How is dive planning altered based on the use of Enriched Air Nitrox?

When using Enriched Air Nitrox for dive planning, one of the most significant changes involves modifications to maximum depths and no-decompression limits. Enriched Air Nitrox typically contains a higher percentage of oxygen than regular air, which reduces the amount of nitrogen that divers take in during the dive. This lower nitrogen absorption allows divers to potentially extend their no-decompression limits and dive deeper than they might be able to with regular air.

Furthermore, since higher oxygen concentrations also present a risk of oxygen toxicity when diving at certain depths, planners must carefully consider both the maximum depth and the duration of the dive to ensure safety. Different mixes require divers to be knowledgeable about the maximum operating depths and to plan their dives accordingly, which includes understanding how long they can safely remain at various depths without incurring decompression obligations.

While the other options may seem relevant to dive planning, they do not specifically address the fundamental changes that arise from using Enriched Air Nitrox. The focus on equipment, logs, or swim speed does not have the same direct impact on decompression theory and practices as adjusting maximum depths and no-decompression limits.