It is possible to explore the depths of bodies of water without having to come up for air thanks to various types of technology. To provide a flow of oxygen, a self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) or an air hose tethered to the diver can be used. Some divers will even dive into bodies of water while holding their breath. A diving instructor will be responsible for teaching the skills and techniques required to conduct these explorations safely and effectively in any of these situations. Inexperienced divers may also be guided on introductory dive sessions the diving instructor.
However, the diving instructor must first obtain certification as an open water diver and instructor before taking on such responsibilities. This means he or she will go through extensive training that could last several years. He or she will also need to spend a significant amount of time underwater in various diving situations; the number of hours required to earn a dive certification varies depending on the region of the world in which the diving instructor operates. Beyond that, the instructor will need to complete a variety of training courses, including not only diving instruction but also safety and first-aid techniques.
Even if a diving instructor is certified, he or she may not be ready to lead diving instruction classes on their own. For on-the-job training, the new instructor will most likely work with a more experienced instructor for a period of time. Specific requirements may differ depending on the instructor’s location in the world. After becoming fully certified and trained, a diving instructor will usually work with groups of people in the classroom and in the water to teach them how to safely operate in various diving situations.
A diving instructor’s other responsibilities may include leading tours. He or she will teach new divers the fundamentals of diving techniques, both in the classroom and on the water, and then take them on an exploratory tour through familiar waters. The instructor will be in charge of keeping track of all divers and ensuring that proper equipment is used, diving times are adhered to, and all diving processes are completed correctly and safely. If a problem arises, the instructor will be responsible for resolving it, which could include using search and rescue techniques or administering first aid.