Air chambers have two primary functions which are; treating decompression illness (DCI) and conducting surface decompression. Our Competent Air Chamber Operators Course has been developed to provide theoretical knowledge and practical hands on training in both techniques.
Suspected decompression illness of any member of a dive team must always be treated as a true medical emergency and in such an event the Diving Supervisor, with the assistance of dive team members, will take the appropriate steps to ensure the best possible care and treatment of the casualty, which in many occasions will require re-compression in the designated air chamber. The course teaches the primary causes of decompression illness and how to recognise, react and treat a range of symptoms effectively.
Surface decompression is a technique for recovering divers from the water to an air chamber in close proximity, from where they will be decompressed in a controlled safe manner, normally breathing pure oxygen. Decompressing divers in this way has many benefits, not least the fact that they are in a warm controlled environment and not subjected to constant pressure changes that are prevalent when conducting in-water decompression in a sea-swell.
- Chamber Management
- Regulations, Standards and Guidance
- Planned Maintenance
- Use of Checklists
- Therapeutic Treatments
- Surface Decompression
- Oxygen Toxicity
- Hazards
- Emergency Response
- Planning and Risk Assessing
As well as covering all the relevant theory, highly valuable practical scenarios are included with hands on surface decompression and simulated treatment scenarios conducted on one of our superb IMCA compliant twin lock air chambers.
Commercial Divers & Supervisors with a HSE Surface Supplied qualification (or approved equivalent).
On successful completion of Competent Air Chamber Operator training, candidates will receive:
- A competence certificate that will be valid for 3 years, which can be used to demonstrate to third parties that competence has been assessed by an industry recognised external training provider.
Located on the stunning Cowal Peninsula, we’re lucky to have Argyll and Loch Lomond as our neighbours and the Trossachs National Park within easy reach. This makes us a year-round destination for hillwalkers and mountain bikers, with yachting and kayaking enthusiasts joining us in the warmer months. If you have the time, pack your bike, walking shoes, or kayak and explore the wilderness after classes or social activities!
Arriving by plane? The nearest airport is Glasgow Airport. Once you’ve navigated through security, you can choose your preferred transport option to Dunoon:
Driving: If you’re travelling by car, you have two scenic options:
- The Long Route: Drive through the Loch Lomond National Park for breath-taking views and a relaxing road trip.
- The Quick Route: Take a shortcut across the River Clyde by ferry. Two companies operate ferry services to Dunoon, but only Western Ferries accommodates vehicles. Ferries run every 20–30 minutes, so it’s convenient to plan your journey. Please note: tickets purchased online in advance or at one of the ticket agents are cheaper than purchasing on the boat itself.
Buses: Regular buses run from Glasgow and Glasgow Airport to Dunoon. Alternatively, you can hop off the bus at Gourock, then take a CalMac Ferry to Dunoon. The ferry docks just a 5-minute walk from Dunoon’s town centre.
Trains: Take a ride from Glasgow Central Station or Paisley Gilmour Street Station (near the airport) to Gourock.
- If departing from Glasgow Central, buy your ticket in advance to pass through the station barriers.
- If departing from Paisley Gilmour Street, you can buy a ticket either before boarding or onboard the train.
From Gourock, it’s then a short walk to the CalMac Ferry terminal.
Pro Tip: If the weather takes a turn and the CalMac Ferry service is suspended (it happens!), you can take a bus or taxi from Gourock to McInroy’s Point, where the Western Ferries operate.
On arrival with the Western Ferry:
- Western Ferries dock at Hunters Quay, which is about 2 miles from Dunoon’s town centre. You can enjoy a scenic walk or hail a taxi to get to your accommodation from there.
For taxis, you can try:
- Clyde Taxis: 01369 706444
- Thistle Taxis: 01369 704331
If buses are your preference, please check schedules at West Coast Motors.
To ensure you don’t miss out and secure your place on the course we require a 20% deposit. The remainder of your balance will then be due 8 weeks prior to the course starting.
This is dependent on how much notice you give if requesting to move to another course date, plus if there are available places on the course you are wanting to move to. Please refer to our T&C’s for full information.
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout our onsite premises for all visitors and course participants.
