PADI Enriched Air Diver Practice Exam

The primary hazard of exceeding the oxygen exposure limits is a potentially fatal accident due to the risk of convulsions and drowning. When divers are exposed to high levels of oxygen for extended periods, it can lead to a condition known as oxygen toxicity. This toxicity can provoke seizures or convulsions, which can occur unexpectedly. For a diver experiencing a seizure underwater, the situation becomes extremely dangerous, as they may lose control and be unable to manage their breathing or buoyancy, leading to drowning.

Understanding this risk emphasizes the importance of adhering to established oxygen exposure guidelines, monitoring depth and time limits, and being aware of personal symptoms when diving with enriched air. Although decreased visibility, inability to equalize pressure, and buoyancy control difficulties can affect divers, they do not represent the immediate and severe risk to life associated with oxygen toxicity and its potential to cause convulsions.