Dive Program
Scientific Divers
The purpose of the Cambrian Foundation diving program is to ensure that compressed gas diving conducted under the auspices of the Cambrian Foundation is performed in a manner most likely to minimize accidental injury or occupational illness, and to set forth rules, regulations and standards which will allow a working reciprocity between the Cambrian Foundation and other organizations and state and federal agencies engaged in scientific diving.
All diving that is associated with the Cambrian Foundation must meet the requirements of the Cambrian Foundation Diving Manual, and only persons approved by the Diving Safety Officer will be allowed involvement with diving under Foundation auspices. Divers are classified in one of three categories, Research Divers, Scientific Divers and Temporary Scientific Divers.
Additional general requirements for participation in the Cambrian Foundation Dive Program:
1. Be a current donor to the Cambrian Foundation.
2. Sign and submit a Cambrian Foundation Release and Waiver.
3. Submit copies of all valid SCUBA certifications. (Divers must have completed the equivalent levels of Open Water, Advanced Open Water and Rescue Diver certifications at a minimum.)
4. Complete and submit the Cambrian Foundation Diving Medical History form.
5. Submit a Cambrian Foundation Medical Evaluation of Fitness form signed by a physician.
– Temporary Scientific Divers must complete a physical examination as outlined by the RSTC for a recreational dive professional and be cleared for diving by the examining physician.
– Scientific and Research Divers must submit the Cambrian Foundation’s Scientific Diver’s Physical, “Medical Evaluation for Scuba Diving”
6. Submit a copy of personal medical insurance, either a general policy which covers diving accidents or a general policy and a policy designed specifically for diving related injuries (DAN Master Insurance is recommended). The purchase of personal medical insurance is the responsibility of the participant.
In addition to these general requirements, applicants desiring classification as a Scientific and Research Diver must:
7. Submit documentaion of current training in First Aid, CPR and Oxygen Administration.
8. Pass the Cambrian Foundation’s Scientific Diver’s exam (requires a passing score of 80% or greater). This test is issued by the Cambrian Foundation Dive Safety Officer or designee.
9. Submit online an updated equipment service record.
10. Submit online a current dive log.
After all documentation has been reviewed by the Diving Safety Officer, the applicant will be asked to demonstrate proficiency in at least one check out dive with the Diving Safety Officer or his designee.
Temporary Scientific Divers
This classification is usually reserved for visiting scientists or personnel, including volunteers, not normally associated with Cambrian Foundation programs. Requirements may be waived by the Diving Safety Officer if the applicant has demonstrated proficiency in diving and can contribute measurably to a planned dive. A statement of the temporary diver’s qualifications shall be submitted to the Diving Safety Officer (as part of the dive plan). Temporary classification shall be restricted to the planned diving operation and shall comply with all other policies, regulations and standards of the Cambrian Foundation Diving Manual, including medical requirements, waivers etc.
Research Divers
This classification is issued to Foundation Scientific Divers who have shown proficiency in a variety of research diving skills. A diver can either take an outside research diver course that covers all the disciplines or show individual certifications in the different disciplines. He/She must also demonstrate proficiency in these areas for the Diving Safety Officer or his/her designee. These disciplines shall include the following:
- Decompression dive planning
- Lift bag deployment
- Stage cylinder handling
- Underwater communications (hand signals)
- Full facemask use with underwater communications
- Linear survey and mapping techniques
- Grid survey and mapping techniques
- Underwater photography
- Underwater videography
- Gas blending
- Rebreather experience (SCR or CCR)
- Diver Propulsion Vehicle experience