The oil bonanza, which breathed life into the nation's economy, also spelled death to many young men who worked under the icy waters of the North Sea. constructing and maintaining the oil-rigs. This toll of diving tragedies prompted the Government to set up schools training divers up to a recognised standard. One such is Fort Bovisand. Plymouth.
In this film. the progress is charted of 16 would-be divers, who embark on a three-month course that will equip them for work on the rigs. Some learn quickly that they are ill-suited. Under stress physical disabilities come to light, as do mental shortcomings: indiscipline. inattention, claustrophobia and panic.
One by one the 16 are eliminated, and at the end verv few graduate to their cold, dark, dirty, difficult. dangerous - but highly-paid - profession.