What is an important safety consideration when using enriched air nitrox?

Monitoring oxygen exposure over time is crucial when using enriched air nitrox because the higher oxygen content can lead to oxygen toxicity if you exceed certain partial pressures. Each dive with nitrox introduces a specific level of oxygen, which varies based on the mix and depth of the dive. By keeping track of your oxygen exposure, you ensure that you stay within safe limits, thus protecting yourself from potential harmful effects associated with higher levels of oxygen.

This management of oxygen exposure aligns with the principles of safe diving practices and is essential to avoid the risk of complications such as central nervous system oxygen toxicity. In contrast, while maintaining equal breathing rates or keeping equipment dry contributes to general diving safety, they do not directly address the specific risks associated with enriched air nitrox. Similarly, using less weight than usual can affect buoyancy but is not a primary concern regarding the safety of oxygen exposure in nitrox diving.