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.
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.
Recognised Certification
- Obtain a Certificate of Training in Commercial Diving.
- The certificate must be recognised by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
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.
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 (Read More)
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 are included in MOM’s list of recognised foreign commercial diving certifications. (Read More)
Requirements to Become a Commercial Diver in Singapore (Read More)
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 recognised commercial diving training centre … (Read More)
Commercial Diving Supervisor Certification must be recognized by MOM … (Read More)
Legal and Regulatory Perspective on Additional Certifications for Commercial Divers … (Read More)