What is the care and use guideline for Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)?

The guideline for the care and use of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) emphasizes the importance of both regular inspections and decontamination after each use to ensure safety and operational readiness. The requirement to inspect monthly allows for the identification of any potential issues or wear that could compromise the equipment’s function, such as leaks, malfunctions, or degradation of materials.

Decontaminating SCBA after each use is crucial as it removes any hazardous substances that may have been encountered during firefighting or other emergency operations, therefore ensuring that the equipment remains safe for the next use and does not pose a contamination risk to the user.

This approach not only adheres to best practices for maintaining protective equipment but also complies with safety standards, safeguarding both the firefighters and those they protect. Regular inspection and thorough cleaning contribute significantly to the overall reliability and efficiency of SCBAs in emergency situations, thereby enhancing personal safety when they are put into operation.