## Is Contaminated Compressed Air Bad for Scuba Diving?
**Introduction**
The air we breathe on land is not the same as the air we breathe underwater. When we scuba dive, we use compressed air from scuba tanks, which is often contaminated with various substances. These contaminants can have negative effects on our health and safety, so it is important to be aware of them and take steps to minimize their exposure.
**What Contaminants Can Be Found in Compressed Air?**
The most common contaminants found in compressed air include:
* **Oil:** Oil can come from the compressor used to fill scuba tanks, or from the tank itself. Oil can irritate the lungs and cause inflammation.
* **Water:** Water can condense in scuba tanks, especially if the air is not properly cooled before filling. Water can cause corrosion in the tank and can also lead to the growth of bacteria.
* **Carbon monoxide:** Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that can cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, and even death. Carbon monoxide can be produced by the compressor or by the engine of the dive boat.
* **Nitrogen dioxide:** Nitrogen dioxide is a noxious gas that can cause respiratory problems, such as coughing, wheezing, and chest pain. Nitrogen dioxide can be produced by the compressor or by the engine of the dive boat.
* **Particulates:** Particulates are small particles that can be suspended in the air. Particulates can come from the compressor, the tank, or the environment. Particulates can irritate the lungs and cause inflammation.
**How Can Contaminants Affect Scuba Divers?**
The contaminants in compressed air can have a variety of negative effects on scuba divers, including:
* **Short-term effects:** Short-term effects of exposure to contaminants in compressed air include:
* **Headaches**
* **Nausea**
* **Vomiting**
* **Coughing**
* **Wheezing**
* **Chest pain**
* **Eye irritation**
* **Skin irritation**
* **Long-term effects:** Long-term exposure to contaminants in compressed air can lead to:
* **Respiratory problems**
* **Cardiovascular problems**
* **Neurological problems**
* **Cancer**
**How to Minimize Exposure to Contaminants in Compressed Air**
There are a number of things that scuba divers can do to minimize their exposure to contaminants in compressed air, including:
* **Choose a reputable dive operator:** Dive operators that use well-maintained compressors and tanks are less likely to have contaminated air.
* **Inspect your dive gear before each dive:** Make sure that your scuba tank is clean and free of rust or other damage.
* **Use a pre-dive safety check:** Before each dive, perform a pre-dive safety check to ensure that your regulator is working properly and that there is no air leaking from your tank.
* **Take breaks during your dive:** If you start to feel any symptoms of exposure to contaminants, such as headaches or nausea, take a break from diving and get some fresh air.
* **Get regular medical checkups:** If you dive frequently, it is important to get regular medical checkups to ensure that you are not experiencing any health problems related to exposure to contaminants in compressed air.
**Conclusion**
Contaminated compressed air can be a serious health hazard for scuba divers. By taking steps to minimize their exposure to contaminants, divers can help to protect their health and safety.