Some of the best jobs in the world involve support roles that make producing entertainment possible. When we watch television and movies, what we see normally involves actors doing their best to bring us into another world. What we don’t see until the end when the credits roll, are the countless names behind the production – the people who make things possible. On underwater film sets, divers providing safety services play a vital role.
A Day in the Life of a Film Production Safety Diver
A fantastic job that can take you to exotic, warm locations or to freezing cold climates, and one that sometimes simply requires you watch over film crews and actors working in enclosed tank set environments, the role of safety diver is both demanding and fun. On film sets, these professionals watch over other divers as well as non-divers.
A typical day involves planning meetings, in which storyboards are carefully reviewed, actors and stunt doubles are prepped for action, and underwater film crews, lighting technicians, and stagehands ensure everything is ready for the perfect shot. After everything is reviewed and the set is ready for action, divers get into position, readying themselves to assist the rest of the crew if the need arises.
Certain actors and stunt doubles are assigned their own safety divers or even teams of safety divers, who monitor their well-being while they are performing. While the action portion of underwater filming normally occurs during short periods of time, the safety of film crews and actors is of paramount importance.
Sometimes, safety divers help move and prepare sets; at other times they simply perform the role of monitor.
While some safety divers are fortunate enough to have steady work with TV and movie studios, and while some are employed by commercial diving companies that offer film production safety services, many perform the work only occasionally.
Safety Divers: Basic Requirements
In order to work as a safety diver, you will need to be certified as a rescue diver. The more technical qualifications you possess, the better your chances of receiving a part time role, and in order to work with a commercial company, you will need to meet that company’s specific standards. While different corporations have different requirements, most have a few things in common:
- Safety divers must be qualified as Dive Masters or above
- Physical fitness is a must
- Pass pre-employment drug tests and periodic drug tests
- Divers should have logged dives in a variety of conditions – the better rounded your diving skills, the greater your chances of receiving employment
- Medical certifications obtained from courses, such as CPR, First Responder, DAN Basic Life Support, DAN Oxygen First Aid for SCUBA Diving Injuries, and DAN Oxygen Advanced First Aid for SCUBA diving injuries are desirable
- Equipment certifications, such as TDI Nitrox gas blender and High Pressure Air System Maintenance are desirable
Safety divers are paid well for their work, which is rewarding in itself. Often, the job provides opportunities to meet popular actors, plus it is a fantastic addition to one’s diving resume. By providing yourself with plenty of training and becoming your personal best, you might very well see your own name as the credits roll.