Recreational diving medicals
Why medicals are necessary for recreational diving in Australia
If you want to learn to dive or do another diving activity, you’ll need clearance through recreational diving medicals. The most basic requirement for recreational diving is a moderate fitness level. But there are also other conditions for recreational diving in Australia.
Modern equipment
MEDICALS
Requirements for recreational diving in Australia
Some people dive solo, but others go diving with groups, family or friends. Children must be at least 12 years old to be able to go diving. And anyone under 18 years old needs parental permission. Do you meet the above basic requirements for diving? If so, next you’ll need to consider any medical conditions you have. Some of the medical ailments that recreational divers need to consider include:
- Cardiac: Heart attack, high blood pressure, stroke
- Respiratory: Asthma, bronchitis, sinus, wheezing
- Loss of consciousness: Diabetes, epilepsy, blackouts
- Ear conditions: Hearing loss or problems with balance
You’ll also have to think about basic issues that can inhibit you. These are things such as your swimming skill level or fear of closed spaces.
Australian recreational diving medicals are strict
Queensland is home to the Great Barrier Reef, which is one of the 7 natural wonders of the world. The reefs in Queensland offer you some world-famous spots for recreational diving. But while the colourful underwater scenery might be very beautiful. It’s important to remember that there are risks with going underneath the water’s surface. Recreational divers need a medical clearance before they start exploring the ocean. Are you moving to Australia or visiting from overseas?
Recreational diving safety standards differ from country to country. Australia has some of the strictest diving safety standards in the world. Do you already have a recreational diving medical clearance? Recreational diving medicals expire. Your diving instructor or supervisor has a right to turn you away or disqualify you from diving. So if you want to be an active diver it’s critical to keep your clearance up-to-date. A scuba-diving medical costs around $100 in Australia. Avoid disappointment at the waters edge and get your recreational diving medicals.
What you need to know about learning to dive
If you want to learn to dive, it’s vital that you understand whether or not you qualify in the first place. Some of the specific things relating to your situation that you’ll need to consider are:
- Body weight
- Pregnancy
- Prescription medication
- Recreational drugs
- Medical conditions
Are you interested in seeing a full list of medical questions related to diving in Australia? See the “SPUMS diving medical form” on the South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society website.
If you’d like to pursue recreational diving, the next step is to get a recreational diving clearance. If you’ve had recreational diving medicals in the past, a new clearance may have new conditions. Qualified divers can be disqualified from diving… Simply because they haven’t kept their medical clearance up-to-date.
Do you need to get recreational diving medicals? Work Safe Occupational Medicine is a one stop occupational health service for employers. The director, Dr Tersia Erasmus services Browns Plains in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Dr Tersia Erasmus has over 20 years experience in healthcare. For flexible appointments, clear communication and quick turnaround time… Contact Dr Tersia Erasmus on [phone] to make an enquiry.
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Work Safe Occupational Medicine is a one stop occupational health service for employers. Having over 20 years experience in healthcare, your in the right hands with us. For flexible appointments, clear communication and quick turnaround time, contact us today and secure a time which works best for you.