General Cautions and Limitations for 13F - Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus

These limitations are by no means all inclusive. The respirator manufacturer may also identify further cautions and limitations for their respirators. In addition, regulatory agencies may also place a limit on the use of respirators in their standards.

• Approval
• General Limitations - All SCBA
• Recommendation - SCBA with Breathing Gas Cylinder
• Additional Limitations - Closed Circuit
• Special Limitations

Approval

General Limitations - All SCBA

• Use only for temperatures above the temperature listed on the approval label.
• Approved only when compressed air reservoir is fully charged with air meeting the requirements of the Compressed Gas Association specification G-7.1 for Type 1, Grade D air, or equivalent specifications.
• The air container shall meet applicable DOT specifications.
• Use adequate skin protection when worn in gases or vapors that poison by skin absorption.
• Refer to approval label and instruction and maintenance manuals for additional information on use and maintenance of these respirators.
• In making renewals and repairs, parts identical with those furnished by the manufacturer under the pertinent approval shall be maintained.
• This respirator shall be selected, fitted, used and maintained in accordance with Mine Safety and Health Administration and other applicable regulations.

Recommendation - SCBA with Breathing Gas Cylinders

NIOSH recommends that SCBA be inspected weekly if stored and immediately before use if used regularly, for breathing gas pressure.

Additional Limitations - Closed Circuit

• If compressed air supply is used: Approved only when air reservoir is fully charged with air meeting the requirements of the Compressed Gas Association (CGA) Specification G-7.1 for Type 1, Grade D air, or equivalent specifications.
• If compressed oxygen or liquid oxygen is used: Approved for use only when the cylinder or container is charged with compressed oxygen or liquid oxygen meeting U.S.P. specifications.
• If enriched air is used: Approved for use only when the cylinder or container is charged with compressed gas meeting the requirements listed in Federal Register Vol. 20, No. 222, November 18, 1985. Oxygen in the facepiece shall not exceed 30 percent by volume under normal temperature and pressure conditions.
• If liquefied breathing air is used: Must meet both Type I gaseous air and Type II liquefied air specifications (1966 edition of CGA G-7.1).
• The oxygen container shall meet applicable DOT specifications.
• Provide proper care, training, and maintenance of the apparatus as specifically described in the manufacturer's instruction and maintenance manuals.
• After each use of each apparatus, a fully charged breathing gas container and a recharge of carbon dioxide scrubber shall be installed.
• Thorough cleaning and disinfecting of facepiece, breathing tube, and breathing bag must be done in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

Special Limitations