Why is it important to label Nitrox tanks?

Labeling Nitrox tanks is crucial primarily to avoid confusion about the gas mixture being used. Nitrox consists of a blend of nitrogen and oxygen, and the specific mixture can significantly impact dive planning and safety. Different Nitrox mixes have different maximum operating depths and no-decompression limits due to variations in the oxygen content. If a diver mistakenly uses a tank with the wrong gas mixture, they might exceed safe limits for oxygen exposure or nitrogen absorption, leading to potential decompression sickness or oxygen toxicity. Therefore, clear labeling ensures that divers can quickly and accurately identify the contents, contributing to safer dive practices.

While other aspects such as indicating the year of manufacture, showing tank pressure levels, or assisting in transport logistics are important for overall tank management, the primary concern that directly affects diver safety and operational integrity is the identification of the gas mixture itself.