What equipment adjustments may be necessary when using Nitrox?

When using Nitrox, it is essential to consider the potential risks associated with elevated oxygen levels and the specific requirements for equipment compatibility. Certain equipment, especially when used in enriched air diving, might need to be oxygen-cleaned or made from materials that are compatible with higher concentrations of oxygen. This is critical because certain oils and contaminants can ignite when exposed to high levels of oxygen, posing significant safety risks.

Oxygen cleaning involves removing any substances and residues that could become hazardous in a high-oxygen environment. Additionally, some components, such as O-rings, hoses, and other materials, need to be rated for use with Nitrox to prevent degradation or failure during a dive.

While it might seem convenient to use tanks that are marked for Nitrox only, or suggest that no adjustments are needed, these considerations play a pivotal role in ensuring safe diving practices. The option regarding changing the type of wetsuit is generally unrelated to the use of Nitrox, as wetsuits do not interact with the gas composition in the same critical way. Thus, understanding the importance of using properly maintained and compatible equipment is vital for safety when diving with enriched air Nitrox.