Why is it important to log each dive when using EANx?

Logging each dive while using Enriched Air Nitrox (EANx) is crucial for tracking exposure to specific gas mixtures, which helps divers avoid limit breaches related to oxygen exposure. Each dive log includes details about the maximum depth, bottom time, and the mixture of gases used. This information allows divers to monitor their cumulative exposure to oxygen, which is essential for maintaining safe dive practices and preventing oxygen toxicity, especially since EANx involves higher percentages of oxygen than regular air.

Understanding the limits associated with different gas mixtures is key to planning subsequent dives safely. By effectively tracking this exposure, divers can make informed decisions about their dive profiles, including how deep and how long they can dive with a specific EANx mixture without exceeding safe limits. This practice not only enhances safety but also reinforces the importance of adhering to dive tables or dive computers programmed for the specific gas mixtures being used.

Other considerations, such as proving certification or memorizing dive locations, are less critical to dive safety and planning. While assessing physical fitness is important for overall diving health, it does not directly relate to the logging of dives with EANx or the associated limits and exposures. Logging dives primarily serves to ensure that divers maintain safe exposure levels to avoid health risks associated with gas mixtures.