Sidemount diving originated from the needs of cave diving and is perfectly suited to cave environment. Sidemount set-up offers easier access to the tank valves, more streamlined profile and easier removal of cylinders if you need (or wish) to go through tight restrictions.

 

A diver who successfully completes PSAI Overhead Sidemount Diver course will be qualified to:

 

• Plan and conduct sidemount dives in an overhead environment previously qualified to and in conditions similar to training, with the gases previously qualified to use.

• Set-up and configure side mount equipment.

 

The course can be taken in conjunction with PSAI Cave Diver programs, or Advanced Wreck Penetration courses (at the discretion of the PSAI Overhead Sidemount Instructor).

 

 

What you learn

You’ll learn how to:

 

• Properly assemble and configure sidemount scuba diving equipment.

• Trim your weight system and sidemount gear so you’re perfectly balanced in the water.

• Manage gas by switching second stages as planned, if wearing two cylinders.

• Respond correctly to potential problems when sidemount diving.

 

 

Prerequisites

 

• Cavern or Cave Diver certification

• Minimum 18 years old

• Minimum of 50 logged dives

 

It is strongly recommended that you have completed the Recreational Sidemount course.

 

Course Structure

The course consists of

 

• Four (4) to six (6) hours of classroom work

• At lest one (1) pool session

• Three (3) overhead dives

 

If you haven't completed the Recreational Sidemount course, you will be doing open water dives with sidemount configuration before entering the overhead environment.

 

 

Materials

PSAI Overhead Sidemount Diving manual.

 

What you need

You'll need sidemount BCD and regulators to match as well as equipment required for overhead environment.