SCUBA Diver

SCUBA Diver Impairment Online Questionnaire

SCUBA Diver Impairment Printable Questionnaire

SCUBA Diver Underwriting Information

SCUBA diving is likely to be the sport most frequently encountered in underwriting. Experience, type of diving, fitness level, medical impairments, life style and psychological/emotional maturity impact the overall risk. Certification level, participation in a nationally affiliated diving organization (YMCA, NAUI, NASDS, PADI, SSI), whether or not equipment is purchased (borrowed or rented equipment may present an added risk to the diver because of unfamiliarity with use and/or the potential for failure), and diving frequency reflect the diver's experience level.

Depth of dives, sites frequented, and specialty certifications help define the nature and purpose of the diving done. Dives in open water represent less risk than technical diving (wreck, cave and ice diving).

Generally, the sport is safe if the diving is within the scope of the diver's training. The greatest risk is presented by the inexperienced/unqualified diver who dives beyond his/her training and experience.

Physical conditioning and a client's health status are important to safe diving, and impact the overall mortality risk. Some impairments are of particular concern to underwriting a diver. These include: asthma, seizures, cerebral vascular accidents, diabetes mellitus, panic disorders, drug and/or alcohol abuse, coronary artery disease, and restrictive pulmonary disease. Caution is indicated when an individual is rated for a medical condition (especially those cited above) and he/she continues to dive. In general, a minimum of an Occupational Class 1 for diving is applied, regardless of the nature of the diving, in addition to any rating required for the medical history.

A rateable driving record also poses an increased risk when combined with scuba diving. A minimum Occupational Class 1 will generally be required for the diving history, in addition to any rating required for the driving record. A record of a DWI in combination with a history of diving, regardless of the nature of the diving, may suggest a lifestyle pattern of abuse or risk taking that is unacceptable.

Most scuba divers are accepted without an "Avocational extra" or "rating." A few scuba participants become involved in activities which add additional risk and may require a rating or, in rare cases, a rejection. Examples of these activities include cave diving, wreck diving, ice diving, etc. If there is evidence of recklessness or attempts to set records, rejection may be necessary. Observance of safety rules and the frequency and extent of future participation will also be considered.

Information regarding specific scuba activities and involvement is obtained through an Avocation questionnaire (form ORD 9098A). It must be submitted with the application if the avocation (hazardous sports) question is answered "Yes." The decision to offer with or without the extra premium is based on the details provided by form 9098A along with other information included in the application and inspection report. This questionnaire will also be made a part of the policy/contact once issued.

SCUBA Diving Rating Guidelines Schedule

Not all preferred underwriting categories are available with a history of SCUBA diving. Please contact underwriting.

If the scuba activity warrants a "rating," there are 8 avocational rating classes. They are expressed as a permanent flat extra charge per $1000 of insurance.

Avocation Ratings

Figures shown below do not include the cost for Waiver of Premium.