What is the recommended strategy to minimize oxygen toxicity for divers who are exposed to higher partial pressures?

Monitoring oxygen levels closely is critical for divers exposed to higher partial pressures of oxygen. This practice helps ensure divers stay within safe limits and avoid exceeding the recommended partial pressure of oxygen that can lead to toxicity. As divers descend, the pressure increases and so does the partial pressure of the gases they are breathing, particularly oxygen. Maintaining vigilance over oxygen levels allows divers to take necessary precautions, such as ascending to shallower depths or adjusting their breathing gas mixtures if they approach levels that can potentially cause toxicity, such as central nervous system effects, visual disturbances, or other physiological issues.

Increasing dive time is not advisable as it can compound the risk of oxygen toxicity, particularly at greater depths. Staying in shallow waters could limit exposure to higher partial pressures, but it might not be feasible depending on the dive plan and objectives. Using conventional air mixtures, which typically contain about 21% oxygen, may not always be adequate for dives that require higher levels of oxygen, especially if the dive profile involves deeper depths where partial pressures can exceed safe limits. Hence, closely monitoring oxygen levels emerges as the most effective strategy for managing the risks associated with higher partial pressures.