Scuba Training Standards and Procedures

Recreational Scuba

Try Scuba

Intent

The SSI Try Scuba program provides students with an introductory scuba experience with an SSI Professional in a pool/confined water environment.

Note | This is a recognition program. The SSI Professional should focus on the students’ safety and enjoyment, avoiding over-teaching.

Minimum Instructor Rating

An active status Assistant Instructor may conduct the Try Scuba program.

Administrative Requirements

Prior to beginning training, they must complete the:
  • Try Scuba Participant Registration Form
  • SSI Introductory Fit To Dive Screening and Responsible Diver Code
  • SSI Introductory Scuba Assumption of Risk, Liability Release & Hold Harmless Agreement | Where required
  • Youth Addendum | Where required

Student Prerequisites

  • Minimum age: 8 years old.

Duration

  • There is no recommended duration for the Try Scuba program.

Depth Limitations

  • Maximum pool/confined water depth limit: 5 meters.

In-Water Ratios

Pool

10 years and older:
  • The student-to-instructor ratio is 8:1.
  • Certified assistants cannot be used to increase ratios.
8- and 9-years old:
  • The student-to-instructor ratio is 4:1.
  • The ratio may increase to 6:2 with one (1) certified assistant.

Confined Water

10 years and older:
  • The student-to-instructor ratio is 4:1.
  • The ratio may increase to 6:2 with one (1) certified assistant.
8- and 9-years old:
  • The student-to-instructor ratio is 2:1.
  • The ratio may increase to 4:2 with one (1) certified assistant.

Note | Each SSI Professional must comply with local regulations and insurance requirements applicable to introductory scuba programs.

Minimum Supervision

  • An active status Assistant Instructor or higher must directly supervise all academic and pool/confined water activities.

Proximity

  • During in-water skill evaluations, the students must remain under direct supervision of the SSI Professional so that physical contact can be made at any time.
  • Students must remain under the direct supervision of the instructor so that physical contact can be made at all times during any in-water training.

Requirements For Completion

  • Complete all academic and in-water sessions and assessments as outlined in the instructor manual for Try Scuba.
  • Skill demonstration and evaluations are only required if the students will continue with the Basic Diver open water training dive.

Issuing a Recognition Card

  • Try Scuba is a recognition program only.
  • Upon completion, process all students in MySSI so they may receive their digital recognition card.
  • Create Personal Note
  • Report Translation Mistake
  • Report Technical Error
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