New IMCA Requirements for Closed Bell Divers increases demand for Qualified ALSTs
IMCA (the International Marine Contractors Association) is the industry body which sets guidelines and standards for the subsea industry. In the past IMCA has recognised closed bell divers for work as ALSTs, but a recent change in IMCA requirements means that to gain work as an Assistant Life Support Technician (ALST) you must have specifically passed the IMCA ALST qualification.ALSTs are the skilled surface personnel who tend closed bell divers living in saturation. Divers living in decompression chambers they need constant monitoring and the chamber environment must be carefully regulated to ensure the safe living conditions are maintained. This is a vital topside job, and can be undertaken without becoming a diver. With an existing international shortage of ALSTs there are fantastic job prospects for anyone wishing to follow this career path. To find out more about a career which offers international travel and excellent pay, check the websites listed below.
Until now IMCA has recognised Closed Bell Divers as also being qualified to work as an ALST. However the subsea industry has become increasingly rigorous in its attitude to safety. Now IMCA requirements mean that all closed bell divers who wish to work as ALSTs must sit and pass the training establishment ALST examination, on completion of which they will be issued with an ALST course completion certificate.
Most commercial diver training establishments do not offer a combined Closed Bell and ALST course, however at The Underwater Centre all our Closed Bell courses include a free ALST course. At no extra cost divers are able to gain this valuable qualification.
