How to Dive With Nitrox

Use of Enriched Air or Nitrox is very popular with divers today. This is because Nitrox is a specially formulated breathing gas which contains more oxygen and less nitrogen than the normal air we breath. In theory this reduces the amount of nitrogen a diver's body will absorb at depth. Nitrox mixtures can contain up to 40 percent oxygen, roughly double what we breath on land.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Nitrox certification Nitrox compatible computer Nitrox compatible regulator setup Nitrox compatible tank Nitrox dive tables
Nitrox certification
Nitrox compatible computer
Nitrox compatible regulator setup
Nitrox compatible tank
Nitrox dive tables

Step 1

Obtain a Nitrox certification through one of the world-wide recognized scuba instruction bodies. Diving with Nitrox can be dangerous without education and no reputable scuba shop will sell Nitrox gas to an uncertified diver.

Step 2

Check the documentation on your scuba equipment which is exposed to your breathing gas. Make sure it is compatible with Nitrox. Always use a Nitrox only tank for your air fills. Some divers have a completely different set of gear for Nitrox diving.

Step 3

Plan your dive in accordance with your education. High levels of oxygen can become toxic at high pressure, so ensure that the depth you are planning on diving to is safe. Compute the safest Nitrox mixture for your dive profile.

Step 4

Obtain your air fill from a Nitrox certified dive center and analyze the mixture for safety.

Step 5

Assemble your dive gear. Set your computer for the Nitrox mixture you are using. Complete your dive and fill out your log book. Calculate your oxygen exposure based on your actual dive profile so you can safely plan your next dive.

Tips & Warnings

When done properly, diving with Nitrox is a great way to extend your time underwater. However without the proper education it can be deadly. Never attempt to dive, particularly with Nitrox, without proper certification and planning. Failure to do this can result in injury or death.

Article Written By Diane Hansen

Diane Hansen has a thirst for adventure and loves to share the world through the written word. Currently, she is the feature editor for "TRAVELHOST" magazine and is working on her first novel. She graduated from Cal State San Bernardino in 2002 with a B.A. in business administration with a concentration in marketing. She has been writing freelance since 1996.

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