What must be confirmed about dive equipment when preparing for nitrox diving?

When preparing for nitrox diving, it is crucial to confirm that the dive equipment is rated for use with high oxygen percentages. This is because nitrox mixtures, which contain a higher concentration of oxygen than regular air, can lead to increased risks such as oxygen toxicity if the equipment is not constructed to handle these higher levels. Materials like certain plastics, rubbers, and metals may degrade or react negatively when exposed to elevated oxygen environments, so it is essential that all components, including tanks, regulators, and any other gear, are specifically designed and certified to be safe for nitrox use.

Color-coding for identification, using regular air tanks, and testing for leaks are important considerations in dive preparation, but they do not directly address the specific compatibility and safety requirements related to handling higher oxygen mixtures found in nitrox. Thus, ensuring that equipment is rated for high oxygen percentages is a fundamental step to ensure safe diving practices.