Self Contained Breathing Apparatus

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Self Contained Breathing Apparatus

• (Positive Pressure) Open Circuit SCBA

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OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134

• 1998

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What are the four hazardous respiratory
environments?

• 1. Heat
• 2. Smoke
• 3. Toxic gases (poisonous superheated)
• 4. Oxygen deficiency lt19.5

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Smoke

• Byproduct of incomplete combustion

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Toxic gases include

• Carbon Monoxide
• Hydrogen Sulfide
• Phosgene gases

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Air consists of

• 78 nitrogen
• 21 oxygen
• 1 other

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When do we use SCBA?

• Oxygen deficient atmospheres / confined spaces.
• Gas incidents.
• Chemical incidents.
• Salvage and clean-up operations.
• True unknowns.
• Whenever in doubt.

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S.C.B.A. cant protect you from

• Gases absorbed through skin
• Intense heat
• Empty air supply
• Radiation

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Stress can add to an improper fit.
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Psychological Problems

• Hyperventilation

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Physiological problems

• Claustrophobia

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How much time do you have with the SCBA?

• Its never enough, but you have about 30 minutes
  if
• Youre in good cardiovascular health.
• Not stressed out.
• Good fit on mask

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Factors that affect fit of mask

• Weight gain/loss
• Facial hair
• Shape of face
• Good seal

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Safety Check

• Tank pressure
• Low air alarm
• High pressure line
• Regulator
• Mainline valve
• Emergency by-pass valve

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Safety Check cont.

• Low pressure hose
• Damaged lens
• Facepiece straps
• Facepiece seal

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Sounds easy, right?