BSAC Administration Information - Try Dives under 12
BSAC 'INTRODUCTION TO DIVING' COURSE FOR PERSONS UNDER 12 YEARS
The minimum age for scuba training within a BSAC Branch is 12.
However, young people under 12 years of age may take part in a BSAC 'Try a Dive' and are covered by the Club's Third Party Legal Liability insurance when doing so. Organisers may impose a lower age or stature limit, as they consider appropriate. Participation in this Course by young people does not signify any entitlement to undertake a full programme of BSAC Ocean diver training, for which the minimum age limit of 12 years remains.
The safety of young people while participating in adventurous activities is currently high in public consciousness. While the Activity Centres (Young Persons' Safety) Act 1995 does not cover sub-aquatic activities or apply to Diving Clubs or BSAC Schools, it is the wish of the BSAC that whatever advice it gives relating to the safety of young people would satisfy this Act of Parliament in the event that it did apply. With this in mind, the following points are particularly valid for those under 12 years:
- Each under 12 must present an Introduction to Diving Course / Experience Scuba medical and liability disclaimer form signed by a parent or legal guardian, before the session begins.
- While using an aqualung, those under 14 must be accompanied on a one-to-one ratio by a diver of at least BSAC Assistant Diving Instructor standard. A higher student / instructor ratio is acceptable for basic equipment only.
- A depth limit of 2m is advised for persons under 12 years. Direct ascents from maximum depth (2m) should only be made in an emergency.
- There is no lower age limit for Try a Dive candidates, but obviously equipment must fit correctly and the young person must be able to cope with the weight and encumbrance.
Page last modified: 2nd Nov 2006 - 10:00:14