If a Nitrox blender fills your cylinder with EAN30 but it analyzes at 32 percent, what should be your level of concern?

When a cylinder is filled with EAN30, it is expected to contain 30% oxygen. However, an analysis that shows 32% oxygen indicates a slight deviation from the expected mix. While it is important to monitor the blend closely, a variance of 2% in oxygen content is generally within acceptable limits for recreational diving.

The primary consideration is that the enriched air should fall within the operational limits of the dive plan. In most cases, a deviation of a couple of percent from the target percentage does not significantly affect the safety of the diver, as long as the percentage remains within safe limits. Nitrox divers often have experience with slight variances in oxygen content and know that these can occur due to the blending process or measurement inaccuracies.

Ultimately, understanding that slight deviations are common allows divers to focus on conducting their dives safely and effectively, provided they remain aware of their oxygen exposure and any subsequent implications for their bottom times and depth limits. This perspective helps maintain a level of confidence in the analysis and the equipment used for blending, reducing undue concern over minor variances.