Intermediate

SFFMA Objectives: 27-02.01 – 27-02.04

12Hrs received
SFFMA Objectives
 27-02.01 Trainee shall identify the procedure for daily inspections
and maintenance of self-contained breathing apparatus.
 27-02.02 Trainee, given each type of self-contained breathing
apparatus, shall demonstrate the correct procedure for
recharging.
 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.
Parts of SCBA System
 Air cylinder
 Regulator
 Backpack frame
 Facepiece
 PASS Alarm
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.
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.
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.

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.

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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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.
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
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
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