DAN is not an insurance company and does not sell insurance products.
DAN is a diving emergency assistance organisation dedicated to supporting divers through emergency medical assistance, education, training and research. To help fulfil this mission, DAN maintains group insurance arrangements that enable it to extend certain emergency medical, travel-related and divingrelated benefits to eligible members.
As part of their membership, DAN members automatically receive access to the benefits associated with their selected membership level, subject to the applicable terms, conditions and benefit limits.
The primary purpose of these benefits is to support members during qualifying diving and travel-related emergencies, while providing access to DAN's specialised emergency assistance network and diving medical expertise.
DAN Diving Injury Cover
DAN offers four membership levels: Standard, Plus, Master Dive Pro and Master Tech Diver. Each membership level provides access to a range of emergency assistance and medical benefits designed specifically for divers.
Depending on the selected membership level, benefits may include coverage for hospitalisation, emergency medical treatment, hyperbaric treatment, emergency medical transport and evacuation, as well as other eligible expenses associated with diving-related injuries and illnesses. A detailed summary of benefits can be found in the "What Is Covered?" table below.
All DAN members also receive a digital subscription to Alert Diver Magazine, providing access to the latest diving safety information, medical insights, research findings and industry news.
Important: Many medical aid schemes and health insurance providers either exclude diving-related injuries, limit cover for specialised treatments such as hyperbaric therapy, or do not provide adequate protection when incidents occur outside your country of residence. Before travelling or diving, we strongly recommend that you confirm the extent of your cover directly with your medical aid or insurance provider and do not assume that diving-related incidents are automatically covered.
Diving Emergency Assistance
The DAN Emergency Hotline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, providing immediate assistance in the event of a diving-related injury or medical emergency.
By supporting DAN, members help ensure that this vital emergency assistance service remains available to divers throughout Southern Africa and beyond.
DAN Emergency Hotline: +27 (0) 82 810 6010
In addition to emergency assistance, DAN members and divers can contact the DAN Medical Information Line for guidance on a wide range of diving medical questions. Whether you need advice on returning to diving after surgery, managing a medical condition, medication use while diving, fitness to dive concerns, or assistance locating a diving physician, DAN's medical team is available to help.
When it comes to diving safety and diving medicine, expert advice is only a phone call away.
Emergency Evacuation Benefits
As a DAN member, you have access to the benefits of our Emergency Medical Assistance Programme. This includes emergency medical evacuation when travelling more than 100 km from your registered home address on a dive trip. In addition, Plus, Master Dive Pro and Master Tech Diver members are covered for non-diving-related emergency medical expenses while travelling outside their country of permanent residence on a dive trip.
What Is Covered?
When does it apply? During a qualifying divingrelated emergency While travelling outside your country of permanent residence on a dive trip When travelling more than 100 km from home on a dive trip What
Emergency medical expenses arising from diving-related injuries and illnesses, including:
• Ear barotrauma
• Decompression
• Arterial gas embolism
• Other qualifying diving-related injuries and illnesses
Benefits are subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions and
Emergency medical expenses arising from a qualifying nondiving-related injury or illness while travelling internationally on a dive trip
Emergency medical transport and evacuation to the nearest appropriate medical facility in the event of a medical emergency
Within your country of residence, members must rely on their own medical aid or health insurance.
Transport and evacuation costs form part of, and are subject to, the overall medical benefit limit applicable to the selected membership level.
International Travel Requirements
For international travel benefits to apply, members must submit a Dive Travel Notification to DAN before departure. This enables DAN to provide the appropriate support and assistance during the trip.
For extended travel periods or international work-related activities, benefit extensions may be available upon request and are subject to underwriter approval. Members are encouraged to contact DAN in advance to discuss their specific requirements.
Important
All benefits are subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions, exclusions and benefit limits.
Notes on What Is Covered
Accessing DAN Membership Benefits in a Medical Emergency
In the event of a diving-related medical emergency, members must contact the DAN Emergency Hotline (+27 82 810 6010) as soon as possible to access available membership benefits and emergency assistance services.
DAN membership benefits are designed to complement, rather than replace, a member's primary health and travel insurance. DAN works closely with healthcare providers, emergency services and other insurers to help ensure members receive the most appropriate care and support during an emergency.
International Travel Requirements
Members travelling internationally on a dive trip must submit a Dive Travel Notification to DAN before departure. This allows DAN to provide the appropriate support and assistance should an emergency arise during the trip.
Members requiring extended travel periods or additional cover for international work-related activities should contact DAN before departure to discuss their eligibility for an extension of benefits.
Understanding DAN Membership Benefits
DAN membership benefits are intended to provide emergency assistance and secondary cover in qualifying situations. Where possible, DAN will assist in coordinating ongoing care and support for the member, including liaising with any valid health, travel, or medical insurance policies held by the member. If the applicable DAN benefit limit is exhausted during a medical emergency, DAN will continue to provide reasonable assistance, where possible, to help facilitate ongoing care and support.
Coverage for Lost or Damaged Diving Equipment
Loss of or damage to diving equipment may be covered when it occurs as a direct result of a qualifying accident, emergency or evacuation coordinated through DAN.
To ensure eligibility for any applicable benefits, members must contact the DAN Emergency Hotline (+27 82 810 6010) as soon as reasonably possible following the incident.
Important Conditions and Exclusions
As with any membership benefit programme, specific terms, conditions, exclusions and benefit limits apply. Members are encouraged to familiarise themselves with these provisions to ensure a clear understanding of the benefits available to them.
For full details, please refer to the terms and conditions contained in this guide.
Getting the Most from Your Membership
Maintaining up-to-date membership information, submitting travel notifications when required and contacting DAN promptly in the event of an emergency will help ensure that the appropriate assistance and benefits can be provided when they are needed most.
Benefits Overview
*Medical and related expenses include:
• Diving-related injury or illness (all membership levels).
• International non-diving-related injury or illness (Plus, Master Dive Pro and Master Tech Diver memberships only).
**Emergency medical transport or evacuation includes local and international emergency transport or evacuation to the closest appropriate medical facility when medically necessary.
The amount shown represents the maximum combined benefit available for all covered medical expenses, including emergency transport and evacuation costs. Benefits are subject to the overall limit applicable to the member's selected membership level.
Personal Liability
Personal Liability cover protects you against claims made by third parties for financial loss, bodily injury or death for which you or an eligible family member are held legally liable in a personal capacity.
This benefit is intended to provide protection against accidental incidents arising from private, nonbusiness activities.
Please note: All business, commercial, professional and income-generating activities are specifically excluded from this cover. Refer to the applicable terms and conditions for full details of exclusions and benefit limits.
Inconvenience Benefits
To access any Inconvenience Benefit, the DAN Emergency Hotline must be notified as soon as reasonably possible and all required supporting documentation must be submitted for review and approval. Claims relating to these benefits are processed during normal office hours.
The following Inconvenience Benefits may be available, subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions and benefit limits.
Diving Equipment Delay
If, during a dive trip (excluding the final return journey to your point of departure), access to all or part of your diving equipment is delayed for more than four hours due to circumstances beyond your control involving a scheduled public carrier, DAN may reimburse eligible expenses up to the benefit limit specified in the Schedule of Benefits.
Dive Trip Cancellation
A member may be reimbursed for non-refundable cancellation expenses, up to the applicable benefit limit, when it becomes necessary to cancel a planned dive trip due to:
• Death.
• Sudden and serious injury.
• Sudden and serious illness.
• A traumatic event occurring within 30 days before the scheduled departure date.
• Compulsory quarantine ordered by a qualified medical practitioner, where cancellation is confirmed as medically necessary.
Dive Trip Curtailment or Itinerary Changes
A member may be reimbursed for eligible costs incurred as a result of curtailing or altering a planned dive trip when the change is caused by:
• Death.
• Sudden and serious injury.
• Sudden and serious illness.
• A traumatic event occurring within 30 days of departure.
• Compulsory quarantine ordered by a qualified medical practitioner, where the change is confirmed as medically necessary.
This benefit may apply to the member, a travel companion, a host at the destination, an immediate family member, a travel companion's immediate family member or a close business associate.
Adverse Weather Conditions
If unexpected weather conditions prevent a member from participating in planned diving activities during a dive trip, a benefit may be payable up to the amount stated in the Schedule of Benefits.
Examples of covered weather conditions may include:
• Rough seas.
• Strong winds.
• Heavy rain.
• Poor underwater visibility.
• Snow.
• Hail.
• Lightning.
Missed Liveaboard Departure
If a member misses the departure of a liveaboard vessel as a direct result of an accident, a benefit may be payable up to the amount stated in the Schedule of Benefits.
Mechanical Breakdown of a Liveaboard Vessel
If a liveaboard vessel experiences a mechanical breakdown that materially affects the dive trip, a daily benefit may be payable, subject to the applicable excess and maximum benefit limit stated in the Schedule of Benefits.
Supporting Documentation
Claims must be supported by appropriate documentation, including:
• Written confirmation from the transport provider detailing the reason for and duration of any delay.
• Original receipts and invoices for cancellation expenses, itinerary changes, accommodation costs, transport expenses and other eligible expenditure.
• Medical reports or supporting documentation where required.
Where a member needs to alter or curtail a planned dive trip, DAN should be contacted beforehand, wherever reasonably possible, to assist with and approve alternative travel arrangements.
Important Exclusions
No benefit will be payable for losses arising directly or indirectly from:
• Pre-existing serious, chronic or recurring medical conditions that were known before the dive trip was booked and which could reasonably have resulted in cancellation or curtailment.
• Changes in a member's financial circumstances.
• Insolvency, financial failure, default or inability of a travel provider, accommodation provider or agent to fulfil their obligations.
• Withdrawal from service of an aircraft, vessel or other transport on the instruction of a regulatory authority or manufacturer.
• A member's or travelling companion's decision not to travel or continue a trip where no covered event has occurred.
• Failure to notify travel providers promptly when cancellation becomes necessary.
• Expenses paid for using promotional vouchers, loyalty points, timeshare arrangements or similar schemes.
• Upgraded travel or accommodation arrangements beyond the standard originally booked.
• Certain redundancy-related circumstances, including voluntary redundancy, resignation, misconduct or self-employment.
• Government regulations, restrictions or orders.
• Strikes, labour disputes or transport disruptions that were known or reasonably foreseeable when the trip was booked.
• Losses recoverable from another insurance policy, travel provider, accommodation provider or any other third party.
• Failure to check in according to the carrier's published requirements.
• Failure to obtain the required supporting documentation.
Important
All Inconvenience Benefits are subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions, exclusions, excesses and benefit limits contained in the Schedule of Benefits.
Search and Recovery Benefit
The Search and Recovery Benefit may apply if a DAN member is reported missing during a diving activity and the relevant rescue, emergency response or law enforcement authorities initiate an official search and rescue operation.
To access this benefit, the DAN Emergency Hotline must be contacted as soon as reasonably possible. All required supporting documentation must be submitted for review and approval before any benefit can be considered or paid.
Benefits are subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions, exclusions and benefit limits. The initiation, management and conduct of any search and rescue operation remain the responsibility of the appropriate rescue or governmental authorities.
Permanent Disability Benefit
The Permanent Disability Benefit may be payable if a member suffers a permanent disabling injury as a direct result of a qualifying diving-related accident.
To access this benefit, the DAN Emergency Hotline must be contacted as soon as reasonably possible, and all required medical reports, supporting documentation and claim information must be submitted for review and approval before any benefit can be considered or paid.
The Permanent Disability Benefit may include compensation for permanent loss or impairment resulting from:
• Loss of one or more limbs.
• Permanent loss of sight.
• Permanent loss of speech.
• Permanent loss of hearing in both ears.
All claims are subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions, exclusions and benefit limits, as well as the assessment and verification of the extent of the permanent disability.
Death Benefit
The Death Benefit may be payable if a member dies as a direct result of a qualifying diving-related accident.
In such circumstances, the benefit will be paid to the member's nominated beneficiary or, where applicable, to the member's legal representative, subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions and benefit limits.
To initiate a claim, the DAN Emergency Hotline should be contacted as soon as reasonably possible, and all required supporting documentation must be submitted for review and approval.
All claims are subject to verification and assessment in accordance with the applicable membership terms and conditions.
What Is Not Covered?
To comply with applicable insurance legislation, medical scheme regulations and legal requirements throughout the DAN Southern Africa region, DAN membership benefits must remain aligned with DAN's mission and purpose. In addition, certain medical conditions and activities that significantly increase risk have been excluded in order to keep membership benefits sustainable and affordable for the broader membership base.
The following are examples of important exclusions. Members should refer to the full terms and conditions for a complete list of exclusions.
Hazardous Activities
Benefits do not apply to injuries or incidents arising from participation in hazardous pursuits, sports or activities that substantially increase the risk of injury, including but not limited to:
• Riding motorcycles.
• Bungee jumping.
• Abseiling.
• White-water rafting.
• Hiking without a recognised guide or on an unmarked trail.
• Technical mountaineering involving ropes or specialised climbing equipment.
• Diving beyond the limits of your training, certification or membership level.
Maximum covered diving depths are:
• Standard Membership: 40 metres.
• Plus Membership: 40 metres.
• Master Dive Pro Membership: 40 metres.
• Master Tech Diver Membership: 100 metres.
DAN must be notified and approval obtained before participating in dives deeper than 100 metres.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions
The following pre-existing medical conditions are excluded from cover due to the increased risks they may present in relation to diving activities:
• Cardiac disease.
• Cardiovascular disease, including heart attack-related conditions.
• Vascular disease affecting circulation.
• Cerebrovascular disease, including stroke-related conditions.
In addition, the following conditions are specifically excluded irrespective of whether they occur in connection with diving activities:
• Myocardial infarction (heart attack).
• Stroke.
• Intervertebral disc prolapse.
Other Important Exclusions
Benefits do not apply to incidents arising from:
• Travelling against medical advice.
• Injuries sustained while under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs or other intoxicating substances.
• Participation in sport or sporting activities as a professional athlete or competitor.
Cruise Ships and Ocean Voyages
DAN membership benefits are intended to provide assistance when appropriate emergency services and medical support can be accessed.
When working aboard a cruise ship, sailing vessel or any vessel travelling between countries and operating at sea for extended periods, DAN may be unable to provide direct assistance while the member remains offshore and beyond the reach of emergency medical services.
Once the member reaches a port, harbour or land-based location where emergency services and medical facilities are accessible, DAN can assist and activate the applicable membership benefits, subject to the membership terms, conditions and benefit limits.
Important
All benefits are subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions, exclusions and benefit limits. Members are encouraged to familiarise themselves with these provisions to ensure a clear understanding of the benefits available under their selected membership level.
How to File a Claim
Before a claim can be submitted, the incident or medical emergency must be reported to the DAN Emergency Hotline. Once notified, DAN will open a case file and coordinate the necessary assistance through its approved service providers.
To ensure that membership benefits can be applied correctly, all emergency medical services, evacuations and related arrangements should be coordinated through DAN wherever reasonably possible. Services arranged independently and without prior approval from DAN may not be eligible for reimbursement or benefit consideration.
Where applicable, DAN will issue a Guarantee of Payment (GOP) to approved service providers, allowing invoices and medical accounts to be submitted directly to DAN for review and processing.
For claim forms, claim submissions, supporting documentation or claim-related enquiries, please contact the DAN Emergency Hotline Team:
Email: danmedic@dansa.org
Prompt notification and the timely submission of supporting documentation will assist DAN in processing your claim as efficiently as possible.
Diving Emergency Medical Treatment
Eligibility
• Valid worldwide.
• Available to active DAN members.
• Diving family members must be registered as DAN Diving Family Members and the applicable membership fees must be paid for diving-related benefits to apply.
Accessing Benefits
In the event of a diving-related medical emergency, the DAN Emergency Hotline (+27 82 810 6010) must be contacted as soon as possible to activate membership benefits and coordinate assistance.
DAN membership benefits are designed to complement a member's primary health and travel insurance and provide specialised support during diving emergencies.
Important: Services, treatments, evacuations or other arrangements made without prior notification to and approval from DAN may not be eligible for benefits. To ensure that benefits can be applied correctly, members should contact the DAN Emergency Hotline immediately when an emergency arises.
Emergency Medical Treatment Benefits
Subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions and benefit limits:
• Emergency medical treatment must be authorised by DAN through the DAN Emergency Hotline.
• Treatment will be provided at the nearest appropriate medical facility, as determined by the DAN Diving Medical Officer on call.
• Emergency medical expenses are covered up to the benefit limit applicable to the member's selected membership level.
• Hospitalisation is covered.
• Hyperbaric (recompression chamber) treatment is covered.
• Medical consultations relating to the diving injury are covered.
• Pre-existing medical conditions are excluded.
Follow-Up Treatment Benefits
Follow-up treatment may be available, subject to prior approval by DAN and the applicable membership terms and conditions.
• Benefits for follow-up treatment are limited.
• An excess of R500 applies to each approved follow-up consultation.
• Follow-up treatment must take place within three months of the original diving injury.
For full details of benefit limits, conditions and exclusions, please refer to the applicable DAN membership terms and conditions.
Non-Diving Emergency Medical Treatment
Eligibility
Non-diving emergency medical treatment benefits are available worldwide to active Plus, Master Dive Pro and Master Tech Diver members, as well as their registered non-diving family members.
Standard members do not qualify for this benefit.
To be eligible, the medical emergency must occur while the member is travelling outside their country of permanent residence on a dive trip.
Travel Notification Requirement
To ensure that DAN can provide timely assistance and coordinate support when required, members must submit a DAN Dive Travel Notification before departing on an international dive trip.
Complete your Dive Travel Notification here: https://www.dansa.org/dive-trip-notification
Accessing Benefits
If a member sustains an injury or develops an illness requiring emergency medical treatment while travelling internationally on a dive trip, the DAN Emergency Hotline (+27 82 810 6010) must be contacted as soon as possible.
DAN membership benefits are designed to complement a member's primary health and travel insurance and provide additional support during qualifying medical emergencies.
Emergency Medical Treatment Benefits
Subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions and benefit limits:
• Medical expenses must be approved by DAN through the DAN Emergency Hotline.
• Treatment will be arranged at the nearest appropriate medical facility.
• Emergency medical expenses are covered up to the benefit limit applicable to the member's selected membership level.
• Hospitalisation is covered.
• Emergency medical and surgical treatment is covered.
• Medical consultations relating to the injury or illness are covered.
• Pre-existing medical conditions are excluded.
Follow-Up Treatment Benefits
Follow-up treatment benefits are only available while the member remains outside their country of permanent residence.
Subject to prior approval by DAN:
• Benefits for follow-up treatment are limited.
• An excess of R500 applies to each approved follow-up consultation.
• Follow-up treatment must take place within 30 days of the original injury or illness.
Hospitalisation Benefits
If a member is hospitalised for more than five consecutive days outside their country of permanent residence, additional assistance may be available.
Subject to prior approval by DAN:
• Travel for an immediate family member to visit the hospitalised member may be arranged.
• Reasonable travel and accommodation expenses may be covered.
Travel Disruption Following Hospitalisation or Evacuation
If a member's travel plans are disrupted as a result of hospitalisation or an approved evacuation:
• Existing travel arrangements for the original trip may be amended where reasonably possible.
• Refunds and recoveries may be pursued where applicable and available.
Important
All benefits are subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions, exclusions and benefit limits. Members must contact the DAN Emergency Hotline before making medical, travel or evacuation arrangements to ensure that benefits can be activated and coordinated appropriately.
Dive Travel Notification
Before departing on an international dive trip, members must complete the DAN Dive Travel Notification Form. This ensures that the DAN Emergency Hotline Team is aware of the travel plans and can provide prompt, efficient assistance if needed.
By submitting a travel notification, DAN can record the trip details, identify appropriate medical facilities at the destination and prepare for any emergency assistance or evacuation requirements that may arise during the trip.
Submit the Dive Travel Notification before departure: https://www.dansa.org/dive-trip-notification
Freediving Notification
Members planning freediving activities during an international dive trip should notify DAN before departure, particularly where the activity involves remote locations, organised events or deeper freediving profiles.
This notification helps DAN record the trip details, identify suitable medical facilities at the destination and consider any emergency assistance or evacuation requirements that may arise.
Members who are unsure whether a freediving notification or additional information is required should contact DAN before departure for guidance.
Submit the relevant notification before departure: https://www.dansa.org/dive-trip-notification
Please note: International travel-related benefits remain subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions and benefit limits.
Travel Assistance
The following benefits apply to travel assistance and emergency evacuation:
• Available worldwide.
• Covers DAN members and their registered non-diving family members.
• Emergency evacuation costs are covered, subject to the applicable membership benefit limit.
Where necessary, family members, companions and accompanying children who are left behind will be assisted with their return journey to their original point of departure.
Conditions
• All travel assistance and evacuation services must be authorised in advance by DAN. To obtain approval, contact the DAN Emergency Hotline on +27 82 810 6010.
• The member will be transported to the nearest appropriate medical facility capable of providing the required level of care.
• The benefit applies when a DAN member is travelling more than 100 km from their usual place of residence while on a dive trip.
Added Benefits
Joining DAN is one of the most important investments a diver can make in their safety and wellbeing. In addition to emergency medical and travel-related benefits, DAN members enjoy access to a range of valuable services and resources designed to support safer diving.
DAN Emergency Hotline
The DAN Emergency Hotline operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and is available to assist divers whenever they need expert support.
Whether you are dealing with a diving emergency, require medical advice or need assistance locating an appropriate diving medical specialist, DAN's experienced team of diving medical professionals and emergency coordinators are only a phone call away.
DAN Emergency Hotline: +27 82 810 6010
Alert Diver Magazine
As a DAN member, you receive a digital subscription to Alert Diver Magazine, DAN's internationally respected publication dedicated to diving medicine, safety, research and education.
Written by leading diving physicians, researchers and industry experts from around the world, Alert Diver provides valuable insights into diving-related health issues, accident prevention, scientific developments, safety trends and practical advice for divers of all experience levels.
Each edition helps members stay informed, expand their knowledge and make safer, more informed decisions both in and out of the water.
Evacuation and Emergency Travel Assistance
DAN members are entitled to emergency medical evacuation when travelling more than 100 km from their registered home address on a dive trip.
In addition, Plus, Master Dive Pro and Master Tech Diver members are eligible for emergency medical expense benefits while travelling outside their country of permanent residence.
To access these benefits, members must contact the DAN Emergency Hotline for assistance and prior authorisation where required.
DAN membership is available to residents of Southern Africa and is subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions and benefit limits.
DAN Family Support
DAN Family Support provides a financial benefit to the nominated next of kin in the event of a divingrelated death of an active DAN member.
The benefit amount ranges from R15 000 to R25 000, depending on the member's selected DAN membership package.
Benefits are subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions and benefit limits in force at the time of the incident.
Extension Benefits for Divemasters and Instructors
Divers, Divemasters and Instructors Working Within the DAN Southern Africa Region
Divers, divemasters and instructors who are working, teaching or participating in an internship programme outside their country of permanent residence, but within the DAN Southern Africa region, may apply to extend their membership benefits.
This extension is available exclusively to Master Dive Pro members and is subject to application, underwriting review and approval.
Important: Applicants must hold an active Master Dive Pro membership in their country of permanent residence before departing for their work or internship destination.
Divers, Divemasters and Instructors Working Outside the DAN Southern Africa Region
Divers, divemasters and instructors who are working, teaching or participating in an internship programme outside the DAN Southern Africa region may apply for an extension of benefits for periods of up to 365 consecutive days.
This extension is available exclusively to Master Dive Pro members and is subject to application, underwriting review and approval.
Where approved, both diving-related and eligible non-diving emergency medical benefits may be extended for the duration of the approved assignment. An additional premium will apply and will be determined by factors such as the destination, duration of travel and nature of the work being undertaken.
For assignments exceeding 365 consecutive days, members will generally be required to transfer their membership to the appropriate DAN office serving the region in which they will be living and working.
Important: Applicants must obtain their Master Dive Pro membership in their country of permanent residence before departure.
Extension and Travel Insurance Requirements
To qualify for an extension of benefits, the following requirements must be met:
• Legal and Visa Compliance: Members must comply with all immigration, employment and visa requirements of the destination country and hold the appropriate visa or work permit where required.
• Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Members must maintain valid travel insurance for the entire period abroad, including cover for business travel and diving activities to the planned depths.
• Occupational and Hazardous Activities Cover: The travel insurance policy must provide cover for any work-related activities, including diving, manual labour and other activities that may be regarded as hazardous by the insurer.
• Medical Fitness to Dive: Applicants must be medically fit to dive and may be required to complete and submit a DAN Medical Questionnaire and supporting medical documentation.
• Work Location Information: Members working outside their country of permanent residence must provide DAN with details of their work location and contact information before departure.
Staying Protected While Working Abroad
By obtaining the necessary approvals and maintaining the required supporting insurance, divers, divemasters and instructors can continue to enjoy the benefits of DAN membership while working or gaining experience abroad.
Members are encouraged to contact DAN well in advance of departure to discuss their plans and ensure that all requirements are met before travelling.
Membership FAQs
Is DAN a Non-Profit Organisation?
DAN was established in 1996 as a Section 21 Company. Following the implementation of the South African Companies Act on 1 May 2011, all Section 21 companies were reclassified as Non-Profit Companies (NPCs). DAN therefore continues to operate as a Non-Profit Company under the current legislation.
As an NPC, DAN exists to serve the interests of its members and to advance its mission of promoting dive safety. Unlike commercial companies, DAN has no shareholders. Instead, it is governed by elected members and directors who act in the best interests of the organisation and its membership. These individuals serve in a voluntary capacity and do not receive remuneration for their service.
Any operating surplus generated by DAN is reinvested into the organisation to support its mission, programmes and services. No profits may be distributed to members, directors or officers. Should DAN ever cease operations, any remaining assets would be transferred to another organisation with similar non-profit objectives, as required by law.
DAN has always operated as a non-profit organisation and remains committed to this principle.
Today, DAN provides emergency medical advice and assistance for diving-related injuries, while also supporting the diving community through research, education, training and safety programmes aimed at making diving safer for all.
Is DAN a Tax-Exempt Organisation?
DAN's commitment to its mission is reflected in its ongoing tax-exempt status granted by the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
Not all Non-Profit Companies (NPCs) qualify for tax exemption, and approval is not automatic. To obtain and maintain this status, an organisation must demonstrate that its income is used primarily to advance its stated mission and public-interest objectives, rather than being generated principally through commercial activities. Compliance is subject to ongoing oversight and regular review by SARS.
DAN's tax-exempt status reflects its long-standing commitment to promoting dive safety, supporting research, providing education and training, and assisting the diving community throughout Southern Africa.
This status also enables individuals, organisations and estates to make donations to DAN without attracting donations tax. We encourage those who wish to support dive safety, education, research, scholarships and other DAN initiatives to consider making a contribution. Such support plays an important role in helping DAN expand its programmes and reach more divers across the region.
For further information on donations or legacy giving, please contact mail@dansa.org.
Please note that DAN membership subscriptions and general donations are not tax-deductible. DAN is not approved as a Section 18A Public Benefit Organisation (PBO), and therefore cannot issue Section 18A tax certificates. In addition, membership fees provide access to specific benefits and services, which means they do not qualify as tax-deductible contributions.
Are My Membership Fees Tax Deductible?
No. DAN membership fees are not tax deductible.
DAN is not a Section 18A Public Benefit Organisation and is therefore not authorised to issue taxdeductible donation certificates. In addition, membership fees are paid in exchange for specific membership benefits and services, which means they do not qualify as tax-deductible donations.
Members who wish to support DAN's safety, education or research initiatives through a separate donation are welcome to contact DAN for further information.
Why Join DAN?
Divers join DAN for many reasons, but three stand out above all others: access to expert assistance, exceptional value, and a shared commitment to dive safety.
1. Expert Assistance When It Matters Most
Diving is an adventure activity, and while incidents are rare, they can happen. DAN provides peace of mind through a dedicated 24-hour emergency hotline staffed by professionals experienced in diving medicine.
In the event of a diving emergency, members have access to expert medical advice, emergency assistance and the support needed to coordinate care. One call connects divers with professionals who understand the unique challenges of diving injuries and can provide guidance when every minute counts.
2. Exceptional Value
DAN membership offers access to a range of benefits at a cost that is affordable for most divers.
The DAN Emergency Hotline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, providing diving medical advice and assistance whenever it is needed. Members also benefit from diving medical and travel-related cover, educational resources, training opportunities and discounts on selected safety products and materials.
For many divers, the value of these services far exceeds the cost of membership.
3. A Culture of Care
DAN is more than a membership organisation. It is a community of divers committed to helping one another and promoting safer diving.
Beyond emergency assistance, DAN actively supports research, education, training and safety initiatives throughout the diving community. Every programme, course and campaign is designed with a single goal in mind: making diving safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
Unlike many organisations, DAN is highly personal. Members quickly discover that DAN is not simply an institution; it is a network of dedicated professionals, volunteers and fellow divers who genuinely care about the wellbeing of others.
Many members describe DAN as a family built around a shared passion for diving and a commitment to looking out for one another a true reflection of the philosophy of “Divers Helping Divers”.
Why DAN Is Different
DAN is recognised internationally for its expertise in diving medicine and emergency assistance. Through its extensive network of diving medical professionals, DAN can help coordinate medical care, emergency transportation and, when necessary, evacuation by land, sea or air.
Whether a diver requires advice, referral to a diving physician or access to specialised treatment facilities such as a recompression chamber, DAN is there to help.
In Summary
By becoming a DAN member, you help support a vital service that benefits divers everywhere: a 24-hour emergency and diving medical information hotline.
The DAN Emergency Hotline is available 24/7/365 to any diver, anywhere in the world, seeking assistance with a diving-related emergency or medical concern. Membership contributions help ensure that this service remains available to the global diving community.
In short, DAN membership provides peace of mind, access to expert assistance, valuable benefits and the opportunity to support an organisation dedicated to making diving safer for everyone.
What Are the DAN Membership Options?
These are the basic differences between the four membership levels:
* Dives deeper than 100 m require prior approval from DAN.
** Emergency medical transport and evacuation benefits apply when a member is travelling on a dive trip and are subject to the overall medical benefit limit applicable to the selected membership level. Transport and evacuation costs form part of, and are not additional to, the medical benefit amount shown above.
*** Medical and related expenses include:
• Diving-related injury or illness (all membership levels).
• International non-diving-related injury or illness (Plus, Master Dive Pro and Master Tech Diver memberships only).
The amount shown represents the maximum combined benefit available for all covered medical expenses, including emergency transport and evacuation costs.
Which Is Better: Monthly or Annual Payment?
The choice is entirely yours. Whether you choose to pay monthly or annually, your DAN membership provides cover for a full 12-month period.
To make membership more accessible, DAN offers a monthly subscription option for those who prefer not to pay the full annual fee upfront. Alternatively, members can pay the annual membership fee in a single payment.
Members who choose the annual payment option benefit from a discounted rate compared to the total cost of paying via monthly subscription.
Whichever option you choose, you'll enjoy the same membership benefits and access to DAN services throughout your membership period.
DAN Family Membership vs. DAN Diving Family Membership – What Is the Difference?
A common question we receive is: What is the difference between a DAN Family Membership and a DAN Diving Family Membership?
The distinction is simple.
DAN Diving Family Membership is designed for households where more than one family member is an active diver. Introduced in 2006, it allows immediate family members who dive and live in the same household as the primary DAN member to enjoy DAN membership benefits.
DAN Family Membership, on the other hand, is intended for immediate family members who do not dive. If there is only one diver in the household, that person joins as the primary DAN member, while eligible non-diving family members may be added at no additional cost to receive certain travel-related emergency assistance benefits.
DAN DIVING FAMILY DAN FAMILY (NON-DIVING)
Who qualifies?
Cost
Emergency medical transport and evacuation
Diving-related injuries and illnesses
International non-diving medical expenses*
Immediate family members who are active divers and reside in the same household as the primary DAN member.
Membership fee applies according to the selected DAN membership level
Covered when travelling more than 100 km from home while on a dive trip, subject to the applicable membership terms and benefit limits.
Immediate family members who are not divers and reside in the same household as the primary DAN member.
Included at no additional cost.
Covered when accompanying the primary DAN member on a dive trip and travelling more than 100 km from home, subject to the applicable membership terms and benefit limits.
Covered in accordance with the selected DAN membership level. Not covered.
Covered in accordance with the medical benefit limit applicable to the diver's membership level.
Covered when accompanying the primary DAN member on an international dive trip, subject to the same medical benefit limit applicable to the diver's membership level.
* Available to Plus, Master Dive Pro and Master Tech Diver members only when travelling outside their country of permanent residence.
In Summary
If more than one member of the household dives, each diver should be enrolled under a DAN Diving Family Membership. If only one member of the household dives, eligible non-diving family members may be added under the DAN Family Membership at no additional cost and receive certain travel-related emergency assistance benefits while accompanying the primary member on a qualifying dive trip.
Can DAN Membership Replace My Medical Aid or Hospital Plan?
This is one of the most common questions we receive, and the answer is simple:
No. DAN membership is not a medical aid, hospital plan or health insurance policy, and it should not be viewed as a replacement for one.
Why Not?
DAN is not registered as a medical scheme under the South African Medical Schemes Act and is therefore not permitted to provide the services of a medical aid as defined by the Act.
DAN membership has been specifically designed to support divers by providing emergency assistance, diving-related medical benefits and selected travel-related emergency benefits. The focus remains on emergency situations, particularly those associated with diving injuries and illnesses.
For this reason, DAN's non-diving medical benefits are generally limited to eligible incidents that occur while travelling outside a member's country of permanent residence and are subject to the terms, conditions and benefit limits of the selected membership level.
Benefits, Not Insurance
DAN membership provides access to a range of carefully selected benefits designed to support divers when they need assistance most.
These benefits are structured around the unique risks associated with diving and travel. They are not intended to cover routine healthcare, chronic conditions, ongoing treatment, elective procedures or the broad range of medical expenses typically covered by a medical aid or health insurance policy.
As a result, DAN membership should always be viewed as a complement to, rather than a replacement for, a medical aid, hospital plan or comprehensive health insurance policy.
Why Join DAN If You Already Have Medical Aid?
Many medical aids provide some level of cover for diving injuries. However, a diving emergency often requires far more than simply paying medical bills.
When a diving incident occurs, divers may need immediate access to specialist advice, emergency medical coordination, evacuation services, referrals to diving physicians or transportation to an appropriate recompression chamber. These situations can be complex, time-sensitive and highly specialised.
DAN was created specifically to address these challenges.
Through the DAN Emergency Hotline, divers have access to experienced professionals who understand diving medicine and can assist in coordinating the most appropriate response. Whether the incident occurs locally or abroad, DAN can help arrange emergency assistance and guide members through the process of obtaining the care they need.
One Call for Expert Assistance
As a DAN member, expert assistance is only a phone call away.
The DAN Emergency Hotline (+27 82 810 6010) operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, providing support to divers facing a medical emergency or seeking diving medical advice.
In addition to coordinating emergency assistance, DAN works alongside a member's existing medical aid, travel insurance provider and healthcare professionals to help ensure access to the benefits and services available to them.
The Best Protection: Both
The question is not whether a diver should choose between medical aid and DAN membership.
The best protection is to have both.
A medical aid or health insurance policy provides broad healthcare cover, while DAN provides specialised diving emergency assistance, expert diving medical support and benefits specifically designed for divers and their families.
Together, they provide the most comprehensive level of protection and peace of mind whenever and wherever you dive.
Is the DAN Membership Restricted by Geographical Location?
Yes. DAN operates as part of a global network of independent regional DAN organisations. In accordance with international agreements between these organisations, individuals may join the DAN office that serves the region in which they have their principal place of permanent residence.
DAN Southern Africa serves residents of:
Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Eswatini, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
If your permanent residence is outside the DAN Southern Africa region, you should join the DAN organisation responsible for the country or region in which you reside.
For assistance in identifying the appropriate DAN office, please contact DAN Southern Africa or visit the relevant international DAN organisation serving your region.
Up to What Age Am I Covered?
DAN membership benefits are available to members up to the age of 75 years.
Members older than 75 years may apply annually for an extension of benefits up to a maximum age of 80 years. To be considered for an extension, the member must submit a current medical fitness-to-dive certificate issued by a qualified diving physician.
All extensions are subject to DAN's review and approval, as well as the applicable membership terms and conditions.
Is There a DAN Membership Package for Divemasters and Instructors?
Yes. The Master Dive Pro membership package is specifically recommended for recreational diving professionals, including divemasters and instructors.
In addition to providing enhanced membership benefits and higher levels of cover, the Master Dive Pro package gives instructors access to the DAN Student Membership Programme for their entry-level students.
This complimentary benefit allows instructors to register eligible entry-level students with DAN before the course begins, providing both the instructor and the student with added peace of mind during training.
The DAN Student Membership offers access to selected DAN emergency assistance and support services at no additional cost, helping to promote a safer and more confident learning environment from the very first dive.
Is There a DAN Membership Package for Technical Divers?
Yes. The Master Tech Diver membership package is specifically designed for divers who participate in recreational technical diving activities.
The package provides enhanced benefits tailored to the unique risks and challenges associated with technical diving. For dives planned beyond 100 metres, DAN requires additional information to ensure that appropriate emergency support can be provided should it become necessary.
This information includes:
• A detailed emergency response plan, including first aid equipment, initial stabilisation procedures, emergency transport arrangements and key medical facilities.
• Dive profile information, such as planned depth, bottom time and breathing gas mixtures.
• Details of the equipment being used, including open-circuit systems, rebreathers, decompression gases and surface support arrangements.
• Information relating to the divers participating in the expedition.
The purpose of this process is not to evaluate, critique or approve dive plans from an operational perspective. Rather, it enables DAN to work alongside technical divers who are undertaking complex and carefully planned dives.
By understanding the planned activities in advance, DAN can better support divers in the event of an emergency, ensuring that first aid efforts on site and DAN's emergency response processes complement one another effectively. Where appropriate, hyperbaric treatment facilities may also be alerted in advance to ensure that the necessary resources, equipment and breathing gas supplies are available should specialised treatment be required.
To maintain eligibility for DAN benefits on dives exceeding 100 metres, the dive plan must be reviewed and approved by the DAN Medical Director before the dive takes place.
This collaborative approach helps ensure that technical divers have access to the most appropriate support, resources and emergency response capabilities when undertaking advanced diving activities.
Is DAN Owned by Any of the Training Agencies?
No. DAN is entirely independent and is not owned, controlled or operated by any training agency, business or individual.
DAN is a non-profit organisation dedicated to serving the diving community and advancing dive safety. It has no shareholders, and all funds received are reinvested into its mission, programmes and services for the benefit of divers.
This independence allows DAN to work collaboratively with divers, instructors, dive operators, training agencies, researchers and medical professionals across the industry, while remaining focused on its primary mission: improving diver safety through emergency assistance, education, research and training.
In short, DAN exists for the benefit of the diving public, and every decision is guided by that commitment.
Are Lifetime Memberships Available?
No. DAN does not currently offer lifetime memberships.
Memberships are available on either an annual or monthly subscription basis and must be renewed to ensure continued access to DAN's emergency assistance services, member benefits, educational resources and diving safety programmes.
Regular renewals also help DAN maintain and expand the services, research, training and emergency support programmes that benefit divers throughout the region.
How Soon Can I Get Coverage and My Membership Card?
Your DAN membership becomes active as soon as payment has been received and all required membership documentation has been submitted and approved.
You can join online or contact DAN on +27 11 266 4900 to complete your membership and make payment by Visa or Mastercard, including via a recurring monthly subscription option where available.
Once your membership is active, your details will immediately be available in the DAN membership database, allowing DAN to verify your membership status by name or membership number in the event of an emergency.
Your digital membership card can be viewed and downloaded at any time through the DAN Member Portal. Should you require additional proof of membership, this can also be provided by email upon request.
Are You Travelling Abroad for More Than 3 Weeks?
If you are planning a recreational dive holiday outside your home country lasting more than three consecutive weeks, you must apply for a DAN Travel Extension before you depart.
A Travel Extension is also required if you are travelling abroad for work, study or another non-diving purpose for more than three weeks and intend to undertake recreational diving at any time during your stay.
Travel Extensions help ensure that your membership benefits remain appropriate for the duration and nature of your travel and diving activities. Applications are considered on a case-by-case basis and may be approved for periods of up to one year.
When applying, you may be asked to provide:
• Your travel dates and destinations
• Details of your visa, work permit or residency status, where applicable
• Proof of comprehensive travel and medical insurance for the full duration of your trip
• Details of your planned diving activities, including expected depths and locations
• A current diving fitness declaration or supporting medical information, if requested
• Details of any hazardous activities, occupations or higher-risk recreational pursuits planned during your travels
To avoid any interruption to your membership benefits, please submit your Travel Extension application before you leave. If you're unsure whether a Travel Extension is required, contact the DAN Membership Department before making your travel arrangements.
What Is the Medical Evacuation Benefit Available Under Plus, Master Dive Pro and Master Tech Diver Memberships?
In addition to diving-related medical benefits, Plus, Master Dive Pro and Master Tech Diver members have access to emergency medical expense and evacuation benefits while travelling outside their country of permanent residence on a dive trip. Emergency evacuation assistance is also available when travelling more than 100 km from home on a dive trip, subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions and benefit limits.
Should an emergency arise, members must contact the DAN Emergency Hotline on +27 82 810 6010 before making any evacuation or transport arrangements. This allows DAN to coordinate the most appropriate response and ensure that available member benefits can be applied correctly.
All emergency medical expenses, transport and evacuation costs form part of, and are subject to, the overall benefit limit applicable to the member's selected membership package.
How Do I Get Reimbursed by DAN for an Evacuation?
In most cases, members do not need to pay for an evacuation and then seek reimbursement.
DAN membership provides access to member benefits rather than a traditional insurance policy. DAN is the holder of a group policy, and eligible benefits are extended to members through services coordinated and arranged by DAN.
To ensure that evacuation benefits are available and applied correctly, members must contact the DAN Emergency Hotline as soon as possible and before making any evacuation arrangements. DAN will then coordinate the appropriate emergency response and arrange the necessary services, subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions and benefit limits.
For this reason, members should not arrange emergency evacuations independently unless circumstances make it impossible to contact DAN beforehand.
How Do I Use DAN Travel Assistance Services?
To access DAN Travel Assistance Services, contact the DAN Emergency Hotline as soon as assistance is required.
DAN Emergency Hotline: +27 82 810 6010
The DAN Emergency Hotline operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and can assist with emergency medical support, travel-related emergencies, evacuations and other qualifying membership benefits.
To ensure that benefits can be applied correctly, members should contact DAN before making any medical, travel or evacuation arrangements whenever reasonably possible.
Does DAN Offer Professional Liability Insurance?
Yes. DAN Southern Africa offers professional liability and business liability insurance solutions specifically designed for South African dive professionals and dive businesses.
Through a partnership with Risk-N-Sure Advisors and iTOO, DAN members have access to tailored indemnity and liability cover developed specifically for the diving industry. The platform simplifies the process of obtaining and managing insurance, providing a seamless experience from quotation through to policy administration and claims support.
Whether you are a dive instructor, divemaster, dive centre owner or operate a diving-related business, these solutions can help protect you, your business and your professional activities with cover designed to meet the unique needs of the diving industry.
To learn more about the available cover options or to obtain a quote, visit: https://www.dansa.org/dive-pro-liability
Will DAN Repatriate Me to My Home?
The terms "repatriation" and "evacuation" are often used interchangeably, but they have different meanings.
Evacuation refers to the emergency transport of a person from the site of an incident or medical emergency to the nearest appropriate medical facility capable of providing the required level of care.
Repatriation, on the other hand, refers to the return of a person to their country of permanent residence, usually after their medical condition has stabilised and they are fit to travel.
Within the context of DAN membership benefits, the primary focus is on ensuring that members receive timely access to appropriate medical care through emergency evacuation when necessary. While an evacuation may result in a member being transported back to their country of residence if the nearest suitable medical facility is located there, this would be incidental to the evacuation rather than the purpose of it.
Once the immediate medical emergency has been resolved and subject to the applicable membership terms, conditions and benefit limits, certain repatriation benefits may also be available to assist with a member's return home.
Will My Address, Phone Number or Personal Information Be Shared With Third Parties?
No. DAN is committed to protecting your privacy and safeguarding your personal information.
Personal information provided to DAN is used only for legitimate membership, service and operational purposes, including the administration of your membership, the delivery of member services and communication relating to DAN programmes and benefits.
DAN does not sell, rent or make member information available to third parties for marketing purposes or unsolicited communications.
For more information on how DAN collects, uses and protects personal information, please refer to the DAN Privacy Policy.
For Membership Enquiries
Tel: +27 11 266 4900
Email: mail@dansa.org
Web: www.dansa.org
SCHEDULE OF BENEFITS
and Related Expenses for a DivingRelated
or Illness
and Related Expenses for NonDiving Related
or Illness
Confinement (R200 per day for a maximum of 10 days)
Confinement (R200 per day for a maximum of 10 days)
SCHEDULE OF BENEFITS
(R500 per 4 hours)
Diving equipment
Cancellation of dive (Medically unfit to dive)
Curtailment of dive (Medically unfit to dive)
Unexpected adverse weather conditions (Inability to dive)
Missed liveonboard boat departure due to accident
Mechanical breakdown of liveonboard boat (R250 per day)
