What does a Commercial Diver do?
Published 4 min read
A commercial diver is a trained professional who uses specialized equipment to perform underwater tasks.
Some common tasks that commercial divers may perform include welding, repairing pipelines, and inspecting bridges. Commercial divers typically work in the oil and gas industry, but they may also be employed in construction, environmental cleanup, and law enforcement.
Commercial diving is a physically demanding job that requires strength, endurance, and agility. Divers must be able to work in cramped spaces and tolerate long periods of time in cold water. They must also be able to quickly respond to emergencies and follow instructions from their supervisor.
Commercial Diver job duties include:
- Inspects equipment to be used and prepares a plan of action for the dive
- Checks weather conditions and tidal patterns to determine if they are safe for diving
- Enters the water to assess the situation and determine the best way to proceed with the job
- Uses a variety of tools to complete the task at hand, such as welding or cutting equipment
- Attaches lines and other devices to objects underwater in order to move them or secure them in place
- Inspects underwater structures for damage or deterioration and makes repairs as necessary
- Locates and retrieves objects that have been lost underwater
- Takes photographs or videos of underwater structures or objects
- Keeps detailed records of all dives, including depth, time, conditions, and any problems encountered
Commercial Diver Job Requirements
Commercial divers are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent. They must also complete a commercial diving program that is approved by the Association of Commercial Diving Educators (ACDE) or the National Associaiton of Underwater Instructors (NAUI). In addition, they must have a minimum of 30 dives, including at least 10 dives in open water and 5 dives in deep water. Finally, they must pass a physical examination and a written exam.
Commercial Diver Skills
- SCUBA diving
- Commercial diving
- Offshore diving
- Deep sea diving
- Welding
- Cutting
- Burning
- Grinding
- Inspection
- Non-destructive testing
- Salvage
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How to become a Commercial Diver
There are many reasons why someone might want to become a commercial diver. Maybe they love the ocean and want to spend their days exploring it. Maybe they’re looking for an exciting and adventurous career. Or maybe they want to help protect the environment by working on oil rigs or underwater construction projects.
Whatever the reason, becoming a commercial diver is not a decision to be taken lightly. It is a physically and mentally demanding career that requires years of training and experience. But for those who are up for the challenge, it can be an immensely rewarding profession.
Here are some things to consider if you’re thinking about becoming a commercial diver:
1. Training and Certification
Becoming a commercial diver requires extensive training and certification. There are many different diving schools around the world that offer both classroom and hands-on instruction. Most programs take between four and six weeks to complete, but some longer programs are also available.
After completing a training program, you will need to get certified by the American Association of Commercial Divers (AACD) or a similar organization. This process includes passing a written exam as well as a physical skills test. Once you are certified, you will need to renew your certification every two years through continuing education courses and tests.
2. Physical Demands
Commercial diving is a physically demanding job. Divers must be able to swim long distances and lift heavy objects while wearing bulky diving gear. They also need to have good eyesight and hearing, as well as excellent hand-eye coordination.
3. Mental Demands
In addition to being physically fit, commercial divers must also be mentally tough. They need to be able to handle stress well and make quick decisions in potentially dangerous situations. Divers must also be comfortable working in close quarters with other people and be able to follow instructions carefully.
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