Diving at James Cook University
James Cook University is a government workplace. As such, all diving and water-related activities are subject to workplace health and safety regulations. A summary of the correct procedures to undertake for diving are listed below, however final authority in all diving-related matters rests with the University Dive Officer. More information on the requirements for Scientific Diver Certification at JCU
Getting on the JCU diving register...
Before undertaking any diving at James Cook University, you must be on the university diving register. This involves meeting the University Dive Officer, to view your dive qualifications, and proof of dives (log book). You will need to have at least a rescue diving qualification, a current AS2299 (or equivalent) commercial dive medical, as well as a current oxygen, first aid and CPR qualification.
Following this you undertake a practical assessment of your skills in the university pool. Before meeting the Dive Officer, ensure you have filled out a Diving Register form (.pdf / .rtf) or a Snorkelling Register form (.pdf / .rtf) if you are not using SCUBA. If you plan to take a JCU boat, you must also have a valid boat licence.
At the start of each year...
Each year you must fill out and submit a Boating and Dive Application (.pdf / .rtf)
Before your trip...
At least 1 week (preferably earlier) before your fieldtrip, you must submit the following forms to the University Dive Officer:
To be submitted just before your trip...
Just prior to departure, you must submit a Boating and Diving Pre-Departure Checklist form (.pdf / .rtf)
To be submitted after the trip...
After your fieldtrip, you need to submit a University dive operations log form.
Photo credit: The Foundation Company of Canada (now AECON), courtesy of the Haze Gray and Underway website.