A self
contained breathing apparatus,
or SCBA is a device worn by
rescue workers, firefighters, and others to provide breathable air in a
hostile environment. The term "self-contained" differentiates SCBA from
other apparatus connected to a remote supply by a long hose. SCBA
units typically include full facepiece, regulator, demand valve,
pressure gauge, carrier/harness and cylinder. The air cylinder usually
comes in a 30 minute tank. These tanks however usually do
not last the full duration depending on the exertion and fitness of the
wearer. A 30 minute tank can last as little as
10-15 minutes under full exertion.
All fire departments and those
working in toxic environments need to use the positive pressure SCBA
for safety reasons.
As SCBA technology has evolved, different models
have evolved for
firefighting, versus those designed for where the set does not need to
be heat resistant, such as in mining. In the USA, SCBAs used in
firefighting must be "1981 NFPA compliant". These are guidelines
established by the National Fire
Protection Association. Similarly, the National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has a
certification program for SCBA that are intended to be used in
chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) environments.
See NIOSH
Approved SCBAs
|
North SCBA
MSA SCBA Assembly
ISI Frontier SCBA
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