What should be done if a diver exceeds their planned depth on an EANx dive?

When a diver exceeds their planned depth on an EANx dive, it is crucial to reassess their dive plan to ensure safety and mitigate the risk of potential decompression sickness or other physiological effects related to exceeding the planned depth.

Planning is a foundational aspect of safe diving, and exceeding the planned depth can increase the partial pressures of nitrogen and, depending on the blend of EANx being used, oxygen. Redressing the plan involves evaluating the new circumstances of the dive, potentially including calculating new dive time limits and assessing nitrogen and oxygen exposure.

Monitoring for symptoms is essential, as divers may not immediately feel the effects of deeper depths or increased exposure. If there are any signs of decompression sickness or oxygen toxicity, the diver must take appropriate measures, including altering their ascent and performing necessary safety stops to ensure a gradual return to shallower depths.

This proactive approach of reassessing the dive plan, monitoring for symptoms, and considering safety stops aligns with best practices for diving safety and helps in managing any risks associated with depth excursions.