Over the past few years some diving companies have stopped undertaking air diving operations due to the nature of their business. This has created a problem for trainee bell diving supervisors within the IMCA Offshore Diving Supervisor certification scheme. Some of these applicants have been finding it increasingly difficult to get the opportunity to act as Trainee Air Diving Supervisors on at least ten offshore commercial dives (as required by the IMCA Offshore Diving Supervisor certification scheme).
This 5-day course will ensure that Trainee Bell Diving Supervisors meet the entry requirements for the IMCA Bell Diving Supervisor exam. Delegates will act in the role of the Air Diving Supervisor and will run a minimum of ten dives. As part of the course they will be involved in all aspects of dive planning, dive briefing, risk assessment review, emergency plan review and diver checks. The course will ensure Supervisory experience on the following disciplines as an absolute minimum:
- Two dives undertaken from a wet bell with the use of hot-water systems
- Two dives exceeding a depth of 30msw
- Two dives that require divers to conduct surface decompression
- Two dives that require divers to conduct in-water decompression
- Two of the dives that simulate the rescue of an unconscious diver from depth.
All panel operations will be undertaken under the direct supervision of one of PDA’s qualified Instructors.
What to expect:
On the first day you will be asked to be at PDA for 8:00AM for registration, there after the start time for the remainder of the course shifts to 8:30AM. Each morning starts at Unit 19 before we make our way to the nearby Holy Loch.
The trainee will join as our students are commencing the Surface Supplied Top-Up element of either an Offshore Career Package course or for divers who are following the Prior Competence Route.
A full induction will be given on board the DSB Sleat including Air Supply Module, Deck Decompression Chamber, Wet Bell and LARS system, Dive Control and Emergency Response Procedures. You will be involved in all toolbox talks, daily dive briefs and debriefs.
You will have continuous guidance and feedback from our instructors.
Trainee Bell Supervisors who are unable to obtain the necessary air diving supervisory experience in a work site environment.
On successful completion of IMCA Trainee Bell Supervisor Air Panel Experience Course, candidates will receive:
- PDA’s qualified Instructors will countersign and stamp the candidate’s logbook on completion.
To enrol in this course, you must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a valid Trainee Bell Diving Supervisor certificate recognised by The International Marine Contractors Association
- Hold an HSE Professional Closed Bell Diver qualification (or an approved equivalent)
- Possess a valid First Aid at Work Certificate and O2 Provider
- Be able to provide closed bell dive logs/ closed bell trainee supervisor panel hour dive logs.
Please arrive with the following:
Located on the stunning Cowal Peninsula, we’re lucky to have Argyll and Loch Lomond as our neighbours and the Trossachs National Park within easy reach. This makes us a year-round destination for hillwalkers and mountain bikers, with yachting and kayaking enthusiasts joining us in the warmer months. If you have the time, pack your bike, walking shoes, or kayak and explore the wilderness after classes or social activities!
Arriving by plane? The nearest airport is Glasgow Airport. Once you’ve navigated through security, you can choose your preferred transport option to Dunoon:
Driving: If you’re travelling by car, you have two scenic options:
- The Long Route: Drive through the Loch Lomond National Park for breath-taking views and a relaxing road trip.
- The Quick Route: Take a shortcut across the River Clyde by ferry. Two companies operate ferry services to Dunoon, but only Western Ferries accommodates vehicles. Ferries run every 20–30 minutes, so it’s convenient to plan your journey. Please note: tickets purchased online in advance or at one of the ticket agents are cheaper than purchasing on the boat itself.
Buses: Regular buses run from Glasgow and Glasgow Airport to Dunoon. Alternatively, you can hop off the bus at Gourock, then take a CalMac Ferry to Dunoon. The ferry docks just a 5-minute walk from Dunoon’s town centre.
Trains: Take a ride from Glasgow Central Station or Paisley Gilmour Street Station (near the airport) to Gourock.
- If departing from Glasgow Central, buy your ticket in advance to pass through the station barriers.
- If departing from Paisley Gilmour Street, you can buy a ticket either before boarding or onboard the train.
From Gourock, it’s then a short walk to the CalMac Ferry terminal.
Pro Tip: If the weather takes a turn and the CalMac Ferry service is suspended (it happens!), you can take a bus or taxi from Gourock to McInroy’s Point, where the Western Ferries operate.
On arrival with the Western Ferry:
- Western Ferries dock at Hunters Quay, which is about 2 miles from Dunoon’s town centre. You can enjoy a scenic walk or hail a taxi to get to your accommodation from there.
For taxis, you can try:
- Clyde Taxis: 01369 706444
- Thistle Taxis: 01369 704331
If buses are your preference, please check schedules at West Coast Motors.
To ensure you don’t miss out and secure your place on the course we require a 20% deposit. The remainder of your balance will then be due 8 weeks prior to the course starting.
This is dependent on how much notice you give if requesting to move to another course date, plus if there are available places on the course you are wanting to move to. Please refer to our T&C’s for full information.
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout our onsite premises for all visitors and course participants.
