SCBA

1. SCBA Intermediate SFFMA Objectives: 27-02.01 – 27-02.04 12Hrs received

2. SFFMA Objectives • 27-02.01 Trainee shall identify the procedure for daily inspections and maintenance of self-contained breathingapparatus. • 27-02.02 Trainee, given each type of self-contained breathing apparatus, shall demonstrate the correct procedure forrecharging. • 27-02.03 Trainee shall demonstrate the following emergency techniques using self-contained breathing apparatus to: • A. assist other firefighters • B. conserve air • C. show restrictions in use of by-pass valves • D. breathing from the breathing tube or regulator in the event of a face piece failure • 27-02.04 Trainee shall demonstrate the procedure for cleaning and sanitizing self-contained breathing apparatus for future use.

3. Parts of SCBA System • Air cylinder • Regulator • Backpack frame • Facepiece • PASS Alarm

4. Maintenance of the SCBA System • The five components of the system combine to allow a firefighter to safely operate in a dangerous environment. • Proper maintenance of all parts is required to ensure the system does not fail.

5. Air Cylinder • Visual inspection of the cylinder, gauge, and valve to check for damage, dents, cracks or other anomalies. • Check the cylinder to ensure it has at least 4000 psi. If below, have the cylinder filled. • Prior to filling, check the hydrostatic test date to ensure within limits. All cylinders we have must be hydrostatically tested every three years.

6. Regulator • Takes the high pressure air of the cylinder, and steps it down to a usable pressure. • 1st stage or pressure reducer connected to backpack frame, and is not serviceable by field level technician. • 2nd stage mounts to the face piece.

7. Regulator • High pressure and low pressure hoses can be checked for nicks, cuts, or abrasions that could cause failure. Check “O” ring at cylinder connection. • Hose connections can be checked for air leaks.

8. Regulator • Leaking or damaged hoses or “O” rings can be serviced by field level technician • Minor repairs can be done to regulator, ie: replace gaskets, springs, diaphragm

9. Backpack Frame • Provides the mounting platform to hold the air cylinder in place, and attachment for pressure reducing and regulator assembly, and remote pressure gauge. • Shoulder and waist straps allow the system to be carried comfortably on the body • Two styles – wire frame model, and solid aluminum frame contoured to wearers back

10. Backpack Frame • All straps should be checked for cuts or abrasions that could result in failure • Heavily worn or damaged straps should be replaced • Frame should be inspected for broken welds, and worn or broken mounting hardware

11. Facepiece • Protects the wearer from exposure to heat, toxic gases, and unburned products of combustion • Allows the wearer to see in a smoke filled environment • In conjunction with the regulator, provides a source of fresh air

12. Facepiece • Examine face piece for cracks or scratches that could cause failure, especially around the regulator mount • Check temple and neck straps for excessive wear, or loss of elasticity. If worn, or no stretch in them, have them replaced

13. Facepiece • Check skirt of mask to ensure no cuts or tears that could cause failure • Check nose cup and inhalation check valves • Check voice amplifier for operation • After use, clean by spraying disinfectant on the interior and wait at least 10 minutes before wiping the mask dry

14. PASS Alarm • Audible warning device that signals for assistance when a fire fighter goes down or becomes incapacitated. • Should always be activated BEFORE entering an IDLH environment. • Operation should be tested weekly and battery replaced at regular interval.

15. Field Function Test of Air Pack • Ensure that the unit is clean – no loose debris, system wiped down to clean off any debris or unburned products of combustion • Turn on air cylinder – ensure pressure at cylinder gauge and remote gauge is equal or fairly close – if big difference tag and take out of service • Listen for activation of low air warning system

16. Field Function Test of Air Pack • Attach mask to regulator • Place mask on face and inhale to start air flow, ensuring smooth air flow in system • Check purge valve to ensure proper operation • Turn off air cylinder and bleed down system – listen for activation of low air warning system • Activate donning switch

17. Field Function Test of Air Pack • Extend all straps. • Check PASS alarm for proper function. • Extend straps on face piece. • Check voice amplifier for operation. • Bag face piece to keep it clean and dust free. • Log inspection in the SCBA log book.

18. Fill Station • Instructor will teach/demonstrate how to fill SCBA Bottles from: • Station 1 Fill Station • Rescue 81 • Instructor will teach/demonstrate how to fill storage bottles on Rescue 81

19. Cleaning / Sanitizing • Procedures for cleaning/sanitizing face masks after use: • Mask will be washed under clean water to remove excess debris • Mask sanitizer wipes will be used on all rubber portions of the mask • Face shield will be wiped with alcohol wipe • Mask will be dried and placed back on apparatus

20. Practical Exercise • Firefighter shall: • Demonstrate the following emergency techniques using the SCBA to: • Assist other firefighters with turning on and off SCBA • Conserve Air • Skip breathing, etc… • Show restrictions in use of by-pass valve • Breathing from the breather tube or regulator in the event of a face piece failure