Is the minimum surface interval for Nitrox diving 30 minutes, with 60 minutes being preferred?

The statement about the minimum surface interval for Nitrox diving being 30 minutes, with a preference for 60 minutes, reflects best practices in dive planning and safety. A surface interval is crucial following a dive to allow the body to eliminate nitrogen absorbed during the previous dive, reducing the risk of decompression sickness.

In the context of Nitrox diving, the use of a high percentage of oxygen in the breathing gas allows divers to shorten their no-decompression limits. However, the body still needs adequate time to off-gas nitrogen before making another descent. Thus, a minimum of 30 minutes serves as a baseline, while 60 minutes is recommended to enhance safety and allow for a more conservative approach to subsequent dives. This practice is especially important after deeper dives or longer durations, where nitrogen saturation may be higher.

Surface intervals are also influenced by other factors such as physical condition, dive profile, and previous dive history, but the emphasis on a minimum and preferred time aids divers in adhering to safe diving practices.