Rebreather Training
Rebreathers are diving systems that recycle your breathing gas. There are two types of rebreathers on the market today: closed-circuit rebreathers (CCR) and semi-closed circuit rebreathers (SCR) and each require specific training.
There are a number of training agencies that can instruct you on diving rebreathers, such as IANTD, GUE, TDI, NAUI, and PADI. All instruct on different rebreathers and different levels of diving when using a rebreather. If you want to dive a mixed-gas closed-circuit rebreather in an overhead environment, you’ll need extensive training. If you only want to dive in open water to recreational levels, such as 130 feet maximum, basic or beginner courses on a specific rebreather is what you need.
When looking for a rebreather course, you first need to first decide how and where you want to dive a rebreather. This can help you decide on the type of rebreather you need. Once you decide on a unit or two, you can then research the training required to operate the unit safely and where you need to go get the proper training. If there is a specific training organization that you want to use, you’ll have to contact them to find out exactly what type of training they offer on what rebreather, where they offer it, how long it takes to complete, costs, etc.
Every rebreather on the market today operates a little differently, even though they all perform the same function. Some rebreathers are mechanically operated only, while others use complex computer and sensor systems. This makes training requirements, costs, training time, etc. very different from rebreather to rebreather. Do your research first.