Mgic goes to school

MgicTwnger · 04-01-2008, 12:53 AM

I was lucky enough this past weekend to take a certification class in VIP (visual inspection procedures) with one of my favorite dive boat captains, Dale Bennett. He is a TDI instructor and about the most experienced Great Lakes diver I know.
VIP is what happens when you get your tank's yearly inspection. The class is mainly for people who want to work in dive shops, but the other student and myself mainly wanted to save some $$ by vizing our own tanks.
The process consists of removing the valve, inspecting the tank inside and out (including the threads), and judging weather it is fit for service based on criteria such as rust, cracks, distortion of shape, etc. The tools are simple: lights to see inside, a straight edge for the shape, dentist's mirrors, and long, thin probes to poke at rust spots. We also covered filling tanks and cleaning the interiors.
I'm glad to say that both of the tanks I brought to class passed. It felt great to slap my own stickers on them!

**dalehall** · 04-01-2008, 11:49 AM

Hmmm.. That's not a bad idea.. Of course, I would probably have to travel somewhere to get the training. I don't think my LDS would like to lose the monopoly they have in this area. So, I highly doubt they would be willing to teach the course to those of us interested. Congrats on learning and Thanks for the idea..

MgicTwnger · 04-01-2008, 12:17 PM

Check with PSI, they have classes all over the place.

Scuba Mama · 04-01-2008, 02:02 PM

Mgic,

Did you get in the water at all? How did the dry suit hold?

Scuba Mama

MgicTwnger · 04-01-2008, 02:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Scuba Mama

Mgic,

Did you get in the water at all? How did the dry suit hold?

Scuba Mama

Nope, had a small emergency come up at home and I had to head back right after class Saturday. I will be at Haigh this weekend! Come enjoy the fun & colorful language if the zipper is no good.

Scuba Mama · 04-01-2008, 02:33 PM

Would love to come out but will be in Orland Park doing some training. Completing the last class to move up to IDC Staff Instructor. I already have a student lined up to become a AI. Good Luck staying dry.