FAQ for Divers
Your questions about commercial diving in Singapore – careers, training, certification, and safety
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.
Getting Started
What are the Minimum Requirements in Singapore?
To become a commercial diver in Singapore, you must meet the following baseline requirements:
• Be at least 18 years old
• Medically Fit
• Recognised Certification
What Does a Commercial Diver Do?
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.
Is it the Right Career For You?
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 and Certification
What are the required Diving Medical Certificates?
Medical Fitness Requirement for Commercial Divers
What Does a Commercial Diver Do?
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.
Is it the Right Career For You?
Requirements to Become a Commercial Diver in Singapore
Career Pathways
If you are an Uncertified but Experienced Commercial Diver
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
If you want to be a Commercial Diving Supervisor
Commercial Diving Supervisor Certification must be recognized by MOM
If you want Additional Commercial Diving Certifications
Legal and Regulatory Perspective on Additional Certifications for Commercial Divers
Offshore Oil & Gas
Inspection, maintenance and repair of offshore structures and assets.
Marine Construction
Installation, piling, cutting and concrete works in marine environments.
Ship Repair & Maintenance
Hull cleaning, propeller maintenance, anode replacement and more.
Underwater Inspection & Welding
NDT inspection, welding, cutting and fabrication underwater.
Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) Cleaning Operations
NDT inspection, welding, cutting and fabrication underwater.
Salvage Operations
Recovery, refloatation and salvage of vessels and equipment.