GUE Standards v9.2

General Training Standards,
Policies, and Procedures

Version 9.2
GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures
© 2021 Global Underwater Explorers
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To report violations, comments, or feedback, contact info@gue.com.
2 GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures

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Contents
1. Purpose of GUE .............................................................................................................................................6
1.1 GUE Objectives ............................................................................................................................................. 6
1.1.1 Promote Quality Education .................................................................................................................. 6
1.1.2 Promote Global Conservation Initiatives .......................................................................................... 6
1.1.3 Promote Global Exploration Initiatives ............................................................................................. 6
1.2 Training Philosophy ..................................................................................................................................... 6
1.2.1 Education .................................................................................................................................................. 6
1.2.2 Equipment ................................................................................................................................................ 6
1.2.3 Experience ................................................................................................................................................ 6
1.3 Training Structure ........................................................................................................................................ 7
1.3.1 Elements of Diver Training ................................................................................................................... 7
1.3.2 Diver Assessment .................................................................................................................................... 8
1.3.3 Training Categories ................................................................................................................................ 9
1.3.4 General Training Standards.................................................................................................................. 9
1.4 General Diving Standards ....................................................................................................................... 10
1.5 Equipment Standardization ................................................................................................................... 11
1.6 Quality Control........................................................................................................................................... 11
1.6.1 Instructor Evaluations ........................................................................................................................ 12
1.6.2 Instructor Peer Review ....................................................................................................................... 12
1.6.3 Instructor Renewals ............................................................................................................................ 12
1.6.4 Instructor Requalification .................................................................................................................. 12
1.6.5 Diver Requalification .......................................................................................................................... 12
1.7 Waivers ......................................................................................................................................................... 12
1.8 Complaints ................................................................................................................................................... 13
1.8.1 Complaint Submission ........................................................................................................................ 13
1.8.2 Complaint Procedure .......................................................................................................................... 13
1.8.3 Disciplinary and Remedial Actions .................................................................................................. 14
1.8.4 Rights of Appeal ................................................................................................................................... 14
1.8.5 Executive Suspension of Membership ............................................................................................. 14
1.9 Conduct Policies and Procedures ........................................................................................................ 14
1.10 Records ....................................................................................................................................................... 15
2. GUE Course Training Standards and Procedures ............................................................................ 16
2.1 Recreational Diver Curriculum............................................................................................................. 16
GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures 3

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2.1.1 Discover Diving .................................................................................................................................... 16
2.1.2 Recreational Supervised Diver .......................................................................................................... 18
2.1.3 Recreational Diver Level 1 ................................................................................................................. 21
2.2 Foundational Diver Curriculum............................................................................................................ 28
2.2.1 GUE Fundamentals Part 1 ................................................................................................................. 28
2.2.2 GUE Fundamentals Part 2 ................................................................................................................. 30
2.2.3 GUE Fundamentals ............................................................................................................................. 33
2.2.4 Rescue Primer ....................................................................................................................................... 36
2.2.5 Navigation Primer................................................................................................................................ 39
2.2.6 Triox Primer........................................................................................................................................... 40
2.2.7 Doubles Primer ..................................................................................................................................... 43
2.2.8 Drysuit Primer ...................................................................................................................................... 44
2.2.9 Diver Propulsion Vehicle Level 1 ...................................................................................................... 46
2.2.10 Documentation Diver ....................................................................................................................... 48
2.2.11 Photogrammetry Diver .................................................................................................................... 51
2.2.12 Scientific Diver ................................................................................................................................... 53
2.2.13 Gas Blender......................................................................................................................................... 56
2.3 Technical Diver Curriculum ................................................................................................................... 57
2.3.1 Technical Diver Level 1....................................................................................................................... 57
2.3.2 Technical Diver Level 2....................................................................................................................... 60
2.3.3 Technical Diver Level 2 “Plus” Upgrade .......................................................................................... 62
2.3.4 Passive Semi-Closed Circuit Rebreather Diver ............................................................................. 63
2.3.5 Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 1 ........................................................................................ 65
2.3.6 Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 2 ........................................................................................ 68
2.3.7 Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 2 “Plus” Upgrade ........................................................... 71
2.4 Cave Diver Curriculum ............................................................................................................................ 71
2.4.1 Cave Diver Level 1 ............................................................................................................................... 71
2.4.2 Cave Diver Level 2 ............................................................................................................................... 75
2.4.3 Underwater Cave Survey ................................................................................................................... 78
2.4.4 Cave Sidemount ................................................................................................................................... 80
2.4.5 Diver Propulsion Vehicle Cave .......................................................................................................... 83
2.4.6 Closed-Circuit Rebreather Cave Diver ............................................................................................ 86
2.5 GUE Dive Professional Curriculum ..................................................................................................... 89

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2.5.1 Dive Leader Training Course ............................................................................................................. 89
2.5.2 Assistant Instructor Training Course ............................................................................................... 91
2.5.3 Instructor Training Course ................................................................................................................. 93
2.5.4 Instructor Trainer Development Course ......................................................................................... 95
3. GUE Dive Professional Standards and Procedures ......................................................................... 96
3.1 Dive Leader .................................................................................................................................................. 96
3.1.1 Qualifications ....................................................................................................................................... 96
3.1.2 Dive Leader Candidate Development ............................................................................................. 96
3.1.3 Dive Leader Status ............................................................................................................................... 97
3.2 Assistant Instructor .................................................................................................................................. 98
3.2.1 Qualifications ....................................................................................................................................... 98
3.2.2 Assistant Instructor Candidate Development ............................................................................... 98
3.2.3 Assistant Instructor Status ................................................................................................................ 99
3.3 Instructor................................................................................................................................................... 101
3.3.1 Qualifications .................................................................................................................................... 101
3.3.2 Instructor Candidate Development .............................................................................................. 101
3.3.3 Instructor Status ............................................................................................................................... 104
3.3.4 Instructor Candidate Curriculum-Specific and Progression Prerequisites .......................... 106
3.4 Instructor Trainer (IT) ........................................................................................................................... 114
3.4.1 Qualifications .................................................................................................................................... 114
3.4.2 Instructor Trainer Candidate Development ............................................................................... 115
3.4.3 Maintaining IT Rating ...................................................................................................................... 115
3.5 Instructor Evaluator (IE) ...................................................................................................................... 115
3.5.1 Qualifications .................................................................................................................................... 115
3.5.2 Obtaining IE Rating .......................................................................................................................... 116
3.5.3 Maintaining IE Rating ...................................................................................................................... 116
Appendix A - GUE Base Equipment Configuration........................................................................... 117
Additional Course-Specific Equipment ................................................................................................... 118

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1. Purpose of GUE
Global Underwater Explorers (GUE) was founded by conservationists, explorers, and educators
to improve the quality of aquatic education and to actively engage in the exploration and
conservation of the underwater world.
1.1 GUE Objectives
1.1.1 Promote Quality Education

GUE is committed to producing divers who are knowledgeable, skilled, competent, and safe in
the water, and to a generalized mission of educating the public in all things aquatic.
1.1.2 Promote Global Conservation Initiatives

GUE is committed to promoting global conservation initiatives.
1.1.3 Promote Global Exploration Initiatives

GUE is committed to promoting global underwater exploration initiatives.
1.2 Training Philosophy
1.2.1 Education
GUE course outcomes are designed to cultivate high levels of diver competence under the
assumption that only a sound educational platform will ensure divers’ comfort, confidence, and
capability. This is achieved through:
a. Exacting performance standards: GUE course outcomes are secured by exacting
performance standards that incorporate both challenging academic and practical
components.
b. Rigorous classes: GUE classes demand a great deal from participants, both physically and
intellectually.
c. Elite instruction: GUE instructors are the result of a demanding and thorough
development process that ensures consistently high levels of skill, knowledge, and
commitment to GUE’s mission.
d. Experience: GUE requires that trainees build experience between classes.
1.2.2 Equipment
GUE is committed to a standardized equipment configuration, a holistic approach that views
each piece of equipment as an integral part of a system.
1.2.3 Experience
GUE maintains that experience is critical to diver proficiency. To ensure this outcome, GUE
training includes critical skills training, experience dives, and post-class practice.

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a. Critical skills training: Critical skills are skills that are required to efficiently manage loss
of visibility, loss of lights, out-of-gas scenarios, manifold failures, and rescue scenarios
involving panicked divers, convulsing divers, and unconscious divers. Critical skills
training uses simulation in controlled and safe environments to secure course outcomes.
Competence is established by skill review, practice, and repetition.
b. Experience dives: Experience dives are components of GUE courses that seek to foster
real diving experience while providing a controlled context for skill sedimentation and
refinement.
c. Interim course requirement: GUE requires that formal diver training be punctuated by
breaks during which trainees are asked to undertake a set number of dives to gain
experience with a newly acquired skill set before transitioning to higher level of training.
1.3 Training Structure
1.3.1 Elements of Diver Training

a. Screening: GUE training requires that trainees be carefully screened by GUE instructors
prior to participating in GUE courses to ensure that they are able to meet the demands
of training. Required documentation includes an account of their personal diving
experience, their medical history, and a record of previous training.
b. Advance preparation: GUE training requires that trainees be familiar with an assigned set
of materials prior to the onset of class.
c. Academics: GUE training includes a strong academic component that seeks to cultivate
cognitive mastery of elements relevant to the safe conduct of the level of diving being
pursued; some of this material is assigned prior to class.
d. In-water training (confined and open water): GUE in-water training in confined and suitable
open water environments is designed to help trainees cultivate essential diving skills and
to test trainee capacity in a controlled environment (one that allows instructors to
maintain reasonable control over trainees); such skills include problem solving and
emergency management.
i. Confined water is defined as an area:
1. That does not exceed 30 ft/9 m in depth.
2. Where visibility (i.e., the minimum distance in which divers can see one
another and communicate effectively) is sufficient to allow instructors to
maintain a continuous view of trainees under their supervision.
3. That is not an overhead area.
4. That is illuminated to a level comparable to daylight.
5. Where surface conditions are relatively calm (no greater than 3 ft/1 m
surge).
6. Where currents are negligible (less than 1 knot).
ii. A “suitable” open water environment is defined as an area that allows instructors
reasonable control over trainees under their supervision; depths are contingent
on specific course requirements.
e. Testing, evaluation, and certification: Testing and evaluation is a vital component of the
GUE training process.

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i. Academics: Trainees must be able to answer all final exam questions prior to
certification.
ii. In-water: Trainee in-water skills are graded on a scale of one to five (see below)
and documented on a Course Completion Form (CCF) by the instructor of record
at the completion of the class. CCFs must be submitted to GUE Headquarters
(HQ) for follow-up action and filing. Debrief sessions are used during the class to
provide trainees with a running assessment of their performance.
GUE certification is ultimately an instructor’s decision. However, instructors are obligated, on
request, to provide trainees with an assessment of their performance; this includes providing
trainees with a copy of the CCF where their strengths and weaknesses are clearly outlined.
GUE’s Grading Scale: Grades range sequentially from 1 (failing) to 5 (excellent) and represent the
following:
a. Grade 1: Signifies an unsafe trainee in both ability and/or demeanor; the trainee should
be removed from the course immediately.
b. Grade 2: Signifies a trainee that falls below the minimum standard relevant to a required
skill/task. If, at the discretion of the instructor, continued practice of a skill/task places
either the student or the class at risk, the instructor may decide not to continue
practicing a skill/task and fail the trainee.
c. Grade 3: Signifies that the trainee has met the minimum standard in respect to the
skill/task.
d. Grade 4: Signifies that the trainee has exceeded the minimum standard with respect to
the skill/task.
e. Grade 5: Signifies that the trainee has greatly exceeded the minimum standard with
respect to the skill/task.
1.3.2 Diver Assessment

At the completion of GUE training, instructors must decide whether the trainee:
a. Has met the minimum standard required to be certified to pursue the type of diving for
which they sought training. In order to meet this requirement, the trainee has to be
awarded a grade 3 or above on every individual skill and has to pass the final exam, swim
test, and breath hold test.
b. Is just short of the minimum standard required to be certified to pursue the type of diving
for which they sought training.
c. Requires significant work to meet the minimum standards for the class.
These assessments take the form of:
a. Certification
b. Provisional rating
c. Failure
Provisional ratings do not represent any form of GUE accreditation and must be upgraded
within six months or the trainee must repeat training. Any Active status GUE instructor in the
appropriate curriculum can conduct an upgrade evaluation. Additional time and course fees
associated with provisional upgrades are entirely at the discretion of the instructor.

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1.3.3 Training Categories
1.3.3.1 Recreational
Recreational diver training is designed for persons who want to learn to dive in non-overhead
environments and with minimum decompression obligations.
1.3.3.2 Foundational
Foundational diver training is designed for trained divers to remediate or refine their basic skill
set as a means to dive safely and comfortably or to enable those seeking more demanding forms
of diving. It also provides the trained diver with opportunities to build competency in the use of
more specialized equipment—e.g., doubles, drysuits.
1.3.3.3 Technical
Technical diver training is designed for divers seeking to safely and competently pursue dives to
greater depths with specialty gases and bottom times that expose them to decompression and
other risks that require advanced management strategies.
1.3.3.4 Cave
Cave diver training is designed for divers seeking to safely and competently penetrate
underwater cave environments that will expose them to risks that require the development of
a new set of advanced skills.
1.3.4 General Training Standards

GUE’s general training standards govern all GUE courses and their participants. Additional
course-specific standards are listed under the requirements of the specific class. General Diving
Standards (section 1.4) also apply to all GUE courses and their participants.
a. An Active status GUE instructor certified to teach the level of training being conducted
must be present and in control of all course activities.
b. All Active and Sustaining status GUE instructors are bound by the most current version
of the GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures document.
c. Diving prerequisites established by the relevant course standards must be met before
trainees can be registered for that class. Dives cannot be credited across curricula or
across levels of a given curriculum. Unless otherwise specified in the course’s Specific
Training Standards, students may not participate in two courses at the same time.
d. Students must be certified for a level of training before progressing to the next level of
training unless otherwise specified in the course’s Specific Training Standards.
e. GUE instructors must not conduct training dives and drills in areas that are
environmentally or culturally sensitive or that could be damaged by the training (e.g.,
DPV training, drills involving simulated zero visibility).
f. Water conditions must at all times be such that the instructor:
i. Can maintain visual contact with all divers under their supervision.
ii. Is in reasonable control of all divers under their supervision.
g. Critical skills, as defined in section 1.2.3 of this document, must first be conducted in a
confined-water setting. Instructors can then vary the depth and/or location where skills
are executed.

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i. Mask removal is restricted to confined water; only trainees themselves are
allowed to remove their masks at the prompting of their instructor.
ii. “Air gunning” or simulating manifold failure is restricted to courses in the
Technical and Cave curricula.
iii. Unless it is for safety reasons, instructors must never close a student’s valve(s);
only trainees themselves are allowed to close valve(s) at the prompting of their
instructor.
iv. In the recreational and foundational curricula, any S-drill or OOG training is
restricted to a maximum depth of 70 ft/21 m. It is up to the instructor to reduce
this limit when circumstances (e.g., environment, student capacity) require
additional caution.
h. Issuing certifications under other agencies: A trainee may receive both a GUE
certification card and the equivalent certification of another agency only if the trainee
has met GUE standards and been awarded full GUE certification.
i. Decompression parameters: Decompression diving conducted during GUE classes must
use GUE’s DecoPlanner as the reference standard, using the Bühlmann algorithm with a
gradient factor of 20/85.
j. Course size: Unless otherwise specified in the course’s Specific Training Standards, no
GUE class can be run with only one trainee.
k. Divers breathing helium mixtures and utilizing a drysuit must have a drysuit inflation
system independent of their back gas cylinders, such as an argon/air cylinder; they may
not use back gas to inflate their drysuit.
l. During all diving activities, instructors must carry at least the same equipment as their
students, as determined by the course-specific equipment requirements. Exclusions of
equipment as determined by the course-specific equipment requirements apply to
students only; instructors may never carry less than the complete GUE base equipment
configuration as per Appendix A.
1.4 General Diving Standards

The following standards apply to all GUE diving activities. Additional course-specific standards
are listed within section 1.3.4 General Training Standards, as well as within the requirements of
a specific class.
a. Oxygen partial pressure (pO2) limits: Individuals must not plan dives with a pO2 that
exceeds 1.4 ATA/bar during the “working” phase of the dive; during the “resting” phase,
the planned pO2 may be elevated to 1.6 ATA/bar.
b. Equivalent Narcotic Depth (END) limits: The END during dives must not exceed 100 ft/30
m. The END of a breathing gas is determined under the assumption that helium is the
only non-narcotic component.
c. Breathing gas requirements: All open-circuit dives must be terminated when any member
of the team reaches “minimum gas”; this requires that each diver carry a supply that
allows two divers sharing gas to reach the surface or another breathable gas supply. All
rebreather dives must be terminated when any member of the team reaches “bailout
minimum gas”; this requires that each diver carry an open-circuit supply that allows the
diver to reach the surface or another breathable gas supply.

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d. Team diving: GUE’s diving philosophy is based on a team approach. Divers must plan all
diving activities as a team and must remain aware of team member location and safety
at all times.
e. Proper cylinder marking:
i. Dive cylinders must be free of unnecessary stickers and markings.
ii. Dive cylinders must bear a current Visual Inspection sticker and Hydro Test
marking, as detailed by current country-specific regulations; placement must not
distract from Maximum Operating Depth (MOD) markings.
iii. All stage cylinders (except oxygen) must be marked with the appropriate MOD
(in meters or feet) in approximately 3-inch/7.5-centimeter numbers.
iv. Oxygen cylinders must be marked with the word “OXYGEN” (or local equivalent)
and MOD.
v. In countries where the metric system is used in diving, stage/decompression
cylinders should be marked in METERS.
vi. In countries where the imperial system is used in diving, stage/decompression
cylinders should be marked in FEET.
vii. MOD markings must be oriented in a way that they are readable by both divers
and their team members.
viii. Filled cylinders must be analyzed and labeled in accordance with GUE’s Standard
Operating Procedure for Gas Analysis.
ix. Dedicated cylinders used for the inflation of drysuits are exempt from analysis.
f. Local laws and regulations: GUE divers must comply with all local laws and regulations.
1.5 Equipment Standardization

GUE training programs and GUE diving activities require a standard equipment configuration
with modifications made for specific types of diving (e.g., cave vs. recreational). Appendix A
contains an outline of the elements comprising GUE’s required base equipment configuration.
Variations or additional equipment requirements are listed in the standards regulating each
course.
1.6 Quality Control

The primary goal of GUE’s quality management program is to ensure that GUE instructors, GUE
staff, and members abide by GUE standards before, during, and after training and apply
continuous improvement initiatives to ensure that a commitment to excellence is realized in all
GUE activities. The core personnel involved in the Quality Management processes are:
a. Board of Directors (BOD)
b. Quality Management Department
c. Designated Trustee of Standards and Procedures
d. Quality Control Board

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1.6.1 Instructor Evaluations
As part of the certification process, instructor performance is evaluated by each trainee at the
conclusion of each GUE class by completing and submitting to GUE Headquarters (HQ) a Quality
Control Form.
1.6.2 Instructor Peer Review

GUE encourages instructor cooperation and active peer feedback on dives and requires
instructors to report to GUE HQ any practices not in keeping with the GUE General Training
Standards, Policies, and Procedures.
1.6.3 Instructor Renewals

GUE instructors are required to renew annually. Prerequisites for renewal attest to
preparedness to competently and safely teach a GUE class to standard.
1.6.4 Instructor Requalification

GUE instructors are required to requalify with a GUE Instructor Evaluator every four years in
every curriculum (Recreational, Foundational, Technical, and Cave) they are certified to teach.
These formal requalifications attest to continued mastery of required knowledge and skills to
competently and safely teach a GUE class to standard. Instructors who fail to requalify within
four years are rendered immediately inactive.
Instructors may choose to reset the four-year clock at any point within this four-year window.
Requalification may also be required at any time the safety or effectiveness of an instructor’s
training is in question. In such an event, GUE’s Board of Directors may immediately suspend an
instructor’s teaching privileges.
1.6.5 Diver Requalification

All GUE certification cards expire three years after the date of issue. To maintain GUE
certification, GUE divers must certify that they have conducted twenty-five dives at the level of
their certification within a three-year period. Upon review, divers can be issued a new
certification card for a nominal fee.
The allowable time for requalification in this manner is five years. If a diver fails to requalify in
five years, then formal approval from a GUE instructor at the appropriate level is required.
1.7 Waivers
a. GUE’s BOD has the power to waive course-specific requirements.
b. GUE Instructor Evaluators have the power to waive the 25-dive prerequisite between
GUE courses.
c. GUE Instructor Evaluators have the power to waive training obligations and award GUE
certification based on previous training and experience.
d. GUE HQ has the power to waive minimum age requirements for GUE classes.
e. GUE HQ has the power to waive course-specific requirements for the number of training
locations.

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1.8 Complaints
GUE’s Quality Management Department and Quality Control Board are responsible for
handling complaints promptly and thoroughly. Following an investigation of a complaint, the
Quality Management Department and Quality Control Board will decide whether or not
disciplinary or remedial action is warranted. If there is a potential conflict of interest, or an
independent position is needed, the Quality Control Board will take control of the issue.
1.8.1 Complaint Submission

Complaints can be lodged against any GUE member or GUE diver, each of whom is bound by the
GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures document.
Formal complaints must be sent to GUE’s Quality Management Department at GUE HQ and
must include:
a. A written statement outlining the nature of the complaint
b. Name and contact information
c. The date, time, and location of the incident
d. A complete account of the event, including names and contact information (if possible)
of any witnesses
Complaints can be lodged either electronically or by mail.
● Email should be sent to: qc@gue.com
● Mail should be sent to:
Quality Management Department
Global Underwater Explorers
18487 High Springs Main Street
High Springs, FL, 32643
USA
No action, other than review, can be taken as a result of an anonymous or a verbal complaint.
1.8.2 Complaint Procedure

a. Following a review of the complaint, if warranted, GUE’s Quality Management
Department/Quality Control Board will send a summary of the complaint to the charged
member by regular and/or electronic mail.
b. Charged member(s) must respond in writing to the complaint (by mail or electronically)
within thirty days from the date the summary is sent.
c. Charged members who fail to respond to a written complaint in the allotted time are
automatically suspended and all membership privileges revoked.
d. Charged members who respond to a written complaint are able to maintain their
membership privileges until a final determination is reached by GUE’s Quality
Management Department/Quality Control Board.
e. GUE’s Quality Management Department/Quality Control Board will reach its
determination within thirty days of receiving a complete response from the charged
member. The Quality Management Department/Quality Control Board can determine

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to dismiss the complaint, resolve the matter by negotiation, or sanction a disciplinary or
remedial action.
1.8.3 Disciplinary and Remedial Actions

GUE’s Quality Management Department/Quality Control Board is empowered to render the
following decisions:
a. Private censure
b. Public censure
c. Prescribed educational rehabilitation
d. Defined probationary period
e. Defined suspension
f. Revocation of membership and/or teaching privileges
1.8.4 Rights of Appeal

Determinations made by GUE’s Quality Management Department/Quality Control Board may
be appealed to GUE’s Board of Directors no later than thirty days from the time the
determination is made. Such an appeal must be lodged in writing by certified mail or by email;
the latter of these requires a response from a BOD representative to acknowledge receipt.
GUE Board of Directors
Global Underwater Explorers
18487 High Springs Main Street
High Springs, FL 32643
USA
1.8.5 Executive Suspension of Membership

GUE membership, GUE teaching privileges, and GUE diving credentials are a privilege and not a
right. Membership in GUE may be rescinded and GUE credentials may be revoked at any time
by GUE at its discretion.
1.9 Conduct Policies and Procedures

a. GUE instructors (regardless of country of residence or course location) must collect
printed and signed GUE liability release forms prior to the onset of each GUE class and
maintain these for a period of no less than seven years following the completion of
training.
b. GUE representatives must promote the best interests of GUE.
c. GUE instructors and instructor candidates must abide by GUE safety protocols at all
times.
d. GUE members and its representatives must demonstrate fiscal responsibility in general
and in particular when transacting business with GUE, GUE instructors, or GUE
members.
e. GUE instructors must process student Course Completion Forms in a timely fashion and
cooperate with GUE HQ when certification card issues arise.

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f. All internal communication (e.g., via the instructors@gue.com mailing list, the GUE
Instructors Facebook page, or any other media accessible to GUE HQ and GUE
instructors only), is confidential. Any instructor who knowingly allows these discussions
to become public knowledge may be subject to disciplinary action.
g. GUE instructors must behave professionally when interacting with others, including
industry, non-industry, and GUE-related individuals.
h. GUE members, GUE divers, and GUE representatives are bound by the standards and
procedures outlined in this document.
i. GUE membership and renewal applications do not constitute perpetual offers of
membership. GUE HQ reserves the right to refuse membership or renewal to any party
without assigning any reason.
j. GUE members must not utilize proprietary GUE materials without written permission
from GUE HQ.
k. GUE instructor certification cards issued by GUE HQ are the property of GUE and must
be surrendered upon request to the Board of Directors or their representatives.
1.10 Records
GUE HQ will maintain the following records (if applicable) for GUE course participants for a
minimum of three years after the completion of a class. As GUE student profiles are executed
electronically, it is the responsibility of all GUE instructors (regardless of their country of
residence or course location) to collect printed and properly executed (i.e., complete and signed)
documentation for all course participants before the onset of class and maintain these for a
minimum of seven years. This requirement may be fulfilled by use of GUE’s electronic signature
system. In this case, the instructor is responsible for verifying and storing all appropriate
electronic files.
a. Student Registration
b. Student Liability Release and Assumption of Risk
c. Student Agreement
d. Student Medical Questionnaire
e. Accident Report
f. Instructor Registration
g. Instructor Liability Release and Assumption of Risk
h. Instructor Agreement
i. Instructor Candidate Agreement
j. Course Completion Form
k. Certification Renewal Form
l. Certification Card Replacement Form
m. Instructor Evaluation Form
n. Instructor Standards Agreement Form
o. Instructor Renewal Documents
p. Membership Registration
q. Course Prerequisite Waivers
r. Parental Waiver Forms

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2. GUE Course Training Standards and Procedures
2.1 Recreational Diver Curriculum
2.1.1 Discover Diving

2.1.1.1 Program Outcomes
GUE’s Discover Diving program is designed as an introduction for individuals with no previous
scuba diving experience. This program does not result in certification but can serve as an
introduction to the Recreational Supervised Diver course or as a standalone experience.
Completion of this program does not qualify the participants to engage in recreational diving.
2.1.1.2 Prerequisites
Applicants for a Discover Diving program must:
a. Submit a completed Discover Diving Registration Form to their instructor.
b. Be included in an insurance program that specifically covers diving emergencies.
c. Be physically and mentally fit.
d. Obtain a physician’s prior written authorization for use of prescription drugs, except for
birth control, or for any medical condition that may pose a risk while diving.
e. Be a minimum of 14 years of age. Documented parental or legal guardian consent must
be submitted to the instructor when the participant is a minor.
2.1.1.3 Program Content
The Discover Diving program is normally conducted over one day. It requires a minimum of one
in-water session and at least four hours of instruction, encompassing classroom lectures, land
drills, and in-water work. Optional open water dives can be conducted at the instructor’s
discretion.
Activities in confined and open water may be conducted separately or combined, with skills
initially introduced in shallow water before participants are taken into deeper water.
2.1.1.4 Discover Diving Specific Training Standards
a. Student-to-instructor ratio is not to exceed 4:1 during land drills or surface exercises; it
cannot exceed 2:1 during any in-water training.
b. Can be run with one trainee
c. All confined in-water activities must be directly supervised by a qualified GUE instructor
or GUE assistant instructor who is solely responsible for determining a participant's
capacity to participate in open water diving.
d. All open water dives must be directly supervised by a GUE instructor.
e. During open water dives, a GUE instructor must not engage in any activity other than
the direct supervision of the participants.
f. All in-water activities must be conducted in daylight conditions.
g. All in-water skills must be introduced and practiced in confined water shallow enough
for the participant to stand in, before progressing to deeper water. When water shallow
enough to stand in is not available, the skills may be introduced and practiced from a

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device such as a descent line, bar, ladder, or platform. In such a scenario, the in-water
ratio is reduced to 1:1 and the skills introduction must not be conducted deeper than 6
ft/2 m.
h. Maximum depth of 30 ft/9 m
i. No overhead diving
j. All dives must be within minimum decompression limits (MDLs), i.e., no required stops.
2.1.1.5 Required Training Materials
GUE training materials and recommended reading as determined by the course study package
provided by GUE via the Discover Diving instructor.
2.1.1.6 Academic Topics
a. Overview of scuba diving and GUE organization
b. Basic diving physics with emphasis on dive safety
i. Breathing underwater
ii. Equalization underwater
iii. Buoyancy and trim; ascending, descending, and moving underwater
iv. Underwater communication
v. Identification of local environmental hazards, e.g., marine life
c. Overview and use of scuba diving equipment
d. Importance of additional dive training
e. Value of training with GUE
2.1.1.7 Land Drills and Topics
a. Equipment fit and function
b. Gas analysis
c. Basic 5 scuba skills #1, #2, and #4
d. Long hose donation to trainee performed by instructor where the trainee is the receiver
e. SPG check
2.1.1.8 Required Dive Skills and Drills
Students must be able to demonstrate capacity in the following skills with each skill practiced in
confined water before it is attempted in an open water setting.
2.1.1.8.1 Surface Skills
a. Regulator breathing practice
b. Basic 5 scuba skills #1, #2, and #4
c. Long hose donation to trainee performed by instructor
d. Buoyancy compensator (BC) operation practice
2.1.1.8.2 Underwater Skills
a. Controlled descent
b. Buoyancy and trim practice
c. Propulsion practice
d. Basic 5 scuba skills #1, #2, and #4
e. Long hose donation to trainee performed by instructor
f. SPG check

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g. Controlled ascent
2.1.1.9 Equipment Requirements
GUE single tank configuration as outlined in Appendix A, excluding:
a. Wrist-mounted compass
b. Backup mask
c. At least one cutting device
d. Wetnotes with pencils
e. At least one surface marker buoy (SMB) with spool
Prior to the commencement of the class, students should consult with a GUE representative to
verify equipment requirements and appropriateness of any selected equipment.
2.1.2 Recreational Supervised Diver

2.1.2.1 Course Outcomes
GUE’s Recreational Supervised Diver course is designed to provide students with sufficient
knowledge, skill, and experience to dive in open water environments under the direct
supervision of a dive professional.
Upon fulfilling all minimum training requirements, the Recreational Supervised Diver will be
qualified to:
a. Dive with a professional from a recognized training agency in a diver-to-dive
professional ratio not exceeding 3:1.
b. Dive to a maximum depth of 40 ft/12 m.
c. Dive within minimum decompression limits (MDLs), i.e., no required stops.
d. Dive with appropriate surface support (e.g., access to EMS, infrastructure allowing for
support in case of emergency).
e. Dive in conditions equal to or better than those in which they were trained.
f. Use nitrox 32 under direct supervision of a dive professional from a recognized training
agency who is certified to use nitrox 32.
Applicants for a Recreational Supervised Diver course must:
a. Submit a completed Course Registration Form, Medical History Form, and Liability
Release Form to GUE HQ.
d. Be a nonsmoker.
e. Obtain a physician’s prior written authorization for use of prescription drugs, except for
f. Be a minimum of 14 years of age. Documented parental or legal guardian consent must
be submitted to GUE HQ when the participant is a minor.

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2.1.2.3 Course Content
The Recreational Supervised Diver course is normally conducted over three days. It requires a
minimum of eight confined water sessions, two open water dives, and at least twenty-four hours
of instruction, encompassing classroom lectures, land drills, and in-water work.
2.1.2.4 Recreational Supervised Diver Specific Training Standards
a. Student-to-instructor ratio is not to exceed 6:1 during land drill or surface exercises; it
c. During open water dives, the instructor must not engage in any activities other than
direct supervision of the participants.
d. All in-water activities must be conducted in daylight conditions.
e. Maximum depth of 40 ft/12 m
f. No overhead diving
g. All dives must be within minimum decompression limits (MDLs), i.e., no required stops.
received via online download after GUE course application.
a. Introduction: GUE organization and course overview (objectives, limits, training
requirements)
b. Basic diving physics supporting knowledge and ability to safely manage:
ii. Equalization and avoidance of barotraumas, including DCI
iii. Buoyancy, trim, and balance; ascending, descending, and underwater propulsion
iv. Physical and mental stress while diving
c. Introduction to decompression sickness
d. Scuba diving equipment overview and operation
e. Basic planning, including breathing gas management, dive preparation, and pre-dive
sequence.
f. Basic understanding of nitrox diving and importance of gas analysis
g. Team diving and underwater communication
h. Environmental considerations while diving
i. Conservation-minded diving techniques
The following land drills must be used to familiarize students with important skills before they
are practiced underwater.
a. Equipment fit, assembly and disassembly, functionality checks
b. Propulsion and maneuvering techniques
c. Gas analysis
d. GUE EDGE and pre-dive checks
e. Basic 5 scuba skills
f. SPG check

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g. S-drill
h. Connecting and disconnecting LP inflation hose of BC (and drysuit, if used)
i. Oral inflation of BC
Students must demonstrate competence in the following skills to be certified as GUE
Recreational Supervised Diver:
a. Must be able to swim at least 300 yds/275 m in less than 14 minutes without stopping.
This test should be conducted in a swimsuit and, where necessary, appropriate thermal
protection.
b. Must be able to swim a distance of at least 50 ft/15 m on a breath hold while submerged.
c. Demonstrate proficiency in safe diving techniques, including pre-dive preparation, in-
water activity, and post-dive assessment.
d. Demonstrate awareness of team member location and a concern for safety, responding
quickly to visual indications and dive partner needs.
e. Efficiently demonstrate how to donate gas to an out-of-gas diver followed by an ascent
to the surface.
f. Comfortably demonstrate at least two propulsion techniques that would be appropriate
in delicate and/or silty environments.
g. Demonstrate a safe and responsible demeanor throughout all training.
h. Demonstrate good buoyancy and trim, i.e., approximate reference is a maximum of 30
degrees off horizontal while remaining within 5 ft/1.5 m of a target depth.
i. Demonstrate proficiency in underwater communication.
j. Demonstrate basic equipment proficiency and an understanding of the GUE equipment
configuration.
k. Demonstrate aptitude in the following open water skills: mask clearing, mask removal
and replacement, regulator removal and exchange, long hose deployment.
l. Demonstrate safe ascent and descent procedures.
m. Demonstrate comprehension of the components necessary for a successful backward
kick.
GUE base equipment configuration as outlined in Appendix A, plus:
a. Snorkel, simple in design, with no purge valves
Excluding:
a. Wrist-mounted compass
b. Backup mask
c. At least one cutting device (unless required by local regulations)
d. At least one surface marker buoy (SMB) with spool

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2.1.3 Recreational Diver Level 1
GUE’s Recreational Diver Level 1 course is designed to provide non-divers with sufficient
knowledge, skill, and experience to dive within the limits of similarly qualified scuba divers.
Qualified GUE Recreational Diver Level 1 divers are able to dive under conditions equal to or
better than those in which they were trained with appropriate surface support and with
individuals holding the same or a higher level of certification while using nitrox 32 or air within
minimum decompression limits.
The Recreational Diver Level 1 diver who has not yet reached the age of 15 years is required to
dive under the direct supervision of an adult who has, as a minimum, an autonomous scuba diver
certification.
Applicants for a Recreational Diver Level 1 course must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.
e. Obtain a physician’s prior written authorization for use of prescription drugs, except for
The Recreational Diver Level 1 course is normally conducted over five days. It requires a
minimum of ten confined water sessions, six open water dives, and at least forty hours of
instruction, encompassing classroom lectures, land drills, and in-water work.
At the instructor’s discretion, Recreational Supervised Divers may have a portion of their
training counted toward Recreational Diver Level 1 qualification if they wish to dive without
leadership supervision.
2.1.3.4 Recreational Diver Level 1 Specific Training Standards
c. All in-water activities must be conducted in daylight conditions.
d. All in-water drills must be introduced in confined water.
e. Maximum depth of 70 ft/21 m
f. No overhead diving

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received via online download after GUE course registration.
a. Introduction: GUE organization and course overview (objectives, limits, training
requirements)
b. Diving physics supporting knowledge and ability to safely manage:
ii. Equalization and avoidance of barotraumas including DCI
iii. Buoyancy, trim, and balance; ascending, descending, and underwater propulsion
c. Physical and mental stress while diving
d. Scuba diving equipment overview and operation
e. Breathing gas dynamics
f. Decompression theory, including decompression sickness (DCS, AGE)
g. Planning, including gas management, dive preparation, and pre-dive evaluation
h. Nitrox diving and importance of gas analysis
i. Team diving and underwater communication
j. Environmental considerations while diving
k. Conservation-minded diving techniques
The following land drills must be used to familiarize students with important skills before they
are practiced underwater.
a. Equipment fit, assembly and disassembly
c. Gas analysis
f. SPG check
g. S-drill
h. Valve operation
i. Connect and disconnect LP inflation hose from BC (and drysuit, if used)
j. Oral inflation of BC
k. SMB deployment utilizing a spool
l. Basic compass navigation
m. Basic 5 rescue skills
Students must demonstrate competence in the following skills to be certified as a GUE
Recreational Diver Level 1 diver:
protection.

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e. Efficiently and comfortably demonstrate how to donate gas to an out-of-gas diver
followed by an ascent to the surface utilizing minimum decompression ascent profile.
f. Comfortably demonstrate at least two propulsion techniques that would be appropriate
i. Demonstrate proficiency in underwater communication.
j. Demonstrate basic equipment proficiency and an understanding of the GUE equipment
configuration.
k. Demonstrate aptitude in the following open water skills: mask clearing, mask removal
l. Demonstrate a comfortable demeanor while swimming without a mask in touch contact,
followed by a switch to the backup mask.
m. Demonstrate safe ascent and descent procedures.
n. Demonstrate comprehension of the components necessary for a successful backward
kick.
o. Demonstrate proficiency in basic underwater compass navigation.
p. Demonstrate proficiency in the Basic 5 rescue skills.
q. Demonstrate reasonable proficiency in the ability to deploy a surface marker buoy while
utilizing a spool.
a. Snorkel, simple in design, with no purge valves

GUE’s Recreational Diver Level 2 course is a no-decompression course structured to prepare
divers for deeper recreational diving while using sound equipment, efficient diving skills, and
advanced breathing mixtures. Course outcomes include, but are not limited to: skill cultivation
and refinement, familiarity with the theory and practice of decompression, safe use of nitrox and
triox for extended bottom times, correct ascent procedures, diver rescue (on land, at the
surface, and underwater), emergency management, and the use of helium to minimize narcosis,
CO2, gas density, and post-dive “nitrogen stress”.

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a. Submit a completed Course Registration Form, a Medical History Form, and Liability
b. Hold insurance that will cover diving emergencies such as hyperbaric treatment, e.g.,
DAN Master-level insurance or equivalent.
d. Be a nonsmoker.
e. Obtain a physician’s prior written authorization for the use of prescription drugs, except
for birth control, or for any medical condition that may pose a risk while diving.
g. Be a certified GUE Recreational Diver Level 1 or GUE Fundamentals diver.
h. Have completed at least 25 non-training dives beyond either GUE Recreational Diver
Level 1 or GUE Fundamentals certification.
minimum of eleven dives (including a dive in reduced ambient light conditions and two triox
experience dives) and at least forty hours of instruction, encompassing classroom lectures, land
drills, and in-water work.
The GUE Recreational Diver Level 2 certification can also be obtained by successfully
completing GUE Rescue Primer, GUE Navigation Primer, and GUE Triox Primer.
b. Maximum depth of 100 ft/30 m
c. No overhead diving
d. All dives must be within minimum decompression limits (MDLs), i.e., no required stops.
e. Students must have completed basic life support (BLS) training from a recognized
training agency within the twenty-four months prior to certification.
GUE training materials and recommended reading as determined by the course study packet
a. Introduction: GUE organization and course overview (objectives, limits, expectations)
b. Applied diving physics
c. Applied diving physiology
d. Situational awareness
e. Breathing gas overview
f. Dive planning, gas management, and logistics
g. Introduction to triox
h. Decompression overview and minimum decompression procedures
i. Diving safety and accident prevention
j. Rescue diving techniques, emergency management, and diving-related BLS skills

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a. GUE EDGE and pre-dive drill sequence, including gas analysis
b. Rescue skills, including managing a rescue scenario, swimming and non-swimming
assists, egression techniques, controlling a distressed diver, underwater search
patterns, managing and surfacing an unconscious diver
c. Navigation skills using a compass, guideline, and natural navigation
d. Light and touch communication protocols
protection.
c. Demonstrate proficiency in safe diving practices, including pre-dive preparation, in-
e. Efficiently and comfortably demonstrate how to donate gas to an out-of-gas diver in
multiple gas-sharing scenarios.
f. Demonstrate a safe and responsible demeanor throughout all training.
g. Demonstrate proficiency in surface marker buoy deployment.
i. Demonstrate three propulsion techniques, including comprehension of the components
necessary for a successful backward kick.
j. Demonstrate proficiency during gas-sharing scenarios, including a direct ascent while
managing minimum decompression obligations and the use of a surface marker buoy and
spool.
k. Demonstrate proficiency in the use of the primary, light including passive and active
communication.
l. Demonstrate effective proficiency with proper ascents and descents, including the
implementation of variable ascent rates.
m. Demonstrate effective navigation using a compass and while managing a spool or reel as
a guideline underwater.
n. Demonstrate effective navigation using natural references.
o. Demonstrate proficiency in fundamental diver rescue techniques, including assessing a
rescue scene, supporting and recovering distressed, tired, and unconscious divers at the
surface, recovering an unconscious diver to the surface, and a range of simulated diving
incidents.
p. Demonstrate basic equipment proficiency and an understanding of the GUE equipment
configuration.

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a. Drysuit inflation system independent from back gas cylinders (while breathing a helium
mixture, if using a drysuit)
b. One primary and two backup lights
c. One primary reel per team (optional)

GUE’s Recreational Diver Level 3 course is a limited decompression course structured to
prepare divers for deeper recreational diving while using sound equipment, efficient diving
skills, and advanced breathing mixtures. Course outcomes include, but are not limited to: skill
cultivation and refinement; knowledge of relevant physics and physiology; familiarity with the
theory and practice of decompression; correct ascent procedures; the use of a double tank
configuration; the use of nitrox for decompression; the use of helium-enriched breathing mixes
to minimize narcosis, CO2, gas density, and post-dive “nitrogen stress;” and the use of a single
decompression stage for accelerated decompression techniques.
d. Be a nonsmoker.
i. Have completed at least 75 non-training dives beyond autonomous scuba diver
certification.
j. Have completed the GUE Doubles Primer or be proficient in doubles with at least 25
non-training dives using doubles.
minimum of eight dives (including two trimix experience dives) and at least forty hours of

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d. Dives must not be planned to incur more than 15 minutes of unadjusted decompression
time, as established by GUE’s DecoPlanner.
b. Applied diving physics
c. Applied diving physiology
d. Introduction to normoxic trimix
e. Narcosis
f. Gas density
g. Carbon dioxide
h. Oxygen limitations
i. Dive planning, gas management, and logistics
j. Decompression dynamics and theory
k. Decompression practices while using nitrox
l. Decompression planning using decompression tables and DecoPlanner
m. Decompression illness
n. GUE equipment configuration
a. Dive team order and protocols
b. GUE EDGE and pre-dive drill sequence, including gas analysis
c. Valve management including failure procedures
d. Descent, ascent, and decompression protocols
e. Gas-switch procedure
f. Unconscious/toxing diver rescue
protection.
e. Demonstrate proficiency in surface marker buoy deployment.

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f. Demonstrate good buoyancy and trim, i.e., approximate reference is a maximum of 30
g. Efficiently and comfortably demonstrate how to donate gas to an out-of-gas diver in
h. Demonstrate three propulsion techniques, including comprehension of the components
i. Demonstrate proficiency during gas-sharing scenarios, including a gas-sharing
horizontal swim and a direct ascent while managing decompression obligations.
j. Demonstrate proficiency in the use of the primary light, including passive and active
communication.
k. Demonstrate proficiency with a single decompression cylinder.
l. Demonstrate proficiency with valve management by conducting a GUE valve drill.
m. Demonstrate proficiency with proper ascents and descents, utilizing variable ascent
rates and safe gas switching procedures.
n. Demonstrate proficiency in surfacing an unconscious diver from depth.
o. Demonstrate basic equipment proficiency and an understanding of the GUE equipment
configuration.
a. GUE double tank configuration
c. One decompression stage with stage regulator
d. Drysuit inflation system independent from back gas cylinders (while breathing a helium
2.2 Foundational Diver Curriculum
2.2.1 GUE Fundamentals Part 1

The GUE Fundamentals Part 1 course is designed to cultivate the foundational skills required by
sound diving practice. Included among its course outcomes are: to provide the recreational
diver, who does not desire diver training beyond the recreational level, with an opportunity to
advance their basic diving skills and to provide non-GUE trained divers with a gateway into GUE
training.
The GUE Fundamentals Part 1 course is a non-certification course; only successful course
completion is required for the student to be permitted to progress to GUE Fundamentals Part
2.
Applicants for the GUE Fundamentals Part 1 program must:

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d. Be a nonsmoker.
g. Be a certified autonomous scuba diver from a recognized training agency.
The GUE Fundamentals Part 1 course is normally conducted over two days. It requires a
minimum of two dives and at least fourteen hours of instruction, encompassing classroom
lectures, land drills, and in-water work.
2.2.1.4 GUE Fundamentals Part 1 Specific Training Standards
c. Maximum depth of 60 ft/18 m
d. No overhead diving
e. All dives must be within minimum decompression limits (MDLs), i.e., no required stops.
b. Building a solid skill base: buoyancy, trim, balance, and propulsion
c. Fundamental diving skills
d. Streamlining and equipment configuration
e. Situational awareness
f. The GUE system
c. Gas analysis
f. Dive team protocols

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a. Demonstrate safe diving practices, including pre-dive preparation, in-water activity, and
post-dive assessment.
b. Demonstrate awareness of team member location and a concern for safety, responding
c. Demonstrate reasonable buoyancy and trim, i.e., approximate reference is a maximum
of 30 degrees off horizontal while remaining within 5 ft/1.5 m of a target depth.
d. Demonstrate a safe and responsible demeanor throughout all training.
e. Demonstrate ability to use underwater communication.
f. Demonstrate the following open water skills: mask clearing, mask removal and
replacement, regulator removal and exchange, long hose deployment.
g. Demonstrate safe ascent and descent procedures.
h. Demonstrate basic equipment awareness and an understanding of the GUE equipment
configuration.
GUE base equipment configuration as outlined in Appendix A.
2.2.2 GUE Fundamentals Part 2

The GUE Fundamentals Part 2 course is designed to continue to cultivate the essential skills
required for sound diving practice. Included among its course outcomes are: to provide the
recreational diver, who does not desire diver training beyond the recreational level, with an
opportunity to advance their basic diving skills; to train divers in the theory and practice of
nitrox; to provide those divers who aspire to more advanced diver training with the tools that
will contribute to a greater likelihood of success; and to provide divers with a gateway into
advanced GUE training.
Applicants for a GUE Fundamentals Part 2 course must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.

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g. Be a certified GUE Recreational Diver Level 1 diver, or have successfully completed GUE
Fundamentals Part 1.
The GUE Fundamentals Part 2 course is normally conducted over three days. It requires a
minimum of four dives and at least twenty hours of instruction, encompassing classroom
2.2.2.4 GUE Fundamentals Part 2 Specific Training Standards
b. Two dives must be at a depth of at least 25 ft/8 m.
f. Can be combined with GUE Triox Primer, as per the Triox Primer Instructor Guidelines
document.
b. Situational awareness
c. Dive planning and gas management
d. Breathing gas overview
e. Nitrox diving
f. Decompression overview and minimum decompression procedures
g. Diving safety and accident prevention
h. The GUE system
a. Dive team protocols
b. S-drill and valve drill
c. Surface marker buoy (SMB) deployment
d. Diver rescue techniques (for Technical rating only)
2.2.2.8 (A) Required Dive Skills and Drills for a GUE Fundamentals - Recreational Rating
protection.

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e. Demonstrate good buoyancy and trim, i.e., approximate reference is a maximum of 30
f. Demonstrate proficiency in surface marker buoy deployment while using a spool.
h. Efficiently and comfortably demonstrate how to donate gas to an out-of-gas diver
followed by an ascent to the surface utilizing minimum decompression.
i. Demonstrate a safe and responsible demeanor throughout all training.
j. Demonstrate proficiency in underwater communication.
k. Demonstrate a comfortable demeanor while swimming without a mask in touch contact,
l. Demonstrate aptitude in the following open water skills: mask clearing, mask removal
n. Demonstrate proficiency in executing a valve drill.
configuration.
p. Demonstrate three propulsion techniques, including comprehension of the components
2.2.2.8 (B) Required Dive Skills and Drills for a GUE Fundamentals - Technical Rating
This rating is required for those trainees seeking entry into GUE’s Cave and Technical courses.
protection.
degrees off horizontal while remaining within 3 ft/1 m of a target depth.
f. Demonstrate proficiency in the ability to deploy a surface marker buoy while using a
spool.

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n. Demonstrate an efficient valve drill with double tanks.
configuration.
p. Demonstrate proficiency in four propulsion techniques that would be appropriate in
delicate and/or silty environments, including competence in the backward kick and
helicopter turns.
q. Demonstrate proficiency with a primary light by using it during all skills except SMB
deployment.
r. Demonstrate diver rescue techniques, including effective management of an
unconscious diver underwater.
2.2.2.9 (A) Equipment Requirements for a GUE Fundamentals - Recreational Rating
2.2.2.9 (B) Equipment Requirements for a GUE Fundamentals - Technical Rating
2.2.3 GUE Fundamentals

The GUE Fundamentals course is designed to cultivate the essential skills required for sound
diving practice. Included among its course outcomes are: to provide the recreational diver, who
does not desire diver training beyond the recreational level, with an opportunity to advance
their basic diving skills; to train divers in the theory and practice of nitrox; to provide divers with
aspirations for more advanced diver training with the tools that will contribute to a greater
likelihood of success; and to provide non-GUE trained divers with a gateway into GUE training.
Applicants for a GUE Fundamentals course must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.

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The GUE Fundamentals course is normally conducted over four days. It requires a minimum of
six dives and at least thirty hours of instruction, encompassing classroom lectures, land drills,
and in-water work.
2.2.3.4 GUE Fundamentals Specific Training Standards
b. Two dives must be at a depth of at least 25 ft/8 m
f. Can be combined with GUE Triox Primer, as per the Triox Primer Instructor Guidelines
document.
b. Building a solid skill base: buoyancy, trim, balance, and propulsion
c. Fundamental diving skills
d. Streamlining and equipment configuration
e. Situational awareness
f. Dive planning and gas management
g. Breathing gas overview
h. Nitrox diving
i. Decompression overview and minimum decompression procedures
j. Diving safety and accident prevention
k. The GUE system
c. Gas analysis
g. S-drill and valve drill
h. Surface marker buoy (SMB) deployment

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i. Diver rescue techniques (for Technical rating only)
2.2.3.8 (A) Required Dive Skills and Drills for a GUE Fundamentals - Recreational Rating
protection.
f. Demonstrate proficiency in surface marker buoy deployment while using a spool.
n. Demonstrate proficiency in executing a valve drill.
configuration.
p. Demonstrate three propulsion techniques, including comprehension of the components
2.2.3.8 (B) Required Dive Skills and Drills for a GUE Fundamentals - Technical Rating
This rating is required for those trainees seeking entry into GUE’s Cave and Technical courses.
protection.

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f. Demonstrate proficiency in the ability to deploy a surface marker buoy while using a
spool.
n. Demonstrate an efficient valve drill with double tanks.
configuration.
p. Demonstrate proficiency in four propulsion techniques that would be appropriate in
helicopter turns.
q. Demonstrate proficiency with a primary light by using it during all skills except SMB
deployment.
r. Demonstrate diver rescue techniques, including effective management of an
unconscious diver underwater.
2.2.3.9 (A) Equipment Requirements for a GUE Fundamentals - Recreational Rating
2.2.3.9 (B) Equipment Requirements for a GUE Fundamentals - Technical Rating
2.2.4 Rescue Primer

GUE’s Rescue Primer is a course designed to teach divers basic rescue techniques relevant to
scuba diving emergencies. Course outcomes include, but are not limited to: assisting a
distressed diver on the surface; assisting a distressed diver underwater, including unconscious
diver recovery; missing diver protocols; surface management of a diving emergency; and diving
basic life support (BLS) skills for DCI.

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This course is recommended to be taken after Navigation Primer, as it requires competence in
navigational skills.
Applicants for a Rescue Primer must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.
The Rescue Primer is normally conducted over two days. It requires a minimum of four in-water
sessions (including three dives) and at least sixteen hours of instruction, encompassing
classroom lectures, land drills, and in-water work.
2.2.4.4 Rescue Primer Specific Training Standards
e. Students must have completed BLS training from a recognized training agency within
the twenty-four months prior to certification.
b. Diving safety, accident dynamics and prevention
c. Scuba diving rescue techniques
d. Emergency management
e. DCI and other diving related injuries
f. Scuba diving related BLS skills

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a. Equipment fit, assembly and disassembly, GUE EDGE, and pre-dive checks
b. Swimming and non-swimming surface assists
c. Basic 5 rescue skills
d. Egression techniques
e. Controlling a distressed diver on surface and underwater
f. Underwater search patterns
g. Unconscious diver rescue
protection.
j. Demonstrate effective proficiency with proper ascents and descents, including the
k. Demonstrate effective navigation using a compass and managing a spool as a guideline
underwater.
l. Demonstrate proficiency in fundamental diver rescue techniques, including assessing a
rescue scene, supporting and recovering distressed, tired, and unconscious divers at the
surface, recovering an unconscious diver to the surface, and a range of simulated diving
incidents.
m. Demonstrate basic equipment proficiency and an understanding of the GUE equipment
configuration.
a. One primary and two backup lights

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2.2.5 Navigation Primer
GUE’s Navigation Primer is a course designed to teach divers basic underwater navigation
techniques. Course outcomes include, but are not limited to: compass use and navigation (simple
and complex), natural navigation, and managing a spool as a guideline underwater.
This course is recommended to be taken before Rescue Primer, as the latter requires
competence in navigational skills.
Applicants for a Navigation Primer must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.
The Navigation Primer is normally conducted over two days. It requires a minimum of three
dives (including a dive in reduced ambient light conditions) and at least twelve hours of
2.2.5.4 Navigation Primer Specific Training Standards
b. Underwater navigation and situational awareness
c. Natural navigation
d. Compass, including types, components, and basics of use

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e. Guideline use in navigational and search patterns
b. Compass navigation, including simple and complex and multiple-bearings navigation
c. Guideline use and search patterns
protection.
e. Demonstrate a safe and responsible demeanor throughout all training.
f. Demonstrate proficiency in surface marker buoy deployment.
g. Demonstrate good buoyancy and trim, i.e., approximate reference is a maximum of 30
h. Demonstrate three propulsion techniques, including comprehension of the components
i. Demonstrate effective proficiency with proper ascents and descents, including the
j. Demonstrate proficiency in the use of the primary, light including passive and active
communication.
k. Demonstrate effective navigation using a compass, including simple and complex
navigation and multiple-bearings navigation.
l. Demonstrate effective use of a spool or reel as a guideline underwater.
m. Demonstrate effective navigation using natural references.
n. Demonstrate basic equipment proficiency and an understanding of the GUE equipment
configuration.
a. One primary and two backup lights
b. One primary reel per team (optional)
2.2.6 Triox Primer

GUE’s Triox Primer is a course designed to teach divers the use of triox as a breathing gas in
recreational diving. Course outcomes include, but are not limited to: skill cultivation and
refinement, familiarity with the theory and practice of decompression, correct ascent

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procedures, and the use of Helium to minimize narcosis, CO2, gas density, and post-dive
“nitrogen stress”.
Applicants for a Triox Primer must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.
g. Be a certified GUE Recreational Diver Level 1 diver, or have successfully completed all
GUE Fundamentals course components at the Recreational level.
Level 1 or GUE Fundamentals certification, or be certified by a recognized training
agency to dive to 100 ft/30 m, with at least 25 non-training dives beyond autonomous
scuba diver certification.
The Triox Primer is normally conducted over two days. It requires a minimum of four dives
(including two triox experience dives) and at least twelve hours of instruction, encompassing
classroom lectures, land drills, and in-water work.
If combined with a GUE Fundamentals course, and if the trainees are already certified to dive to
100 ft/30 m from a recognized training agency, Triox Primer can be conducted over one
additional day. It then requires a minimum of two additional dives and at least ten additional
hours of instruction, encompassing classroom lectures, land drills, and in-water work.
2.2.6.4 Triox Primer Specific Training Standards
c. No overhead diving unless taught as part of a Cave Diver Level 1 or 2 course, as per the
Triox Primer Instructor Guidelines document.
e. Can be combined with GUE Fundamentals or GUE Fundamentals Part 2, as per the Triox
Primer Instructor Guidelines document.

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b. Breathing gas overview
c. Dive planning, gas management, and logistics
d. Introduction to triox
e. Decompression overview and minimum decompression procedures
b. Gas analysis
c. Ascent drill
protection.
j. Demonstrate proficiency during gas-sharing scenarios, including a direct ascent while
managing minimum decompression obligations and the use of a surface marker buoy and
spool.
k. Demonstrate effective proficiency with proper ascents and descents, including the
l. Demonstrate basic equipment proficiency and an understanding of the GUE equipment
configuration.
a. Drysuit inflation system independent from back gas cylinders (while breathing a helium

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2.2.7 Doubles Primer
GUE’s Doubles Primer is a non-certification course designed to teach divers how to safely and
comfortably dive a double tank configuration using proper equipment and techniques. Course
outcomes include, but are not limited to: buoyancy and trim practice and refinement, familiarity
with the theory and use of double tank configuration, GUE equipment configuration, and valve
management.
Applicants for a Doubles Primer must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.
The Doubles Primer is normally conducted over one day. It requires a minimum of two dives and
at least eight hours of instruction, encompassing classroom lectures, land drills, and in-water
work.
2.2.7.4 Doubles Primer Specific Training Standards
2.2.7.5 Training Materials
b. Double tank introduction, tanks/cylinders and bands, manifolds
c. Regulators, depth gauges, pressure gauges, and hose routing
d. Buoyancy and trim
e. Pre-dive sequence and GUE EDGE

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f. Situational awareness
a. Equipment fit and function, assembly and disassembly
b. Gas analysis and labeling
c. GUE EDGE and pre-dive sequence
d. Basic 5 scuba skills
e. Valve drill
a. Demonstrate proficiency in safe diving techniques, including pre-dive preparation, in-
b. Demonstrate proficiency with required course equipment and an understanding of the
GUE equipment configuration.
c. Demonstrate good buoyancy and trim, i.e., approximate reference is a maximum of 30
degrees off horizontal while remaining within 5 ft/1.5 m of the target depth.
d. Demonstrate an efficient valve drill with double tanks.
e. Demonstrate aptitude in the following open water skills: mask clearing, mask removal
f. Demonstrate safe ascent and descent procedures.
g. Comfortably demonstrate at least one propulsion technique that would be appropriate
h. Demonstrate a safe and responsible demeanor throughout all training.
Excluding:
a. Backup mask
2.2.8 Drysuit Primer

GUE’s Drysuit Primer is a non-certification course designed to prepare divers for drysuit diving
using proper equipment and techniques. Course outcomes include, but are not limited to:
buoyancy and trim practice and refinement; types, fitting, and use of drysuit, drysuit inflation
system, and undergarments; cold water diving specifics; and basic failures related to drysuit
diving.
Applicants for a Drysuit Primer must:

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d. Be a nonsmoker.
The Drysuit Primer is normally conducted over one day. It requires a minimum of two dives and
at least eight hours of instruction, encompassing classroom lectures, land drills, and in-water
work.
2.2.8.4 Drysuit Primer Specific Training Standards
b. GUE equipment configuration
c. Drysuit introduction and selection
d. Undergarment selection
e. Drysuit inflation system
f. Coldwater equipment considerations, dive planning, and logistics
g. Pre-dive sequence
h. Situational awareness
i. Trim and buoyancy
j. Drysuit maintenance and field repairs
a. Equipment fit and function, assembly and disassembly
b. Gas analysis and labeling
c. GUE EDGE and pre-dive sequence
d. Dive team protocols and communication
e. Underwater drysuit failure management

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b. Demonstrate proficiency with required course equipment and an understanding of the
GUE equipment configuration.
c. Demonstrate the ability to connect and disconnect the drysuit inflation hose.
d. Demonstrate the ability to manage a drysuit inflation valve that is stuck in the open
position.
degrees off horizontal while remaining within 5 ft/1.5 m of the target depth.
h. Demonstrate proficiency in underwater communication.
a. Drysuit
b. Drysuit inflation system independent from back gas cylinders (optional)
Excluding:
a. Backup mask
2.2.9 Diver Propulsion Vehicle Level 1

GUE’s Diver Propulsion Vehicle (DPV) Level 1 course is designed to introduce divers to the skills
and knowledge required to safely use underwater propulsion vehicles in open water. Other
course outcomes include: knowledge of the basic principles of DPV diving, dive planning,
teamwork while using a DPV, environmental and conservation awareness, stress management,
navigation, standard and emergency procedures, DPV maintenance and troubleshooting, and
the potential hazards of diving with a DPV.
Applicants for a DPV 1 course must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.

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certification.
The Diver Propulsion Vehicle Level 1 course is normally conducted over three days. It requires
a minimum of five dives and at least twenty-four hours of instruction, encompassing classroom
2.2.9.4 Diver Propulsion Vehicle Level 1 Specific Training Standards
b. Maximum depth of 100 ft/30 m or the limit of the student’s certification, whichever is
shallower.
b. Equipment considerations
c. DPV components
d. DPV maintenance
e. Surface marker buoys and spools (for deco platforms)
f. Dive and operational planning
g. Team planning and procedures
h. Gas planning, gas matching, and gas management
i. Safety considerations while using a DPV
j. Considerations for managing and stowing a DPV while not in use
2.2.9.7 Land Drills
a. Proper position while using a DPV
b. Runaway DPV
c. Dive team order and protocols
d. Basic navigation skills
e. Pre-dive drills

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protection.
f. Demonstrate proficiency in underwater communication while using a DPV.
g. Demonstrate basic proficiency in managing the GUE equipment configuration.
h. Demonstrate safe ascent and descent procedures.
i. Demonstrate good buoyancy and trim, i.e., approximate reference is a maximum of 30
j. Demonstrate proficiency adjusting buoyancy while using a DPV.
k. Demonstrate effective use of compass and navigation.
l. Demonstrate ability to match speeds with team members.
m. Demonstrate ability to tow a diver with a non-functional DPV.
n. Demonstrate control while dealing with a runaway DPV.
o. Demonstrate proper procedures for gas sharing and regulator switching as appropriate.
p. Demonstrate proficiency in surface marker buoy deployment.
q. Demonstrate familiarity with required course equipment.
r. Demonstrate proficiency in gas-sharing scenarios with a gas-sharing event.
s. Demonstrate cylinder valve management appropriate for the configuration being used.
t. Demonstrate proficiency with effective decompression techniques, including depth and
time management.
a. One approved DPV
b. One primary light
An approved DPV is one that is tow-behind style with adjustable speed and clutch mechanism.
The DPV must include an attached cord at the back with a bolt snap to be clipped on the front
crotch strap D-ring and a leash attached to the front to be used for towing.
2.2.10 Documentation Diver

GUE’s Documentation Diver course is designed to introduce divers to sound documentation
techniques that are useful in project-based diving. Other course outcomes include: basic
training in photography/videography, the use of related equipment, specific team skills needed
during documentation diving, specific communication requirements, establishment of clear

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objectives and work plans, management of team tasks, how to create a report, how to map,
survey, and prepare material for media publication.
Applicants for a Documentation Diver course must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.
certification.
The Documentation Diver course is normally conducted over four days. It requires a minimum
of four dives and at least thirty-two hours of instruction, encompassing classroom lectures, land
drills, and in-water work.
2.2.10.4 Documentation Diver Specific Training Standards
b. If conducted in the cave environment, student-to-instructor ratio is not to exceed 6:1
during land drill or surface exercises, and it cannot exceed 3:1 during any in-water
training.
c. Maximum depth of 100 ft/30 m or the limit of the student’s certification, whichever is
shallower.
d. No overhead diving except when taught by an Active GUE Cave 2 instructor.
e. Students participating in a Documentation Diver course conducted in a cave must be at
least GUE Cave 2 certified.
f. When the course is conducted in a cave, all diving must remain within Cave 1 limits,
adhering to gas limits as required by Cave 1 standards.

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b. Project planning and management
c. Photo equipment specifics
d. Video equipment specifics
e. Camera techniques
f. Composition
g. Lighting techniques
h. Survey and mapping tools
i. Mapping and survey skills
j. Dive planning specific for documentation diving
k. Operational planning
l. Support materials
m. Team responsibilities, planning, and diving
n. Building and organizing a media database
o. Basics of editing video and photo material
p. Preparing materials for publishing
q. Publishing and uploading a complete project report
a. Photo camera preparation and maintenance
b. Video camera preparation and maintenance
c. Survey and mapping
d. Composition practice
e. Dive team order and protocols
f. Use of spools and reels
g. Basic navigational skills
h. Visual referencing skills
i. Pre-dive drills
c. Demonstrate a safe and responsible demeanor throughout all training.
d. Demonstrate proficiency in underwater communication.
e. Demonstrate basic proficiency in managing the GUE equipment configuration.
h. Must be able to swim at least 300 yds/275 m in less than 14 minutes without stopping.
protection.
i. Must be able to swim a distance of at least 50 ft/15 m on a breath hold while submerged.
j. Demonstrate proficiency adjusting buoyancy while managing camera equipment.

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k. Demonstrate effective use of compass and navigation.
l. Demonstrate familiarity with required course equipment.
m. Demonstrate the ability to capture predetermined imagery underwater.
n. Demonstrate the ability to draw a map underwater.
o. Demonstrate the ability to accurately record data underwater.
p. Demonstrate proficiency in surface marker buoy deployment while using a spool.
q. Demonstrate proficiency in reel, spool, and guideline use.
a. Photographic equipment: any digital photo camera suitable for underwater
photography, preferably in a housing and able to sustain a minimum water pressure of
100 ft/30 m. An underwater flash is highly recommended (if not available, underwater
video lights may be suitable). Manual adjustment (aperture/shutter) on the camera is
preferred.
b. Video equipment: any digital video camera suitable for underwater videography,
preferably in a housing and able to sustain a minimum water pressure of 100 ft/30 m. An
underwater video lighting system is highly recommended. Manual adjustment
(aperture/shutter) on the video camera and a wide-angle lens with adapter is preferred.
c. Computer system: any Windows or Mac-based computer (preferably a laptop) with
software designed for video and photo editing, an internet connection, and word-
processing software installed.
2.2.11 Photogrammetry Diver

GUE’s Photogrammetry Diver course is designed to introduce divers to the skills and
procedures for using underwater photogrammetry to make digital 3D models of dive sites.
Applicants for a Photogrammetry Diver course must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.

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certification.
The Photogrammetry Diver course is normally conducted over four days. It requires a minimum
of three dives and at least thirty-two hours of instruction, encompassing classroom, land drills,
and in-water work.
2.2.11.4 Photogrammetry Diver Specific Training Standards
shallower.
c. All dives must be within minimum decompression limits (MDLs), i.e., no required stops.
d. A Photogrammetry Diver class can only be conducted using a rebreather if:
i. All students are GUE certified for the rebreather being used during class.
ii. All students have 25 logged dives beyond GUE rebreather certification.
iii. The instructor is an active GUE rebreather instructor for the unit being used
during class.
e. A Photogrammetry Diver class can only be conducted in an overhead environment if:
i. Students are all GUE Cave 2 certified.
ii. The instructor is an Active GUE Cave 2 instructor.
f. When a Photogrammetry Diver class is conducted in an overhead environment:
i. Student-to-instructor ratio is reduced to 6:1 during land drills and surface
exercises; it cannot exceed 3:1 during any in-water training.
ii. Dives must be conducted within Cave 1 limits.
a. Introduction: GUE organization and course overview (objectives, limits, expectations).
b. Photogrammetry basics
c. Photo equipment specifics
d. Video equipment specifics
e. Processing of images using Agisoft Photoscan
f. Post-processing, publishing, and uploading of 3D projects
a. Photo camera preparation and maintenance
b. Video camera preparation and maintenance
c. Photogrammetry with still images
d. Photogrammetry with video images
e. Lighting and lighting-diver positioning

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e. Demonstrate basic proficiency managing GUE’s base equipment configuration.
h. Demonstrate proficiency in adjusting buoyancy while managing camera equipment.
i. Demonstrate familiarity with required course equipment.
j. Demonstrate the ability to capture predetermined imagery underwater.
k. Must be able to swim at least 300 yds/275 m in less than 14 minutes without stopping.
protection.
l. Must be able to swim a distance of at least 50 ft/15 m on a breath hold while submerged.
GUE configuration as outlined in Appendix A, plus:
a. Photographic equipment: any digital photo camera suitable for underwater
photography, preferably in a housing and able to sustain a minimum water pressure of
100 ft/30 m. An underwater flash is highly recommended (if not available, underwater
video lights may be suitable). Manual adjustment (aperture/shutter) on the camera is
preferred.
b. Video equipment: any digital video camera suitable for underwater videography,
preferably in a housing and able to sustain a minimum water pressure of 100 ft/30 m.
An underwater video lighting system is highly recommended. Manual adjustment
(aperture/shutter) on the video camera and a wide-angle lens with adapter is preferred.
c. Computer system: any Windows or Mac-based computer with Agisoft Photoscan
software (Demo, Standard, or Pro version) installed.
d. For classes conducted using rebreathers, a GUE- approved rebreather must be used.
Prior to the commencement of class, students should consult with a GUE representative to
2.2.12 Scientific Diver

GUE’s Scientific Diver course is designed to create divers who are capable of acting as a member
of a scientific diving team using proper equipment and techniques. Upon course completion,
students will also possess a basic knowledge and understanding of legalities and responsibilities
relevant to scientific diving. Other course outcomes include: competence with search methods
and survey methods, both surface and sub-surface; ability to accurately locate and mark both
objects and sites; basic use of lift bags and airlifts to be used in controlled lifts, excavations, and

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sampling; basic rigging and line work, including the construction and deployment of transects
and search grids; underwater navigation methods using suitable techniques; recording
techniques; acting as surface tender for a roped diver; and using appropriate sampling
techniques for the scientific discipline being pursued.
Applicants for a Scientific Diver course must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.

The Scientific Diver course is normally conducted over five days. It requires a minimum of six
dives and at least forty hours of instruction, encompassing classroom lectures, land drills, and
in-water work.
2.2.12.4 Scientific Diver Specific Training Standards
a. Student-to-instructor ratio is not to exceed 4:1 during land drills, surface exercises, or
in-water training.
shallower.
a. Introduction: GUE organization and course overview (objectives, limits, expectations).
b. Course overview
c. History of scientific diving
d. Citizen science
e. Project Baseline
f. The scientific method
g. Ethics in science

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h. Underwater sciences: biology, archaeology, geology, and hydrology
i. Methods: tools of the trade, site marking, sketching, transects and baselines, quadrats,
photomosaics, visual and video census
j. Dive planning and data management: project planning, data management, database use,
reporting
2.2.12.7 Land Drills
a. Site marking and assessment: review of basic navigation skills, line work (reels and
spools), line survey
b. Methodology: acting as tender for roped diver, site sketch, mark and measure,
baseline/transect, photoquadrats, photomosaic, video and visual census, offset
measures, density cover, drawing grids
c. Data management: archiving data, drafting a map, site report
protection.
g. Demonstrate proficiency in underwater communication.
i. Demonstrate three propulsion techniques. Students must demonstrate comprehension
of the components necessary for a successful backward kick.
j. Demonstrate a pendulum search while acting as surface tender for roped diver.
k. Demonstrate proficiency in marking and measuring organisms, artifacts, and other
objects.
l. Demonstrate proficiency in the use of tools, including airlifts and lift bags.
m. Demonstrate proficiency in multiple mapping methods, including a sketch using a
circular or radial search, assembly of a sampling grid, and offsets/ triangulations.
n. Demonstrate proficiency in estimating abundance/coverage through visual census
(while swimming or stationary), the photoquadrat method, estimated percent coverage
(either with square or with transect), and video transects (either swimming or
stationary).
o. Demonstrate proficiency in establishing transects with a tape measure or with a
reel/spool.
a. At least one additional spool

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b. One reel per team
c. Ruler of 10 to 20 in./25 to 50 cm
d. Grid/graph paper
e. One laptop per team
f. Two underwater cameras (ideally GoPro) per team
g. Tape measure with a minimum length of 5 ft/1.5 m
h. Tape measure with a minimum length of 100 ft/30 m
Prior to the commencement of class, students should consult with a GUE representative to
2.2.13 Gas Blender

GUE’s Gas Blender course is designed to introduce students to the essential skills required for
blending diving gases (nitrox and helium-based breathing gases). Training includes the theory of
gas blending as well as practical skills required for blending breathing gas mixtures.
Applicants for a Gas Blender course must:
b. Be physically and mentally fit.
c. Be a nonsmoker.
d. Be a minimum of 18 years of age. Documented parental or legal guardian consent must
The Gas Blender course is normally conducted over one day. It requires at least eight hours of
academics and practical skills application.
2.2.13.4 Gas Blender Specific Training Standards
a. Student-to-instructor ratio is not to exceed 6:1
b. Gas properties
c. Gas physics
d. GUE Standard Gases
e. Pressure hazards
f. Oxygen hazards and oxygen service
g. Blending systems

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h. Practical blending
i. Blending formulas and software
j. Cascading
k. Gas boosters
l. Gas analysis and record keeping
2.2.13.7 Practical Skills Topics
a. Analyzing
b. Field calculations
c. Partial pressure nitrox and trimix blending
d. Continuous flow/membrane blending (when available)
e. Remixing
f. Use of gas booster (when available)
2.2.13.8 Required Skills and Drills
a. Demonstrate proficiency with gas blending calculations, including remixes.
b. Demonstrate safe and accurate gas blending practices (within +/- 1% O2, +/- 3% He).
d. Demonstrate accurate gas analysis, marking, and logging.
a. Appropriate cylinders to blend gases into
b. Partial pressure filling equipment for both oxygen and helium
c. Compressor or banked HP air
d. Continuous flow or membrane nitrox system (optional)
e. Gas booster (optional)
f. Nitrox and trimix analyzer
g. GUE gas analysis tape
h. Computer with GUE Gas Management Program software
2.3 Technical Diver Curriculum
2.3.1 Technical Diver Level 1

GUE’s Technical Diver Level 1 course is designed to prepare divers for the rigors of technical
diving and to familiarize them with the use of different breathing and decompression mixtures.
Additional course outcomes include: cultivating, integrating, and expanding the essential skills
required for safe technical diving; problem identification and resolution; the use of a double
tanks configuration and the potential failure problems associated with it; the use of nitrox for
accelerated and general decompression strategies; the use of helium to minimize narcosis; and
the applications of single decompression stage diving with respect to decompression
procedures.

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Applicants for a Tech 1 course must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.
g. Be a certified GUE Fundamentals diver with a Technical rating.
h. Have completed at least 100 non-training dives beyond autonomous scuba diver
certification.
The Technical Diver Level 1 course is normally conducted over six days. It requires a minimum
of seven dives (including three trimix experience dives) and at least forty-eight hours of
2.3.1.4 Technical Diver Level 1 Specific Training Standards
c. Dives must not be planned to incur more than 30 minutes of unadjusted decompression
e. Standards for Tech 1 training in a cave environment:
i. Students participating in a Tech 1 course conducted in a cave environment must
be at least GUE Cave 2 certified with 25 dives conducted at the Cave 2 level.
ii. Students passing a Tech 1 course conducted in a cave environment will be
awarded a Cave Diver Level 2 - Normoxic Trimix certification instead of a
Technical Diver Level 1 certification.
b. Dive planning, minimum gas, gas strategies, and gas management
c. Gas properties: breathing gases, oxygen, narcosis, and hypercapnia
d. Decompression theory: history, overview, and decompression sickness
e. Practical decompression: general guidelines, DecoPlanner, ratio deco, and other
considerations

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f. Emergencies: accident prevention and management
a. Reel and guideline use
b. Dive team formation, communication, and protocols
c. Back gas regulators/valve failure modes and management
d. Decompression cylinder set up
e. Gas switch procedures
f. Decompression cylinder failure protocols
g. Unconscious diver recovery
h. Backup light deployment
i. Decompression gas sharing
f. Demonstrate proficiency with proper ascents and descents, utilizing variable ascent
g. Must be able to swim at least 400 yds/375 m in less than 14 minutes without stopping.
protection.
h. Must be able to swim a distance of at least 60 ft/18 m on a breath hold while submerged.
i. Demonstrate proficiency in gas failure procedures, including valve manipulation
(fixable, non-fixable, and erroneous failures), gas sharing, and regulator switching as
appropriate.
j. Demonstrate proficiency in surface marker buoy deployment (except if Tech 1 training
is conducted in a cave environment).
k. Demonstrate proficiency in switching to a backup mask.
l. Demonstrate proficiency in switching to a backup light.
m. Demonstrate familiarity with required course equipment.
n. Demonstrate proficiency in managing gas-sharing scenarios, including gas sharing on
the bottom, gas sharing during ascent, and sharing decompression gas.
o. Comfortably demonstrate at least three propulsion techniques that would be
appropriate in delicate and/or silty environments; one of these kicks must be the
backward kick.
p. Demonstrate reasonable proficiency with a single decompression cylinder.
q. Demonstrate proficiency with effective decompression techniques, including depth and
time management.
r. Demonstrate dive rescue techniques, including effective underwater management of an
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s. Demonstrate good buoyancy and trim, i.e., approximate reference is a maximum of 20
t. Demonstrate the ability to manage a failed decompression cylinder using available team
resources.
c. One decompression stage with stage regulator
d. One primary reel per team
e. Drysuit inflation system independent from back gas cylinders (while breathing a helium
2.3.2 Technical Diver Level 2

GUE’s Technical Diver 2 course is designed to enhance deep diving proficiency while using
helium breathing gases and oxygen-enriched decompression gases. Other course outcomes
include: the use of multiple stages; the use of trimix with greater percentages of helium; use of
hypoxic gas mixture protocols; gas management; oxygen management; extended
decompression; accelerated, omitted, and general decompression strategies; dive planning; and
management of multiple cylinders.
Applicants for a Tech 2 course must:
Release to GUE HQ.
d. Be a nonsmoker.
g. Be a certified GUE Technical Diver Level 1 diver.
h. Have completed at least 25 non-training Tech 1 dives beyond GUE Technical Diver Level
1 certification.
i. Have completed at least 50 non-training dives in a double tank configuration.

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The Technical Diver Level 2 course is normally conducted over six days. It requires a minimum
of seven dives (including three trimix experience dives) and at least forty-eight hours of
2.3.2.4 Technical Diver Level 2 Specific Training Standards
e. Standards for Tech 2 training in a cave environment:
i. Students participating in a Tech 2 course conducted in a cave environment must
be at least GUE Cave 2 certified with 25 dives conducted at the Cave 2 level.
ii. Students must also be at least GUE Tech 1 or GUE Cave 2 - Normoxic Trimix
certified with 25 dives conducted at that level.
iii. Students passing a Tech 2 course conducted in a cave environment will be
awarded a Cave Diver Level 2 - Hypoxic Trimix certification instead of a
Technical Diver Level 2 certification.
b. Advanced mixed gas diving including hypoxic protocols
c. Risks of decompression diving
d. Gas management during deep dives
e. Accelerated, omitted, and general decompression strategies
f. Deep diving logistics and planning
a. Dive team order and protocols
b. Gas switching procedures and protocols, including hypoxic protocol
c. Back gas and stage regulators/valve failure modes and management
d. Use of a bottom stage and multiple decompression stages (tank rotations)
e. Unconscious diver recovery
f. Decompression gas sharing

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f. Demonstrate proficiency with proper ascents and descents, utilizing variable ascent
protection.
i. Demonstrate proficiency in the ability to plan Tech 2 dives while accounting for
environmental conditions, available gas, and required decompression.
j. Demonstrate clean and effective removal and exchange of multiple stage cylinders while
hovering horizontally (tank rotations).
k. Comfortably demonstrate at least three propulsion techniques that would be
backward kick.
l. Demonstrate good buoyancy and trim, i.e., approximate reference is a maximum of 20
m. Demonstrate proficiency in gas failure procedures, including valve manipulation
appropriate.
n. Demonstrate proficiency in managing gas-sharing scenarios, including gas sharing on
the bottom, gas sharing during ascent, and sharing decompression gas.
o. Demonstrate proficiency with effective decompression techniques, including depth and
time management, while also managing multiple gas switches and other tasks such as
tank rotation skills.
p. Demonstrate diver rescue techniques, including effective underwater management of
an unconscious diver.
c. Two decompression stages with stage regulators
d. One bottom stage with stage regulator
e. One primary reel per team
f. One stage leash with a double-ender
g. Drysuit inflation system independent from back gas cylinders (while breathing a helium
2.3.3 Technical Diver Level 2 “Plus” Upgrade

GUE’s Tech 2 “Plus” Upgrade is an experience-based certification. It recognizes the skills and
experience of Tech 2-certified divers and sanctions them to progress to more complex and

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advanced dives; it extends their diving range to a maximum of 300 ft/90 m, and to a maximum
of 90 minutes of decompression time, as established by GUE’s DecoPlanner.
Students seeking this upgrade must provide GUE HQ with evidence of 25 dives at the Tech 2
level. Depth, bottom time, decompression time, date and location of dives, gases used, and team
members should all be included in the information provided.
2.3.4 Passive Semi-Closed Circuit Rebreather Diver

GUE’s Passive Semi-Closed Circuit Rebreather (PSCR) Diver course is designed to educate
individuals in basic PSCR rebreather technologies and to cultivate diver proficiency in the use
of GUE-approved PSCR configurations.
Applicants for a PSCR Diver course must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.
f. Be a minimum of 21 years of age.
g. Be a certified GUE Technical Diver Level 2 diver or a certified GUE Closed-Circuit
Rebreather Diver Level 2 diver.
h. Have completed at least 25 non-training Tech 2 or CCR 2 dives beyond GUE Technical
Diver Level 2 or GUE Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 2 certification, whichever
is applicable.
The Passive Semi-Closed Circuit Rebreather Diver course is normally conducted over five days.
It requires a minimum of eight dives and at least forty hours of instruction, encompassing
classroom lectures, land drills, and at least ten hours of in-water work.
2.3.4.4 Passive Semi-Closed Circuit Rebreather Diver Specific Training Standards
e. Students participating in a Rebreather course conducted in a cave environment must be
at least GUE Cave 2 certified.

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b. Purpose
c. Common components of rebreathers and how they function
d. Inherent risks of rebreathers
e. Rebreather operation, alarms, and warnings
f. Oxygen risks: hypoxia, hyperoxia
g. Decompression consideration while using semi-closed rebreathers
h. Oxygen loading, potential drop, adjusted deco
i. Equipment configuration
j. Problem recognition and management
k. The importance of instinctive physiological monitoring
l. Pre-dive planning
m. Post-dive procedures
n. Need for continuing education and skill reinforcement
a. Flow checks
b. Rebreather-specific topics:
i. Pre-dive preparation and verification
ii. Appropriate diving procedures
iii. Failure management
iv. Maintenance and repair
c. Manifold failures
d. Gas addition failures
e. Gas sharing
a. Demonstrate a safe and responsible demeanor throughout all training.
b. Demonstrate proficiency in underwater communication.
c. Demonstrate basic proficiency in managing a passive semi-closed circuit rebreather
configuration.
d. Demonstrate reasonable proficiency with the use of the rebreather during ascents,
descents, and diving.
f. Must be able to swim at least 500 yds/450 m in less than 14 minutes without stopping.
protection.
g. Must be able to swim a distance of at least 60 ft/18 m on a breath hold while submerged.
h. Demonstrate ability to manage gas failures, including valve manipulation, gas sharing,
and regulator switching as appropriate.

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i. Demonstrate the ability to manage a flooded rebreather while discharging excess water.
j. Demonstrate the ability to diagnose and correctly respond to simulated rebreather
problems.
k. Demonstrate effective valve management.
l. Demonstrate proficiency in removing and re-attaching stage cylinders while hovering
horizontally.
m. Demonstrate the ability to comfortably switch gases while maintaining good trim and
neutral buoyancy.
n. Demonstrate proficiency in safe diving procedures, including assembly, vacuum and
pressure tests, pre-dive preparation, pre-dive vacuum test, flow check, in-water activity,
and post-dive assessment, breakdown and maintenance.
o. Efficiently and comfortably demonstrate how to donate gas to an out-of-gas diver while
using the rebreather.
p. Be able to comfortably demonstrate use, manipulation, and failure management of the
gas addition system supplying the rebreather.
q. Demonstrate awareness of a team member’s rebreather function and an overall concern
for safety, responding quickly to visual or audible indications and dive partner needs
during diving and failures.
a. A GUE-approved passive semi-closed circuit rebreather
b. Modified tank configuration as appropriate for use with a GUE-approved passive semi-
closed circuit rebreather
c. Modified regulator configuration as appropriate for use with a GUE-approved passive
semi-closed circuit rebreather
d. Bottom and/or decompression stages and stage regulators
e. One primary and two backup lights
2.3.5 Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 1

GUE’s Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 1 course is an entry-level closed-circuit
rebreather course designed to educate GUE technical divers in basic rebreather technologies
and to cultivate diver proficiency in the use of GUE-approved closed-circuit rebreather
configurations.
Applicants for a CCR 1 course must:

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d. Be a nonsmoker.
g. Be a certified GUE Technical Diver Level 1 diver.
h. Have completed at least 25 non-training Tech 1 dives beyond GUE Technical Diver Level
1 certification.
i. Have completed at least 50 non-training dives in a double tank configuration.
The Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 1 course is normally conducted over six days. It
requires a minimum of eight dives and at least forty-eight hours of instruction, encompassing
2.3.5.4 Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 1 Specific Training Standards
e. The oxygen supply valve must never be closed completely during drills.
b. Anatomy of rebreathers, common components and how they function
c. Benefits and disadvantages of using closed-circuit rebreathers
d. Inherent risks of using closed-circuit rebreathers
e. Closed-circuit rebreather operation, alarms, and warnings
f. Breathing gas dynamics, hyperoxia, hypoxia, hypercapnia, and gas density
g. Absorbent material: properties and canister endurance
h. Gas management: consumption, use, requirements, and reserves
i. Decompression considerations while using closed-circuit rebreathers
j. Diver safety and responsibilities
a. Rebreather assembly and setup
b. Rebreather pre-dive checklist
c. Rebreather on-site checklist
d. CHAOS critical control checks and 5-minute pre-breathe
e. Dry land experience dive, including basic operations such as: switching to and off the
loop (DSV/BOV open/close); achieving a proper seal around the mouthpiece; preventing
nose exhalation; testing for, achieving, and maintaining optimal loop volume; pO2

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awareness using HUD and controller; communicating own pO2 and current setpoint;
requesting pO2 and setpoint information from team
f. Electronically controlled setpoint and switches
g. Manually controlled setpoint and switches
h. Diluent flush techniques, including two-handed, one-handed, and exhalation-triggered
ADV diluent gas addition
i. Basic failure management
j. Bailout and out-of-gas procedures
k. Unconscious diver recovery
l. Maintenance and repair of closed-circuit rebreather
c. Demonstrate basic proficiency in managing a closed-circuit rebreather configuration.
d. Demonstrate reasonable proficiency with the use of the closed-circuit rebreather
during ascents, descents, and bottom phase of the dive.
protection.
h. Demonstrate the ability to manage a flooded closed-circuit rebreather while discharging
excess water.
i. Demonstrate the ability to diagnose and correctly respond to simulated closed-circuit
rebreather problems.
j. Demonstrate the ability to switch and maintain desired pO2 setpoints electronically
through a dive.
k. Demonstrate the ability to switch and maintain desired pO2 setpoints manually through
a dive.
l. Demonstrate effective valve management.
m. Demonstrate proficiency in safe diving procedures, including assembly and setup;
rebreather pre-dive checklist; rebreather on-site checklist; CHAOS critical control
checks and 5-minute pre-breathe; GUE-EDGE; flow check; in-water activity; and post-
dive assessment, breakdown, and maintenance.
n. Efficiently and comfortably demonstrate how to donate gas to an out-of-gas diver while
using the closed-circuit rebreather.
o. Be able to comfortably demonstrate use, manipulation, and failure management of the
gas addition systems supplying the rebreather.
p. Demonstrate awareness of a team member’s closed-circuit rebreather function and an
overall concern for safety, responding quickly to visual or audible indications and dive
partner needs during diving and failures.

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a. Modified tank configuration as appropriate for use with a GUE-approved closed-circuit
rebreather
b. Modified regulator configuration as appropriate for use with a GUE-approved closed-
circuit rebreather
c. A GUE-approved closed-circuit rebreather
i. The closed-circuit rebreather used by the student, with all associated
components, must be fully functional (pass all tests on the rebreather pre-dive
checklist) and serviced according to manufacturer specifications.
ii. All oxygen sensors must be less than one year from manufacturing date.
iii. Both the rebreather controller and SOLO board must be updated with the latest
software and firmware versions published by the manufacturer.
d. Spare parts and consumables, including one set of controller, HUD, and solenoid
batteries; one oxygen sensor; and one DSV/BOV mouthpiece.
f. Drysuit inflation system independent from back gas cylinders (optional). If using a
drysuit inflation cylinder attached to the backplate, extended inflation cylinder straps
need to be used to ensure that it does not interfere with or restrict the counterlung’s
function.
2.3.6 Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 2

GUE’s Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 2 course is designed to educate individuals in
advanced rebreather technologies and to cultivate diver proficiency in the use of GUE-approved
rebreather configurations. The course is also designed to enhance deep diving proficiency while
using hypoxic helium diluent and bailout gases and oxygen-enriched decompression gases.
Other course outcomes include: the use of multiple bailout stages; use of hypoxic gas mixtures
and required hypoxic protocols; gas management; oxygen management; extended
decompression; accelerated, omitted, and general decompression strategies; dive planning; and
management of multiple cylinders.
Applicants for a CCR 2 course must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.
g. Be a certified GUE Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 1 diver.

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h. Have completed at least 50 non-training closed-circuit rebreather dives beyond GUE
Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 1 certification.
i. Have completed at least 25 non-training closed-circuit rebreather dives beyond GUE
Closed-Circuit Rebreather Level 1 certification, deeper than 100 ft/30 m.
j. Own a GUE-approved closed-circuit rebreather.
The Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 2 course is normally conducted over six days. It
requires a minimum of eight dives and at least forty-eight hours of instruction, encompassing
2.3.6.4 Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 2 Specific Training Standards
e. The oxygen supply valve must never be closed completely during drills.
b. Human factors
c. Rebreather operation and procedures
d. Failure management
e. Strategies necessary for a successful dive, decompression planning, absorbent
management, gas and gas reserve management
f. Continuance management
a. Basic rebreather operation review
b. Basic rebreather failure management review
c. Basic open-circuit failure management review
d. Bailout and out-of-gas procedures review
e. Gas switching review
f. Advanced rebreather operation
g. Advanced rebreather failures
h. Bailout, including the use of a bottom stage and ascent with two additional gas switches
and a tank rotation
i. Off-board use of oxygen and diluent
j. Semi-closed rebreather operation

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c. Demonstrate proficiency in managing a closed-circuit rebreather configuration.
d. Demonstrate proficiency with the use of the rebreather during ascents, descents, and
diving.
protection.
h. Demonstrate ability to manage gas failures, including valve manipulation, out-of-gas
scenarios, and regulator switching as appropriate.
i. Demonstrate the ability to manage a flooded closed-circuit rebreather while discharging
excess water.
j. Demonstrate the ability to diagnose and correctly respond to simulated rebreather
problems.
k. Demonstrate the ability to switch and maintain desired pO2 setpoints manually
throughout a dive.
l. Demonstrate effective ability to connect and use off-board O2 or diluent gas.
m. Demonstrate effective ability to dive the rebreather in semi-closed mode.
n. Demonstrate proficiency in removing, rotating, and re-attaching stage cylinders while
hovering horizontally.
o. Demonstrate the ability to comfortably switch gases while maintaining good trim and
neutral buoyancy.
p. Demonstrate proficiency in safe diving procedures, including assembly and setup;
rebreather pre-dive checklist; rebreather on-site checklist; CHAOS critical control
checks and 5-minute pre-breathe; GUE-EDGE; flow check; in-water activity; and post-
dive assessment, breakdown, and maintenance.
q. Efficiently and comfortably demonstrate how to donate gas to an out-of-gas diver while
r. Be able to comfortably demonstrate use, manipulation, and failure management of the
gas addition systems supplying the rebreather.
s. Demonstrate awareness of a team member’s closed-circuit rebreather function and an
overall concern for safety, responding quickly to visual or audible indications and dive
partner needs during diving and failures.
rebreather
circuit rebreather

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i. The student must own their own GUE-approved closed-circuit rebreather
before attending the course; they can, however, use a rented or borrowed unit
during the course.
ii. The closed-circuit rebreather used by the student, with all associated
iii. All oxygen sensors must be less than one year from manufacturing date.
iv. Both the rebreather controller and SOLO board must be updated with the latest
batteries; one oxygen sensor; and one DSV/BOV mouthpiece
f. Three stage cylinders with stage regulators
i. Two decompression stages
ii. One bottom stage
iii. All stage regulators must have a low pressure inflator hose, allowing them to be
connected to the rebreather manual addition valve (MAV).
g. One stage leash with a double-ender
h. One primary reel per team
i. Drysuit inflation system independent from back gas cylinders (while breathing a helium
mixture, if using a drysuit). If using a drysuit inflation cylinder attached to the backplate,
extended inflation cylinder straps need to be used to ensure that it does not interfere
with or restrict the counterlung’s function.
2.3.7 Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 2 “Plus” Upgrade

GUE’s CCR 2 “Plus” Upgrade is an experience-based certification. It recognizes the skills and
experience of CCR 2-certified divers and sanctions them to progress to more complex and
advanced dives; it extends their diving range to a maximum of 300 ft/90 m, and to a maximum
of 90 minutes of decompression time, as established by GUE’s DecoPlanner.
Students seeking this upgrade must provide GUE HQ with evidence of 25 dives at the CCR 2
level. Depth, bottom time, decompression time, date and location of dives, gases used, and team
members should all be included in the information provided.
2.4 Cave Diver Curriculum
2.4.1 Cave Diver Level 1

GUE’s Cave Diver Level 1 course is designed to prepare divers for the rigors of the underwater
cave environment and to establish an appreciation of its subtle dangers. Among its other
outcomes: introduce divers to the principles of cave diving and the skills and knowledge
required for limited penetration into underwater caves; increase environmental awareness;

Version 9.2
cultivate proficiency in dive planning; cultivate teamwork; promote an understanding of cave
environments; teach stress management, navigation, conservation, standard and emergency
procedures, and cave diving techniques; and instill an appreciation of the hazards of cave diving.
Applicants for a Cave 1 course must:
Release to GUE HQ.
d. Be a nonsmoker.
g. Be a certified GUE Fundamentals diver with a Technical rating.
h. Have completed at least 100 non-training dives beyond autonomous scuba diver
certification.
The Cave Diver Level 1 course is normally conducted over five days. It requires a minimum of
twelve dives (including ten cave dives that are conducted in at least three different caves1) and
at least forty hours of instruction, encompassing classroom lectures, land drills, and in-water
work.
Divers wishing to use triox as a breathing gas are required to review all Triox Primer academics,
including the exam, with their instructor and perform at least two dives using triox 30/30.
Successful completion of these objectives results in the addition of triox 30/30 to the allowed
post-certification breathing gases and will be noted on the Cave 1 certification card.
2.4.1.4 Cave Diver Level 1 Specific Training Standards
b. Maximum of 1/3 of 2/3 of the total gas supply can be used for penetration
d. Minimum 100 ft3/2800 L of gas is required to begin a Cave 1 dive
e. No passages may be used in which divers are forced to travel single file for a prolonged
distance (i.e., approximately 10 ft/3 m).
f. No complex navigation (jumps, traverses, circuits)
g. Navigation beyond one permanent intersection (also known as a “T” or “Y”) and an
unlimited number of temporary intersections is permitted. Permanent intersections are
identified by the lack of a visible jump spool; temporary intersections provide visual
1
In this context, caves are considered to be different if they have geographically distinct entrances.

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access to a diver’s jump spool. All intersections that appear permanent should be marked
with non-directional markers.
h. Trainees may navigate gaps; a gap occurs where the main line ends and begins again a
short distance later. Normally this occurs where the line has reached another
entrance/exit point.
i. All dives must be within minimum decompression limits (MDLs), i.e., no required stops.
j. No DPV diving
k. No exploration
l. No stage cylinders
Divers wishing to use triox as a breathing gas must be familiar with all academic materials
included in Triox Primer.
b. Environmental and cave conservation
c. Guideline use and cave etiquette
d. Dive team order and protocols
e. Touch contact
f. Basic navigation skills
g. Dive planning
h. Decompression theory
i. Gas management
j. Accident analysis
k. Stress
l. Environment
m. Communication
n. Triox Primer academic topics, when relevant
a. Guideline use and cave etiquette
b. Guideline use during emergency scenarios, including touch contact and gas-sharing
emergencies
c. Back gas regulators and valve failure modes and management
d. Lost diver procedures
e. Lost guideline procedures
f. Unconscious diver recovery
g. Basic navigation skills

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protection.
i. Demonstrate proficiency in cave navigation, including visual references, guideline use,
limited and simulated zero visibility, and the use of a penetration reel for a prolonged
distance from open water until the team ties into the main line.
j. Demonstrate proficiency in gas failure procedures, including valve manipulation
appropriate.
k. Demonstrate proficiency during gas-sharing scenarios in limited and/or simulated zero
visibility, over a distance that supports student experience with travel, line crossing, and
navigation of line wraps.
l. Comfortably demonstrate at least three propulsion techniques that would be
backward kick.
m. Demonstrate proficiency in the use of touch contact for limited and simulated zero
visibility situations.
n. Demonstrate the ability to mentally record depth, time, and gas consumption during a
dive and apply these parameters to future dive planning.
o. Demonstrate the efficient deployment of a backup light.
p. Demonstrate the ability to search for a missing diver while performing a simulated
missing diver drill.
q. Demonstrate the skills needed to locate a lost line while performing a simulated lost line
drill.
r. Demonstrate a calm demeanor while sharing gas in simulated zero visibility for a
prolonged distance.
s. Demonstrate good buoyancy and trim, i.e., approximate reference is a maximum of 20
t. Demonstrate diver rescue techniques, including effective management of an
unconscious diver.
u. Demonstrate proficiency in switching to a backup mask.
v. Divers wishing to use triox as a breathing gas must successfully conduct at least two
dives while using triox 30/30.

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c. One safety spool
d. One primary reel per team
e. At least six line markers; three directional and three non-directional
Excluding:
a. Surface marker buoy with spool
2.4.2 Cave Diver Level 2

GUE’s Cave Diver Level 2 course is designed to expand the cave diving skills of experienced
Cave 1 trained divers. Among its outcomes are: a focus on environmental awareness, capacity
with extended penetration dives, advanced navigation, use of jump spools, enhanced team
awareness, advanced problem resolution, stress management, and use of a bottom and
decompression stage.
Applicants for a Cave 2 course must:
Release to GUE HQ.
d. Be a nonsmoker.
e. Obtain a physician’s written authorization for the use of prescription drugs, except for
g. Be a certified GUE Cave Diver Level 1 diver.
h. Have completed at least 25 non-training Cave 1 dives beyond GUE Cave Diver Level 1
certification.
The Cave Diver Level 2 course is normally conducted over five days. It requires a minimum of
ten cave dives that are conducted in at least three different caves2 and at least forty hours of
Divers wishing to use triox as a breathing gas are required to review all Triox Primer academics,
including the exam, with their instructor and perform at least two dives using triox 30/30.
Successful completion of these objectives results in the addition of triox 30/30 to the allowed
post-certification breathing gases and will be noted on the Cave 2 certification card.
2
In this context, caves are considered to be different if they have geographically distinct entrances.

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2.4.2.4 Cave Diver Level 2 Specific Training Standards
b. Maximum of 1/3 of the total gas supply can be used for cave penetration
c. Maximum depth of 100 ft/30 m.
d. Minimum 140 ft3/4000 L of gas is required to begin a Cave 2 dive
e. No DPV diving
Divers wishing to use triox as a breathing gas must be familiar with all academic materials
included in Triox Primer.
b. Guideline use, including the use of a jump spool
c. Dive team order and protocols
d. Touch contact
e. Advanced navigation
f. Advanced dive planning
g. Gas management with thirds and while using a stage cylinder
h. Accident analysis
i. Stress management
j. Environmental considerations
k. Communication
l. Cave restrictions
m. Basic survey techniques
n. Decompression
o. Triox Primer academic topics, when relevant
a. Guideline use and procedures, including use of a jump spool
b. Missing diver procedures
c. Unconscious diver recovery
d. Back gas regulator and valve failure modes and management
e. Bottom and decompression stage usage (drops and pickups)
f. Switching to and from a stage and decompression cylinders
g. Bottom and decompression stage failure management
h. Lost guideline procedures
i. Basic and advanced navigation skills, including gaps/jumps, circuits, and traverses
j. Guideline referencing skills

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e. Demonstrate basic proficiency in managing the GUE base equipment configuration.
protection.
i. Demonstrate proficiency in managing breathing system failures, including proper
assessment and valve manipulation (fixable, non-fixable, and erroneous) with regulator
switching as appropriate and bottom and decompression stage failure management.
j. Demonstrate proficiency during gas-sharing scenarios, including decompression gas
sharing.
k. Demonstrate proficiency in cave navigation, including visual references, guideline use,
and limited and simulated zero visibility.
l. Comfortably demonstrate at least three propulsion techniques that would be
backward kick.
m. Demonstrate proficiency in the use of touch contact for limited and simulated zero
visibility situations.
n. Demonstrate the efficient deployment of a backup light.
o. Demonstrate the ability to search for a missing diver while performing a simulated
missing diver drill.
p. Demonstrate the skills needed to locate a lost line while performing a simulated lost line
drill.
q. Demonstrate capacity with advanced cave navigation as outlined in Appendix B.
r. Demonstrate capacity in planning for and dealing with minor and major restrictions.
s. Demonstrate a calm demeanor while sharing gas in simulated zero visibility for a
prolonged distance.
t. Demonstrate the ability to use a stage cylinder with appropriate gas switching
procedures during extended penetration cave dives.
u. Demonstrate good buoyancy and trim, i.e., approximate reference is a maximum of 20
v. Demonstrate diver rescue techniques, including effective management of an
unconscious diver.
w. Divers wishing to use triox as a breathing gas must successfully conduct at least two
dives while using triox 30/30.
c. One bottom stage with stage regulator

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d. One decompression stage with stage regulator
e. One safety spool
f. At least two jump spools
g. One primary reel per team
h. At least twelve line markers; six directional and six non-directional
Excluding:
2.4.3 Underwater Cave Survey

GUE’s Underwater Cave Survey course is designed to introduce experienced cave divers to the
important skill of surveying underwater caves. Among the course’s intended outcomes are:
introducing divers to the basic principles of underwater cave survey, the implementation of a
defined team approach to underwater survey data collection, preparing an experienced cave
diver to productively assist in a coordinated cave project, and introducing divers to cartography
methods.
Applicants for an Underwater Cave Survey course must:
Release to GUE HQ.
b. Hold insurance that will cover diving emergencies, such as hyperbaric treatment, e.g.,
d. Be a nonsmoker.
certification.
The Underwater Cave Survey course is normally conducted over five days. It requires a
minimum of ten diving hours and at least forty hours of instruction, encompassing classroom
2.4.3.4 Underwater Cave Survey Specific Training Standards

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c. Maximum of 1/3 of the total gas supply can be used for cave penetration
d. Minimum 140 ft3/4000 L of gas is required to begin a Cave 2 level dive
e. All survey tasks must be completed before reaching penetration gas limits.
f. No DPV diving unless both instructor and trainees are GUE DPV Cave certified.
a. Introduction
b. Course overview
c. Reasons to survey
d. Survey priorities
e. Equipment
f. Data collection
g. The “stick map”
h. Data archiving
i. Data manipulation and plotting
j. Expanding the frame
k. Sketching underwater details
l. Cartography
m. Overview of workflow
n. GUE and underwater cave survey
a. Handling survey equipment
b. Basic line survey
c. Division of team responsibilities
d. Measurements and estimates
e. Communication
f. Recording data
g. Extremity data collection
h. Survey line installation
i. Sidewall and interior sketching
j. Post survey archiving
k. Data manipulation and plotting
l. Cartography and map production
a. Demonstrate proficiency in safe diving techniques; this includes pre-dive preparation,
in-water activity, and post-dive assessment.

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d. Demonstrate proficiency in all aspects of Cave 2 level diving under survey conditions.
These include, but are not limited to: guideline installation and retrieval, underwater
communication, decompression, stability and trim, complex navigation, propulsion,
bottom stage and decompression stage management, stress management while task
loaded, and gas management.
g. Must be able to swim at least 500 yds/450 m in under 14 minutes without stopping. This
test should be conducted in a swimsuit and, where necessary, appropriate thermal
protection.
h. Must be able to swim a distance of at least 60 ft/18 m on a breath hold.
i. Demonstrate proficiency in effectively performing all tasks associated with a team
survey.
j. Demonstrate proficiency in the use of survey equipment.
k. Effectively take measurements and estimates.
l. Demonstrate consistent, clear, and concise underwater data recording.
m. Demonstrate clear and effective underwater communication.
b. One safety spool
c. One primary reel per team
d. One exploration reel per team capable of holding a minimum of 800 ft/240 m of knotted
line
f. At least twelve line markers; six directional and six non-directional
g. Survey package: Each student must have a survey compass, prepared underwater
survey notes, spare pencils, and a prepared 3-ft/1-m measuring string.
h. One “open reel” design fiberglass tape per team, measuring between 100 and 170 ft/30
and 50 m
i. One handheld underwater sonar per team
Excluding:
2.4.4 Cave Sidemount

GUE’s Cave Sidemount course is designed to introduce experienced cave divers to the use of the
sidemount configuration in a cave environment and to meet the challenges posed by such an
environment. The course’s intended outcomes are to help divers understand the techniques
required to safely navigate confined cave passageways and the advantages and disadvantages
of a lateral equipment configuration.

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Applicants for a Cave Sidemount course must:
b. Hold insurance that will cover diving emergencies, such as hyperbaric treatment, e.g.,
d. Be a nonsmoker.
for birth control, or for any prior medical condition that may pose a risk while diving.
certification.
certification.
The GUE Cave Sidemount course is normally conducted over five days. It requires ten dives (of
which four must include restrictive passages) and at least forty hours of instruction,
encompassing classroom lectures, land drills, and in-water work.
2.4.4.4 Cave Sidemount Specific Training Standards
c. Maximum use of 1/3 of total gas supply can be used for penetration
d. Minimum 140 ft3/4000 L of gas is required to begin a Cave Sidemount dive
e. No DPV diving unless both instructor and trainees are GUE DPV Cave certified.
f. Requires a minimum of two stage dives
g. Students must negotiate a minimum of three sidemount-only restrictions.
a. Introduction
b. Course overview
c. Benefits and disadvantages of sidemount
d. Sidemount history
e. Equipment configuration and setup
f. Geology and sidemount-specific cave morphology
g. Conservation considerations and landowner relationships
h. Gas management

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i. Dive planning
a. Sidemount equipment setup
b. Guideline use and navigation
c. Guideline entanglement, cutting, and repair
d. Loss of guideline
e. Regulator switches and gas monitoring
f. Feathering valves
g. Gas sharing
h. Stage cylinder positioning and related considerations
i. Backup light deployment
b. Demonstrate a full understanding of pre-dive gear setup.
c. Demonstrate basic proficiency in managing a GUE-approved sidemount equipment
configuration.
d. Demonstrate an efficient one-handed regulator switch.
e. Demonstrate awareness of team member location and a concern for safety, responding
g. Demonstrate proficiency in all aspects of sidemount diving in caves during training. This
includes, but is not limited to: guideline installation and retrieval, underwater
communication, decompression, stability and trim, complex navigation, propulsion,
bottom stage and decompression stage management, stress management while task
loaded, and gas management.
h. Comfortably demonstrate at least three propulsion techniques that would be
modified flutter kick.
i. Demonstrate safe ascent and descent procedures.
j. Demonstrate proficiency in cave navigation, including visual references, guideline use,
and limited and simulated zero visibility.
k. Demonstrate proficiency in navigating restricted passages.
l. Demonstrate proficiency in feathering a valve for at least 300 ft/90 m.
m. Demonstrate proficiency during gas-sharing scenarios.
n. Be able to swim at least 500 yds/450 m in less than 14 minutes without stopping. This
test should be conducted in a swimsuit and, where necessary, appropriate thermal
protection.
o. Be able to swim a distance of at least 60 ft/18 m on a breath hold while submerged.
p. Demonstrate proficiency in managing line entanglement, line traps, and broken line.
q. Demonstrate proficiency in managing keyhole restrictions and resolving stuck
situations.
r. Demonstrate clear and effective underwater communication in both limited and
simulated zero visibility.

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Each student should have, and be familiar with, all of the following required equipment:
a. Tanks/cylinders: Students are required to use independent cylinders with single valves
and without manifolds, which allow for the use of one first stage each. Stage cylinders as
specified in section 1.7 will also be utilized.
b. Regulators: One of the second stages must be on a 7 ft/2 m hose. Both first stages must
supply a pressure gauge and provide inflation for a drysuit (where applicable) and a wing.
c. Sidemount harness: A diver’s sidemount setup should be back-mounted and minimalist
in nature. Wing size and shape should be appropriate to the cylinder size(s) employed for
training.
d. At least one time/depth measuring device
e. Mask and fins: Mask is low-volume; fins are rigid, non-split.
f. At least one cutting device
g. Wetnotes with pencils
h. One safety spool
i. One wrist-mounted compass
j. One primary reel per team
k. One primary and two backup lights
l. Exposure suit appropriate for the duration of exposure
m. At least twelve line markers; six directional and six non-directional
n. At least two jump spools
Excluding:
2.4.5 Diver Propulsion Vehicle Cave

GUE’s Diver Propulsion Vehicle (DPV) Cave course is designed to cultivate mastery-level skill in
the use of underwater propulsion vehicles in the cave environment. Other course outcomes
include: reinforcing the outcomes of GUE’s DPV 1 course, managing the ramifications of using
multiple DPVs and stage cylinders, and environment-specific applications.
Applicants for a DPV Cave course must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.

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h. Be a certified GUE Diver Propulsion Vehicle Level 1 diver.
i. Have completed at least 50 non-training Cave 2 dives beyond GUE Cave Diver Level 2
certification.
j. Have completed at least 25 DPV 1 dives beyond GUE Diver Propulsion Vehicle Level 1
certification.
k. Own a GUE-approved DPV with sufficient burn time for the cave environment.
The Diver Propulsion Vehicle Cave course is normally conducted over five days. It requires a
minimum of five cave dives and at least forty hours of instruction, encompassing classroom
2.4.5.4 Diver Propulsion Vehicle Cave Specific Training Standards
b. Equipment considerations
c. DPV components
d. DPV maintenance
e. Leashes (lengths, knots, lanyards)
f. Bottom stages and decompression stages
g. Exposure suit for the cave environment
h. Dive planning (operational, team, support, objectives)
i. Matching different speeds while using a DPV
j. Emergency procedures (includes: gas sharing, towing diver, and runaway scooter)
k. Gas planning
l. Trigger time and multiple scooter use
m. Towing a DPV
n. Stage management
o. Line use (installing, following, and retrieving)
p. Managing, switching, dropping, and stowing DPVs
a. Proper position while using a DPV
b. Ready position

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c. Runaway DPV
d. Switching DPVs
e. Dropping DPVs
f. Use of a primary light while operating a DPV
g. Team order and protocols
h. Use of spools and reels
i. Navigation
j. Pre-dive drills
This test should be conducted in a swimsuit and, if necessary, appropriate thermal
protection.
f. Demonstrate proficiency in underwater communication while using a DPV.
g. Demonstrate basic proficiency in managing the GUE equipment configuration.
i. Demonstrate proficiency in making adjustments to maintain proper buoyancy and trim
while using a DPV. Approximate reference is a maximum of 20 degrees off horizontal
while remaining within 3 ft/1 m of a target depth.
j. Demonstrate proficiency in laying and retrieving line with a DPV; this includes the use
of a primary reel and jumps/gaps.
k. Demonstrate proficiency in switching from one DPV to another.
l. Demonstrate proficiency in all aspects of stage cylinder management while also
managing DPVs.
m. Demonstrate proficiency in calculating accurate available trigger time.
n. Demonstrate effective use of a compass and proficiency in navigation.
o. Demonstrate ability to match speeds with team members.
p. Demonstrate ability to tow a diver.
q. Demonstrate control while managing a runaway DPV.
r. Demonstrate proficiency with the sequential management of an out-of-gas scenario.
s. Demonstrate ability to tow an out-of-gas diver for a distance of 500 ft/150 m while using
a DPV.
t. Demonstrate proficiency in managing breathing system failures, including proper
assessment and valve manipulation with regulator switching as appropriate.
u. Demonstrate proficiency with effective decompression techniques, including depth and
time management.
v. Demonstrate an efficient exit on a backup light.
w. Demonstrate ability to follow a guideline in a simulated zero-visibility scenario while
managing stage(s) and DPV(s).

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x. Demonstrate ability to manage equipment through restricted areas with concern for the
environment.
c. One bottom stage with stage regulator
d. One decompression stage with stage regulator
e. One safety spool
f. At least two jump spools
g. One primary reel per team
h. At least twelve line markers; six directional and six non-directional
i. Two approved DPVs
Excluding:
An approved DPV is one that is tow-behind style with variable speed adjustment and clutch
mechanism. The DPV must include an attached cord at the back with a bolt snap to be clipped
on the front crotch strap D-ring and a leash attached to the front to be used for towing a disabled
DPV.
2.4.6 Closed-Circuit Rebreather Cave Diver

The GUE Closed-Circuit Rebreather Cave Diver course is designed to provide experienced GUE
cave and closed-circuit rebreather divers with the additional knowledge and practice needed to
safely use closed-circuit rebreathers in a cave environment. This course is an advanced level
closed-circuit rebreather course aimed at teaching mastery level skills, knowledge, and
procedures appropriate for the cave environment.
Applicants for a CCR Cave course must:
d. Be a nonsmoker.
g. Be a certified GUE Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 1 diver.

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h. Be a certified GUE Cave Diver Level 2 diver.
i. Have completed at least 50 non-training CCR dives beyond GUE Closed-Circuit
Rebreather Diver Level 1 certification.
j. Have completed at least 25 non-training Cave 2 dives beyond GUE Cave Diver Level 2
certification.
k. Own a GUE-approved closed-circuit rebreather.
The Closed-Circuit Rebreather Cave Diver course is normally conducted over four days. It
requires a minimum of five dives and at least thirty-two hours of instruction, encompassing
2.4.6.4 Closed-Circuit Rebreather Cave Specific Training Standards
d. Divers must always have sufficient bailout gas to exit the cave from the maximum
penetration.
e. During any zero/limited visibility drills, the instructor must ensure that students’ HUDs
are clearly visible to them.
f. The oxygen supply valve must never be closed completely during drills.
a. Introduction and course overview
b. Risks specific to CCR diving in an overhead environment
c. Bailout gas calculations for bottom and decompression portions of the dive
d. Equipment configuration considerations
a. Stage cylinder configuration
b. Use of MAVs/quick disconnects and utilization of off-board gases
c. SCR mode
d. Gas-sharing exits
e. Zero visibility exits (controlling units using HUD only)
c. Demonstrate proficiency in managing a closed-circuit rebreather configuration.
d. Demonstrate proficiency with the use of the rebreather during ascents, descents, and
diving.

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protection.
h. Demonstrate ability to install a primary reel while maintaining constant awareness of
the rebreather.
i. Demonstrate the ability to manage a flooded rebreather while discharging excess water.
j. Demonstrate the ability to switch and maintain desired pO2 setpoints manually
throughout a dive.
k. Demonstrate effective ability to connect and use off-board O2 or diluent gas.
l. Demonstrate effective ability to dive the rebreather in semi-closed mode.
m. Demonstrate proficiency in removing, staging, picking up, and clipping off stage
cylinders while hovering horizontally.
n. Demonstrate the ability to comfortably switch gases while maintaining good trim and
neutral buoyancy.
o. Demonstrate a calm demeanor while conducting a prolonged full-bailout exit.
p. Demonstrate proficiency in safe diving procedures, including assembly, vacuum and
pressure tests, pre-dive preparation, pre-dive vacuum test, flow check, in-water activity,
and post-dive assessment, breakdown, and maintenance.
q. Efficiently and comfortably demonstrate how to donate gas to an out-of-gas diver while
r. Demonstrate comfort and a calm demeanor during a prolonged gas-sharing exit.
s. Demonstrate a calm demeanor and control during a prolonged zero-visibility exit while
maintaining constant control of pO2s using the HUD.
rebreather
circuit rebreather
i. The student must own a GUE-approved closed-circuit rebreather before
attending the course; they can, however, use a rented or borrowed unit during
the course.
ii. The closed-circuit rebreather used by the student, with all associated
iii. All oxygen sensors must be less than one year from manufacturing date.
iv. Both the rebreather controller and SOLO board must be updated with the latest
batteries; one oxygen sensor; and one DSV/BOV mouthpiece

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f. Two stage cylinders with stage regulators
i. One decompression stage
ii. One bottom stage
iii. All stage regulators must have a low pressure inflator hose, allowing them to be
connected to the rebreather manual addition valve (MAV).
g. One stage leash with a double-ender
h. One jump spool
i. One safety spool
j. One primary reel per team
k. At least twelve line markers; six directional and six non-directional
l. Drysuit inflation system independent from back gas cylinders (optional). If using a
drysuit inflation cylinder attached to the backplate, extended inflation cylinder straps
need to be used to ensure that it does not interfere with or restrict the counterlung’s
function.
Excluding:
2.5 GUE Dive Professional Curriculum
2.5.1 Dive Leader Training Course

GUE’s Dive Leader Training Course is designed to develop GUE Dive Leaders who are qualified
to perform duties as a professional dive leader. Included among its training outcomes are:
knowledge and skills needed to plan and safely conduct guided recreational dives for certified
divers and to act as a sanctioned video diver or safety diver during GUE Recreational Diver Level
1 and 2 classes and Foundational classes.
Undertaking the Dive Leader Training Course is a required step in the Dive Leader Candidate
Development Process, as outlined in section 3.1.2.2.
All GUE Dive Leader candidates must:
a. Fulfill GUE Dive Leader Candidate Prerequisites as outlined in section 3.1.2.1.
The Dive Leader Training Course is normally conducted over four days. It requires a minimum
of thirty hours of instruction, encompassing classroom lectures, land drills, in-water work, and a
minimum of four dives, of which at least one must be a simulated guided dive,
2.5.1.4 Dive Leader Training Course Specific Training Standards
a. Maximum student-to-instructor ratio of 3:1

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a. Dive leader professionalism, responsibilities, and roles
b. Importance and use of GUE standards and procedures
i. GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures document
1. Section 1.4 (Diving Standards)
2. Section 1.5 (Equipment section) and Appendix A
ii. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) document
c. Importance and content of GUE’s recreational entry-level program (section 2.1) and the
divers’ capacity and limitations
d. Basic equipment knowledge and understanding of function (regulator; BC systems,
adjustment and fitting; establishing a balanced rig; and proper setup of GUE
configuration)
e. Minimum gas calculations, MDL table use, pragmatic minimum decompression,
computer use
f. Understanding of underwater/surface control and positioning
i. Awareness of divers’ positions
ii. Awareness of supervised divers’ gas supplies
iii. Awareness of supervised divers’ MDLs
iv. Environmental awareness
v. Awareness of divers’ comfort (stress recognition)
g. Risks and risk mitigation associated with performing GUE Dive Leader duties
h. Dive site choices, dive site and dive briefing techniques
i. Post-dive debriefing techniques
a. Gas analysis
b. GUE EDGE and pre-dive sequence and their proper implementation
c. Equipment fit, assembly and disassembly, and backplate fitting
d. Dive team protocols
e. Basic and advanced compass navigation and natural navigation review
f. Diver positioning and underwater control
g. Diver rescue techniques (both underwater recovery and surface rescue)
protection.
i. Demonstrate proficiency in safe diving practices, including pre-dive preparation, in-

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j. Demonstrate awareness of team member location and a concern for safety, responding
quickly to visual indications and dive partner needs, as well as understanding of
underwater/surface control and positioning while guiding certified divers.
k. Demonstrate proficiency in compass use and implementation of natural navigation.
l. Demonstrate good buoyancy and trim, i.e., approximate reference is a maximum of 20
m. Demonstrate proficiency in the ability to deploy a surface marker buoy while using a
spool.
n. Efficiently and comfortably demonstrate how to donate gas to an out-of-gas diver in
o. Efficiently and comfortably demonstrate how to donate gas to an out-of-gas diver
p. Demonstrate a safe and responsible demeanor throughout all training.
q. Demonstrate proficiency in underwater communication.
r. Demonstrate safe ascent and descent procedures.
s. Demonstrate an efficient valve drill with double tanks.
t. Demonstrate basic equipment proficiency and an understanding of the GUE equipment
configuration.
u. Demonstrate proficiency in four propulsion techniques that would be appropriate in
helicopter turn.
v. Demonstrate proficiency with a primary light by using it during all skills except SMB
deployment.
w. Demonstrate diver rescue techniques, including effective management of an
unconscious diver underwater and on the surface.
x. Demonstrate proficiency in dive site, dive, and post-dive briefing techniques.
2.5.2 Assistant Instructor Training Course

GUE’s Assistant Instructor Training Course is designed to develop GUE Assistant Instructors
who are qualified to perform duties as outlined in section 3.2.1. Included among its training
outcomes are: knowledge and skills needed to plan and safely conduct GUE Discover Diving
program, coach divers and to act as a sanctioned video diver or safety diver during GUE
Recreational Diver Level 1 and 2 classes and Foundational classes.
Undertaking the Assistant Instructor Training Course is a required step in the Assistant
Instructor Candidate Development Process, as outlined in section 3.2.2.2.
All GUE Assistant Instructor candidates must:
a. Fulfill GUE General Instructor Candidate Prerequisites as outlined in section 3.3.2.2.
b. Must have been evaluated by a GUE IT or IE on personal diving skills, and must have
scored a minimum of grade 4 on all components.

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The Assistant Instructor Training Course is normally conducted over four days. It requires a
minimum of thirty hours of instruction, encompassing classroom lectures, land drills, and in-
water work.
2.5.2.4 Assistant Instructor Training Course Specific Training Standards
a. Maximum candidate-to-staff ratio of 4:1
2.5.2.6 Academic Topics and Performance Requirements
The candidate must participate in the following academic sessions from the instructor training
curriculum with a GUE IT or IE.
a. How to Teach: Part 1
b. How to Teach: Part 2
c. How to Teach: Part 3
d. Teaching and diving with non-divers and beginners
e. Basic positioning and control
f. Debriefing: Part 1
g. GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures overview and exam
The GUE Assistant Instructor candidate must earn a signature for each of the following
components by participating in appropriate sessions and being evaluated by a GUE IT or IE.
Component signatures are documented using the current GUE Fundamentals/Rec1 Intern
Evaluation Form.
a. Physical fitness (all components)
b. Professionalism (all components)
c. General teaching skills (all components)
d. General classroom performance
i. GUE overview
ii. Buoyancy and weighting
iii. Balance and trim
iv. Minimum decompression procedures
v. Dive planning
vi. Diving safety
e. Recreational curriculum classroom performance
i. Intro to scuba
ii. Boyle’s Law
iii. Discover Diving presentation
2.5.2.7 Required Field Drills
The GUE Assistant Instructor candidate must earn a signature for each of the following

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Component signatures are documented using the current GUE Fundamentals/Rec 1 Intern
Evaluation Form.
a. Equipment overview
b. Gas analysis
c. Basic 5 scuba skills
d. Propulsion
e. Backplate fitting
2.5.2.8 Required In-Water Skills and Drills
The GUE Assistant Instructor candidate must receive a signature for each of the following
Component signatures should be documented using the current GUE Fundamentals/Rec 1
Intern Evaluation Form.
a. Buoyancy and trim
b. Propulsion and maneuvering: A minimum of two techniques are required, of which at
least one must be a propulsion technique.
c. Basic 5 scuba skills
d. Debriefing (oral)
2.5.2.9 Personal Diving Skills
The GUE Assistant Instructor candidate must receive a signature for all personal skills
Component signatures are documented using the current GUE Fundamentals/Rec 1 Intern
Evaluation Form and must be scored with a minimum of grade 4.
2.5.3 Instructor Training Course

GUE’s Instructor Training Course (ITC) is designed to develop qualified GUE instructors within
relevant GUE curricula. After completing this course, the instructor candidate will be qualified
to pursue experience-based training requirements toward their first endorsement.
Undertaking the Instructor Training Course is an elementary part of the Instructor Candidate
Development Process, as outlined in section 3.3.2.3.
All GUE Instructor candidates must:
b. Fulfill the curriculum-specific instructor candidate prerequisites for the entry-level class
of the curriculum in which they are seeking endorsement. These are listed in the
respective curricula: Recreational (section 3.3.4.1.1), Foundational (section 3.3.4.2.1),
Technical (section 3.3.4.3.1), and Cave (section 3.3.4.4.1).

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c. Must have been evaluated by a GUE IT or IE on personal diving skills, and must have
scored a minimum of grade 4 on all components.
The Instructor Training Course is normally conducted over seven days and requires at least
sixty-three hours of instruction, encompassing classroom lectures, land drills, and in-water
work. Some curricula may require more time, which is specified in each curriculum’s ITC
schedules.
2.5.3.4 Instructor Training Course Specific Training Standards
b. Instructor’s role, duties, and responsibilities as professional scuba educator and GUE
representative in the diving industry
c. Risk assessment and mitigation associated with GUE instructor duties and
responsibilities
d. Classroom, land drill, and in-water teaching techniques
e. Underwater student control and positioning
f. Briefing and debriefing strategies (including video analysis)
g. Course structure and content, logistics, customer satisfaction management, time
management, use of qualified assistants (includes use of video divers)
h. Student evaluation process, administration, and minimum performance requirements
i. GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures
a. Demonstrate proficiency in safe diving practices, including pre-dive preparation, in-
b. Demonstrate awareness of student location and a concern for safety, responding quickly
to visual indications and students’ requirements.
c. Demonstrate good buoyancy and trim, i.e., approximate reference is a maximum of 10
d. Demonstrate personal skills and required skills from relevant curricula at a minimum of
grade 4, as defined in GUE’s Grading Scale (section 1.3.1).
f. Demonstrate proficiency in underwater communication while teaching.
g. Demonstrate safe ascent and descent procedures and control while teaching.
h. Demonstrate equipment proficiency and an understanding of the GUE equipment
configuration at a level adequate for a GUE educator.
i. Demonstrate efficient time management, logistics, and concern for a proper learning
environment, both out of and in water.

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j. Demonstrate adequate professionalism as expected from a GUE representative and
GUE educator.
k. Demonstrate adequate understanding of GUE standards, procedures, and
administrative processes as expected from a GUE representative and GUE educator.
l. Demonstrate proficiency in delivering properly structured land drills from relevant
curricula.
m. Demonstrate proficiency in delivering properly structured academic components from
relevant curricula.
n. Demonstrate proficiency in conducting properly structured training sessions and dives,
including dive briefings, skill demonstrations, assessment of student skills, active
teaching, and post-dive performance evaluation and feedback in relevant curricula.
o. Demonstrate adequate in-water control and application of proper in-water positioning.
p. Demonstrate adequate techniques for efficient in-water skill demonstrations.
Additional equipment needs may vary with the ITC being conducted. Please verify requirements
with the leading Instructor Trainer (IT) and/or Instructor Evaluator (IE).
2.5.4 Instructor Trainer Development Course

GUE’s Instructor Trainer Development Course (ITDC) is designed to provide qualified, Active
status GUE instructors with the skills necessary to cultivate and evaluate prospective GUE
instructor candidates in conformity with GUE standards.
All GUE Instructor Trainer candidates must:
a. Fulfill GUE Instructor Trainer Candidate Prerequisites as outlined in section 3.4.2.1.
The Instructor Trainer Development Course involves two days and a minimum of sixteen hours
of instruction and leadership training during which candidates will engage in a management-
level understanding of the GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures document,
review and discuss instructor candidate development strategies and organizational
expectations, and work to cultivate a precise understanding of what constitutes a minimum
standard for certification.
2.5.4.4 Instructor Trainer Development Course Specific Training Standards

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3. GUE Dive Professional Standards and Procedures
3.1 Dive Leader
3.1.1 Qualifications
A GUE Dive Leader is qualified to perform duties as a professional dive leader.
3.1.2 Dive Leader Candidate Development

3.1.2.1 Dive Leader Candidate Prerequisites
All GUE Dive Leader candidates must:
b. Be physically and mentally fit.
c. Be a nonsmoker.
d. Be a minimum of 18 years of age. Documented parental or legal guardian consent must
f. Be certified, at a minimum, as a GUE Recreational Diver Level 2 or as a GUE
Fundamentals diver. Neither of the classes need to have been taken using a double
cylinder configuration. However, all fundamental skills, excluding those requiring a
double cylinder configuration, must be at the Fundamentals - Technical rating level. Such
skills include buoyancy and trim, propulsion and maneuvering, and primary light use.
g. Have conducted at least 200 dives; of these, 50 must have been in a GUE configuration
and 50 must have been at a depth of at least 80 ft/24 m.
h. Possess a current basic life support (BLS) skills and procedures certification (includes
emergency oxygen administration and handling).
i. Possess a diver rescue skills and procedures certification (conscious and unconscious
diver, underwater and surface management).
j. Have personal diving insurance that specifically covers diving medical emergencies, as
well as third party liability that covers GUE in case of a claim.
3.1.2.2 Dive Leader Candidate Development Process
After fulfilling the Dive Leader Candidate Prerequisites (section 3.1.2.1), dive leader candidates
must in sequence:
a. Undertake a Dive Leader Training Course (section 2.5.1).
b. Be ratified: Following successful completion of the Dive Leader Training Course, dive
leader candidates must:
i. Communicate with GUE HQ and ensure that all dive leader candidate
development documents have been properly executed and submitted to HQ.
ii. Ensure that dive leader candidate-specific documentation is in order, e.g.,
insurance, BLS certification, etc.

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iii. Submit a signed dive leader agreement and standards agreement, along with the
appropriate dive leader fee.
3.1.3 Dive Leader Status

3.1.3.1 Active Status Dive Leader
To perform their duties, a GUE Dive Leader must be in Active Status. Active status GUE Dive
Leaders are dive leaders in good standing who are sanctioned to represent GUE and act as a dive
guide to certified divers.
To maintain this status, the GUE Dive Leader must:
a. Apply for renewal every three years.
b. Be certified, at a minimum, as a GUE Recreational Diver Level 2 or a GUE Fundamentals
diver.
c. Log at least twenty-five non-training dives per year. Half of these dives must have been
as a dive leader.
d. Possess a current basic life support (BLS) skills and procedures certification (includes
e. Possess diver rescue skills and procedures certification (conscious and unconscious
f. Provide evidence of a current personal diving insurance policy that specifically covers
diving medical emergencies, as well as third party liability that covers GUE in case of a
claim.
g. Maintain a good state of mental and physical fitness and submit medical and fitness
forms.
3.1.3.2 Inactive Status Dive Leader
Inactive status dive leaders are dive leaders who are not sanctioned to represent GUE in any
official capacity, no longer pay dive leader membership dues, nor participate in the benefits of
GUE membership in any way.
3.1.3.3 Dive Leader Status Changes
Inactive status dive leaders may change their status to Active by meeting the following
requirements:
a. Undergo an update workshop with a GUE Dive Leader instructor.
b. Be certified, at a minimum, as a GUE Recreational Diver Level 2 or as a GUE
Fundamentals diver.
c. Log at least twenty-five non-training dives in the twelve months prior to their
application.
e. Possess diver rescue skills and procedures certification (conscious and unconscious
f. Provide evidence of a current personal diving insurance policy that specifically covers
diving medical emergencies, as well as third party liability that covers GUE in case of a
claim.

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g. Maintain a good state of mental and physical fitness and submitting medical and fitness
forms.
3.2 Assistant Instructor
A GUE assistant instructor is qualified to:
a. Act as an instructor’s assistant in the following courses: Discover Diving, Recreational
Supervised Diver, Recreational Diver Level 1, Recreational Diver Level 2 (including
Rescue, Navigation, and Triox Primers), GUE Fundamentals, Drysuit Primer and Doubles
Primer.
b. Act as an instructor’s assistant in other courses from the Recreational and Foundational
curricula, if certified at that level.
c. Coach students in a 1:1 ratio in the following skills while in confined water: trim, balance,
buoyancy, basic 5 scuba skills, and propulsion and maneuvering techniques. The GUE
Assistant Instructor is limited to coaching and active feedback, and cannot offer an
evaluation of students’ performance, which is the sole responsibility of the GUE
instructor.
d. Conduct GUE Discover Diving programs in confined water with a reduced student-to-
assistant-instructor ratio of 2:1 during land drills, surface exercises, and in-water
training.
e. Accompany students to the surface and perform descents and ascents with students if
approved by the instructor.
f. Act as a sanctioned video diver or safety diver during any class for which they are
qualified to act as an instructor assistant, as determined by section 3.2.1, a and b.
g. Act as an assistant instructor during GUE Recreational Diver Level 1, 2, and
Fundamentals courses to gain progressive experience in teaching, evaluating, and
theoretical knowledge in confined and open water as part of instructor candidate
development.
3.2.2 Assistant Instructor Candidate Development

3.2.2.1 Assistant Instructor Candidate Prerequisites
All GUE Assistant Instructor candidates must:
b. Be certified, at a minimum, as a GUE Recreational Diver Level 2 or as a GUE
Fundamentals diver. Neither of the classes need to have been taken using a double
cylinder configuration. However, all fundamental skills, excluding those requiring a
double cylinder configuration, must be at the Fundamentals - Technical rating level. Such
skills include buoyancy and trim, propulsion and maneuvering, and primary light use.
c. Have conducted at least 200 dives; of these, 50 must have been in a GUE configuration

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3.2.2.2 Assistant Instructor Candidate Development Process
After fulfilling the General Instructor Candidate Prerequisites (section 3.3.2.2) and the
Assistant Instructor Candidate Prerequisites (section 3.2.2.1), assistant instructor candidates
must in sequence:
a. Observe—as a registered candidate—one entire GUE entry-level class in the curriculum
in which they are seeking credentialing run by an Active GUE instructor who has taught
at least five classes in the given curriculum.
b. Undertake an Assistant Instructor Training Course (section 2.5.2).
c. Earn component signatures from a GUE IT or IE, as specified in sections 2.5.2.6 through
2.5.2.9.
d. Be ratified: Following their final component signature, and before they may be placed in
Active status, assistant instructor candidates must:
i. Communicate with GUE HQ and ensure that all assistant instructor candidate
development documents have been properly executed and submitted to HQ.
ii. Ensure that assistant instructor candidate-specific documentation is in order,
e.g., insurance, BLS certification, fitness form, etc.
iii. Submit a signed assistant instructor agreement and standards agreement, along
with the appropriate assistant instructor fee.
3.2.3 Assistant Instructor Status

3.2.3.1 Active Status Assistant Instructor
To perform their duties, a GUE Assistant Instructor must be in Active Status. Active status GUE
Assistant Instructors are assistant instructors in good standing who are sanctioned to represent
GUE and assist in specific GUE classes commensurate with their certifications.
To maintain this status, a GUE Assistant Instructor must:
a. Maintain a current mailing address with GUE HQ.
b. Annually complete and submit an Assistant Instructor Renewal Form.
c. Be familiar with the most current version of the GUE General Training Standards,
Policies, and Procedures document.
d. Pay all outstanding debts owed to GUE.
e. Be a nonsmoker.
f. Log at least twenty-five non-training dives per year. Half of these dives must be at the
highest level of certification. The remaining documented dives should be oriented
toward enhancing personal skill development.
g. Document that they have assisted, audited, or participated in one complete GUE diving
course or have conducted at least three Discover Diving programs.
h. Provide evidence of a current BLS skills and procedures certification (includes
i. Provide evidence of a diver rescue skills and procedures certification (conscious and
unconscious diver, underwater and surface management).
j. Carry instructional liability insurance and annually provide proof of the policy.
i. Instructors in the following categories must carry US-based liability insurance,
as recommended and approved by GUE HQ.

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1. ALL instructors of any nationality teaching in U.S. territories.
2. ALL U.S. citizens teaching U.S. citizens in ANY location.
ii. Liability insurance carried by all instructors must, at minimum, meet the
following criteria:
1. Certificates of insurance must cover GUE in case of a claim.
2. Minimum coverage: $1 million.
iii. Waivers: Instructors who are covered by city, state, federal, or private
institutional liability insurance must request, in writing, an exemption for the
insurance requirement. U.S. military personnel who teach diving as part of their
military duties and teach ONLY U.S. military are exempt from the insurance
requirement but must apply, in writing, for the exemption and provide letters of
exemption from their commanding officers.
k. Provide evidence that they have current personal diving insurance, equivalent to the
DAN Europe Pro Bronze Plan, to cover diving medical emergencies including, but not
limited to, third party liability, emergency hyperbaric treatment, hospitalization and
repatriation. It is the responsibility of the instructor to ensure that any insurance policy
has equivalent levels of cover.
l. Maintain a good state of mental and physical fitness and submit medical and fitness
forms.
3.2.3.2 Sustaining Status Assistant Instructor
Sustaining status assistant instructors are assistant instructors who are no longer sanctioned to
assist in GUE classes, conduct Discover Diving programs, or act as a video or safety diver. They
retain their GUE assistant instructor status and membership status, are able to participate in
GUE instructor internal communication, and receive all GUE instructor information.
To maintain Sustaining status, GUE assistant instructors are required to:
b. Annually complete and submit an Assistant Instructor Renewal Form.
c. Pay all outstanding debts owed to GUE.
3.2.3.3 Inactive Status Assistant Instructor
Inactive status assistant instructors are assistant instructors who are not sanctioned to
represent GUE in any official capacity, no longer pay instructor membership dues, nor
participate in the benefits of GUE membership in any way. Inactive assistant instructors must
return their assistant instructor certification cards to GUE HQ.
3.2.3.4 Assistant Instructor Status Changes
Sustaining or Inactive status assistant instructors may change their status to Active by meeting
the following requirements:
a. Apply for reinstatement to GUE’s BOD, who will determine what instructional
requirements must be met prior to reinstatement.
b. Maintain a current mailing address with GUE HQ.
c. Be familiar with the most current version of the GUE General Training Standards,
Policies, and Procedures document.
d. Pay all outstanding debts owed to GUE.

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e. Be a nonsmoker.
f. Log at least twenty-five non-training dives within the twelve months prior to their
application. Half of these dives must be at the highest level of certification. The
remaining documented dives should be oriented toward enhancing personal skill
development.
g. Provide evidence of a current basic life support (BLS) skills and procedures certification
(includes emergency oxygen administration and handling).
h. Provide evidence of diver rescue skills and procedures certification (conscious and
i. Carry instructional liability insurance and provide proof of the policy.
following criteria:
j. Provide evidence that they have current personal diving insurance, equivalent to the
limited to: third party liability, emergency hyperbaric treatment, hospitalization, and
has equivalent levels of coverage.
k. Maintain a good state of mental and physical fitness and submit medical and fitness
forms.
3.3 Instructor
A GUE Instructor is qualified to:
a. Conduct GUE courses for which they are credentialed.
b. Certify their students for the courses for which they are credentialed.
3.3.2 Instructor Candidate Development

3.3.2.1 Description
GUE’s training curricula are designed to cultivate a common platform comprised of a
complementary set of concepts and skills that divers can exercise in any environment to
augment their safety, comfort, and skill. Nonetheless, GUE recognizes the existence of differing

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educational needs as well as environment-specific practices and thus requires its instructor
candidates to undertake rigorous training in general and environment-specific areas before
they are sanctioned to teach GUE courses. GUE’s instructor candidate development mixes
scheduled instructor training courses (ITCs) with internship requirements that enable
candidates to fuse theory and practice en route to providing elite education and training to
students.
3.3.2.2 General Instructor Candidate Prerequisites
All GUE instructor candidates (entry-level or upgrading) must:
a. Be a minimum of 18 years of age for the recreational curriculum, and a minimum of 21
years of age for the foundational, cave, and technical curriculums.
b. Be able to swim at least 600 yds/550 m in less than 14 minutes without stopping.
c. Be able to swim a distance of at least 70 ft/21 m while submerged on a breath hold.
e. Possess a diver rescue skills and procedures training certification (conscious and
unconscious, underwater and surface management).
f. Be a nonsmoker.
g. Be physically and mentally fit.
h. Hold insurance that will cover diving emergencies such as hyperbaric treatment, e.g.,
i. Be medically screened as suitable for diving in accordance with procedures laid down by
a competent medical authority. If such procedures are not specified, instructor
candidates must provide evidence of a diver medical examination not older than one
year unless the medical doctor who has carried out the examination specifies longer
validity.
j. Obtain a physician’s prior written authorization for the use of prescription drugs, except
k. Fulfill the curriculum-specific instructor candidate prerequisites for the entry-level class
of the curriculum in which they are seeking endorsement. These are listed in the
respective curricula: Recreational (section 3.3.4.1.1), Foundational (section 3.3.4.2.1),
Technical (section 3.3.4.3.1), and Cave (section 3.3.4.4.1).
l. Register as a GUE instructor candidate: this requires paying a registration fee,
completing a registration form, a medical history, a fitness form, and liability release and
submitting these to GUE HQ.
m. Meet the equipment requirements of the course they are seeking endorsement to teach.
n. Possess and demonstrate knowledge of the training materials required for the class they
are seeking endorsement to teach.
o. Demonstrate in-depth understanding of the academic topics that are part of the course
they are seeking endorsement to teach.
p. Demonstrate a high level of proficiency in the skills and drills that define the course
outcomes for the class they are seeking endorsement to teach.
q. Comply with GUE’s General Training Standards and the course-specific training
standards governing the course they are seeking endorsement to teach.

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3.3.2.3 Instructor Candidate Development Process
After fulfilling the general instructor candidate prerequisites and the curriculum-specific
instructor candidate prerequisites for the entry-level class of the curriculum in which they are
seeking credentialing, instructor candidates must in sequence:
a. Observe—as a registered candidate—one entire GUE entry-level class in the curriculum
in which they are seeking credentialing run by an Active GUE instructor who has taught
at least five classes in the given curriculum.
b. Initiate an Instructor Training Course (section 2.5.3)
c. Earn one or two endorsements from appropriately credentialed GUE personnel. Specific
parameters guiding these endorsements are found under each curriculum.
i. For a GUE instructor candidate to qualify as an Active status GUE instructor they
must be endorsed by sanctioned GUE representatives, credentialed to give
endorsements for the rating sought. The path followed as well as the nature of
the endorsement varies, depending upon the rating sought. GUE requires that
instructors new to a given curriculum (i.e., recreational, foundational, cave, or
technical) must earn two endorsements; the two endorsements must come from
different GUE representatives as defined below.
ii. Where two endorsements are required, the first endorsement may be awarded
by an Instructor Trainer (IT) or an Instructor Evaluator (IE). This endorsement is
earned by collecting a given set of component signatures (i.e., partial
endorsements) with different ITs or IEs, which attest to readiness with the
discrete component parts. This may involve a number of evaluative procedures
of teaching capacity—e.g., ITC, distance learning, video, sanctioned GUE classes,
mock classes (classes in which the students are divers already credentialed in
that category), private testing (one-on-one), etc.
iii. The final endorsement must be secured from an Instructor Evaluator (IE). Unless
indicated within course specific standards, this final endorsement may only be
awarded during a validating examination (Instructor Evaluation) conducted
during the course of one actual3, complete4, and uninterrupted5 class. The
instructor candidate is required to be responsible for all facets of this class, from
logistical planning to document processing. The final endorsement must be
secured within two years of the first endorsement’s completion. Co-teaching is
prohibited during a validating examination.
d. Be ratified. Following their final endorsement, and before they may be placed in Active
status, instructor candidates must:
i. Communicate with GUE HQ and ensure that all instructor development
documents have been properly executed and submitted to HQ.
ii. Ensure that instructor-specific documentation is in order, e.g., insurance, BLS
certification, fitness form.
3
In this context, “actual” means that the students have not yet been certified at the level of the course
being taught.
4
In this context, “complete means” that every component of the course must be taught.
5
In this context, “uninterrupted” means that all course days must be consecutive days.

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iii. Submit a signed instructor agreement and standards agreement, along with the
appropriate instructor fee.
3.3.3 Instructor Status

3.3.3.1 Active Status Instructor
To teach GUE-sanctioned training courses, one must be a GUE Active status instructor. Active
status instructors are instructors in good standing who are sanctioned to represent GUE and
conduct GUE classes commensurate with their rating.
To maintain this status, instructors must:
b. Annually complete and submit an Instructor Renewal Form.
c. Complete an Instructor Requalification Workshop every four years.
d. Be familiar with the most current GUE instructor material relevant to their rating and
the most current version of the GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and
Procedures document.
e. Meet the standards required to teach all courses for which they are rated.
f. Pay all outstanding debts owed to GUE.
g. Be a nonsmoker.
h. Log at least twenty-five non-training dives per year. Half of these dives must be at the
highest level of instructional (not diver) certification, e.g., a GUE Tech 2 diver authorized
to teach Cave 1 must conduct a minimum of twelve Cave 1 dives towards renewal. The
remaining documented dives should be oriented toward enhancing personal skill
development.
i. Annually document that they have:
i. Taught at least one formal GUE course as the instructor of record, or
ii. Served as staff on one GUE ITC, or
iii. Assisted, audited, or participated in three complete GUE diving courses.
j. Possess, and annually provide proof of, a current basic life support (BLS) skills and
procedures certification (includes emergency oxygen administration and handling).
k. Carry instructional liability insurance and annually provide proof of the policy.
ii. Liability insurance carried by all instructors must, at a minimum, meet the
following criteria:
institutional liability insurance must request, in writing, an exemption from the

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l. Have, and annually provide proof of personal diving insurance, equivalent to the DAN
Europe Pro Bronze Plan, to cover diving medical emergencies including, but not limited
to: third party liability, emergency hyperbaric treatment, hospitalization, and
m. Maintain a good state of mental and physical fitness and annually submit fitness and
medical forms.
3.3.3.2 Sustaining Status Instructor
Sustaining status instructors are instructors who are no longer sanctioned to conduct GUE
classes, but who retain their GUE instructor status, membership status, are able to participate
in GUE instructor internal communication, and receive all GUE instructor information.
To maintain Sustaining status, GUE instructors are required to:
b. Annually complete and submit an Instructor Renewal Form.
c. Pay all outstanding debts owed to GUE.
3.3.3.3 Inactive Status Instructor
Inactive status instructors are instructors who are not sanctioned to represent GUE in any
official capacity, no longer pay instructor membership dues, nor participate in the benefits of
GUE membership in any way. Inactive instructors must return their instructor certification
cards to GUE HQ.
3.3.3.4 Instructor Status Changes
Sustaining or Inactive status instructors may change their status to Active by meeting the
following requirements:
a. Apply for reinstatement to GUE’s BOD, who will determine what instructional
requirements must be met prior to reinstatement.
b. If in Sustaining status for more than one year, but less than three years, attend a
requalification workshop.
c. If in Sustaining status for more than three years, or if in Inactive status:
i. Intern a minimum of one class for each course in which they wish to be
reinstated.
ii. Secure one Instructor Evaluator (IE) endorsement for each course in which they
wish to be reinstated.
d. Maintain a current mailing address with GUE HQ.
e. Be familiar with the most current GUE instructor material relevant to their rating and
the most current version of the GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and
Procedures document.
f. Meet the standards required to teach all courses for which they seek to be re-
established in Active status.
g. Pay all outstanding debts owed to GUE.
h. Be a nonsmoker.
i. Log at least twenty-five dives within the twelve months prior to their application; twelve
dives must be at the highest level of instructional (not diver) certification, e.g., a GUE

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Tech 2 diver credentialed to teach Cave 1 must conduct a minimum of twelve Cave 1
dives towards reinstatement.
j. Provide evidence of a current basic life support (BLS) skills and procedures certification
(includes emergency oxygen administration and handling).
k. Provide evidence of diver rescue skills and procedures certification (conscious and
l. Carry instructional liability insurance and provide proof of the policy.
following criteria:
m. Provide evidence that they have current personal diving insurance, equivalent to the
limited to: third party liability, emergency hyperbaric treatment, hospitalization, and
n. Maintain a good state of mental and physical fitness and submit medical and fitness
forms.
3.3.4 Instructor Candidate Curriculum-Specific and Progression Prerequisites

3.3.4.1 Recreational Curriculum
3.3.4.1.1 Recreational Diver Level 1 Instructor Candidate Curriculum-Specific Prerequisites
All GUE Rec 1 instructor candidates must:
b. Be certified as a GUE Recreational Diver Level 2 or GUE Fundamentals diver. Neither of
the classes need to have been taken using doubles. However, all fundamental skills,
excluding those requiring a double cylinder configuration, must be at the Fundamentals
- Technical rating level. Such skills include buoyancy and trim, propulsion and
maneuvering, and primary light use.
c. Have conducted at least 200 dives; of these, 50 must have been in a GUE configuration
d. Complete the internship requirement by observing—as a registered candidate—one
entire GUE Fundamentals or GUE Rec 1 class (3.3.2.3, a).
e. Undertake a GUE Instructor Training Course (3.3.2.3, b).

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f. Earn two endorsements from appropriately credentialed GUE personnel (3.3.2.3, c).
Both endorsements may be earned during either an actual or mock6 class.
g. Have their instructor fitness test witnessed by the qualifying IE, no more than six months
prior to instructor activation.
h. Submit final paperwork to GUE HQ (3.3.2.3, d).
3.3.4.1.2 Recreational Diver Level 1 to Recreational Diver Level 2 Instructor Progression
a. Must earn one endorsement from a GUE IE by demonstrating an understanding of the
Recreational Diver Level 2 program content and structure.
b. This endorsement can be earned at the end of a recreational ITC if the ITC is taught by a
GUE Recreational Diver Level 2 IE and if the ITC encompasses both the Recreational
Diver Level 1 and Level 2 programs. In this particular case, the instructor candidate
becomes an Active Recreational Diver Level 1 and Level 2 instructor after obtaining the
second endorsement for Rec 1 instructor status.
c. Must submit final paperwork to GUE HQ (3.3.2.3, d).
3.3.4.1.3 Recreational Diver Level 1 or 2 to Recreational Diver Level 3 Instructor Progression
a. Must be certified as a GUE Tech 1 diver.
b. Must have conducted at least 25 dives at the Tech 1 level since Tech 1 certification.
c. Must have taught at least five recreational classes (either Rec 1 or Rec 2).
d. Must earn one endorsement from a GUE IE by demonstrating an understanding of the
GUE Recreational Diver Level 3 program content and structure by teaching either an
actual or a mock GUE Recreational Diver Level 3 class.
e. Must submit final paperwork to GUE HQ (3.3.2.3, d).
3.3.4.1.4 GUE Fundamentals, Cave, or Technical Instructor to Recreational Diver Level 1, 2, or
3 Instructor Progression
a. Must earn one endorsement from a GUE IE by demonstrating an understanding of the
relevant course’s content and structure.
b. Must have taught at least three recreational or foundational classes (for Rec 3 instructor
progression only).
c. Must have conducted at least 25 dives at the Tech 1 level since GUE Technical Diver
Level 1 certification (for Rec 3 instructor progression only).
d. Must submit final paperwork to GUE HQ (3.3.2.3, d).
3.3.4.1.5 GUE Fundamentals, Cave, or Technical Instructor to GUE Dive Leader Instructor
Progression
a. Must have conducted at least 300 dives.
b. Must be an Active status GUE Fundamentals instructor.
c. Must have taught a minimum of ten GUE classes, including five GUE Fundamentals
classes.
d. Must undertake an orientation workshop with a qualified GUE IE.
6
In this context, “mock” means that the class does not meet one or more requirements to be an actual
class.

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e. Submit final paperwork to GUE HQ (3.3.2.3, d).
3.3.4.2 Foundational Curriculum
3.3.4.2.1 GUE Fundamentals Instructor Candidate Curriculum-Specific Prerequisites
All GUE Fundamentals instructor candidates who are not yet Active status GUE instructors
must:
b. Be certified as a GUE Fundamentals diver with a Technical rating before registering as
an instructor candidate.
c. Pass the GUE Tech 1 course prior to securing their second endorsement.
d. Have conducted at least 200 dives; of these, 50 must have been in a GUE configuration
and 20 dives must have been in a GUE double tank configuration.
e. Complete the internship requirement by observing—as a registered candidate—one
entire GUE Fundamentals class (3.3.2.3, a).
f. Undertake a GUE Instructor Training Course (3.3.2.3, b).
g. Earn two endorsements from appropriately credentialed GUE personnel (3.3.2.3, c).
h. Have their instructor fitness test witnessed by the qualifying IE, no more than six months
i. Submit final paperwork to GUE HQ (3.3.2.3, d).
3.3.4.2.2 GUE Fundamentals Instructor Progression
All GUE Fundamentals instructor candidates who are already Active status GUE instructors
must:
a. Be certified as a GUE Tech 1 diver.
b. Have conducted at least 20 dives in a GUE double tank configuration.
c. Have taught at least three recreational classes.
d. Earn one endorsement from a GUE IE (3.3.2.3, c, iii).
3.3.4.2.3 Rescue, Navigation, or Triox Primer Instructor Progression
All GUE Rescue, Navigation, or Triox Primer instructor candidates must:
a. Be an Active status GUE instructor.
b. Must earn one endorsement from a GUE IE by demonstrating an understanding of the
relevant GUE Rescue, Navigation, or Triox Primer’s program content and structure.
c. Submit final paperwork to GUE HQ (3.3.2.3, d).
Active status GUE Rec 2 instructors are exempt from the above prerequisites. Active status
GUE Rec 3 and GUE Tech 1 instructors are exempt from the above prerequisites for Triox
Primer only.
3.3.4.2.4 Doubles Primer Instructor Progression
All GUE Doubles Primer instructor candidates must:
b. Be certified as a GUE Technical Diver Level 1 or a GUE Cave Diver Level 1 diver.

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c. Earn one endorsement from a GUE IE (for recreational instructors only) by
demonstrating an understanding of the GUE Doubles Primer program content and
structure.
d. Have conducted at least 200 non-training dives; must have conducted 100 dives in a
GUE double tank configuration.
e. Own a double tank configuration.
f. Submit final paperwork to GUE HQ (3.3.2.3, d).
3.3.4.2.5 Drysuit Primer Instructor Progression
All GUE Drysuit Primer instructor candidates must:
b. Earn one endorsement from a GUE IE (for recreational instructors only) by
demonstrating an understanding of the GUE Drysuit Primer program content and
structure.
c. Have conducted at least 200 non-training dives; must have conducted 100 dives in a
drysuit.
d. Own a drysuit.
3.3.4.2.6 Documentation Diver Instructor Progression
All GUE Documentation Diver instructor candidates must:
b. Have taught at least three recreational or foundational classes.
c. Be certified as a GUE Documentation Diver.
d. Have conducted at least 300 non-training dives.
e. Earn one endorsement from a GUE IE by demonstrating an understanding of the GUE
Documentation Diver program content and structure.
f. Submit final paperwork to GUE HQ (3.3.2.3, d).
3.3.4.2.7 Photogrammetry Diver Instructor Progression
All GUE Photogrammetry Diver instructor candidates must:
c. Be certified as a GUE Photogrammetry Diver.
e. Must submit a photogrammetry portfolio showing at least three photogrammetry
models created and processed entirely by themselves. This will be evaluated by the
Photogrammetry Diver IEs.
f. Must own a licensed copy of Agisoft Photoscan Professional Edition (Academic license
or above).
g. Must own a computer capable of processing models in a reasonable time for in-class
demonstrations.
h. Must earn one endorsement from a GUE IE by demonstrating an understanding of the
GUE Photogrammetry Diver program content and structure.

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3.3.4.2.8 Scientific Diver Instructor Progression
All GUE Scientific Diver instructor candidates must:
c. Hold a bachelor’s degree or above in marine sciences (e.g., marine biology, geoscience,
nautical archaeology, hydrology).
d. Be certified as a GUE Scientific Diver.
e. Have conducted at least 300 non-training dives, 100 of which must have been scientific
dives.
f. Earn one endorsement from a GUE IE by demonstrating an understanding of the GUE
Scientific Diver program content and structure.
g. Submit final paperwork to GUE (3.3.2.3, d).
3.3.4.2.9 Diver Propulsion Vehicle Level 1 Instructor Progression
All GUE DPV 1 instructor candidates must:
a. Be an Active status GUE Rec 2, GUE Fundamentals, Cave, or Tech instructor.
b. Have taught at least three classes.
c. Have conducted at least 300 non-training dives.
d. Be certified as a GUE DPV 1 Diver.
e. Have experience using DPVs during at least 50 dives.
f. Own a DPV.
g. Earn one endorsement from a GUE IE by demonstrating an understanding of the GUE
DPV 1 program content and structure during a workshop that includes academic and in-
water evaluation.
3.3.4.2.10 Gas Blender Instructor Progression
All GUE Gas Blender instructor candidates must:
b. Be certified as a trimix gas blender from a recognized training agency.
c. Earn one endorsement from a GUE IE by demonstrating an understanding of the GUE
Gas Blender program content and structure.
d. Submit final paperwork to GUE HQ (3.3.2.3, d).
3.3.4.3 Technical Curriculum
3.3.4.3.1 Technical Diver Level 1 Instructor Candidate Curriculum-Specific Prerequisites
All GUE Tech 1 instructor candidates must:
a. Have conducted at least 300 dives, 50 of which must be at the Tech 2 or CCR 2 level.
b. Be certified as a GUE Tech 2 or GUE CCR 2 diver, and as a GUE Cave 1 diver.
c. Be an Active status GUE Fundamentals instructor.
d. Have taught a minimum of ten GUE classes, including five GUE Fundamentals classes.
e. Register as a Tech 1 instructor candidate with GUE HQ.

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f. Provide proof of at least 15 non-training technical dives conducted within the 12 months
prior to their first observation (form to be submitted to an IT/IE). Dives must be
conducted in an environment with sea-like conditions.
g. Complete the internship requirement by observing—as a registered candidate—one
entire GUE Tech 1 class (3.3.2.3, a).
h. Earn two endorsements from appropriately credentialed GUE personnel (3.3.2.3, c).
i. Provide proof of at least 15 non-training technical dives conducted within the 12 months
prior to their final IE (form to be submitted to an IE). Dives must be conducted in an
environment with sea-like conditions.
j. Have their instructor fitness test witnessed by the qualifying IE, no more than six months
k. Submit final paperwork to GUE HQ (3.3.2.3, d).
3.3.4.3.2 Technical Diver Level 2 Instructor Progression
All GUE Tech 2 instructor candidates must:
a. Be an Active status GUE Tech 1 instructor.
b. Have taught ten actual, complete, and uninterrupted GUE Tech 1 classes.
c. Be certified as a GUE Tech 2 or GUE CCR 2 diver with at least 150 Tech 2 or CCR 2 level
dives beyond Tech 2 or CCR 2 certification.
e. Register as a Tech 2 instructor candidate with GUE HQ.
f. Intern—as a registered candidate—one GUE Tech 2 class.
g. Provide proof of at least 15 non-training Tech 2 level dives conducted within the 12
months prior to their final IE (form to be submitted to an IE). Dives must be conducted in
an environment with sea-like conditions.
h. Prior to their final IE, have participated in at least one project requiring technical dives
in open water.
i. Earn one endorsement from a GUE IE (3.3.2.3, c, iii).
j. Have their instructor fitness test witnessed by the qualifying IE, no more than six months
k. Submit final paperwork to GUE HQ (3.3.2.3, d).
3.3.4.3.3 Passive Semi-Closed Circuit Rebreather Diver Instructor Progression
All GUE PSCR instructor candidates must:
a. Be an Active status GUE Tech 1 or GUE Cave 1 instructor.
b. Have taught ten classes at either the GUE Tech 1 or GUE Cave 1 level.
c. Be certified as a GUE PSCR diver.
d. Have conducted a minimum of 300 non-training rebreather dives, 200 of which must
have been while using a GUE-approved passive semi-closed circuit rebreather.
e. Own a GUE-approved passive semi-closed rebreather.
f. Intern one GUE PSCR class.
PSCR program content and structure by teaching either a mock or real GUE PSCR class.

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3.3.4.3.4 Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 1 Instructor Progression
All GUE CCR 1 instructor candidates must:
a. Be an Active status GUE Tech 1 instructor.
b. Have taught ten GUE Tech 1 classes.
c. Be certified as a GUE CCR 2 diver.
d. Have conducted a minimum of 300 non-training rebreather dives, 200 of which must
have been while using a GUE-approved closed-circuit rebreather.
e. Own a GUE-approved closed-circuit rebreather.
f. Intern one GUE CCR 1 class.
CCR 1 program content and structure by teaching either a mock or real GUE CCR 1 class.
3.3.4.3.5 Closed-Circuit Rebreather Diver Level 2 Instructor Progression
All GUE CCR 2 instructor candidates must:
a. Be an Active status GUE CCR 1 instructor.
b. Have taught ten GUE CCR 1 classes.
c. Be certified as a GUE CCR 2 diver.
d. Have conducted at least 400 non-training rebreather dives, 150 of which must be CCR
2 level dives beyond CCR 2 certification using a GUE-approved closed-circuit
rebreather.
e. Own a GUE-approved closed-circuit rebreather.
f. Intern one GUE CCR 2 class.
g. Earn one endorsement from a GUE IE (3.3.2.3, c, iii).
3.3.4.4 Cave Curriculum
3.3.4.4.1 Cave Diver Level 1 Instructor Candidate Curriculum-Specific Prerequisites
All GUE Cave 1 instructor candidates must:
a. Be an Active status GUE Fundamentals instructor.
b. Have taught a minimum of ten GUE classes, including five GUE Fundamentals classes.
c. Be certified as a GUE Tech 1 and GUE Cave 2 diver.
d. Have conducted at least 300 dives, 50 of which must be at the Cave 2 level.
e. Register as a Cave 1 instructor candidate with GUE HQ.
f. Provide proof of at least 15 non-training cave dives conducted within the 12 months
prior to their first observation (form to be submitted to an IT/IE).
g. Complete the internship requirement by observing—as a registered candidate—one
entire GUE Cave 1 class (3.3.2.3, a).
h. Earn two endorsements from appropriately credentialed GUE personnel (3.3.2.3, c).
i. Provide proof of at least 15 non-training cave dives conducted within the 12 months
prior to their final IE (form to be submitted to an IE).
j. Prior to their final IE, intern with at least two different IT/IEs, in geologically different
regions.

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k. Have their instructor fitness test witnessed by the qualifying IE, no more than six months
l. Submit final paperwork to GUE HQ (3.3.2.3, d).
3.3.4.4.2 Cave Diver Level 2 Instructor Progression
All GUE Cave 2 instructor candidates must:
a. Be an Active status Cave Diver Level 1 instructor
b. Have taught a minimum of ten actual, complete, and uninterrupted GUE Cave 1 classes.
c. Be certified as a GUE Cave 2 diver.
d. Have conducted at least 400 non-training dives, 150 of which must be Cave 2 level dives
beyond Cave 2 certification.
e. Have experience in high-flow systems and systems that require decompression.
f. Register as a Cave 2 instructor candidate with GUE HQ.
g. Intern—as a registered candidate—one GUE Cave 2 class.
h. Provide proof of at least 15 non-training Cave 2 level dives conducted within the 12
months prior to their final IE (form to be submitted to an IE).
i. Provide proof of diving experience in at least two geologically different regions within
the 12 months prior to their final IE.
j. Prior to their final IE, have participated in at least one cave project.
k. Earn one endorsement from a GUE IE (3.3.2.3, c, iii).
l. Have their instructor fitness test witnessed by the qualifying IE, no more than six months
m. Submit final paperwork to GUE HQ (3.3.2.3, d).
3.3.4.4.3 Underwater Cave Survey Instructor Progression
All GUE Underwater Cave Survey instructor candidates must:
a. Be an Active status GUE Cave Diver Level 2 instructor.
b. Have taught at least ten GUE Cave 2 classes.
c. Be certified as a GUE Underwater Cave Survey diver.
d. Have conducted at least 300 cave dives beyond Cave 2 certification.
e. Have participated in one sanctioned GUE Cave Exploration Project.
f. Have acted as the lead surveyor and cartographer for at least one exploration project
that resulted in the production of an accurate cave map.
g. Intern one GUE Underwater Cave Survey class.
h. Earn one endorsement from a GUE IE by demonstrating an understanding of the GUE
Underwater Cave Survey program content and structure.
3.3.4.4.4 Closed-Circuit Rebreather Cave Diver Instructor Progression
All GUE CCR Cave instructor candidates must:
a. Be an Active status GUE Cave 2 instructor and an Active status GUE CCR 1 instructor.
b. Have taught at least ten GUE Cave 2 classes.
c. Have taught at least five GUE CCR 1 classes.
d. Be certified as a GUE CCR Cave diver.
e. Have conducted at least 300 cave dives beyond Cave 2 certification.

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f. Have conducted at least 300 non-training dives using a GUE-approved closed-circuit
rebreather, 100 of which must have been in an overhead environment.
g. Intern one GUE CCR Cave class.
h. Earn one endorsement from a GUE IE by demonstrating and understanding of the GUE
CCR Cave program content and structure.
i. Must submit final paperwork to GUE HQ (3.3.2.3, d).
3.3.4.4.5 Cave Sidemount Instructor Progression
All GUE Cave Sidemount instructor candidates must:
a. Be an Active status GUE Cave 2 instructor.
b. Have taught at least five GUE Cave 2 classes.
c. Be certified as a GUE Cave Sidemount diver.
e. Have conducted at least 50 cave dives in a sidemount configuration, in caves where such
configuration is generally preferred over backmount.
f. Intern one GUE Cave Sidemount class.
Cave Sidemount program content and structure.
3.3.4.4.6 Diver Propulsion Vehicle Cave Instructor Progression
All GUE DPV Cave instructor candidates must:
a. Be an Active status GUE Cave 2 instructor and an Active status DPV 1 instructor.
b. Have taught at least ten GUE Cave 2 classes and at least five DPV 1 classes.
c. Be certified as a GUE DPV Cave diver.
e. Have conducted at least 100 cave dives using multiple stages and DPVs.
f. Have participated in a sanctioned GUE Cave Exploration Project.
g. Intern one GUE DPV Cave class.
h. Earn one endorsement from a GUE IE by demonstrating an understanding of the GUE
DPV Cave program content and structure.
3.4 Instructor Trainer (IT)
A GUE Instructor Trainer (IT) is qualified to:
a. Conduct a GUE-approved ITC in the curricula for which they are credentialed.
b. Conduct internships during which instructor candidates are able to earn signatures for
component parts, testifying to their readiness to teach the component in question.
c. Award the first of two endorsements that allow an instructor candidate to be ratified as
a GUE instructor.

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3.4.2 Instructor Trainer Candidate Development
3.4.2.1 Instructor Trainer Candidate Prerequisites
All GUE Instructor Trainer candidates must:
b. Have taught at least ten entry-level courses in the curriculum for which they are seeking
IT status.
c. Demonstrate a commitment to mentoring and developing instructor candidates.
d. Possess leadership-level administrative skills.
e. Possess leadership-level educational skills.
f. Demonstrate impartiality, equanimity, and sound judgment.
g. Always conduct themselves in a manner consistent with GUE General Training
Standards, Policies, and Procedures, and that promotes the best interests of GUE.
h. Not actively teach for other dive training organizations.
i. Have the support of GUE’s BOD.
3.4.2.2 Instructor Trainer Candidate Development Process
In order to obtain the IT rating, candidates must in sequence:
a. Submit an Instructor Trainer Application Form to GUE’s Board of Directors (BOD),
outlining their reasons for pursuing this rating and their suitability for it.
b. Be approved as an IT candidate by the BOD.
c. Undertake a GUE Instructor Trainer Development Course (ITDC).
d. Assist as acting staff during at least one complete, uninterrupted GUE-approved
Instructor Training Course (ITC).
3.4.3 Maintaining IT Rating

The GUE IT rating is reviewed annually and requires renewal by the BOD every two years.
Candidates may maintain their IT rating by:
a. Annually submitting the IT/IE Renewal Form as part of their instructor renewal.
b. Demonstrating leadership-level administrative skills.
c. Demonstrating leadership-level educational skills.
d. Demonstrating a commitment to mentoring and developing instructor candidates.
e. Demonstrating impartiality, equanimity, and sound judgment.
f. Conducting themselves in a manner consistent with GUE General Training Standards,
Policies, and Procedures, and promoting the best interests of GUE.
g. Demonstrating that they are promoting the best interests of the candidates, e.g.,
providing excellent training while mitigating unnecessary costs to the candidate.
h. Not actively teaching for other dive training organizations.
3.5 Instructor Evaluator (IE)
A GUE Instructor Evaluator (IE) is qualified to:

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a. Conduct a GUE-approved ITC in the curricula for which they are credentialed.
b. Conduct internships during which instructor candidates are able to earn signatures for
component parts, testifying to their readiness to teach the component in question.
c. Award the first and second of two endorsements that allow an instructor candidate to
be ratified as a GUE instructor, though they may not award both the first and the second
endorsement for a given candidate.
d. Conduct an instructor requalification.
e. Conduct instructor upgrades.
3.5.2 Obtaining IE Rating

All GUE Instructor Evaluator (IE) candidates must:
a. Be an Active GUE IT in the curriculum for which they are seeking IE status.
b. Be an Active status GUE instructor for at least five years.
c. Demonstrate a commitment to mentoring and developing instructor candidates.
d. Possess exemplary leadership-level administrative skills.
e. Possess exemplary leadership-level educational skills.
f. Demonstrate impartiality, equanimity, and sound judgment.
g. Always conduct themselves in a manner consistent with GUE General Training
Standards, Policies, and Procedures, and that promotes the best interests of GUE.
h. Not actively teach for other dive training organizations.
i. Have the support of GUE’s BOD.
3.5.2.2 Applying for IE Rating
In order to obtain IE rating, the candidate must submit an Instructor Evaluator Application Form
to GUE’s BOD, outlining their reasons for pursuing this rating and their suitability for it.
3.5.3 Maintaining IE Rating

The GUE IE rating is reviewed annually and requires renewal by the BOD every two years.
Candidates may maintain their IE rating by:
a. Annually submitting the IT/IE Renewal Form as part of their instructor renewal.
b. Demonstrating exemplary leadership-level administrative skills.
c. Demonstrating exemplary leadership-level educational skills.
d. Demonstrating continued interest in developing and mentoring instructor candidates.
e. Demonstrating impartiality, equanimity, and sound judgment.
f. Conducting themselves in a manner consistent with GUE General Training Standards,
Policies, and Procedures, and promoting the best interests of GUE.
g. Demonstrating that they are promoting the best interests of the candidates, e.g.,
providing excellent training while mitigating unnecessary costs to the candidate.
h. Not actively teaching for other dive training organizations.

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Appendix A - GUE Base Equipment Configuration
The GUE base equipment configuration is comprised of:
a. Tanks/cylinders: Students may use a single tank/cylinder with a single- or dual-outlet
valve. Students may also use dual tanks/cylinders connected with a dual-outlet isolator
manifold, which allows for the use of two first stages. Dual tanks/cylinders connected
with a dual-outlet, non-isolator manifold can be used, but only in recreational (no
decompression) diving, and are considered an alternative for a single tank/cylinder.
Consult course-specific standards and your instructor to verify size requirements.
b. Regulators:
i. Single tank: The first stage must supply a primary second stage via a 5 to 7 ft/1.5
to 2 m hose. A backup second stage must be necklaced and supplied via a short
hose. The first stage must also supply an analog pressure gauge, inflation for the
buoyancy compensator (BC), and (when applicable) inflation for a drysuit.
ii. Double tank: One first stage must supply a primary second stage via a 5 to 7
ft/1.5 to 2 m hose (7 ft/2 m hose is required for all cave classes), and inflation for
the buoyancy compensator (BC). The other first stage must supply a necklaced
backup second stage via a short hose, an analog pressure gauge, and (when
applicable) inflation for a drysuit.
c. Backplate system:
i. Is held to the diver by one continuous piece of webbing. This webbing is
adjustable and uses a buckle to secure the system at the waist.
ii. A crotch strap is attached and looped through the waistband to prevent the
system from riding up a diver’s back.
iii. The continuous webbing must support five D-rings;
1. The first placed at the left hip
2. The second placed in line with a diver’s right collarbone
3. The third placed in line with the diver’s left collarbone
4. The fourth and fifth are placed on the front and back of the crotch strap
when divers plan to use advanced equipment such as DPVs.
iv. The harness below the diver’s arms has small restrictive bands to allow for the
placement of backup lights. The webbing and system retains a minimalist
approach.
d. Buoyancy compensation device (BC):
i. A diver’s BC is back-mounted and minimalist in nature.
ii. It is free of extraneous strings, tabs, or other material.
iii. There are no restrictive bands or restrictive elastic affixed to the buoyancy cell.
iv. Wing size and shape is appropriate to the cylinder size(s) employed for training.
e. At least one time/depth measuring device
f. Wrist-mounted compass
g. Mask and fins: Mask is low-volume; fins are rigid, non-split.
h. Backup mask
i. At least one cutting device
j. Wetnotes with pencils

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k. Surface marker buoy (SMB) with spool: when required, the SMB should be appropriate
for environmental conditions and deployed using a spool with at least 100 ft/30 m of line.
l. Exposure suit appropriate for the duration of exposure
Additional Course-Specific Equipment

a. Where required, back gas and stage cylinders are marked in accordance with the GUE
General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures document and configured in line
with GUE protocols.
b. When drysuit inflation systems are applicable, they should be sized appropriately for the
environment; small tanks are placed on the left side of the backplate with larger supplies
affixed to the diver’s left back gas tank.
c. Underwater lights:
i. When required, backup lights should be powered by alkaline batteries (not
rechargeable) and stowed on the D-rings at a diver’s chest.
ii. Backup lights should have a minimal amount of protrusions and a single
attachment at the rear.
iii. The primary light should consist of a rechargeable battery pack and be fitted with
a Goodman-style light handle.
iv. When burn time requirements create the need for an external battery pack, it
should reside in a canister mounted on the diver’s right hip.
d. Guideline devices, as required during cave diving activities:
i. A primary reel is required for all cave diving and provides a minimalist form
factor with a handle designed to support a Goodman or “hands free” handle
operation. The primary reel must contain at least 150 ft/45 m of line.
ii. A safety spool is required for each diver while cave diving and must contain at
least 150 ft/45 m of line.
iii. A jump or gap spool is required during Cave 2 diving and must contain at least 75
ft/23 m of line.

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What equipment is required for all GUE training courses?

What equipment is required for all GUE training courses?

What are the requirements for a backplate and harness system?

What are the requirements for a backplate and harness system?

General Training Standards,

Policies, and Procedures

© 2021 Global Underwater Explorers

2 GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures

GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures 3

4 GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures

GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures 5

1.1 GUE Objectives

1.1.1 Promote Quality Education

1.1.2 Promote Global Conservation Initiatives

1.1.3 Promote Global Exploration Initiatives

1.2 Training Philosophy

6 GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures

1.3 Training Structure

1.3.1 Elements of Diver Training

GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures 7

1.3.2 Diver Assessment

8 GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures

1.3.4 General Training Standards

GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures 9

1.4 General Diving Standards

10 GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures

1.5 Equipment Standardization

1.6 Quality Control

GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures 11

1.6.2 Instructor Peer Review

1.6.3 Instructor Renewals

1.6.4 Instructor Requalification

1.6.5 Diver Requalification

12 GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures

1.8.1 Complaint Submission

1.8.2 Complaint Procedure

GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures 13

1.8.3 Disciplinary and Remedial Actions

1.8.4 Rights of Appeal

1.8.5 Executive Suspension of Membership

1.9 Conduct Policies and Procedures

14 GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures

GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures 15

2.1 Recreational Diver Curriculum

2.1.1 Discover Diving

16 GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures

GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures 17

2.1.2 Recreational Supervised Diver

18 GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures

GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures 19

20 GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures

GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures 21

22 GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures

2.1.4 Recreational Diver Level 2

GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures 23

24 GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures

GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures 25

2.1.5 Recreational Diver Level 3

26 GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures

GUE General Training Standards, Policies, and Procedures 27