Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 9:14 AM AWST

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Complete underwater search and recovery dives

Complete underwater search and recovery dives

Unit of competency
National Code
SISOSCB005
State Code
OBE81
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
11/09/2019
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
13/12/2019
Field of Education
092103 - Sports Coaching, Officiating And Instruction
Original Release Date
13/12/2019
Nominal Hours
40
Description
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to use a systematic and methodical approach to finding and retrieving lost submerged objects up to 45 kilograms during or after recreational dives. This unit is not intended for use by commercial recovery divers.It applies to dive leaders, usually known as divemasters or instructors who work independently in the field using discretion and judgement to manage problems when they arise.This unit applies to any type of organisation that delivers SCUBA diving activities and dive instruction including commercial, not-for-profit and government organisations.No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Plan underwater search and recovery.
  • 1.1. Identify size, weight and other characteristics of lost object.
  • 1.2. Assess probable and possible location of lost object and define search area.
  • 1.3. Identify and assess site characteristics and hazards that impact the search and recovery operation.
  • 1.4. Determine suitable search methods and patterns according to situation.
  • 1.5. Determine suitable recovery methods according to size, weight and depth of object to be recovered.
  • 1.6. Select search and recovery equipment according to requirements.
  • 1.7. Confirm diver roles and protocols for communications between buddy and crew through a pre-dive briefing.
2. Conduct search.
  • 2.1. Use surface techniques and above water landmarks to assist in locating position of submerged objects before descent.
  • 2.2. Establish boundaries of underwater search area, after descent, and mark starting point with appropriate equipment.
  • 2.3. Follow underwater patterns of travel to locate lost objects.
  • 2.4. Utilise search lines to assist navigating patterns of travel.
  • 2.5. Communicate with buddy and others throughout search using appropriate signals.
  • 2.6. Mark position of submerged objects for later retrieval if required.
3. Recover objects.
  • 3.1. Retrieve small items by hand, stow in bag and secure for ascent.
  • 3.2. Mark location of heavy objects with buoy and line, in case of sinking during retrieval.
  • 3.3. Rig lift bag using appropriate knots or clips and check security.
  • 3.4. Inflate lift bag gradually to achieve appropriate buoyancy of object, and free object from obstructions as required.
  • 3.5. Swim to surface with lift bag or allow to rise independently, assuming safe position in relation to bag.
  • 3.6. Secure lift bag at surface and retrieve from water.
  • 3.7. Retrieve all markers on search and recovery conclusion.
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
D6451 SISOSCB305A Complete underwater search and recovery dives Unit of competency