Written by Michelle Brunton, Manager, Quality Management
From time to time situations arise that make you feel like you need to cut corners to get the job done and it can be hard to see another alternative. Fortunately, most PADI® Members understand that “cutting corners” regarding PADI Standards is never the right choice because there can be serious dive safety consequences. Violating training standards can result in divers being less than adequately prepared for their dives.
Here are a few examples of situations PADI Members have faced and the poor decision they’ve made, but more importantly, the better alternatives for dealing with the issues:
Situation: I had to cut the course short because of bad weather so I certified them as PADI Open Water Divers after two dives.
Solution: Certify divers as PADI Scuba Diver if those requirements were met or issue a referral. Be sure to have a clear training agreements that cover what will happen if the course can’t be finished in the agreed time frame.
Situation: The student couldn’t really clear his mask so I left out the mask remove and replace skill altogether as I knew he couldn’t do it.
Solution: Have a clear understanding with student divers about what will happen if they need more time to be successful. Spell out how you will schedule extra session or allow them to continue learning in the next scheduled course.
Situation: The student diver couldn’t swim so I didn’t test that.
Solution: Open Water Diver students can complete the 300 m/y snorkel instead. If more work is needed, suggest swim lessons or reschedule training until swimming skills have improved enough to meet requirements. Remember that the swim or snorkel is required prior to certification – so careful planning can assist in these circumstances.
There is never a circumstance in which you have to break a standard. Having clear policies about weather and other issues will assist in meeting the needs of your customers. There are learning agreement examples available on the PADI Pros’ Site.
PADI Regional Training Consultants are available to assist if you face a challenging situation and need guidance in finding a solution. Reach out for advice and put diver safety first.
