About

ADVANCE NITROX

The SSI Advanced Nitrox Diver program is designed for divers who want to expand their knowledge and skills in using enriched air nitrox (EAN) for deeper diving. This program builds upon the foundational skills learned in the basic Nitrox course, allowing divers to safely plan and conduct dives using nitrox mixtures with higher oxygen content, typically up to 100% oxygen, while also incorporating advanced dive planning and gas management techniques.

Course Structure

1. Academic Sessions: The program typically includes several academic sessions where divers learn about the physiological effects of increased oxygen levels, dive planning considerations, and emergency procedures related to nitrox diving. This theoretical knowledge is crucial for understanding how to manage risks associated with deeper dives.

2. Pool/Confined Water Sessions: Divers will participate in confined water training sessions where they can practice skills related to using nitrox equipment, managing buoyancy, and executing emergency procedures in a controlled environment.

3. Open Water Sessions: The course usually requires a number of open water dives where students apply what they have learned in real-world conditions. These dives allow divers to gain practical experience in planning and executing dives with enriched air nitrox.

Depth Limitations

The maximum depth for dives conducted under the Advanced Nitrox program is generally set at 40 meters (130 feet). This depth limit ensures that divers remain within safe operational limits while utilizing nitrox mixtures effectively.

Certification Prerequisites

To enroll in the Advanced Nitrox Diver course, participants must meet certain prerequisites:

• A valid certification as an Enriched Air Nitrox diver.

• Completion of a minimum number of logged dives (often around 24).

• A Deep Diving certification may also be required depending on the specific training center’s policies.

Benefits of Advanced Nitrox Training

1. Extended Bottom Times: By using enriched air mixtures, divers can increase their bottom times significantly compared to standard air diving.

2. Reduced Surface Intervals: Divers can shorten their surface intervals between dives due to the lower nitrogen absorption rates associated with nitrox.

3. Enhanced Safety Margins: Understanding how to manage gas mixes allows divers to dive more safely by reducing the risks of decompression sickness.

4. Preparation for Further Technical Diving: Completing this course serves as a stepping stone towards more advanced technical diving courses such as Extended Range or Trimix diving.

5. Increased Dive Opportunities: With advanced training, divers can explore deeper sites that are often inaccessible or require specialized knowledge and skills.

Conclusion

The SSI Advanced Nitrox Diver program is an essential step for those looking to enhance their diving capabilities while ensuring safety through proper training and knowledge application. It prepares divers not only for deeper explorations but also equips them with critical skills necessary for future technical diving endeavors.