Checklist for self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
ispl team
Checklist for self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
- Inspect the SCBA unit before each use. Test and clean after each use.
- Inspect the equipment designated for "emergency use" at least monthly and after each use.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions and Standard Z94.4-02 for care and maintenance.
- Permit only trained, manufacturer-certified personnel to maintain SCBA.
- Do not mix parts from different manufacturers.
- Maintain a complete record for each SCBA facepiece and cylinder.
Facepiece
- Disconnect the facepiece from the breathing apparatus. Wash alone in warm (49-60ºC or 120-140ºF) soapy water using a mild dish detergent.
- Rinse the water through the facepiece by placing the palm of the hand over the breathing tube connector on the exhalation-valve body.
- Remove excess water with a paper towel or lint-free cloth.
- Allow to air dry.
- Sanitize according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Check for tears in the rubber.
- Check head strap for deterioration.
- Examine lenses for cracks, excessive scratching or other deformities.
- Check rings and clamps securing the lens for bends or bulges in the metal.
- Check the exhalation valve to ensure that it is properly located and that the valve cover is in place.
- Test the exhalation valve. Block the air intake opening and exhale gently. If the exhalation valve is not working properly, a heavy blow-by will be felt at the temples. Inhale and a partial vacuum will be formed.
- Do not mix demand and pressure-demand facepieces and regulators.
Regulator
- Check the regulator, breathing-tube threads, pressure gauge, and bypass and mainline valves for impact damage.
- Store with the cylinder valve completely closed.
- Bleed off air remaining in the regulator after each use, following manufacturer's instructions.
Breathing tube
- Stretch the breathing tube and check for cracks, tears and punctures.
- Check gaskets.
- Check clamps and rings to ensure that they are tight, properly located, not dented and not excessively corroded.
- Wash the breathing tube separately and allow to air dry. If it is permanently attached to the facepiece, allow the breathing tube to dry for several days before using.
High-pressure hose
- Check the hose for cuts, bubbles and abrasions.
- Check the fitting between the high-pressure hose and the regulator for damage.
Audible alarm
- Check the audible alarm for damage.
- Clean bells or whistles.
- Ensure that the alarm is working. If the alarm does not go off when the pressure reaches 20-25% of service time, the unit is defective. Remove the unit from service.
Backpack
- Inspect the straps of the backpack for excessive wear, broken stitching, and damaged or missing hardware.
Cylinder
- Ensure cylinders are hydrostatically tested as set out in Standard Z94.4-02, "Selection, Care and Use of Respirators".
- Inspect for cuts or gouges that can cause the unraveling of the composite fibers of the cylinder overwrap.
- Check unwrapped cylinders for impact damage.
- Check for evidence of exposure to heat. Look for discoloured paint or melted gauge lenses.
- Ensure air meets air quality set out in Standard Z180.1-00, "Compressed Breathing Air and Systems".
Cleaning the rest of the unit
- Remove backpack, cylinder and regulator assembly.
- Clean with water, or soapy water.
- Wipe the regulator, high-pressure hose, audible alarm, air cylinder, backpack and harness with a damp cloth.
- Dry with a cloth.