What should you assume about scuba equipment when using enriched air with more than 40% oxygen?

When using enriched air with more than 40% oxygen, it is critical to recognize that specially designed equipment is necessary to ensure safety and reliability during dives. The correct assumption is that scuba equipment must meet specific safety regulations due to the increased risk associated with higher oxygen concentrations.

Oxygen is a highly reactive element, and at elevated levels, it can lead to a greater risk of fire or oxygen toxicity if not handled correctly. Therefore, equipment used with enriched air must be rated and certified for use with high percentages of oxygen. This includes components such as regulators, tanks, and hoses that need to be compatible with higher oxygen concentrations to prevent any material degradation or potential failure during use.

Different materials, filters, and lubrication may be required when diving with enriched air to mitigate these risks. Failing to use equipment that meets these specific safety regulations could result in dangerous situations while diving, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the guidelines set forth in the training for enriched air diving.