PADI Surface Support Specialist (SSS)
Operate topside with precision, manage dive operations, and support public safety teams with structure and control
Duration
3–4 days, no dives required
Max Depth
Not applicable (surface role)
Level
Operational Support
Next Step
PADI Public Safety Diver
Overview
The PADI Surface Support Specialist (SSS) course develops the skills required to operate as a critical topside team member in public safety diving operations.
Surface support personnel are responsible for scene management, diver safety, communications, and operational coordination, ensuring that dives are conducted safely and effectively.
This course focuses on team structure, communication protocols, emergency response, and operational readiness, forming an essential part of any public safety dive team.
At N9BO℠, this program is delivered as operational training, where candidates learn to function within a structured team environment and support mission execution from the surface.
Course Facts
- Course name: PADI Surface Support Specialist (SSS)
- Level: Operational Diving Speciality
- Minimum prerequisites: Minimum age 18, PADI Rescue Diver (or equivalent), PADI Advanced Open Water Diver (or equivalent)
- Ratio: Maximum 8 students per instructor (small groups recommended for quality training)
- Configuration: Surface support equipment including communication systems, oxygen units, first aid equipment, and operational control tools
- Depth / environment: Not applicable (surface-based training)
- Format: Knowledge development + practical surface exercises + scenario-based training
- Duration: 3–4 days with practical operational scenarios (no dives required)
What You’ll Learn
- Manage surface operations and team coordination.
- Assist with equipment preparation and deployment.
- Implement emergency response procedures.
- Manage oxygen administration and first aid readiness.
- Maintain documentation and operational logs.
Prerequisites
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Hold PADI Advanced Open Water Diver (or equivalent).
- Hold PADI Rescue Diver (or equivalent).
- Meet the training requirements associated with the public safety team structure and support role components as applicable.
- Be medically fit for diving.
FAQ
A Surface Support Specialist (SSS) is responsible for managing the dive operation from the surface, ensuring diver safety, coordination, and communication throughout the mission.
No. This course is designed for both divers and non-divers who want to support public safety diving operations.
You will participate in scenario-based surface operations, including communication handling, diver monitoring, emergency response, and team coordination.
Key skills include:
- Communication
- Situational awareness
- Team coordination
- Emergency response readiness
You will be qualified to function as a surface support team member in public safety diving operations and can progress into the PADI Public Safety Diver training.
Ready to Join the Team?
Send us your background and availability. We’ll train you to support dive operations with structure, awareness, and control.
Go Pro with PADI Public Safety Diver™ Instructor
Step into an instructional role and train divers for real-world operations. As a PADI Public Safety Diver™ Instructor, you’ll teach team procedures, operational discipline, and mission-based diving skills required for safe and effective public safety diving.
