As part of the club’s busy training programme, three of our newer dive leaders attended the new Deeper Diver skill development course on Sunday 15 February, delivered in-house by member of the club’s instructor team, technical instructor Andy B.
The course, for dive leaders, gives students the opportunity to understand the theory of deeper diving, with the opportunity to dive to 50 metres on trimix.
The session explored the theoretical foundations needed for dives down to 50 metres, giving participants a solid understanding of the physics, physiology and planning considerations involved. Andy also introduced key concepts behind trimix diving, helping divers appreciate how advanced gases support deeper, safer exploration.
It is a mix of revision, and new concepts, Andy explains. One of those new concepts is a more advanced version of gas planning. The aim of which is to get you and your buddy to the surface on your alternate source, in the event they have run out of gas. Knowing how much gas you need to get both of you to the surface you can then work backwards to your maximum safe bottom time. If you dive longer, there is a risk there will not be enough gas for both of you to get out the water safely.
Another is the reduction in gas density by the inclusion of helium, and the bonus of an ever clearer head. Dive to 40m plus with your head at 25m or less, allowing you to remember even more.
You can do this as a taught course, or online for £20 more.
One of the participants, John said: “It was an eye-opening course, especially the look at the END (Equivalent Narcotic Depth) for various trimix combinations vs commonly used nitrox mixes. It was fascinating to see just how much of a difference that makes so I’m looking forward to testing out the theory on a practical dive soon.”
Running this engaging and highly informative course so soon after its release by BSAC reflects the club’s commitment to developing confident, well‑trained divers.
For more infomation on training, contact Training Officer Lindsey
