When does the risk of decompression sickness increase during diving with nitrox?

The risk of decompression sickness increases when exceeding specific depth limits while diving with nitrox because the mixture contains a higher percentage of oxygen than regular air. This oxygen-enriched environment allows divers to use nitrox to extend their no-decompression limits at shallower depths. However, each nitrox mix has specific depth limits that, if exceeded, can lead to increased partial pressure of oxygen and potential toxic effects.

Diving deeper than these limits can increase the risk of oxygen toxicity, as well as more significant nitrogen absorption, contributing to a heightened potential for decompression sickness on ascent. It's crucial for divers to adhere to their specific nitrox blend's depth limits to ensure a safe diving experience and minimize the risks associated with rapid nitrogen elimination from the body during ascent.