TS EN ISO 24801-3

TS EN ISO 24801-3 addresses the Level 3 “dive leader” qualification in recreational scuba diver training. Its focus is not only diving skill, but also preparing a diver to plan, manage, and guide a group within a recreational diving context. In other words, the standard defines training rules for a role that carries leadership responsibilities in recreational diving services.

What Level 3 means in technical terms

In general technical terms, a dive leader evaluates group behaviour, dive planning, and environmental conditions together, rather than focusing solely on personal in-water performance. This level is typically positioned above autonomous diver competence, and the training aim is to develop a combination of pre-dive preparation, team management, situational awareness, and guiding ability. The standard sets rules for this qualification level while keeping the activity within the recreational diving domain and framing leadership as part of the training pathway.

Training and service context covered by the standard

• Training of recreational scuba divers in recreational diving services
• The Level 3 qualification leading to the dive leader role
• Leadership and guidance tasks in recreational diving settings
• The relationship between diver training and diving service delivery

This standard is not a general manual for every diving method or every equipment type; it is specifically focused on recreational scuba diver training at the dive leader level. The dive leader concept represents a stage where experience, communication, and planning discipline come together within diving safety culture. As a result, the document is important for understanding how training structures are organised and how different qualification levels are distinguished from one another.