If a diver mistakenly uses a nitrox cylinder, what risk do they face?

Using a nitrox cylinder, particularly one containing a higher concentration of oxygen than the diver is trained for, significantly increases the risk of unanticipated central nervous system (CNS) oxygen toxicity. This condition occurs when a diver is exposed to partial pressures of oxygen that exceed safe limits, which can happen during dives at depths that exceed the maximum operating depth for that specific nitrox mix. As the oxygen levels increase in the body, particularly at depths beyond what the diver is trained to handle, the chances of experiencing symptoms such as seizures, visual disturbances, and other neurological effects rise substantially.

Understanding the mix of gases in a nitrox cylinder is critical for safety. While decompression sickness and hypoxia are serious risks associated with diving, they are not directly linked to the mistake of using an incorrect nitrox mix. Decompression sickness typically arises from failing to follow proper ascent protocols, and hypoxia is related to low levels of oxygen in the breathing mix, which is unlikely with a higher oxygen content like that found in nitrox mixes. Equipment malfunction is also not directly connected to the use of a nitrox cylinder, but rather to issues with the diving gear itself. Therefore, the most pressing and immediate risk when using a nitrox cylinder incorrectly is the potential for