressure groups
v Specific rules
Safety Stops
Techniques and reasons for making safety stops during your dives
Emergency
Decompression
What to do if you accidentally exceed the dive table limits
Effect of Altitude
Altitude considerations for divers
v Above 1000 feet in elevation
v Flying after diving
|
What are the
guidelines for flying after diving?
NOTE: The 2nd guideline is different then what is in your book (page 221). This is a revision that you should note in your book for future reference as explained to you during class |
Surface Intervals
Repetitive dive planning using the dive tables
Electronic Dive
Planning
The use of dive computers for dive planning
Skills Development
This section is a summary of all the skills that you will master when in confined water (swimming pool) environment. Use these charts to keep track of your level of comfort during your training sessions. If you have any questions about a skill, or wish to practice a specific skill, then consult with your instructor.
Equipment Preparation - Adjustment of all straps, Attachment of weights
Assembly of Scuba Equipment - Attachment of BCD and regulator to tank
Mask Defogging - Techniques to keep mask defogged
Equipment Disassembly and Care - Proper disassembly techniques and care and storage of equipment
Don Scuba and Weights - With buddy assistance don scuba and weights
Pre-Dive Safety Drill - Buddy Check (BWRAF)
Shallow Water Entry - Enter shallow water without scuba Equipment
Shallow Water Exit - Exit shallow water without scuba equipment
Seated Entry - Proper technique for seated entry
Deep Water Exit - Proper technique for exiting water too deep to stand up in
Deep Water Entry - Giant Stride entry
Don Scuba and Weights - In Shallow water don scuba and weights
BCD Inflation/Deflation - Auto and Oral inflation of the BCD, Method and position for BCD deflation
Neutral Buoyancy - Surface adjustments to buoyancy
Remove Scuba and Weights - In shallow water remove scuba and weights
Snorkel Breathing and Clearing - Position and use of snorkel
Snorkel/Regulator Exchange - Exchange between snorkel and regulator
Surface Snorkel - Surface swim using snorkel
Cramp Removal - Procedure for removing leg cramps
Tired Diver Tow - Tank valve and modified diver tows
Remove and Replace Weight Belt - Removal and replacement of weight belt at the Surface
Remove and Replace Scuba Unit - Removal and replacement of scuba unit at the surface
Scuba Introduction - Breathing exercise in shallow water
Regulator Clearing - Exhalation and purge-button methods of clearing water from regulator
Regulator Recovery - Arm-sweep and reach methods of regulator recovery
Mask Clearing - Clear a partially flooded mask
Use of Fins - Proper leg and fin position for the flutter kick
Equalization - Proper equalization techniques
Ascent - Five Point ascent technique
Descent - Five Point descent technique
No Mask Breathing - Breathing under water without a mask
Mask Replacement - Complete removal, replacement and clearing of the mask
Proper Weighting - Achieving proper buoyancy through the use of weights
No Mask Swimming - Swim underwater without the mask
Neutral Buoyancy Under Water - Buoyancy adjustments using the fin pivot (oral and auto inflation methods)
Alternate Air Source - Techniques for utilizing alternate air in stationary and swimming positions
Free-Flow Regulator Breathing - Practice breathing from a free flowing regulator
Controlled Emergency Swimming Ascent (CESA) - Proper technique for executing the CESA.
Buoyancy Control - Practice buoyancy by hovering in place
Remove and Replace Weight Belt - Removal and replacement of weight belt under water
Remove and Replace Scuba Unit - Removal and replacement of scuba unit under water
Air-Depletion Exercise - Simulated air-supply depletion
Open Water Scuba Dives
Final certification is based upon your successful demonstration of specific skills in an open water environment. In an actual diving environment you will show your ability to perform skills that you have previously performed in the swimming pool. The following is a standard schedule of the skills that you will be asked to demonstrate. As specific diving conditions and environment may change, your instructor may alter this schedule.
v Briefing
v Equipment Preparation
v Don & Adjust equipment
v Predive safety check (BWRAF)
v Entry
v Buoyancy/weight check
v Descent in a controlled manner (max 12m / 40 ft)
v Underwater exploration
v Ascent and Exit
v Debrief and log dive.
v Briefing
v Equipment preparation
v Don & adjust equipment
v Predive safety check (BWRAF)
v Cramp removal (self / buddy)
v 25m / 25 yards tired diver tow
v Snorkel / Regulator exchange
v Controlled descent (max. 12m / 40 ft)
v Buoyancy control - fin pivot, low pressure inflator
v Partial and complete mask flood and clear
v Regulator recovery and clearing
v Alternate air source use stationary and AAS assisted ascent
v Underwater exploration and buoyancy control
v Ascent
v Weight removal at the surface
v Exit
v Debrief and log dive
v Briefing
v Equipment preparation
v Don & adjust equipment
v Predive safety check (BWRAF)
v Entry
v 50m/50 yards straight line surface swim with compass
v Free descent with reference to 20-30 feet (max dive depth 60 feet)
v Buoyancy control - neutral buoyancy on bottom, fin pivot oral
v Complete mask flood and clear
v Controlled Swimming Emergency Ascent (CESA)
v Underwater exploration
v Ascent
v Remove and replace weight system at the surface
v Remove and replace scuba unit at the surface
v Exit
v Debrief and log dive.
v Briefing
v Equipment preparation
v Don & adjust equipment
v Predive safety check (BWRAF)
v Entry
v Free descent without reference no deeper than 18m / 60 feet
v Buoyancy control - hovering
v Mask removal, replacement and clearing
v Underwater navigation with compass
v Underwater Exploration
v Ascent & Exit
v Debrief and log dive
Continuing Your Education
The PADI Advanced Open Water Certification Course is designed to introduce certified divers to different types of diving, and to provide the student with the knowledge of how to effectively plan diving activities.
Although there is a detailed manual that gives a solid overview of the various kinds of diving activities, the focus of this course is on practical diving experience. With your instructor you will plan dives and receive an overview on how to safely and effectively deal with different diving scenarios.
The course consists of five dives. There are two core dives: navigation and deep. With your instructor you will also choose three elective dives. You can choose elective dives from such specialty areas as boat, drift, dry suit, search and recovery, wreck, photography, underwater naturalist, or night.
The PADI Rescue Diver Certification Course helps to prepare divers to provide assistance to other divers who are experiencing problems. The course consists of two components: academic and practical experience. The knowledge development focuses on potential problems and hazards, and how to resolve problems. The skill development provides hands on practical scenarios that are used to simulate rescue scenarios. In addition students are taught search techniques used to locate missing divers.
The PADI Divemaster Certification Course is the first professional level in the PADI training system. The course develops the student in three ways: knowledge, physical skills, and dive leadership. The knowledge component provides the student with a solid foundation in advanced dive theory, types and functions of equipment, and advanced dive planning. The physical skills portion ensures that the divemaster candidate has thoroughly mastered all basic scuba skills, as well as ensuring that the candidate is in good physical condition. Dive leadership is developed through training scenarios, as well as participating in actual classes with students in other PADI training courses (such as Open Water or Advanced Open Water.
Confined Water Guidelines
q No shoes allowed on pool deck
q No gum or candy allowed on pool deck
q No glass containers on pool deck
q Running is not permitted
q Do not submerge below the surface without Instructor or Divemaster approval
q Do not enter the deep end without Instructor or Divemaster approval
q Always equalize when descending to deeper water
q Be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for other divers, especially when entering the water
q When stopped on the bottom to learn or observe a skill with your Instructor, you should be positioned on your knees
q Keep close to your buddy whenever possible
q Always lay scuba tanks down when not in use
q Be careful with the heavier pieces of equipment (tank and weight belt) and always lay them carefully on the pool deck
q Rinse your equipment after use. Leave regulator and BCD attached to tank and rinse as a complete unit
q Notify your Instructor or Divemaster of any equipment problems that you may have
q If in doubt about anything, PLEASE ASK.
Common Questions
What is PADI?
PADI is the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, the largest scuba training organization in the world. PADI develops scuba programs and diver training products which are used by more than 80,000 PADI professionals worldwide. PADI maintains diver certification records and issues your diver certification credentials. In additional, PADI maintains various support services for PADI Dive Centers and Resorts. Founded in 1966, today you'll find PADI professionals in more than 170 countries and territories, with international service offices in nine countries. Approximately 80% of North American divers are certified by PADI, and approximately 64% of all divers worldwide are certified by PADI.
Is it hard to learn
to scuba dive?
No, in fact, it's probably easier than you imagine - especially if you are already comfortable in the water. PADI's entry-level diver course is split into knowledge development, confined water (pool) skill training and four scuba dives. The course is "performance based," which means that you progress as you learn and demonstrate knowledge and skill.
How long does it take
to become a scuba diver?
PADI courses are "performance based," which means that you earn your certification when you demonstrate that you've mastered the required skills and knowledge. Some people learn faster than others, so how long it takes you may vary. The PADI Open Water Diver course (Beginning course) is typically split into five or six sessions with tremendous flexibility. The course may be scheduled over as little as three or four days, or as much as five or six weeks, or something in between, depending upon student needs and logistics. As a rule of thumb, most students complete their initial certification in three or four weeks.
Are there any special
qualifications or considerations before I can participate in a scuba class?
No. Generally speaking, anyone in good average health and at least 1 years old can participate. As a precaution, you'll be asked to complete a routine medical questionnaire. If anything on the questionnaire indicates something to be cautious about, you'll check with your physician to make sure it's acceptable to dive.
Do I have to be a
great swimmer to be certified as a PADI Open Water Diver?
No. All you need to be is a reasonably proficient swimmer who is comfortable and relaxed in the water. The swimming requirement for certification is an easy 183 metre/200 yard nonstop swim (with no time or specific stroke requirement) and 10 minute tread/float.
Is scuba diving
expensive?
Not really. Like any hobby or recreation, you can invest a lot or a little, depending upon your interest level. Because most dive centers and resorts rent equipment, you can invest in equipment over time, renting what you don't have until you make the investment. Besides distant dive destinations, you probably have good diving not too far from where you live, so even travel costs are flexible enough to accommodate even the tightest budget. To pick an average, most people find the costs of scuba diving similar to those associated with snow skiing.
What equipment do I
need?
Scuba-Waves will provide ALL the equipment necessary for your Open Water course. However, certain items of equipment are most comfortable when personally fitted. For this reason you may wish to have your own mask, snorkel and fins. If you already have your own equipment, or a re borrowing from others, please consult with the instructor about using the equipment for training.
Is scuba diving
dangerous?
Not really. Statistics show that recreational scuba diving is about as safe as swimming. Certainly there are potential hazards - which is why you need training and certification - but like driving a car you need to follow the rules and use common sense. Scuba-Waves and its PADI instructors are dedicated to producing safe and competent divers.
I'm planning on
getting certified. I've been to several
shops, and they all offer different certifications. I've heard of PADI, NAUI, YMCA, NASDS and SSI. Which one should I go with?
All agencies must follow a minimum standard set by an industry organization, so they differ less than you might expect. However, instructors differ a lot, and you should try to talk to the instructor you will be taking the course from and determine exactly what will be offered, and how you feel about them. Finally, some instructors add significantly to the standard course (and may also charge more). You should ask exactly what you are going to get for your course fees, what else you will have to buy, and where you have to buy it.
I'm new to diving,
and I want to buy some equipment. Which
piece of equipment should be the first?
Initially you should consider only purchasing your personal gear until you are sure what type of diving you like. This means that you should buy only mask, fins and snorkel, for fit and comfort. Once you get to know the equipment and have determined the type of diving that you will be doing, you can then start looking for your own equipment.
This being said, they are some who prefer to purchase all their equipment at the beginning of a scuba course. The main advantage this has is that learning it is easier as you become familiar with your own equipment and in general the equipment fits better and is more comfortable.
How can I learn more
about diving?
There are many good sources of information about diving. One of the best magazines to read is Dive Training. This magazine has the motto that a good diver is always learning. The main focus of Dive Training is for students and instructors. It provides many helpful tips as well as explanations of many aspects of diving.
If you have access to the specialty cable channels, the Outdoor Life Network carries several dive related shows.
Can I dive in contact
lenses?
Divers can safely use SOFT contact lenses while underwater. HARD contact lenses can allow for bubbles to be trapped underneath and as such cannot be used while diving.
However, as you are underwater there is a chance that if you open your eyes while they are in contact with water you might lose a contact. During the basic certification course you will be performing skills that involve placing water in your mask or in removing your mask completely. If you are wearing contacts, then it is a good idea to keep your eyes closed when performing these skills.
There is also an increased risk of eye infection when you wear contacts under water. The lenses can absorb bacteria that are in the water and expose your eyes to possible infection. For this reason it is important to strictly follow your daily cleaning regimen.
Can I dive with my
Brand-X watch?
Most "dive" watches are rated in static pressure, not dynamic pressure. The act of swimming, moving your wrist, bumping the watch, using the controls, etc., causes large amounts of dynamic pressure, which can flood your watch.
Most watch manufacturers used to rate their watches by activity. 100m watches were rated for snorkeling, and only 200m watches were rated for scuba diving. 50m watches were for showering.
Common experience indicates that your 50m watch is quite likely to flood if you use it for diving; your 100m watch is somewhat likely to flood, although some people have used 100m watches for diving successfully, and your 200m watch is probably not going to flood. A few people have used 50m watches for diving, but pushing the buttons at depth, accidentally or on purpose may flood the watch.
I have a medical
condition. Is it safe for me to scuba
dive?
Scuba diving is a physically demanding sport, which requires a healthy hear, the ability to tolerate exercise, and healthy lungs. Any illness which might incapacitate you (such as with a seizure or with unconsciousness) poses an extreme risk should it incapacitate you while underwater. There are many medical conditions that are considered disqualifying for scuba diving. The Diver's Alert Network (phone (919) 684-2948) will provide over-the-phone advice about medicine, medications, diving and their interaction, as well as assisting you in finding the local doctor who is familiar with diving medicine.
Scuba-Waves provides a detailed medical form for all students, which highlight any potential conditions that might prevent you from participating in scuba activities.
What is an Open Water
Referral?
Some students may be participating in a REFERRAL program. A referral program means that the student will complete the Knowledge and Skills Development with one instructor and will complete the Training Dives with another instructor. As the PADI Open Water Course is standardized worldwide, the student will be equally prepared on a referral program as in a standard program.
Scuba-Waves can provide you with a list of PADI facilities for your travel destination, so just let us know where you are planning to visit.
Buying Equipment
Dolphinos is a full service dive centre. What this means is that we offer scuba training courses, dive travel and equipment sales, service and rentals.
Dolphinos strives to provide the highest quality dive equipment, which ensures that you receive the safest and most comfortable dive gear available. To ensure that each piece of equipment fits a particular diver, Dolphinos encourages their customers to try out all equipment purchased in Dolphinos training pool, under the guidance of one of our staff. If a customer is not satisfied with their new equipment after this evaluation session, Dolphinos offers a full refund. Dolphinos guarantees a proper fit for all equipment sold.
As an intelligent consumer, we know that you will check out other stores, mail order catalogues, and perhaps even the Internet. Please be aware that when buying scuba equipment you really do get what you pay for. We want to ensure that you obtain safe equipment for obvious reasons, but additionally we want you to purchase comfortable and appropriate equipment so that you continue to enjoy diving and stay active. Dolphinos stand behind all products sold which means that we are fully involved in manufacturers warranty program and will service all equipment that we sell
As a student on one of our courses we offer you a free equipment consultation with your course instructor. If you wish, you can arrange a specific time to visit the dive center to meet with your instructor. In this private session you can see the type of equipment that is available, and learn the options that exist. Our goal is to make you a more informed customer.
What follows is a brief description of the most common items that new divers purchase; their mask, snorkel, and fins. Space limitations prevent listing all options, but the most important items are listed. The more advanced equipment, such as regulators, cannot really be addressed in such limited space. We encourage you to visit Dolphinos to examine the equipment and to get answers to any questions that you may have
Never purchase a mask without following the steps below:
q Check the fit without the strap. Clear away any hair or glasses that might get in the way. Press the mask firmly to your face without using the strap. Draw in enough air through your nose to create a slight vacuum. It's best to do this with a snorkel in your mouth, but if this is not possible, open and close your mouth with the mask in position. Look for a mask that does not lose the vacuum and remains in position without support strap or hand support.
q Check the fit with the strap. Test the mask for sealing and comfort with the strap in place and a snorkel fixed to the strap, paying special attention to the way the mask feels on the bridge of your nose and the area between your nose and upper lip.
q You may wish to invest in a low-volume mask. Reducing the distance between your eyes and the faceplate allows better peripheral and vertical vision, less distortion and improved light transmission. Less bulk means less drag, more clearance in close quarters, less area exposed to leaking, ease of clearing and easier equalization of pressure inside the mask.
The primary decision to make when purchasing fins is to decide between a full foot fin and an open (or adjustable) heel fin.
q Divers who wear boots (such as cold-water divers) need a fin with an adjustable heel strap. These larger, more powerful fins are also important when diving in currents or surge.
q Full-shoe fins are perfectly suited for snorkelers and warm-water divers sing light equipment.
Once you have decided on the type of fin that you require, you need to ensure a snug fit. While wearing the fin you should be able to pull on the fin tips without dislodging the fin.
The primary consideration for choosing a snorkel is the comfort of the mouthpiece and a large bore tube. Place the mouthpiece in your mouth to check for comfort.
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