Ontario Underwater Club   

E&O for Non-Training Clubs   

If you are an active or former scuba professional (Divemaster or higher) with an OUC Non-Training Club, you may now be eligible for Errors & Omissions (E&O) liability insurance through the Ontario Underwater Council (OUC).

This coverage applies when you are acting within your professional capacity while conducting OUC-sanctioned training or non-training activities with OUC members, and you do not already carry your own professional liability insurance. This program is especially beneficial for professionals who have chosen not to maintain active membership with their training agency due to the high cost of insurance, but who continue to support diving activities through OUC events.

Cost 
You can request this E&O coverage for 2026 for only $100 per calendar year (January to December), in addition to the regular $50 OUC membership fee — an exceptional value for this type of professional protection. (Training Clubs pay a higher annual fee that covers their instructors and DMs for E&O. Non-Training Clubs, by paying a lower annual fee, do not have E&O for professionals, but this new option allows professionals of Non-Training Clubs to purchase E&O through OUC.)

Important Note
Former Divemasters or Instructors can still be held personally liable for negligence if their actions or omissions contribute to harm — especially when they are involved in organizing, leading, supervising, or otherwise taking responsibility for others. The law often considers what a reasonable and prudent person with similar training and experience would have done under the circumstances, regardless of whether they were paid or insured.

Active professional members should recognize that not disclosing their professional status offers little protection when diving as a peer. The more responsible approach is to be transparent. Acknowledge your professional standing and clarify your role before the dive.

If you are interested, please contact: heison@underwatercouncil.com