Helitrox

The TDI Helitrox Diver Course examines the theory, methods, and procedures for planning staged decompression dives utilizing helium in the breathing mixture to reduce the effects of inert gas narcosis.

The TDI Helitrox Diver Course trains divers how to plan and conduct staged decompression dives to a maximum depth of 45 metres/150 feet. The most common equipment requirements, gear set-up, and decompression techniques are also presented during this course. Students are permitted to utilize enriched air nitrox and helium mixes with no greater than 35% helium content, and up to 100% oxygen for decompression diving.

This program is designed as a stand-alone course, or it may be taught in conjunction with TDI Advanced Nitrox at the discretion of the instructor.

• The certified Advanced Diver or Intro to Tech Diver looking to expand their knowledge of decompression theory and diving techniques using helitrox
• The certified Advanced Diver or Intro to Tech Diver who is interested in extending their bottom time
• The certified Advanced Diver or Intro to Tech Diver who has interest in moving forward with technical diving education

• Minimum age 18
• Minimum certification of SDI Advanced Diver (with Deep specialty) or TDI Intro to Tech Diver, or equivalent
• Certified as TDI Advanced Nitrox Diver (unless being taught concurrently)
• Proof of 50 logged dives

• Decompression dive planning including:
  • Oxygen limitations
  • Nitrogen limitations
  • Helium limitations
  • Decompression gas choices
  • Tables vs. personal dive computers
  • Emergency and contingency planning (equipment failure, omitted decompression, etc.)
• Helium as a breathing gas:
  • Effects on narcosis
  • Effects on respiration
  • Effects as an insulator
  • Counter diffusion
  • HPNS
• Decompression diving procedures:
  • Equipment selection
  • Pre-dive checks and drills
  • Stress analysis and mitigation
  • Following a decompression schedule
  • Gas switching
  • Team awareness and communication
  • SMB/lift bag deployment

• Proper trim, buoyancy and propulsion techniques
• Emergency procedures (equipment failures, catastrophic gas loss, omitted decompression, navigational errors, etc.)
• Equipment considerations, cylinder labeling, analyzing nitrox mixtures, and gas blending procedures

• Ability to conduct decompression diving activities without direct supervision utilizing helium and/or nitrox mixtures
• Ability to enroll in TDI Extended Range, TDI Advanced Wreck, TDI Trimix courses

• Satisfactorily complete the TDI Helitrox Diver Course written examination with a passing score of 80% followed by 100% remediation by the instructor
• Complete all open water requirements safely and efficiently
• Demonstrate mature, sound judgment concerning dive planning and execution