Can Nitrox be used in all diving operations suitable for air?

• A. No, Nitrox cannot be used in diving operations.
• B. Only with special permits from command.
• C. Yes, Nitrox may be used in all diving operations suitable for air.
• D. Only when diving with air at depth.

Answer: (C)

Nitrox is simply a breathing gas with a higher oxygen content than air, so the main limitation is oxygen toxicity at depth. If a dive is within the depth and PO2 limits for the chosen Nitrox mix, and the divers are trained to use Nitrox and plan the gas correctly, it can be used for that dive just as air could be. For shallow dives where air would be safe, using a Nitrox mix (like 32% or 36%) can extend bottom time and reduce nitrogen loading, again as long as you do not exceed the mix’s maximum operating depth. The key takeaway is to match the mix to the planned depth and PO2 limits, not that Nitrox is restricted to only certain situations.