BSAC and Global Underwater Explorers (GUE) have been in discussions regarding the integration of GUE divers into a BSAC club. Much of this work is centred around reinforcing common features of the training and trying to identify any mismatches that might cause inconsistencies on branch dives.
We are now at a point where we can give advice to GUE Open Circuit divers on how to conduct their dives within a club environment in a way that does not conflict with either GUE procedures or the BSAC “safe diving” approach, and also to educate and support BSAC club Diving Officers who may be unfamiliar with how a GUE diver will plan and conduct a dive. This has taken some time as both organisations have a relatively broad training structure, and ensuring consistency with advice has been a difficult, but achievable, challenge.
This is an important step for GUE and BSAC in the UK. The club network is an excellent method of diving in a safe and progressive environment. Both GUE and BSAC divers have a lot to learn from each other and we see no fundamental reason why the two organisations cannot continue to develop a positive working relationship.
If any BSAC Diving Officers or GUE divers would like any immediate advice, then we would be very happy to help.
An associated GUE divers diving in BSAC clubs document including FAQs is also available.
Sophie Heptonstall, National Diving Officer – BSAC ndo@bsac.com
Rich Walker, Technical Training Director - Global Underwater Explorer rich@wreckandcave.co.uk
