Overview
EN ISO 24804:2022/A11:2024 is the latest amendment to the European standard that defines requirements for rebreather diver training programmes focused on no-decompression diving. Published by CEN (the European Committee for Standardization) in July 2024, this standard outlines the competencies necessary for recreational divers to safely conduct rebreather dives using nitrox breathing gas to a maximum depth of 30 meters without mandatory decompression stops. It complements the general recreational diving service requirements detailed in ISO 24803 and provides specific evaluation criteria to ensure consistent and high-quality training delivery.
Key Topics
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Rebreather Diver Training Requirements
Sets out mandatory competencies for divers using rebreather systems, emphasizing safe operation during no-decompression dives.
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No-Decompression Diving with Nitrox
Focuses on dives not requiring decompression stops, limiting operations to a maximum depth of 30 meters to enhance safety and accessibility.
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Competency Evaluation Criteria
Specifies how diver skills and knowledge must be assessed to confirm proficiency in rebreather diving techniques.
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Training Programme Conditions
Details the environmental, instructional, and administrative conditions under which training must be delivered to meet international and European standards.
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Alignment with ISO 24803
Builds upon the foundational recreational diving services framework to provide specialized guidance for rebreather diver education.
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National Regulatory Considerations
Includes provisions on how national regulations, such as those in France, may influence the applicability of certain requirements.
Applications
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Diving Schools and Training Centers
Enables institutions to develop accredited rebreather diver training courses compliant with internationally recognized safety and competency benchmarks.
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Recreational Diving Operators
Assists operators in ensuring their instructors and programmes meet standardized qualifications, improving diver safety and confidence.
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Certification Bodies
Provides a framework to assess and certify divers specifically trained in no-decompression rebreather diving techniques.
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Equipment Manufacturers
Supports manufacturers by establishing clear training needs associated with their rebreather products used within the specified parameters.
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Divers and Dive Professionals
Offers divers clear guidance on training expectations and competency requirements when pursuing advanced diving skills with rebreathers.
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Regulatory Compliance
Helps stakeholders align their practices with European and international safety standards to fulfill legal and insurance obligations.
Related Standards
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ISO 24803: Recreational Diving Services
General requirements for recreational diving providers, serving as a foundation for the specialized training outlined in EN ISO 24804.
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ISO 11107: Enriched Air Nitrox (EAN) Diving Training
Details training requirements for nitrox diving, relevant as EN ISO 24804 applies exclusively to nitrox breathing gases for rebreather dives.
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ISO 24801-2: Autonomous Diver Training
Covers the training requirements for Level 2 recreational divers, forming prerequisite competencies for specialized rebreather training.
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ISO 24802-2: Scuba Instructor Training
Specifies qualifications for instructors teaching autonomous diver courses, linked to delivering effective rebreather diver training programmes.
Practical Value
By adhering to EN ISO 24804:2022/A11:2024, diving service providers can:
- Ensure comprehensive and standardized training for rebreather divers focusing on no-decompression limits.
- Enhance diver safety through rigorous competency assessments and consistent training delivery.
- Facilitate cross-border recognition of diver qualifications across CEN member countries.
- Support the growing popularity of rebreather diving with structured, quality-controlled education programs.
- Align with best practices in recreational diving services, ensuring industry credibility and regulatory compliance.
This standard is an essential resource for all stakeholders involved in recreational rebreather diving, providing clarity and structure to training protocols that keep divers safe while exploring underwater environments.