SOPs outlining the critical procedures for SCBA Training, Selection / Use
and Maintenance should be available. The SOPs are an element of the department's
Respiratory Protection Program and must be followed and enforced to ensure
program effectiveness. The SOPs provide written documentation that when followed
will increase the consistent respiratory protection of personnel and secure
department compliance with OSHA / State regulations and NFPA recommendations.
Procedures should be detailed but concise. The following outlines provide
basic content for the three primary SCBA SOPs.
SCBA TRAINING
Respiratory Hazards
SCBA Protection Limits
Construction Details and Safety Features
Air Supply Duration & "Point of No Return"
Procedures for Use
Practical Applications
Care & Storage, Inspections, Maintenance
Emergency Conditions
SCBA SELECTION and USE
Positive-pressure SCBA Selection
Medical Clearance
Facepiece Fit Testing, Qualitative or Quantitative Using AQL Testing Services
Donning and Doffing SCBA
Safety Procedures
Incidents Requiring Mandatory Use of SCBA / Safety Officer
Fireground Procedures
Command Responsibilities
Personnel Responsibilities
Atmosphere Monitoring to Determine Safe Conditions for Approval of SCBA Removal
Special Issues - Low Temperature, High Temperature, Confined Spaces
SCBA MAINTENANCE
Manufacturers Recommendations
Equipment Inventory Identification
Inspection Frequency and Procedures
Cleaning Procedures
Storage Procedures
Preventative Maintenance
Equipment Repairs
"Out of Service" Equipment
Testing Procedures
SCBA Performance
Cylinder Hydrostatic
Compressor /Cascade Breathing Air Quality Program Using AQL Testing Services