What is the first step to follow when analyzing Nitrox cylinder content?

The correct first step when analyzing Nitrox cylinder content is to use the appropriate analysis equipment. This is essential because proper analysis equipment allows you to accurately determine the composition of the gas mixture in the cylinder, particularly the percentages of oxygen and nitrogen. This information is crucial for ensuring safe dive planning and avoiding the risks associated with breathing gases that are not suitable for the planned dive depths.

Using the analysis equipment helps confirm that the Nitrox blend matches what was expected and indicates whether the cylinder is safe for use. This step is critical for any diver planning to utilize enriched air for their dives, as the oxygen content significantly impacts the dive profile and the no-decompression limits.

In contrast, logging cylinder fills, inspecting the physical condition of the cylinder, and checking the gas fill log are important practices but are secondary to the actual analysis of the gas content. These steps can be part of overall dive safety protocol but do not directly address the immediate need to verify the gas mixture in an operational context. Thus, while they contribute to safe diving practices, they do not serve as the first action to verify the Nitrox content in a cylinder.