SSI Enriched Air Nitrox Specialty
The SSI Enriched Air Nitrox Specialty is one of the most popular scuba diving courses in the world. This program teaches divers how to safely plan and conduct dives using oxygen-enriched air mixtures containing up to 40% oxygen. By reducing nitrogen absorption, Nitrox allows divers to extend no-decompression limits, shorten surface intervals, and increase safety margins during repetitive dives. (Scubago)
During the course, students learn:
- The benefits and limitations of Enriched Air Nitrox (EANx)
- Oxygen exposure limits and safety considerations
- How to analyze and verify the oxygen content of a cylinder
- How to calculate Maximum Operating Depth (MOD)
- How to set and use a dive computer for Nitrox
- Proper tank labeling and gas management procedures
- Dive planning using EAN32 and EAN36/EAN40 mixtures (Scubago)
The course is primarily theory-based and can usually be completed in a single day. Practical workshops include analyzing breathing gas and preparing cylinders for diving with Nitrox. Optional training dives may be offered by some dive centers. (Scubago)
Prerequisites
- Minimum age: 10 years
- SSI Referral Diver, Open Water Diver, or equivalent certification from a recognized training agency (training.divessi.com)
Certification
Upon successful completion, divers receive the SSI Enriched Air Nitrox certification, allowing them to dive with Nitrox mixtures up to 40% oxygen wherever Nitrox is available. (Scubago)
Marketing description for a dive center:
"Extend your underwater adventures with the SSI Enriched Air Nitrox Specialty. Learn how to safely use oxygen-enriched air to increase no-decompression limits, reduce nitrogen absorption, and maximize your time underwater. This quick and highly valuable certification is perfect for divers who want to get more out of every dive, especially during dive holidays, liveaboards, and repetitive diving days." (Scubago)