INTRODUCTION

This is the entry-level certification course for recreational divers wishing to utilize the Draeger nitrox semi-closed circuit Rebreathers.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

The objective of this course is to train recreational divers in the benefits, hazards and proper procedures for using any of the Draeger SCR Rebreather Series.

QUALIFICATIONS OF GRADUATES

Upon successful completion of this course, graduates may engage in diving activities utilizing the Atlantis I Rebreather / Dolphin I to a maximum depth of 130 fsw /40 msw, or 72 ft / 22m if trained on the Ray.

WHO MAY TEACH

Any active TDI Rebreather Instructor may teach this course.

STUDENT INSTRUCTOR RATIO

A. Classroom
Unlimited, so long as adequate facility, supplies, and additional time are provided to insure comprehensive and complete training.

B. Open water
A maximum of six students per active TDI Instructor are allowed. The ratio should be reduced as required due to environmental or operational constraints.

STUDENT PRE-REQUISITES

A. Minimum age of 15
B. Minimum certification of TDI Nitrox Diver (may be combined in program), or equivalent at the discretion of the instructor

REQUIRED COURSE MINIMUMS

A. Classroom I Briefing Hours - 6
B. Open water Dives -4 with a minimum of 100 accumulated minutes

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

The following equipment is required for each student
A. Mask and fins
B. Exposure suit adequate for the open water environment
C. Access to oxygen analyzer (instructor may supply)
D. Adequate weight
E. Bailout cylinder (minimum 12 cu. ft.) and regulator along with low-pressure inflation hose (except if using the Ray)

REQUIRED SUBJECT AREAS

The following topics must be covered during this course. The TDI Rebreather Manual and the manufactures’ manual is mandatory for use during this course but instructors may use any additional text or materials that they feel help present these topics

A. History and Evolution of Rebreathers

B. Comparison of Open Circuit, Closed Circuit, and Semi-closed Circuit

C. Practical Mechanics of the System
1. Assembly and disassembly of the Rebreather
2. Layout and design
3. Scrubber recharge
4. System maintenance
5. Breathing loop decontamination procedures

D. Gas physiology
1. Oxygen toxicity
2. Nitrogen absorption
3. CO2 toxicity
4. Gas consumption

E. Formula Work
1. 02 metabolizing calculations
2. Inspired 02 calculations (Rebreather Equation)
3. Equivalent air depth

F. Dive Tables
1. Inspired 02 table
2. Equivalent air depth

G. Dive Computers
1. Mix adjustable
2. 02 integrated

H. Dive Planning
Operational Planning
a. Gas requirements
b. Oxygen limitations
c. Nitrogen limitations

REQUIRED OPEN WATER SKILLS

Students must complete the following open water skills during open water
dives. The dive depth shall not exceed 1.6 ATA P02
A. Properly analyze gas mixture

B. Demonstrate adequate pre-dive planning
1. Limits based on system performance
2. Limits based upon oxygen exposures at planned depth with mix
3. Limits based upon nitrogen absorption at planned depth with mix

C. Properly execute the planned dive within all pre-determined limits

D. Diver will demonstrate actual safety stops at pre-determined depths

E. Properly execute a recovery from a system failure and switch to bail-out

F. Properly execute the breakdown and maintenance of the Rebreather

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

In order to complete this course, students must
A. Satisfactorily complete the TDI Rebreather written examination
B. Complete all open water requirements safely and efficiently
C. Demonstrate mature, sound judgment concerning dive planning and execution

SUPPORT MATERIALS

A. TDI Student Record Folder
B. TDI Rebreather Manual
C. TDI Rebreather Overheads / PowerPoint Presentation