AGA Positive Pressure Mask Training

[JohnnyH]

I was wondering if there was anyone out there that teaches the use of AGA full face masks.

I am curious if I could get a general outline of skills / exercises taught. (Without comms for now)

What I have in mind is:

Academic:

- Overall concept and useage
- Fit considerations
- Pre-dive checks
- Operation
--- Purge valve
--- Equalizing technique
--- Positive pressure lockout
--- Defog operation
- Post-dive maint

Practical:

- Donning
- Positive pressure activation and check
- Descent
--- Equalization
- Tour
- Partial flood clearing
- Ascent

- Descent
- Full bailout
--- Activation of positive pressure lockout
--- Removal of unit
--- Switch to secondary regulator
--- Donning of backup mask
- Controlled ascent

- Post-dive cleaning & maint

Any thoughts would be much appreciated

John

 

[dittrimd]

When our dive team was looking into purchasing full face masks and communications system we contacted Ocean Technologies Systems based out of California. The owner brought out several setups for us to demo. Once we purchased the equipment they sent another representative out to train us on how to use the gear. This was not a pure AGA Mask instruction but they did offer us tips on how to use the mask effectively. I have not seen classes specifically on this but I would contact you local rep to see what they offer. I have used the mask extensively for the past 4 years and I would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Good Luck,

Mark

 

[Thalassamania]

That looks pretty good John, I might add a few words about sealing, under-hood (neoprene), over-hood (latex), and hood inflation in general. We’ve also seen rare cases of inverted neck seal blow-by with damn near catastrophic inflation of the suit

 

[muddiver]

If you haven't gotten an answer yet, the Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific does FFm training and they use the AGA. Check with the DSO dsmith@lbaop.org

 

[rmediver2002]

You can contact Scientific Diving International for training and YMCA certification.

http://www.epa.scientificdivinginternational.com/index.html