I. INTRODUCTION
This is the entry level certification course for recreational divers wishing to utilize enriched air nitrox (EAN) as a breathing gas.
II. COURSE OBJECTIVES
The objective of this course is to train divers in the benefits, hazards, and proper procedures for using nitrox mixes from 22% to 40% oxygen content.
Ill. QUALIFICATIONS OF GRADUATES
A. Upon successful completion of this course, graduates may engage in diving activities utilizing EAN 22 to EAN 40 without direct supervision.
B. Upon successful completion of this course, graduates are qualified to
enroll in:
1. TDI Advanced Nitrox Course
2. TDI Decompression Procedures Course
3. TDI Semi-closed Rebreather Course
IV. WHO MAY TEACH
This course may be taught by any active TDI Nitrox Instructor.
V. STUDENT - INSTRUCTOR RATIO
A. Classroom
Unlimited, so long as adequate facility, supplies and additional time are provided to insure comprehensive and complete training.
B. Open water
Since entry level nitrox is essentially an information and academic based course, no dives are specifically required as there are no skills to evaluate. However, optional dives are desirable to effectively demonstrate the advantages of EAN use in practical field use. If scheduled, no direct instructor supervision is required but dives should not be conducted in environments that may exceed the existing skill or depth levels of the student.
VI. STUDENT PRE-REQUISITES
A. Minimum age 15
B. Minimum certification of Diver or current enrollment in a diver course.
C. Minimum of 10 (ten) logged dives, or the equivalent at the discretion of the instructor, or the nitrox program may be taught in conjunction with an
openwater diver certification.
VII. REQUIRED COURSE MINIMUMS
A. The suggested number of classroom hours is 3.
B. 2 Nitrox dives recommended (but not required)
VIII. REQUIRED SUBJECT AREAS
The following topics must be covered during this course. The TDI Nitrox Manual is mandatory for use during this course but instructors may use any additional text or materials that they feel help present these topics.
A. History of EAN
B. Physiology
1. Oxygen
2. Nitrogen
C. Physics
1. Pressure review
2. Partial pressures
D. Equipment Considerations
1. 40% oxygen content and less
2. Above 40% oxygen content
E. Dive Tables
1. Equivalent Air Depth (introduction of concept only for demonstration)
2. EAN Tables
3. Switching mixes on repetitive dives
F. Dive Computers
1. Mix adjustable
2. 02 integrated
G. Advantages and Disadvantages of EAN
1. Use as air for physiological advantage with air tables or computers
2. Use to extend no-decompression bottom times or shorten surface intervals
3. Oxygen toxicity hazards and depth limits
4. Discussion of myths and facts regarding EAN mixtures
H. Procedures
1. Use and theory of oxygen analyzer
2. Gas analysis and logging
I. Common Mixing Procedures
1. Partial pressure blending
2. Continuous blending
3. Membrane separation system
IX. GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
In order to complete this course, students must:
A. Satisfactorily complete the TDI Nitrox Course written examination
B. Demonstrate understanding of oxygen analysis for nitrox mixtures
X. SUPPORT MATERIALS
A. TDI Student Record Folder
B. TDI Nitrox Student Manual
C. TDI Nitrox Slides I Overheads I Power Point Presentation
D. TDI EAD I P02 Tables