What is a common misconception about Nitrox diving?

A prevalent misconception about Nitrox diving is the belief that it eliminates the need for safety stops. While Nitrox does provide a higher proportion of oxygen and a lower proportion of nitrogen compared to regular air, which can reduce the risk of nitrogen narcosis and the amount of nitrogen absorbed during a dive, it does not negate the fundamental principles of dive safety.

Safety stops are critical in allowing the body to off-gas nitrogen, regardless of the gas mix used. The nitrogen that is absorbed during a dive still needs proper management, and safety stops help facilitate this process. Thus, maintaining safety stops is essential to ensure that divers reduce their risk of decompression sickness, making it clear that even with Nitrox, proper planning and adherence to safety protocols, including safety stops, are very important.