Following a recent three-day audit, BSAC has retained its European Underwater Federation (EUF) accreditation for the Ocean Diver, Dive Leader and Open Water Instructor qualifications.

BSAC has now also received recognition for Nitrox Diver standard for BSAC Sports Divers and those who complete the equivalent Nitrox Workshop. Accreditation has also been certified for BSAC Gas Blenders courses based on a current draft standard that is due to be ratified shortly.

The audit was conducted by the European Underwater Federation and involved the inspection of BSAC headquarters' processes and BSAC branch training. The inspectors also observed a Nitrox Workshop and a Gas Blender course at Merseyside Branch 5.

The Lead Auditor said that 'the audit was very well prepared, extensive in its coverage and provided ample opportunities to see the implementation of the training of divers and instructors'. He added that 'The training system itself can be considered to be commendable'.

Clare Peddie, BSAC Chair, said she was delighted by the EUF reaccreditation. “This news recognises the professional standards achieved by all the volunteers and staff who have contributed to the development of the BSAC diver and instructor training programmes. This is truly excellent news and my thanks go out to all those who contributed in so many different ways to this success.”

Jeff Reed, National Diving Officer, said of the recognition of Gas Blender came as a pleasant surprise as the standard is in its final stages of ratification. “The course was specifically written for our members, by our members. The inclusion of ‘Nitrox Diving’ illustrates that our volunteers develop course content that fulfils and exceeds internationally recognised standards. The independent audit also demonstrated the organisation’s ability to deliver safe, competent and confident training via our volunteer or professional instructors producing world class divers’. We all should be proud of our commitment and achievements.”

The members and groups involved were:

• Alistair Reynolds for preparing documentation and making arrangements for the audit
• Instructors and members of Merseyside Branch No 0005
• HQ Staff and members of the Diver resources Team

BSAC now holds the following accreditations, which are now recognised worldwide:

BSAC qualification          EN/ISO standard

Ocean Diver                  EN 14153-2/ISO 24801-2 - 'Autonomous Diver

Dive Leader                  EN 14153-3/ISO 24801-3 - 'Dive Leader'

Open Water Instructor    EN 14413-2/ISO 24802-2 - 'Instructor Level 2'

Sports Diver                 ISO 11107 – ‘Nitrox diving’

Gas Blender                ISO/DIS 13293 “Gas Blender” (after ratification of the standard)