Nitrox Requirement

[Qix]

I think it would be a bit extreme to require nitrox training for initial open water training.

However, if possible I think it would be wise to spend 15 minutes or so making them aware of it. So why not do this for DPV's or other mixed gases, etc. Because Nitrox is more in their face. Just about every dive computer will have a nitrox mode so with some awareness they would better understand the risks of setting a EAN dive when on straight air or perhaps understanding the risks of using someone else's EAN fill on a dive boat, etc. And the majority of the people trained here go on to dive in your typical warm water vacations only. With a better understanding of Nitrox they might be able to make a better decision to how it will benefit them on their trips. A perfect example is dive trips to Bonaire. Nitrox just makes sense.

Now for Scuba Instructors, I think a nitrox certification should be mandatory. There's nothing more silly (or irritating) than those Instructors/DM's with zero mixed gas training telling students that Nitrox isn't necessary or costs too much or is a hassle, etc. Not to mention, instructors are the ones doing a crapload of CESA's and up and downs on a busy summer weekends so why not grab some EAN40 instead of doing it on air. They can get the fills for free or at reduced costs and there is no more weight or equipment to lug around (provided they test fills and label tanks before loading up). And there's a bonus, some of the students will ask about the tank stickers to which point the instructor might rally up some more business which is good for both and with very little logistics involved. I would think one of the best profit classes a scuba shop can instruct is the first Nitrox course. One classroom, one instructor, a few EAN fills, a few testers and one evening. Everyone is done when they walk out.