Connect with us
background

News

KBA Training Centre Launches New Modular Dive Technician Course

Published

on

KBA Training Centre (KBAT) has announced a new Dive Technician Course that aims to develop the all-round competence of the dive technician in support of the diving system maintenance and equipment. The course will be available in Singapore and Aberdeen, Scotland.

Competent and well-trained technicians are essential for safe offshore/inshore diving operations. Equipment used to support and conduct diving operations requires technicians for its installation, maintenance, inspection, testing and repair. The correct function or maintenance of the equipment is essential to the well-being of the divers and other members of the dive team. This course encompasses the knowledge and skills required for technicians to competently perform daily operational tasks.

A total of three modules can be completed in a three-week period or in blocks of one week depending on delegate’s availability. This course is specially designed for the experienced mechanical / electrical or hydraulic technician or anyone who has completed formal technical training in these areas and wishes to establish a career path as a dive technician in the commercial diving industry.

Note: New entrants to the industry should be treated as trainees until deemed competent to work unsupervised. Once a trainee has gained adequate experience and training and has demonstrated competence in the relevant equipment and operations, the employer may promote the individual to the position of ‘dive technician’.

“After consultation with our clients on what would constitute a comprehensive and worthwhile training course for dive technicians that has the necessary flexibility to accommodate difficult schedules, KBAT has formulated a syllabus which breaks down into three modules. The course covers ‘soft skills’ knowledge and understanding specifically with respect to IMCA ‘Dive Technician Competence and Training, IMCA D001 Rev 2’ as well as documentation for ongoing and management of change process and occurrence. The training goes on to develop ‘hard skills’ practical training including working at height, oxygen clean systems, high pressure regulator service, cylinder inspections, KMB DSI Helmet technician training and more. We firmly believe that this will be a very popular programme, where the diving industry gets what it has been seeking for some time,” commented Darren Brunton, Managing Director of KBAT.

Delegates who have attended and successfully completed each module will be awarded with individual certification as they progress through the course. Upon completion and passed all the modules, delegates will be awarded with KBAT Dive Technician Competence certificate which outlines all the modules completed.

For further information regarding course fees, scheduled dates and in-company package, please contact KBAT by calling +65 6542 4984, emailing divingadmin@kbassociates.org or visit www.kbatraining.org.

News

Palau Resurfaces! Visit Us at boot 2025 in Duesseldorf and Discover Why!

Published

on

palau

Following a period away, Palau – a dream destination for countless divers – is excited to rejoin the boot water sports show in Duesseldorf, Germany.

This prestigious water sports show, taking place from January 18 to 26, 2025, provides Palau with a platform to showcase its unique offerings in diving, snorkelling, and sustainable tourism.

Located in the western Pacific’s Micronesian region and part of the Caroline Islands, the Republic of Palau comprises over 340 picturesque islands. Although small in landmass, Palau is a natural wonder both above and below the water.

Palau is renowned as a global leader in environmental conservation. Years ago, the nation implemented forward-thinking measures to preserve its natural resources. In 2009, Palau became the world’s first national shark sanctuary, banning commercial shark fishing. To further protect its marine ecosystem, home to over 1,500 fish species and about 700 coral species, Palau established a fully protected marine sanctuary spanning 193,000 square miles in 2015.

Palau’s return to the boot shows marks a significant moment for the island nation, celebrated for its crystal-clear waters, pristine coral reefs, and extraordinary marine biodiversity. Visitors to the Palau booth will discover a vision of sustainable tourism, as environmental stewardship is deeply ingrained in the islanders’ way of life.

“We are thrilled to return to Germany and share the beauty and diversity of Palau with the world,” says Kadoi Ruluked, Managing Director of the Palau Visitors Authority, who will lead the delegation at the trade show. “boot provides an outstanding platform to position Palau as a premier destination for sustainable tourism and a true paradise for underwater adventures.”

Amid growing global efforts toward eco-friendly tourism, Palau continues to set benchmarks with initiatives such as the “Palau Pledge.” By signing this pledge, visitors commit to respecting and protecting the environment during their stay. These and other measures will be highlighted at the event to raise awareness of marine ecosystem conservation.

The boot water sports show offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Palau’s culture and natural beauty while planning unforgettable diving and snorkelling trips. The Palau Visitors Authority warmly invites all attendees to explore their booth and experience the unspoiled charm of Palau.

Learn everything there is to know about this extraordinary destination at
Hall 12, booth nr. E42.

The exhibition runs from January 18 to 26, 2025, in Duesseldorf.

For more information or to schedule interviews and meetings, please contact: Judith Hoppe, WhatsApp: +49-151-5523 1966, e-mail palau@tourism-unlimited.com

For more information about Palau, please visit: www.pristineparadisepalau.com or follow us on social media at https://www.instagram.com/visitpalau/ or https://www.facebook.com/pristineparadisepalau/

Photo credit: © Judith Hoppe

Continue Reading

Gear Reviews

Gear Review: SurfEars 4

Published

on

SurfEars

Let me get this out there at the start… it is not possible for me to write an unbiased review on SurfEars! Why? – because they saved my diving career. That may sound over-dramatic, but it is true. I had been told by my ENT specialist that I should stop diving. Repeated perforations, including a stint of 4 infections causing ear drum ruptures in a single year, meant that things looked very bleak. Until a friend recommended that I get in touch with the team at SurfEars and to try them out.

That was over 5 years ago, and I have not looked back. Not a single ear infection in all the dives since. If you want to read my initial review of SurfEars then you can find it here: https://www.scubaverse.com/gear-review-surfears/

So, I was more than pleased to receive the latest SurfEars 4 to try out. I took them on a recent trip to The Bahamas where I was filming for a new project all about sharks. SurfEars come in a handy pod that I secure to my BCD so that I am sure not to forget to take them on the boat and to put them in before I head into the water. The new model comes in 2 new colours and have a range of fittings to ensure a perfect fit. Once in, you can still hear what is going on around you. Vital for any last-minute instructions for your dive.

SurfEars

Underwater they do their job in keeping water out. It is still just as easy to equalise the pressure, as air movement is not restricted at all. The new fittings mean that I can change to a slightly smaller fitting to wear under my hood for cold water diving. Once in, I just forget all about them, and enjoy my diving (snorkeling and swimming) with complete peace of mind.

The new version of SurfEars is now using recycled ocean plastic and repurposed silicone so are more eco-friendly. They are said to be even tougher and will last longer. Although my previous set were still going strong.

Whatever your chosen water sport – I cannot recommend SurfEars enough. Whilst they literally enabled me to continue diving, I would suggest using them to protect your ears before any unwanted trips to the doctor. I never go in the water without them. They are at the top of my packing list for any trip.

For more information head to: https://surfears.com/

Continue Reading

E-Newsletter Sign up!

Instagram Feed

Shortcode field is empty!Shortcode field is empty!

Popular