Minimum training standards developed by manufacturers take priority, states RESA

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Minimum training standards developed by manufacturers take priority, states RESA

September 01, 2017 - 17:01
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Earlier this month, the Rebreather Training Council (RTC) published its first training standard, which indicated the minimum requirements for an entry level rebreather diver. In response, the Rebreather Education & Safety Association (RESA) stated that where there is a difference between RTC and rebreather manufacturers' standards, the minimum training standards developed by the manufacturers must come first.

The author and rebreather IT Matthew Addison diving the USS Kittiwake, Grand Cayman

"We applaud the Rebreather Training Council (RTC) for adopting minimum training standards for its members," said Kim Mikusch, Chairman of RESA, "but we reiterate that these are MINIMUM standards and, in some cases, they fall below the minimum training standards developed by manufacturers for their products and RESA. Where there is a discrepancy, the minimum training standards developed by the manufacturers for their products and RESA take priority and supersede the RTC standards."1

RESA and the RTC are serious about rebreather training and education. "Both organisations are interested in divers getting the best education and training possible, so that they may safely enjoy the sport of rebreather diving," said RESA in the statement. "However, there is no one-size-fits-all solution to rebreather training. Rebreather manufacturers work closely with training agencies and the RTC to ensure that proper warnings and instruction are given for safely using each model rebreather in various environments."

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to rebreather training.
— RESA

RESA added, "It is imperative that divers are educated consumers and that they look closely at the various options for training on any given rebreather. Always consult the manufacturer's minimum training standards first, and then decide which training agency best suits your needs to provide training that meets or exceeds the manufacturer's minimum training standards."

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