A Career as a Commercial Diver
A career as a commercial diver is both challenging and highly specialized. In places like Singapore, the profession is regulated to ensure safety due to the high-risk nature of underwater work.
Commercial divers typically work in industries such as:
- Offshore Oil and Gas
- Marine Construction
- Ship Repair and Maintenance
- Underwater Inspection and Welding
- Salvage Operations
The work can involve deep-sea diving, operating heavy equipment underwater, and working in low-visibility or hazardous environments. Physical stamina, mental resilience, and strict adherence to safety protocols are essential.
To become a commercial diver in Singapore, you must meet the following baseline requirements:
Be at least 18 years old
Medically Fit
- Possess a current Commercial Diving “Fit to Dive” medical certificate
- The certificate must be issued by a hyperbaric and diving medical specialist registered in Singapore
- Regular medical examinations are required to ensure ongoing fitness.
Recognized Certification
- Obtain a Certificate of Training in Commercial Diving
- The certificate must be recognised by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
Commercial diving can be rewarding due to:
- Competitive pay
- Opportunities to work on major infrastructure and offshore projects
- Travel and international assignments
- A strong sense of accomplishment
However, it is not for everyone. The job often involves:
- Long hours
- Physically strenuous work
- Strict safety compliance
- Working in confined or hazardous underwater environments
If you are physically fit, comfortable working underwater, and thrive in disciplined, high-pressure environments, commercial diving can be a fulfilling long-term career.
Medical Fitness Requirement for Commercial Divers (insert PDF)
Requirements to become a Commercial Diving in Singapore (insert PDF)
Individuals may possess commercial diving qualifications obtained outside the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), other than MOM’s Level 1 and Level 2 certifications. Such individuals are advised to verify whether their qualifications with MOM’s list of recognized foreign commercial diving certifications. (insert pdf)
Stop diving at once and act responsibly. You may be one of the active commercial divers in Singapore who has been working as a diver for many years, but never had the opportunity to attend a course of training and instruction at a recognized commercial diving training centre … (insert PDF)
Commercial Diving Supervisor Certification must be recognized by MOM … (insert PDF)
Legal and Regulatory Perspective on Additional Certifications for Commercial Divers … (insert PDF)
For more information, download the application form here (insert link)
- Notes on Diver Log Books
- Notes on Expired and Fraudulent Certificates
- Industry and Union Support
- Application of CDA(S) Competency Card
- General Provisions (insert PDF)