SCUBA March 2021 issue 112 March 2021 Issue 112 | Page 43

Mod 1 Top Up Course
The theory modules cover all the required information for rebreather diving , from kit configuration and problem solving to ownership . Dry practical sessions cover Unit preparation using checklists , dive planning and an ownership maintenance workshop , giving an in-depth insight into fault resolution to ensure students can maintain their own units where possible when there are simple fixes . Students are expected to have a detailed understanding of their units by the end of the course .
The new materials have been updated to include the latest unit features and allow more flexibility in the planning by use of multiple planning software / apps in addition to refreshed imagery .
There is plenty of in-water time to allow students to commit new processes and procedures to muscle memory . There ’ s a minimum of 420 or 480 minutes in water . This is essential to give students time to master basic skills on a rebreather , electronics monitoring and the complex sets of responses to potential rebreather failures . While failure is rare , familiarity of options available in the event of an issue is essential for new rebreather divers . Candidates are expected to progress these skills in increasingly complex scenarios and by the end of the course their responses should be second nature .
The biggest change in the new course is the ability to qualify to 45m using Trimix up to a 20 / 35 mix . This offers entry level rebreather divers an increased depth range and , more importantly , takes into account the latest safety advice on gas density , giving BSAC divers the choice to use trimix instead of air as a diluent gas and gain ISO 24642:2020 accreditation .

Mod 1 Top Up Course

For BSAC CCR Air Diluent Diver or other agency equivalent Qualification - Trimix 20 / 35 45m Qualification
There are two Theory modules that can be completed in one session via online teaching or in person ; they cover the gaps between the new BSAC CCR Mod 1 Diver and the old BSAC Air Diluent Diver .
There are two Open Water Dives using an appropriate Trimix diluent up to 20 / 35 and bailout gases . As existing CCR divers , the students are expected to plan the dive and dive the plan under the supervision of a BSAC Technical Instructor .
■ BSAC will initially offer CCR Mod 1 and CCR Mod 1 Top Up Training on AP Inspiration XPD , EVP and EVO , with other unit courses to follow .
Support for the divers from Chris Shelley
The long walk up the beach at Eastern Kings
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