What could potentially happen if a diver exceeds the recommended oxygen partial pressure limits?

Exceeding the recommended oxygen partial pressure limits can lead to significant physiological effects, most notably the increased risk of lung injury. When divers breathe oxygen at pressures higher than 1.4 ATA (atmospheres absolute), they are at a heightened risk for developing oxygen toxicity. This condition can manifest in various forms, including central nervous system toxicity, which can cause seizures, loss of consciousness, and other severe neurological symptoms.

At the pulmonary level, high partial pressures of oxygen can lead to inflammation and other lung injuries, as the respiratory system becomes stressed under these conditions. Maintaining proper oxygen partial pressure is crucial for preventing these potentially life-threatening complications, which is a fundamental aspect of dive safety and physiology. Understanding this risk is vital for divers to ensure they adhere to safe diving practices and recognize the importance of following established limits for oxygen exposure during dives.