Insurance for non-pro instructors

[Pez]

The PADI insurance price rise thread has got me thinking about liability insurance for non-professional (not paid rather than gash) instructors.

As a new BSAC OWI, I am sadly thinking of the what if scenario as part of my risk assessments for teaching or dive marshalling. I am confident that I take adequate precautions, give good instruction and briefs etc but the potential for an incident is always there. In the modern, namby 'someone is always to balme' culture we are importing will we be justifying ourselves in a claims court after the inquest is over?

Is BSAC's insurance adequate? I am no expert but would like to know the answer; if it is not sufficiently comprehensive, where is the best source of additional cover.

My situation is further clouded by being a member of a special branch that means I conduct training whilst at work under the guise of adventurous training. This greys the professional aspect. Whilst not being paid directly for diving, I am at work. I have no HSE medical requirements etc whilst still compelled to undertake a formal dive medical, a good precaution. Does this stand scrutiny?

Any legal experts out there or someone with similar concerns? I am not a wus or a worrier, I just have a wife and kids who have expensive shopping needs, a large compo claim against me would be evastating.

[biggadiver]

the insurance from DAN should more than cover you, my club has the club insurance and all the instructors are covered under the scheme.
its very inexspensive only about £150 for a whole year for everyone
its well worth a look

[Adrian Kelland]

Pez,

If you are really concerned, this is best taken up with BSAC HQ.

However the insurance has served members well in the past. Obviously levels and costs of cover may change. Usually you are OK if you have followed your training. It's when you step outside of that that insurance problems could start... The works aspect could be interesting for a special branch. SADS or similar? If so, you could contact Mark Allen at BSAC. He is a council member and also works for Liz II.

biggadiver, is that for a BSAC/SAA or similar club, or a PADI proprietors club where you are working.

Adrian

[Pez]

Thanks for the advice; I will contact BSAC as suggested. I am trying to ensure all our guys are covered in the modern vicarious liability world. failing that the DAN deal may be a worthwhile investment. Sad but necessary.

cheers

Pez