Training content

In the Specialty Equipment course, you will learn the basics of the manufacture, operation, care and maintenance of standard diving equipment. You will also learn which repairs you can carry out on your equipment yourself and which repairs/maintenance work is reserved exclusively for authorized specialists.

Theoretical training

• Cold protection: Neoprene is used as effective cold protection in all types of suits, gloves and Booties.
• Cold protection: warm water/cold water, tropical suits and dry suits
• Air supply/breathing regulator: Components of a complete breathing regulator and explanation of how the first and second stages work, with information on the advantages and disadvantages of piston and diaphragm-controlled breathing regulators. Emphasis on the need for regular maintenance intervals
• Air supply/alternatives: Discussion of various options for alternative air supply; hot/cold water
• Instruments: Which instruments are useful, which are necessary for every diver? What do I have to look out for when buying, especially when buying a compass (avoiding sources of error) and dive computer (features and calculation models)?
• Basic gear: special features for fit and care
• Care, maintenance, repair: When and how should diving equipment be cared for/maintained? What may/can the diver do himself, what must the authorized dealer do? How can I recognize an authorized dealer?

Practical training

• Working with neoprene: Small repairs to neoprene items, e.g. mending holes, re-sewing seams
• Repairs to (tri-)laminate suits
• Working on the air supply: Care and maintenance work on the regulator (second stage only!), changing mouthpieces, changing O-rings, demonstrating the limits of permitted maintenance work on the regulator.
• Working on basic gear: changing fin straps and buckles, disassembling a diving mask for optimal cleaning/changing the lenses
• Putting together a “spare parts case”