What is one of the main risks associated with diving with Nitrox?

Diving with Nitrox, which typically has a higher percentage of oxygen than regular air, introduces the risk of oxygen toxicity. This occurs when divers breathe high concentrations of oxygen under pressure, which can lead to harmful effects on the central nervous system. Symptoms of oxygen toxicity can include visual disturbances, muscle twitching, and in severe cases, seizures. This risk is particularly pronounced when diving at depths exceeding the recommended operational limits for the specific Nitrox blend being used, as the partial pressure of oxygen increases with depth.

Being aware of oxygen toxicity is crucial for divers using Nitrox, as proper planning, monitoring of depth and time, and adherence to dive tables or computer algorithms specific to Nitrox diving can mitigate this risk effectively. Understanding these factors enables divers to enjoy the benefits of Nitrox, such as longer bottom times and reduced nitrogen absorption, while staying safe from its potential hazards.