SCBA 10-07-16 PAGE 1 OF 14 The California Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires that: Respirators shall be regularly cleaned after each use or more often if necessary. Those used by more than one worker shall be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after each use. Respirators used routinely shall be inspected during cleaning. Worn or deteriorated parts shall be replaced. Respirators for emergency use, such as selfcontained breathing apparatus, shall be thoroughly inspected at least once a month and after each use. This portion of the Escondido Fire Department respiratory program is divided into three sections to assist firefighters in properly inspecting, cleaning, maintaining and documenting maintenance. The three sections are: Part A: Conducting Daily, Weekly and After Use Inspections Part B: Component Inspection and Cleaning Part C: Removing SCBA s from Service PART A Daily visual inspection The following checks must be conducted on each harness carried on the apparatus during the daily vehicle check. Failure to properly check and maintain SCBA s in a ready status may result in equipment failure or malfunction and may cause injury or death to the user. Although the engineer completes a daily visual inspection on each harness, it is always a safe practice for all department personnel to check the SCBA harness designated for them to use. 1. Check air level on cylinder gauge: a. Cylinder gauge should read FULL. b. Minimum pressure is 5,000 psi.
SCBA 10-07-16 PAGE 2 OF 14 2. Check condition of: a. Straps, buckles and hoses. b. Mask mounted regulator, hose and electrical port. 3. Battery condition: a. With Pak off press yellow button once on remote gauge. b. If Green light illuminates (passes daily check) more than 8 hours. c. If Red light illuminates (need to replace batteries) less than 8 hours. d. If batteries changed, make notation on weekly check sheet. All personnel should check their issued mask and mask regulator using the following steps: Weekly Inspection All SCBA s are inspected weekly on Saturday s in accordance to each station s Daily Work Schedule. Weekly inspections provide additional steps to the daily check ensuring proper SCBA operation and performance. All weekly inspections should follow the outline of the SCBA Inspection and Maintenance Checklist. A copy of this checklist and directions for properly filling out the form is provided in Section 708.00 Documentation Procedures. 1. Check air level on cylinder gauge. a. Cylinder gauge should read FULL. b. Minimum pressure is 5,000 psi. 2. Inspect all straps for frays and tears. Readjust straps to have 3-4 inches of material accessible for the next user to grasp and adjust. 3. Check cylinder strap or band for tightness. 4. Check EBSS hose assembly and fittings for damage. 5. Connect your issued mask regulator. 6. Ensure the purge knob and donning switches are in the "OFF" position. 7. Turn on the air cylinder. a. Vibralert alarm should activate and stop. b. No air should flow from the mask regulator. c. The PAK-ALERT PASS device will automatically activate. 8. Manually activate the PASS device and check all functions.
SCBA 10-07-16 PAGE 3 OF 14 9. Compare cylinder gauge with remote harness gauge for discrepancies. (slight differences in the gauges is normal +/- 200 psi) 10. Close the air cylinder and watch the remote gauge: a. A drop in pressure indicates a leak. Check all hoses and fittings for leaks. Recheck until corrected or remove harness from service. b. No drop in pressure, proceed to next step. 11. Test the mask regulator donning switch: a. Connect mask regulator to your personally issued mask. b. Hold mask against face. c. Inhale to assure a tight seal between face and rubber seal. d. Listen for the activation of the donning switch, airflow is started. e. Return donning switch to the "OFF" position. f. Slowly rotate the purge knob counterclockwise ½ turn. The Vibralert should activate as the pressure drops below approximately 1/3 or 1,800 psi. g. Close the purge knob by rotating clockwise ½ turn. 12. Deactivate the PAK-ALERT PASS device by depressing the yellow reset button located on the side of the control console twice. 13. Install an air cylinder which reads FULL. 14. Clean face piece and mask regulator (if needed) using the guidelines outlined in Part B - Component Inspection and Cleaning. 15. Remove any non-operational SCBA following the procedures outlined in Part C - Removing SCBA s from Service. 16. Completely document the inspection and findings for each harness on the appropriate SCBA Inspection and Maintenance Checklist in the unit directory. After Use Inspection 1. Rinse entire SCBA to remove gross debris. 2. Inspect all straps for frays and tears. Readjust straps to have 3-4 inches of material accessible for the next user to grasp and adjust. 3. Clean entire SCBA harness with soapy water (if needed). 4. Clean PASS components as outlined in Section B - Component Inspection and Cleaning.
SCBA 10-07-16 PAGE 4 OF 14 5. Clean the face piece and mask regulator (if needed) using the guidelines outlined in Section B - Component Inspection and Cleaning. 6. Check air level on cylinder gauge: a. Cylinder gauge should read FULL. b. Minimum pressure is 5,000 psi. 7. Install an air cylinder which reads FULL. 8. Check cylinder strap for tightness. 9. Ensure the purge knob and donning switches are in the "OFF" position. 10. Turn on the air cylinder: a. Vibralert alarm should activate and stop. b. No air should flow from the mask regulator. c. The PAK-ALERT PASS device will automatically activate. 11. Manually activate the PASS device and check all functions. 12. Compare cylinder gauge with remote harness gauge for discrepancies. (slight differences in the gauges is normal +/- 200 psi) 13. Close the air cylinder and watch the remote gauge. a. A drop in pressure indicates a leak. Check all hoses and fittings for leaks. Recheck until corrected or remove harness from service. b. No drop in pressure, proceed to next step. 14. Test the mask regulator donning switch: a. Connect mask regulator to your personally issued mask. b. Hold mask against face. c. Inhale to assure a tight seal between face and rubber seal. d. Listen for the activation of the donning switch, airflow is started. e. Return donning switch to the "OFF" position. f. Slowly rotate the purge knob counterclockwise ½ turn. g. The Vibralert should completely activate as the pressure drops below approximately 1/3 or 1,800 psi. h. Close the purge knob by rotating clockwise ½ turn.
SCBA 10-07-16 PAGE 5 OF 14 15. Deactivate the PAK-ALERTPASS device by depressing the yellow reset button located on the side of the control console twice. 16. Install an air cylinder which reads FULL (if needed). 17. Clean face piece and mask regulator (if needed) using the guidelines outlined in Part B - Component Inspection and Cleaning. 18. Remove any non-operational SCBA following the procedures outlined in Part C - Removing SCBA s from Service. 19. Completely document the inspection and findings for each harness on the appropriate SCBA Inspection and Maintenance Checklist in the unit directory. PART B Inspecting an Air Cylinder Inspections shall be conducted daily, weekly and after each use. A thorough inspection must be conducted before refilling the cylinder utilizing the department SCBA air compressor. The following steps should be used to properly inspect a cylinder. 1. When inspecting the cylinder and valve, first close the cylinder valve and then bleed the residual air from the system. 2. Remove the cylinder from the harness assembly. This procedure is outlined in Section 701.00 Specifications. 3. If the cylinder unit is found to possess any of the following flaws, it should be removed from service immediately: a. Deep cuts or scratches b. Dents or deformities c. Unraveling of the glass wrap d. Paint discoloration due to heat e. Decals charred or missing f. Gauge lens melted g. Black rubber bumper distorted h. Deformation or damage to the snap-change or CGA connections 4. Remove any non-operational SCBA cylinder following the procedures outlined in Part C - Removing SCBA s from Service.
SCBA 10-07-16 PAGE 6 OF 14 Cleaning Cylinders A cylinder shall be cleaned using a damp sponge with mild soap and water. Rinse the cylinder with clear water and then let air or towel dry. Avoid using acetone, paint, lacquer thinners, solvents, or any abrasive cleaner. Inspecting the Face Piece In compliance with American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z88.2 (1992) Respiratory Protection, all department personnel must be issued a face piece. Therefore, it is the responsibility of each firefighter to properly inspect, maintain, clean and disinfect the issued face piece. The following steps should be used to properly inspect a Scott AV 3000HD face piece. 1. The face piece shall be checked for cracks or tears in the rubber seal. 2. Lenses with deep scratches or a lot of small ones that impair vision shall be removed from service. 3. Inspect the nose cup and presence of the retainer. 4. Inspect the Kevlar straps for fraying. 5. Check the buckles for damage and straps for elasticity. 6. Adjust straps to the full outward position. 7. Inspect the head harness for worn, damaged or missing components. 8. Inspect the assigned voice amplifier for damage and for proper function. Cleaning the Face Piece The face piece should be cleaned and disinfected after each use to reduce the risk of inhaling contaminants and reduce respiratory ailments. The following steps should be used to properly clean and disinfect a Scott AV 3000HD face piece. Note: The nose cup is designed to be an integral part of the face piece and does not need to be disassembled for cleaning or disinfecting. 1. The face piece should be rinsed to remove any gross debris. 2. Carefully wash the face piece with a mild soap solution.
SCBA 10-07-16 PAGE 7 OF 14 3. Disinfect the face piece by spraying three full pumps of the Scott Multi-Wash Mini solution on the inside and outside wetting entire mask including all rubber and plastic areas. 4. Let the solution stand for a minimum of 10 minutes. 5. Thoroughly rinse the face piece with tepid water (not more than 100 F). 6. Shake excess water off and allow to air dry or wipe with a clean cloth. NOTE: DO NOT WIPE OR POLISH THE LENS WITH PAPER TOWELS; MOST PAPER TOWELS CONTAIN ABRASIVES THAT WILL SCRATCH THE LENS. DO NOT USE SHOP AIR OR ANY AIR CONTAINING LUBRICANTS OR MOISTURE. IN LIEU OF SCOTT MULTI-WASH MINI, A FACEPIECE CAN BE IMMERSED IN A 70% SOLUTION OF ISOPROPYL ALCOHOL AND RINSED THOROUGHLY. Inspecting the Mask Mounted Regulator This component attaches directly on to the face piece and is mounted on the end of the low-pressure hose. The following steps should be used to properly inspect the mask regulator. 1. The mask regulator cover should be inspected for dents, cracks, cuts, excessive wear, and missing screws. 2. Check the regulator to face piece mating gasket for tearing and wear. 3. Attempt to move the thumb latch. It should move freely and return to the locked position. 4. Rotate the red purge knob back and forth. It should rotate freely. 5. Inspect the HUD components for damage or excessive wear. Cleaning the Mask Mounted Regulator The mask regulator must always be clean and free from debris that may cause injury or illness if inhaled. The following steps should be used to properly clean the mask regulator. Note: The regulator shall be handled and supported so that the swivel joint, where the air hose enters the regulator, is NOT submerged in water. 1. Rotate the red purge knob clockwise to the closed position. 2. Depress the donning switch.
SCBA 10-07-16 PAGE 8 OF 14 3. Rinse the internal and external surfaces to remove any gross debris. 4. Carefully wash the regulator with a mild soap solution and rinse. 5. Inspect the inside of the regulator assembly through the sensing port. If dirt or soil is present, proceed to Advanced Regulator Cleaning. If the assembly is clean, proceed to step 6. 6. Disinfect the regulator by spraying three full pumps of the Scott Multi-Wash Mini solution on the inside and outside wetting entire mask regulator including all rubber and plastic areas. 7. Let the solution stand for a minimum of 10 minutes. 8. Thoroughly rinse the regulator with tepid water (not more than 100 F). 9. Shake excess water off and allow to air dry or wipe with a lint free cloth. 10. Conduct the steps outlined in Part A - After Use Inspection Advanced Regulator Cleaning Only trained department personnel should perform this procedure. Failure to properly complete all aspects of this cleaning procedure may result in an equipment malfunction or failure that may cause injury or death to the user. 1. Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the latch assembly from the regulator. The latch has a spring, so hold the latch tightly as you remove the screws. 2. Carefully remove the latch plate and spring. 3. Remove the cover by lifting it away from the regulator near the latch and unhinge it from the retaining tab located near the purge valve. Note: The E-Z flow regulator has a fork which is attached to the cover. The fork goes around the center boss of the diaphragm. 4. Remove the diaphragm retaining ring and set aside. 5. Pinch the diaphragm with thumb and finger; gently peel off the diaphragm assembly. Note: Do not disassemble beyond this point. Care must be taken to avoid damage to components within the regulator. These items include an admissions valve, admissions lever, purge valve, linkage for air shutoff, and the Vibralert low-pressure warning device. 6. Rinse the internal and external surfaces, diaphragm, and regulator cover to remove any gross debris.
SCBA 10-07-16 PAGE 9 OF 14 7. Carefully wash all the components with a mild soap solution and rinse. 8. Inspect the regulator body for any cracks, chips, breaks or other mechanical or chemical damage. 9. Check the diaphragm assembly by holding it up to the light, and gently stretching the diaphragm while observing for cuts, tears, or cracks. 10. Disinfect all the components by spraying the Scott Multi-Wash Mini solution as often as needed to wet the entire component including all rubber and plastic. 11. Let the solution stand for a minimum of 10 minutes. 12. Thoroughly rinse the regulator with tepid water (not more than 100 F). 13. Shake excess water off and allow to air dry or wipe with a cloth. 14. Take the diaphragm and gently put it back onto the regulator body making sure the bead on the diaphragm assembly is in the groove on the regulator body. 15. Carefully line up and install the retaining ring over the diaphragm assembly. It must be completely seated. Although it is common to see some puckering, the diaphragm bead must be completely in the body groove. 16. Install the E-Z Flow cover First be sure the fork lever is fully extended from the cover, then slide the fork around the pin at the center of the diaphragm through the opening in the retaining ring. 17. The edge of the cover (at the purge knob side) must be inserted between the retaining plate and the lock tab plate. Then place the lock tab into the slot of the cover. 18. Gently squeeze the cover onto the regulator body. Make sure the cover brackets line up with the screw holes in the regulator body. 19. Place the spring in the regulator body. Then place the latch and the latch plate into position over the cover brackets. 20. Re-install the two screws using a Phillips screwdriver. Do Not Over Tighten! 21. Conduct the steps outlined in Part A - After Use Inspection. Inspecting the Low-Pressure hose The low-pressure hose is connected to the high-pressure reducer and the mask regulator. The following steps should be used to properly inspect the low pressure hose. 1. Check the hose for breaks, cracks, chips, cuts, and excessive wear. 2. Inspect the HUD electronics connection for cracks, breaks or damage to the pins.
SCBA 10-07-16 PAGE 10 OF 14 3. Flex the hose to inspect for cuts, abrasions, unusual soft or hard spots, or any other damage. Cleaning the Low-Pressure Hose The hose shall be cleaned using a damp sponge with mild soap and water. Rinse the hose with clear water and then air or towel dry. Inspecting the Pressure Reducer/High Pressure Hose The pressure reducer is mounted on the backpack frame assembly and coupled to the air cylinder through a Snap Change connector. The following steps should be used to properly inspect the Low-Pressure hose. 1. Inspect pressure reducer for cracks, chips, cuts, and excessive wear. 2. Inspect the Snap Change receptacle for damage or lodged debris. 3. Check the Snap Change release handles for damage or excessive wear. 4. Check pressure reducer mounting screws for tightness. Inspecting the Back-frame and Harness This back-frame is constructed of a solid aluminum alloy that follows the users back. The following steps should be used to properly inspect the back-frame and harness: 1. Visually inspect the components for breaks, dents, tears, excessive wear, deterioration, and missing parts. 2. The welds and rivets should be strong and secure. 3. Inspect the straps for fraying and excessive wear. 4. Check all buckles for proper function. 5. Check cylinder retention strap for damage and proper function. 6. Inspect all shoulder and waist pads for excessive wear, tears or rips. Cleaning the Back-frame and Harness This back-frame and harness can be easily cleaned using a stiff brush with mild soap and water. Rinse the hose with clear water and then air or towel dry. Inspecting the Remote Pressure Gauge
SCBA 10-07-16 PAGE 11 OF 14 Every department SCBA has a remote gauge located on the right shoulder that indicates the amount of air in the tank (e.g., 1/4, 1/2, full, etc.). The following steps should be used to properly inspect the remote pressure gauge. 1. Inspect the gauge for breakage, wear, and heat damage that may have melted the read-out lens. 2. Check the lens for excessive scratches. 3. Inspect the rubber protective boot for cracks, cuts, and excessive wear. 4. Inspect the flex-line for cuts, abrasions, or any other damage. Cleaning the Remote Pressure Gauge Use a mild soap to clean the remote pressure gauge and rinse afterwards with warm, tepid water and then let air or towel dry. Do not use paper towels to clean lens. Inspecting the PASS Component All SCBA s are integrated with a Personal Alert Safety System (PASS) intended to assist in locating a firefighter who is incapacitated or in need of assistance. The Scott AIR-PAK X3 has an integrated PASS device, the Scott PAK-ALERT distress alarm. The specific operation of this device is outlined in Section 701.00 - PASS Components. The following steps should be used to properly inspect PAK-ALERT 1,000 device. 1. Visually inspect all wire conduits for cracks, wear, or other damage. 2. Check the sensor module enclosure and bracket for cracks, wear, missing screws or other damage. 3. Visually inspect the control console lenses for excessive scratches. 4. Operate all control console switches for proper function. 5. Check for a low battery condition. The PAK-ALERT 1,000 utilizes 6 AA batteries located on the side of the Air-Pak. When the batteries begin to approach the end of their useful life, the sensor module will activate a chirping sound approximately once a second and the green light on the control module will go out. This is the low battery condition. Every apparatus that carries the Scott AIR-PAK X3 will have a SCBA packet in the toolbox that contains a package of spare AA batteries. Replace the batteries as needed using the following steps: a. To remove the cover, use a Phillips screwdriver to loosen the single cover screw. b. Remove used batteries from battery compartment.
SCBA 10-07-16 PAGE 12 OF 14 c. Install 6 new AA batteries. Always replace all batteries at the same time. Use an Alkaline or Lithium battery. d. The battery cover must be installed so that it is watertight. Clean the sealing rib around battery compartment and sealing face of cover to remove any dirt or debris. e. Install battery cover and tighten the single screw in a clockwise direction, until the cover is seated. f. Perform the operational procedures outlined in Part A After Use Inspection.
SCBA 10-07-16 PAGE 13 OF 14 Inspecting the Duel EBSS Manifold 1. Inspect the manifold clip for breakage, wear, and heat damage. 2. Check the harness strap and mesh pocket for frays, tears or any other damage. 3. Inspect the rubber protective boot for cracks, cuts, and excessive wear. 4. Inspect the couplings for damage and ensure they properly operate. Cleaning the Duel EBSS Manifold Use a mild soap to clean the manifold assembly and rinse afterwards with warm, tepid water and then let air or towel dry. Do not use any lubricants. PART C Removing SCBA s from Service Any SCBA that is damaged, not operating properly or has failed an inspection should be removed from service. The following steps should be followed to properly remove the harness from service and ensure repairs are made. 1. All out of service SCBA s should be tagged and placed in SCBA work shop bench at Fire Station 1 for repairs. The tag placed on the harness provides a brief description of the problem with the employee name and date. 2. A Loss/Damage form must be completed by email attachment to SCBA maintenance coordinator 3. Backup SCBA s at each station are to be used as a permanent replacement, unless the unit is not from that station 4. The SCBA Inspection and Maintenance Checklist on the apparatus should be updated with the replacement harness number Using a Back-up SCBA There will be SCBA's designated for backup at Fire Station 1. These SCBA's are located in SCBA compressor room and are readily available for immediate use. The following guidelines must be followed when using a backup SCBA. 1. Use only harnesses in this area unless advised otherwise 2. Conduct an inspection and operational test as outlined in Section B - Component Inspection and Cleaning. 3. Clean and disinfect the SCBA as needed.
SCBA 10-07-16 PAGE 14 OF 14 4. Fill out check out sheet for reference of location of replacement harness 5. Fill out the appropriate areas on the form. 6. Place the Inspection and Maintenance folder in the front of the unit binder. When returning the backup harness, follow the following steps: 1. Return the harness to Fire Station 1 Compressor Room. 2. Clean and disinfect the SCBA as needed. 3. Remove the air cylinder. Refill cylinder as needed. 4. Return harness to designated back up harness area. 5. Fill out the appropriate areas on the Inspection and Maintenance checklist and return the checklist folder. 6. Obtain the repaired SCBA and conduct an inspection and operational test as outlined in Part B - Component Inspection and Cleaning. 7. Update the harness records in the unit service records.