A self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), sometimes referred to as a compressed air breathing apparatus (CABA) or simply breathing apparatus (BA), is a device worn to provide breathable air in an atmosphere that is immediately dangerous to life or health. They are typically used in firefighting industry.

The term self-contained means that the SCBA is not dependent on a remote supply of breathing gas (e.g., through a long hose). If designed for use under water, it is also known as a Scuba set (self-contained underwater breathing apparatus). When not used underwater, they are sometimes called industrial breathing sets. Unofficial names include air pack, air tank, oxygen cylinder or simply pack, which are mostly used in firefighting.

For an area to be defined as a confined space under Confined Space Regs 1997, there must be a ‘reasonable foreseeable specified risk.’

It can be very difficult to know when you should change a filter but this guide from the HSE is definitely very useful for giving you a steer in the right direction. If you need assistance in determining the most appropriate Respiratory Protective Equipment for your task, you need help setting up a suitable maintenance programme for your equipment, or you want any help and guidance we are always more than happy to advise.

The following is an extract from HSG53 – Respiratory protective equipment at work.

Respiratory Protective Equipment is a technical and one of the most confusing areas of PPE. Although not heavily publicised, the EN529:2005  Standard of the European Committee, which supersedes BS4275:1997, addresses recommendations for selection, use, care and maintenance of Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE).

As one of the UK’s leading Confined Space training providers we receive a lot enquiries about delegates requiring a medical before attending a course. We though we will make it simple and put it in one short blog post.