Jason Hunter
Registered
Wanting to purchase a switch block to add to my full-face setup. What is the general consensuses on the Omni Swivel vs Apeks Switch Block?
Thanks for you time.
Thanks for you time.
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Wanting to purchase a switch block to add to my full-face setup. What is the general consensuses on the Omni Swivel vs Apeks Switch Block?
Thanks for you time.
Had been looking at different distributors but had not looked at DiveGrear's site. I see their warning at the bottom.Here we go again...
DiveGearExpress has the definitive word on this (and has for quite some time)
Manifolds and Switch Blocks
"Every time we sell a manifold or switch block, we shudder a little bit. The gas switch block is used in primarily by surface supply divers to switch from surface supply to emergency bailout gas. Manifolds are primarily used in gas distribution systems. But the key here is that there are not different gas mixtures involved. Unfortunately divers sometimes get the idea to match these products up with multiple cylinders and/or or quick disconnects to create some type of elaborate system for rapid switching between different gas mixtures and/or cylinders. Gas switching errors are very often involved in technical diving accidents. Over the years we've learned about several near misses and fatalities that were directly attributable to mistakes with switch blocks that were connected to different gas mixtures. No matter how careful the diver, or how many safeguards, we think using switch blocks with different mixtures is a very bad idea."
Just don't, it's a terrible idea to be using either of them in recreational OC tech diving. If you are a commercial diver or a PSD using these to switch to a bailout gas which is the same as your breathing mixture - then don't ask here. Talk to your DSO about the system your organization uses.
Apologies for the incorrect post location. I looked through the possible locations and figured that the "tech boys" would have the most educated opinion on the pros and cons of each device.@Jason Hunter if you are a trained PSD with the use of switch blocks and a FFM, then I do not have issues with you using a switch block. I would use the same one that you have on your rigs which are likely Omniswivels and keep your personal setup similar to those that you use when on call and in training.
I'll get @The Chairman to have this moved out of technical diving though as that is what ruffled @rjack321 's feathers as a lot of people try to use these for decompression and it's extremely risky for that.
Gemini switch block from lungfish is UKCA and CE certifiedI know this is a bit late since the original post, but I'd think twice about buying an Omniswivel switchblock.
Product Safety Report: OmniSwivel Gas Switch Block for diving (2201-0233)
Product safety report for OmniSwivel Gas Switch Block for diving presenting a serious risk of asphyxiationwww.gov.uk
The Apeks Switch block had it CE certified with the Gorski Helmet. I think it's one of the few, if not only CE certified switchblocks on the market.