## Is Contaminated Compressed Air Bad for Scuba Diving?
Yes, contaminated compressed air is bad for scuba diving. Compressed air is used to fill scuba tanks, and it must be clean and free of contaminants in order to be safe for breathing. Contaminants can include water, oil, dust, and other particles.
### Water
Water is the most common contaminant found in compressed air. It can cause rust to form inside the scuba tank, which can then flake off and enter the diver’s lungs. Water can also cause the regulator to freeze, which can lead to a loss of air supply.
### Oil
Oil is another common contaminant found in compressed air. It can coat the inside of the scuba tank and the regulator, making it difficult for the diver to breathe. Oil can also cause the regulator to malfunction.
### Dust
Dust is a type of particulate matter that can be found in compressed air. It can irritate the diver’s lungs and cause coughing and sneezing. Dust can also clog the regulator, making it difficult for the diver to breathe.
### Other Contaminants
Other contaminants that can be found in compressed air include bacteria, viruses, and chemicals. These contaminants can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory infections, skin irritation, and eye irritation.
### Health Effects of Contaminated Compressed Air
Contaminated compressed air can cause a variety of health problems, including:
Respiratory problems, such as coughing, sneezing, and shortness of breath
Skin irritation, such as rashes and itching
Eye irritation, such as redness and watering
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Headaches
Dizziness
Fatigue
In severe cases, contaminated compressed air can lead to death.
### How to Avoid Contaminated Compressed Air
There are a few things that you can do to avoid contaminated compressed air:
Only fill your scuba tank with air from a reputable source.
Check the air quality before you fill your tank.
Use a water filter to remove water from the air.
Use an oil filter to remove oil from the air.
Use a particulate filter to remove dust from the air.
### Conclusion
Contaminated compressed air is bad for scuba diving. It can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory problems, skin irritation, eye irritation, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and even death. To avoid contaminated compressed air, only fill your scuba tank with air from a reputable source, check the air quality before you fill your tank, and use a water filter, oil filter, and particulate filter to remove contaminants from the air.