Overview
EN ISO 24804:2022 - Recreational diving services - Requirements for rebreather diver training (No‑decompression diving) is a CEN-adopted international standard that defines the competencies, evaluation criteria and training delivery requirements for rebreather courses using nitrox up to a maximum depth of 30 m without mandatory decompression stops. It complements the general recreational diving service requirements in ISO 24803 and covers both closed‑circuit and semi‑closed‑circuit rebreather variants where applicable.
Key topics and technical requirements
The standard details the core elements a rebreather training programme must include:
- Competencies and evaluation criteria - Knowledge and practical skills candidates must demonstrate to qualify.
- Prerequisites - Minimum age, prior diving experience and health requirements (as baseline conditions for entry to training).
- Theoretical knowledge areas, including:
- Rebreather basics and function of components
- Breathing performance and gas management with a rebreather
- CO₂ absorbent use and duration, and gas supply duration
- Pre‑dive assembly, pre‑water checks and post‑dive procedures
- Physiology and hazards: hypercapnia, hypoxia, hyperoxia
- Recognizing and responding to CO‑related and general malfunctions
- Buddy system and team procedures
- Practical skills and training parameters - Pre‑dive procedures, in‑water sessions, emergency responses and instructor responsibilities.
- Training equipment and materials - Minimum instructional and rebreather equipment requirements for safe training.
- Assessment and certification - Skill evaluation protocols for closed‑ and semi‑closed rebreathers and proof of qualification.
Applications and practical value
EN ISO 24804:2022 is designed to be used to:
- Develop and standardize rebreather training programmes for recreational no‑decompression diving.
- Create course curricula, lesson plans and assessment checklists aligned with international best practice.
- Guide dive centres and instructors in delivering safe, auditable rebreather courses using nitrox to 30 m.
- Support regulators, certification agencies and insurers in evaluating training quality, instructor competence and operational safety.
- Help divers choose certified training that meets recognized safety and competency benchmarks for rebreather diving.
Who should use this standard
- Dive training organizations and course developers
- Dive centre managers and instructors delivering rebreather training
- Certification bodies, auditors and national standards organizations
- Dive safety managers, insurers and regulatory authorities
- Advanced recreational divers seeking recognized rebreather qualifications
Related standards
- ISO 24803 - General recreational diving service requirements (referenced as the baseline for service provision and training context)
Keywords: ISO 24804:2022, EN ISO 24804, rebreather diver training, no‑decompression diving, recreational diving services, nitrox, rebreather training standard, competence evaluation.
