DMAC 11

This comprehensive training collection combines DMAC 11 standards with specialised modules to equip commercial divers and dive teams with critical first aid and emergency response skills. Aligned with the Diving Medical Advisory Committee (DMAC) guidelines, this programme ensures compliance with international standards (e.g., IMCA, ADAS) and prioritises safety in commercial diving operations.

1. DMAC 11 Standards of Care

DMAC 11 establishes the framework for first aid provision in commercial diving, emphasising risk assessment and tailored medical support:

• Risk Assessment Criteria:

  • Diving techniques (surface-supplied, saturation, bell bounce).

  • Emergency medical services (response time, transportation, personnel qualifications).

  • Availability of hyperbaric chambers and medical supplies.

• Training Levels:

  • Initial Diver Training: covering first aid, barotrauma management, oxygen administration, and decompression illness recognition.

  • Diver Medic Training: advanced skills like IV infusion, pleural drain insertion, and hyperbaric emergency management.

  • First Aid at Work:  focusing on workplace injuries, CPR, haemorrhage control, and shock management.

2. Oxygen Administration for Commercial Divers

This module trains divers to safely administer oxygen in diving emergencies, adhering to DMAC 11 and international guidelines:

• Key Components:

  • Benefits and hazards of pure oxygen/enriched gas mixtures.

  • Safe assembly and operation of oxygen delivery systems (e.g., demand valves, non-rebreather masks).

  • Techniques for managing non-breathing casualties and underwater blast injuries.

• Compliance:

  • Meets DMAC 11’s 4-hour minimum requirement for oxygen administration training.

  • Aligns with DAN and ERC guidelines for emergency oxygen use in arterial gas embolism or decompression sickness.

3. PDFA First Aid + Diving Module

A blended learning programme combining Practical Diving First Aid (PDFA) with diving-specific emergency protocols:

• First Aid Core:

  • Casualty assessment (ATLS primary/secondary surveys, neurological exams using FAST criteria).

  • Management of diving-related injuries: near drowning, pneumothorax, hypothermia, and carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Diving-Specific Additions:

  • Gas toxicity response (oxygen, nitrogen narcosis).

  • Hyperbaric evacuation procedures and bell emergency protocols.

  • Infection control (PPE use, COVID-19 management).