PADI changes Nitrox Requirements

[LavaSurfer]

Heard a rumor today that PADI is dropping the two open water training dives from the Nitrox specialty course. The activities covered in the training dives (analysis, labeling, dive planning) will now be simulated during the classroom session instead.

Anyone heard anything to support this move?

 

[Deuces]

Is it necessary to have the two dives?

 

[Buddha64]

If it is true my LDS hasn't heard about it yet. I still have to do the dives.

 

[genxweb]

I did mine less then a month ago and did the dives in 25 degree temps it was awsome. I think the dives should be done makes you really think a bit more about your dive plan especially not diving with a nitrox computer during them.

 

[LavaSurfer]

Is it necessary to have the two dives?

Nope. Not in my book. Most of the other organizations don't require them and I am assuming that was the catalyst that caused this change. I am a supporter of PADI and see this as a positive move although a little late.

 

[LavaSurfer]

If it is true my LDS hasn't heard about it yet. I still have to do the dives.

Like I said, just rumor but I got it from a good source. Its not final from what I hear but it will be soon.

 

[Nomad]

I recieved an email regarding the Nitrox cert, just this morning, from a PADI Instructor who I frequently work with.

QUOTE: "BTW, the doing two OW dives are no longer required so it would just be one night in the classroom."


It really makes sense to me. It's not like it requires a special skill to breathe a different gas. What matters is that you understand the science, and you can work the new tables.

 

[dlndavid]

Cool, was planning on getting this cert next.

 

[DBailey]

I just checked the PADI Pro's area, and I didn't find anything announcing this change.

 

[Charlie99]

I recieved an email regarding the Nitrox cert, just this morning, from a PADI Instructor who I frequently work with.

QUOTE: "BTW, the doing two OW dives are no longer required so it would just be one night in the classroom."

Just because he's been a PADI instructor in the past doesn't mean that he can't do a crossover cert with a different agency that doesn't require the dives. I've seen several dive shops that offer courses from multiple agencies. He may simpy have decided to do the Nitrox course under a different agency.