Couple of questions from a newbie

[BodenM]

Hey everyone,
I've got a couple of newbie questions after doing some reading and research.
1. When learning to scuba dive, is it ok to use an FFM? I've snorkeled before with a traditional mask, but my mate brought his Guardian FFM rig to my house for me to try in the pool (I loved it), and I don't want to go back to using a traditional separate mask.

2. Is there any decent dive schools/instructors in Brisbane? I can't seem to find any :/

3. Following on from 1, is there additional training/certification when it come to FFMs?


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[DivemasterDennis]

I have no response about local schools in Brisbane, but as to the FFM, there is no separate certification. There is a problem using one in your initial open water training however, as some of the required skills do not work well with such a mask. Each of the following can be complicated by or rendered impossible when wearing the full face mask: partial flood and clear, full flood and clear, mask removal and replacement, sharing air with a buddy, free flow regulator breathing, regulator/snorkel exchange, remove and retrieve regulator, etc. I think you should do you certification with a traditional mask. Once certified, enjoy trying all kinds of different and unique equipment as appropriate to your training and competence level.
DivemasterDennis

 

[g1138]

Don't know about schools in Brisbane but in short I agree with DivemasterDennis.
FFM's require a different set of skills, training, and techniques that aren't normally taught in Basic OW. Your instructor might not even have the knowledge to train you in it's safe use.

I suggest using traditional scuba gear for your Basic OW class. After which you can use your buddy as a mentor to teach you how to use a FFM safely and how to deal with any new issues that might arise from wearing one.

 

[beaverdivers]

Interesting Question Boden! I haven't tried to do all the required skills with a Full Face Mask ( FFM ).

I'll give it a go. I believe they can be done. However, much more challenging!

 

[mathauck0814]

Hi Boden, there's no reason not to dive with a FFM after you're certified, but you should keep in mind that doing so has a few considerations - namely that the FFM has a large volume and requires a sum of air to fill the space that can be a drag on your overall air consumption. Typically new divers struggle with air consumption (not to worry - this gets better with time) so if you find that you're using your tank quickly, you might think about using a traditional mask until you've got that aspect of your diving under control. Overall, there's nothing wrong with getting experience in as many different configurations as possible. Good luck!

 

[DevonDiver]

I believe that PADI do have a standardised distinctive for FFM diver. A quick google search shows it being offered...

Of course, there's no compulsion for a qualified diver to actually take training to use more specialised equipment - a similar situation exists with the like of drysuits, doubles or DPVs. However, prudent 'safe diving practices' do recommend that divers get appropriate training when using new equipment, as sometimes there are issues involved with equipment use that could pose a danger to the diver if not mitigated.

There are issues with FFM use that wouldn't otherwise be covered in the OW course materials. Clearing the mask, equalising, remove/replace, snorkel skills and air-sharing (esp. as recipient) would require modification from what is taught with standard scuba mask and separate regulator.

I don't think many instructors would offer the Open Water course using FFM. Ultimately, it'd be the individual instructor's decision. Personally, I wouldn't accept it for the course.

 

[BodenM]

Thanks for the advice guys

 

[Nitro91]

Check out pro dive Brisbane for your training, otherwise go to padi.com and go to locate dive shop and put in Brisbane to find other shops. Pro dive seems to be the biggest scuba school franchise in aus. I got my ow with them in Sydney, very pleased.