Crew Preparation
The role of the crew on a dive boat is no less important than that of the Coxswain. It is an individuals responsibility to ensure that they are both fully informed of the requirements on the day and the ensure their own personal safety and comfort.Some simple steps can be taken to ensure that this happens and will include: Making sure you pay attention to all briefings given by the Coxswain and the Marshal especially where this relates to safety on the boat.
Making sure you follow that guidance but also exercise common sense (e.g. even though you may not have been specifically briefed not to do so, positioning yourself in the bow of a fast RIB is not a sensible location as this is the area most subject to violent movement such as when passing over the wake of another vessel).
Learning how to help out on the boat to aid the Coxswain and make things more comfortable for all on board
Ensure all are aware of emergency actions
Ensuring your own comfort by checking out our What to take checklists (DPRC)
Get Informed
Keeping up to date with information is as vital for boat Coxswains as it is for divers and a well informed and competent crew member is an absolute asset to the boats Coxswain. The principles of seamanship over the years has become an established tradition for an island nation that is the UK and change less rapidly than in a comparatively new sport such as diving. Nevertheless, new and developing technology and the latest theories and regulations and the implications of new and developing activities (including diving) mean that there is still a need to update your knowledge and skills.
The BSAC Publication Seamanship: a Guide for Divers has virtually (there is always more to learn!) all the information a competent crew member could ever need.
One word of caution though, if you are considering doing the BSAC Boat Handling Course then this book forms part of the course notes.
Keeping up to date with information is as vital for boat Coxswains as it is for divers and a well informed and competent crew member is an absolute asset to the boats Coxswain. The principles of seamanship over the years has become an established tradition for an island nation that is the UK and change less rapidly than in a comparatively new sport such as diving. Nevertheless, new and developing technology and the latest theories and regulations and the implications of new and developing activities (including diving) mean that there is still a need to update your knowledge and skills.
The BSAC Publication Seamanship: a Guide for Divers has virtually (there is always more to learn!) all the information a competent crew member could ever need.
One word of caution though, if you are considering doing the BSAC Boat Handling Course then this book forms part of the course notes.
| Seamanship: a Guide for Divers Foreword  As National Diving Officer of the world's largest dive club I am extremely proud to have been asked to present this new edition of the BSAC's manual Seamanship: a guide for divers. Divers naturally crave to diversify and deepen their knowledge of all aspects of their Sport and the British Sub-Aqua Club exists to support its members in the attainment of new understanding through varied and inspiring Skill Development Courses. The result is a club of divers who are not only skilled in conducting diving operations, but are also competent, 'rounded' divers with expertise in a number of diving-related activities. Often these divers have come to understand the thrill of successfully, independently and safely navigating a boat to new dive sites and, through knowledge of tides, charts and electronic aids, are able to predict the underwater conditions for a dive. No text can replace the experience of going to sea with competent, experienced instructors who can guide you through the practical lessons to be learned about seamanship. However, this volume does prepare divers for their first experiences of going to sea to dive and it also serves as a reference manual for divers wishing to improve on many aspects of diving-related seamanship. Over the years I have had the good fortune to dive with some of the BSAC's great adventurers and through them have experienced dives in the remotest parts of the UK and the excitement of independent exploration. This manual represents the beginning of an expedition of understanding, fun and adventure. Clare Peddie National Diving Officer British Sub-Aqua Club |
Other BSAC Shop items
The BSAC Shop stocks a selected range of books that provide additional specialist knowledge and chartwork practice for knowledge hungry crew members.
Get trainedThe BSAC Diver Training Programme covers some elements of Seamanship especially within the AT3 lecture of Advanced Diver. If your branch is running this lecture it would be a good idea for all interested members to attend as this is an ideal opportunity to educate club members about general aspects of diving from boats and serves as an introduction to various aspects of seamanship.
Specialist Training
The most obvious way to get informed about boating issues is to follow one of the courses specifically within this area. The BSAC BOatahandling Course is the natural starting point for anyone in a Club with it's own RIB but the other courses available each have their own benefits to a competent crew member.
| Boathandling This course is designed to give members with little or no previous experience an insight into the safe use of small power boats, the equipment they should carry and a knowledge of seamanship, tides and weather which govern their safe use. The course syllabus is recognised training for the BSAC Diver Cox'n Certificate. Boat Handling Syllabus Boat Handling Course dates Diver Cox Having completed a Boat Handling Course and gained further experience, prove your competence as a dive boat handler by taking the assessment for the BSAC Diver Cox'n Award. An 1 day practical assessment from which successful candidates will gain the BSAC Diver Cox'n qualification. Diver Cox'n Syllabus Diver Cox'n Course dates Chartwork & Position Fixing This course provides an introduction to the art of marine chartwork and tidal predictions. Ideal for those looking for wrecks or new dive sites. This two day course is aimed at instructing members in the basic techniques of marine navigation to a level which will help them as active divers in planning and managing dives undertaken by a typical BSAC Branch. Chartwork and Position Fixing Syllabus Chartwork and Position Fixing Course dates Outboard Maintenance This one-day course looks at the design and operation of modern outboard engines; owner servicing, fault finding and rectification. It will also cover the care of the boat hull and trailer. Outboard Engine and Boat Maintenance Syllabus Outboard and Boat Maintenance Course dates Short Range Certificate Course (GMDSS) This one-day course replaces the Marine Radio Course (VHF Restricted).Due to changes in the assessment of this GMDSS Course, the BSAC is unable to offer this course as part of the coaching programme. Members wishing to attend the Short Range Course should contact BSAC HQ for a list of available instructors and advice. |
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On completion of Boat Handling, Diver Cox'n, Chartwork and Position Fixing, and Outboard and Boat Maintenance Courses, members can apply for the Seamanship Specialist Award. Application forms are available from the Technical Department at HQ. Download the APPLICATION FORM (in pdf format). |
Get prepared
Personal Preparation
"what to take" checklists drawn from the Dive Planning Resource Centre
Personal Equipment - Download Word 6 file - Download PDF file
Additional Equipment - Download Word 6 file - Download PDF file
Spares List - Download Word 6 file - Download PDF file
BUOYANCY AIDS
The CDA Guidelines have the following advice on the need for buoyancy aids on board a RIB
Buoyancy Compensating Devices
Buoyancy Compensating Devices (BCDs), as used by divers, provide the user with sufficient buoyancy and adjustment capabilities while the diver is diving in the water and has a cylinder of compressed gas attached to the device. It is recommended that all personnel travelling in a RIB, while the vessel is underway and making way, should wear a BCD or an alternative buoyancy device.
Any recommended alternative buoyancy device must provide the user with additional oral inflation capabilities, sufficient buoyancy to support the person on the surface, with their face clear of the water.
Provision should be made to provide buoyancy devices of an appropriate size for any passengers that may be carried (children or people of small stature). Suitable protective clothing should also be provided.
Dry suits
Many dry suits, both membrane and neoprene, are often considered to provide adequate buoyancy for the wearer if they fell into the water. This buoyancy is only provided if the suit's zip has been completely closed, so it is essential that all dry suit zips are closed completely and checked by a buddy prior to moving away from the safety of the mooring location. Suits should not be relied upon to provide suitable flotation in the event of falling overboard and it is highly recommended that a BCD or a lifejacket is worn in addition to a closed dry suit, especially for long sea trips.
Note: Weight belts
Divers should not wear weight belts in the boat unless preparing to dive or wearing an appropriate buoyancy aid that will compensate for the additional weight.
Caring for LIFEJACKETS
The CDA Guidelines have the following advice on the need for buoyancy aids on board a RIB
Buoyancy Compensating DevicesBuoyancy Compensating Devices (BCDs), as used by divers, provide the user with sufficient buoyancy and adjustment capabilities while the diver is diving in the water and has a cylinder of compressed gas attached to the device. It is recommended that all personnel travelling in a RIB, while the vessel is underway and making way, should wear a BCD or an alternative buoyancy device.
Any recommended alternative buoyancy device must provide the user with additional oral inflation capabilities, sufficient buoyancy to support the person on the surface, with their face clear of the water.
Provision should be made to provide buoyancy devices of an appropriate size for any passengers that may be carried (children or people of small stature). Suitable protective clothing should also be provided.
Dry suits
Many dry suits, both membrane and neoprene, are often considered to provide adequate buoyancy for the wearer if they fell into the water. This buoyancy is only provided if the suit's zip has been completely closed, so it is essential that all dry suit zips are closed completely and checked by a buddy prior to moving away from the safety of the mooring location. Suits should not be relied upon to provide suitable flotation in the event of falling overboard and it is highly recommended that a BCD or a lifejacket is worn in addition to a closed dry suit, especially for long sea trips.
Note: Weight belts
Divers should not wear weight belts in the boat unless preparing to dive or wearing an appropriate buoyancy aid that will compensate for the additional weight.
Caring for LIFEJACKETS
THERMAL PROTECTION
Perhaps the most important consideration for anyone in an open RIB is staying warm and comfortable. Even in summer months the wind created by one of these open craft adds a significant chill to the diver both on the way to the site and on a return journey.
Perhaps the most important consideration for anyone in an open RIB is staying warm and comfortable. Even in summer months the wind created by one of these open craft adds a significant chill to the diver both on the way to the site and on a return journey.
Wear a hat
Up to 75% of our body heat can be lost through the head area, because of it's high level of blood supply and need to avoid fully enclosing it. In summer months a simple baseball style cap may be adequate to avoid excessive heat loss and give some protection from the sun.In winter or on cooler days a more appropriate version would be a hat with more insulating properties such as the Thinsulate wooly hat available from the BSAC Shop.
HIGH PERFORMANCE 3-IN-1 REGATTA ALL WEATHER JACKETOuter - Waterproof, windproof and breathable fabric with taped seams, concealed hood, adjustable cuffs, studded storm flap, also multi pocketed including mobile phone and security pocket. Inner - Showerproof anti-pill symmetry fleece with connecting zip to outer.
This jacket is ideal for the non-diving Coxswain or crew member as it can be used in a variety of formats to suit the prevailing conditions. The outer jacket provides protection from the wind and rain whilst remaining flexible enough not to restrict movement in and around the boat. The inner lining can be removed in warm weather but gives lots of insulation for the colder months.
SEASICKNESS
Seasickness can be one of the most debilitating illnesses that any diver can encounter prior to a dive. The effects can range from extreme discomfort through to complete incapacity. Where vomiting is the result then the dehydrating effects can have significant consequences for the subsequent dives. A variety of means of controlling the condition exist ranging through herbal remedies to pressure bands but at present the most common solution is to take some form of medication. The UK Sport Diving Medical Committee has provided specific advice on SEA SICKNESS MEDICATION and divers and crew should take note and follow this advice as appropriate.
Seasickness can be one of the most debilitating illnesses that any diver can encounter prior to a dive. The effects can range from extreme discomfort through to complete incapacity. Where vomiting is the result then the dehydrating effects can have significant consequences for the subsequent dives. A variety of means of controlling the condition exist ranging through herbal remedies to pressure bands but at present the most common solution is to take some form of medication. The UK Sport Diving Medical Committee has provided specific advice on SEA SICKNESS MEDICATION and divers and crew should take note and follow this advice as appropriate.
Briefings
In addition to any specific dive briefing the Dive Marshal may give you, members of the crew should expect to receive a safety briefing for the boat from the Coxswain. This should detail various aspects relating to the safe operation of the boat and what is expect of you as a member of the crew, such as where and how to store your kit and where to position yourself for the trip etc.
You should pay particular attention to such briefings and if necessary be prepared to take notes to remind yourself.
Under the SOLAS (Safety Of Life At Sea) V Regulations there are certain requirements placed on people in charge of a vessel and these include the need to check weather and tidal information and take a record of these aboard the boat as well as prepare an adequate Voyage Plan. Being aware of these requirements as a crew member will help you understand what is going on and how it is relevant to your safety as a member of the crew and also help ease the load on the Coxswain.
The SOLAS guidelines also recommend having various checklists available and being familiar with these will also help your understanding.
Casualty Evaluation Card
First Aid Kits
Diver Recall Systems
DSMB emergency systems
Life Saving Signals
In addition to any specific dive briefing the Dive Marshal may give you, members of the crew should expect to receive a safety briefing for the boat from the Coxswain. This should detail various aspects relating to the safe operation of the boat and what is expect of you as a member of the crew, such as where and how to store your kit and where to position yourself for the trip etc.
You should pay particular attention to such briefings and if necessary be prepared to take notes to remind yourself.
Under the SOLAS (Safety Of Life At Sea) V Regulations there are certain requirements placed on people in charge of a vessel and these include the need to check weather and tidal information and take a record of these aboard the boat as well as prepare an adequate Voyage Plan. Being aware of these requirements as a crew member will help you understand what is going on and how it is relevant to your safety as a member of the crew and also help ease the load on the Coxswain.
The SOLAS guidelines also recommend having various checklists available and being familiar with these will also help your understanding.
Casualty Evaluation Card
First Aid Kits
Diver Recall Systems
DSMB emergency systems
Life Saving Signals
Any suggestions for further items for inclusion would be welcome and can be made to divesafe@bsac.com
Page last modified: 9th Jan 2007 - 14:51:57