Scientific Diving & Boating Safety
Incoming Diver Requirements
steps for scientific diving candidates
If you are anticipating doing any scientific diving at the University of South Florida or with the Florida Institute of Oceanography, review the Steps to Become a Research Diver at USF (PowerPoint).
You are required to complete the following steps:
- Schedule time with the diving safety office and your major professor/PI to discuss
the specifics of your research diving project and needs.
- Complete the USF Scientific Diving Application.
- Complete the USF Scientific Diving Release and Waiver of Liability Agreement.
- Provide copies of the following documents to the USF Scientific Diving Office:
• Scuba Certification Card showing your highest level of certification
• CPR Card showing current certification
• First Aid Card showing current certification
• Oxygen Provider Card showing current certification - Complete USF Scientific Diving Medical Exam Overview, Evaluation and History Form. Although any physician can be used to complete the
exam it is strongly suggested the physician have some knowledge of hyperbaric medicine.
All the tests specified on the medical release MUST be conducted. We can not conduct
any in water work without the medical release.
- Take the written USF Scientific Diving Scuba Exam. Send in the answer sheet to the USF Scientific Diving Office. Schedule a date to
review the exam.
- Every student diver is required to submit proof of supplemental diving insurance.
- Schedule a Scuba Skills in Pool evaluation with the Scientific Diving Office.
- Every scientific diver must provide proof of medical insurance. If you are a full
time USF or FIO employee (not OPS) then you will be covered by USF or FIO. If you
are a student or an OPS employee then you must obtain additional medical insurance.
There are several suppliers for this insurance such as PADI or DAN. There is a direct
link on the USF Scientific Diving web page to DAN Insurance since DAN is the company
of choice for most scientific divers.
- Complete relevant theoretical training, knowledge development, practical training,
and skill development.
- Schedule a Scuba Skills Open Water evaluation with the Scientific Diving Office. This evaluation is scheduled at a site determined by the Scientific Diving Office. The Scientific Diving candidate will incur any boat or entry fees. Equipment can be provided by the USF Scientific Diving Office.
Required Project Forms
- Dive Plan Submittal Form (PDF)
- Dive Plan Submittal Form (MS Word)
- Lead Diver Post Project Diving Report Form (PDF)
- Dive Log Sheet (Excel)