Overview
EN ISO 11121:2017 (ISO 11121:2017) specifies minimum content and service conditions for introductory scuba diving programmes delivered by training organisations as part of recreational diving services. It covers supervised, experiential open‑water dives designed to introduce non‑divers to scuba (encouraging further training), but it does not confer diver qualification and is not a training/qualification standard. The document supplements the general requirements in ISO 24803 and excludes programmes conducted exclusively in confined water (e.g., swimming pools).
Key topics and requirements
EN ISO 11121:2017 defines minimum programme elements and service conditions, including:
- Competences - competencies required of staff and supervisors delivering introductory experiences.
- Prerequisites for participation - age limits for minors and health requirements; includes guidance on medical screening (Annex A example).
- Introductory information - pre‑dive briefing content that operators must provide to participants.
- Knowledge topics - required basic knowledge such as equipment familiarization and dive conduct (behaviour, limitations and safety principles).
- Scuba skills - essential in‑water skills to be taught and demonstrated before and during the introductory experience.
- In‑water activity requirements - operational rules for supervised shallow‑water sessions and for the open‑water dive element (entry/exit, supervision, depth and environmental considerations).
- Service conditions that supplement ISO 24803 (general recreational diving service requirements).
The standard includes a contents structure (scope, terms, competences, prerequisites, knowledge, skills, in‑water requirements) and an informative annex with a sample medical screening information sheet.
Practical applications and intended users
EN ISO 11121:2017 is aimed at organisations and professionals involved in delivering introductory scuba experiences, including:
- Dive centres and recreational diving service providers
- Dive instructors and supervisors running “try‑dive” or discover‑scuba programmes
- Tour operators and resort activity managers offering open‑water dive experiences
- Safety managers and regulators developing local guidelines or consumer information
- Consumers researching safe introductory dive programmes
Using EN ISO 11121:2017 helps providers ensure consistent minimum content, participant screening, safety briefing, and skill demonstration-improving participant safety and the likelihood they seek full diver training.
Related standards
- ISO 24803 - General requirements for recreational diving service providers (complementary).
- ISO standards on training and instructor qualifications (referenced normative documents listed in EN ISO 11121).
Keywords: EN ISO 11121:2017, ISO 11121, recreational diving services, introductory programmes, scuba diving, open water, introductory scuba, dive centre, medical screening, ISO 24803.
