Honeywell Titan SCBA Training Manual

County of Los Angeles Fire Department Honeywell Titan SCBA

Training Manual

2 Los Angeles County Fire Department Training Manual

Table of Contents Introduction and Responsibilities…………………………………………… Page 4 Policy ……………………………………………………………………………... Page 5 General Information and Procedures………………………………………...Page 7 Backpack Harness and Frame………………………………………………… Page 8 Honeywell Titan Components Diagram……………………………………… Page 9 Air Cylinder……………………………………………………………………….. Page 10 First Stage Regulator…………………………………………………………… Page 11 Low Air Alarm……………………………………………………………………. Page 11 Air Pressure Gauge/PASS Alarm……………………………………………... Page 11 ThermAlert………………………………………………………………………... Page 11 PASS Status Indicators………………………………………………………… Page 12 Second Stage Regulator……………………………………………………….. Page 13 Heads Up Display………………………………………………………………... Page 14 Facepiece…………………………………………………………………………. Page 15 Voice Amplification System…………………………………………………… Page 16 Information Lighting…………………………………………………………….. Page 17 Spectacle Kit……………………………………………………………………… Page 18 Universal Air Connect (UAC)………………………………………………….. Page 19 Emergency Breathing Safety System (EBSS)……………………………… Page 20 Donning the SCBA: Overhead Method………………………………………. Page 21 Donning the SCBA: Sling Method……………………………………………. Page 23 Donning the Facepiece…………………………………………………………. Page 25 Daily Inspection………………………………………………………………….. Page 28 Weekly Inspection……………………………………………………………….. Page 29 Cleaning and Sanitizing………………………………………………………… Page 31

3 I. INTRODUCTION

A. Purpose: To provide Department personnel with instructions, regulations, and guidelines to the Honeywell Titan self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). B. Scope: This instruction applies to all personnel on any incident where personal injury may result without the use of self-contained breathing apparatus or where SCBAs will be employed as part of a work related task. C. Author: The Deputy Chiefs of the Operations Bureaus, through the Training Division, shall be re- sponsible for the content, revision and review of the instruction. D. Authority: Employees shall be provided with and shall use protective respiratory equipment, in accordance with section 5144 and article 10.1, of the general Industrial Safety Orders, when exposed to harmful respiratory conditions in the course of firefighting, emergency activity or routine work assignments. These regulations require that all SCBA's used by firefighters must be NIOSH approved and meet the regulations reference standards established by the American Nation Standards Institute. Specifically, they refer to ANSIZ.88.2 - 1992 "Practices for Respiratory Protection" and ANSI Z88.5 "Respiratory Protection for the Fire Service" relative to SCBA's and the quality of air that shall be used. All SCBA's used by Depart- ment personnel shall be NFPA 1981 – 2013 Edition compliant or newer.

II. RESPONSIBILITY

A. All Personnel shall be capable of performing proper donning and use of a self- contained breathing apparatus as outlined in Volume 10, Chapter 3, Subject 1 and the SCBA section of the Context Manual. Additionally all personnel shall be proficient with routine cleaning, daily/weekly testing, and required record keeping "Form 20" of self-contained breathing apparatus .

B. Incident Commanders shall insure that all personnel are properly using self- contained breathing apparatus during tire fighting, overhaul and salvage operations and when required for safety and protection as outlined in Volume 10, Chapter 3, Subject 1.

C. Station Captains shall insure that all self-contained breathing apparatus are maintained in a serviceable condition at all times and subordinates adhere to all requirements outlined in Volume 10, Chapter 3, Subject 1.

D. Fire Fighter Specialist shall inspect all of the unassigned self-contained breathing apparatus on all apparatus assigned to their station in addition to their assigned SCBA daily.

4 E. All personnel shall inspect their assigned self-contained breathing apparatus daily. This responsibility shall not be delegated.

Ill. POLICY

A. As there is no way to predetermine all hazardous conditions, concentrations of toxic materials or percentages of oxygen in the air during emergency operations. Therefore self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) are required to be worn and used at all times by all personnel when: (NFPA1404)

1. At the scene of emergency incidents where the atmosphere could be immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) or may become oxygen deficient.

2. At the scene of emergency incidents where the atmosphere could be contaminated by toxic vapors, gases, fumes, mist or dust caused by fire, explosions, leaks, spills, or other means.

3. Involved in firefighting, ventilation, salvage and overhaul operations, or under conditions involving spills or releases of chemicals or other toxic materials.

4. Entering confined spaces that are oxygen deficient or, where smoke, chemicals, toxic agents, toxic fumes of unknown type gases or vapors are present.

5. Required by the Incident Commander.

B. The wearing of corrective lenses are:

1. Use of contact lenses shall be permitted provided the user has previously demonstrated suc- cessful long-term contact lens use.

2. Spectacles with any strap or temple bars that pass through the face piece- to-face seal area shall be prohibited.

C. All self-contained breathing apparatus shall have a NIOSH approval and be NFPA 1981 - 2013 edition compliant.

D. Daily: all personnel shall inspect their assigned SCBA and initial the appropriate Form 20. This responsibility shall not be delegated. Fire Fighter Specialist shall inspect all unassigned SCBA's on all apparatus assigned to their station and initial the appropriate Form 20.

5 E. Weekly: all personnel shall don their SCBA and insure they can maintain a negative pressure face piece seal, test proper operation of the first breath on function, manual on button, bypass valve operation, exhalation valve operation, and shut-off button. When completed they shall date and print their last name on the appropriate Form 20. This responsibility shall not be dele gated. The Fire Fighter Specialist shall inspect all unassigned SCBA's on all apparatus at their assigned station and complete all entries on the appropriate Form 20.

F. After Each Use: All SCBA’s shall be cleaned, tested and returned to a ready for use status. Each face piece shall be cleaned and disinfected.

G. Air Cylinders: Shall be stored, filled and maintained in a safe manner.

H. All personnel: Shall demonstrate proficiency in donning the SCBA within a 60 second time limit annually.

I. All personnel: Shall don the SCBA and conduct a search while in a simulated smoke-filled atmosphere annually.

J. All personnel: Shall properly connect the Emergency Breathing Safety System and review the uses and limitations.

K. All personnel: Shall have a quantitative face piece fit test annually.

L. Safety Issue: Air Cylinders shall not be filled without the proper hydrostatic test identification markings. The hydrostatic test date shall be checked prior to filling each air cylinder. Any air cylinder found to be out of hydrostatic date (every 5 years) shall be immediately removed form service, tagged and sent to the Pacoima SCBA Shop to be hydrostatic tested.

M. Safety Issue: The use of self-contained breathing apparatus for water rescue incidents is PROHIBITED.

1. The SCBA is not designed or intended to be used in water rescue operations. 2. As soon as the second stage regulator is submerged, the SCBA will free flow. This is similar to the having the bypass valve open. A full cylinder of air will be expended in less than 5 minutes. 3. The exhalation valve will not operate properly. Exhaled and bypassed air will exit at both sides of the face piece. 4. The curved face piece lens creates significant visual distortion underwater.

6 5. Submerging the SCBA can cause significant damage to the components. Any SCBA that has been submerged shall be sent to the Pacoima SCBA Shop for evaluation immediately. N. Safety Issue: Should a fire fighter find themselves trapped underwater, maneuver to a horizontal face- up position. This orientation can trigger the SCBA to operate in a pressure demand mode. This mode will extend the users available air supply. O. Safety Issue: The use of self contained breathing apparatus does not offer complete protection in atmospheres containing gases or vapors that are absorbed through the skin, i.e. Hydocyanic Acid (Hydrogen Cyanide) Methyl Bromide. Do not enter these atmospheres until thoroughly ventilated and approved by hazardous materials personnel. IV. PROCEDURES A. HONEYWELL TITAN SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS; GENERAL INFORMATION AND SPECIFICATIONS The Honeywell Titan Self- Contained Breathing Apparatus is the latest addition to the County of Los Angeles Fire Depart- ment’s SCBA inventory. The Titan SCBA meets all requirements of the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in accordance with the requirements of 42 CFR 84, and the National Fire Protection Ad- ministration (NFPA) 1981 Stand- ard on Open Circuit Self Con- tained Breathing Apparatus for Emergency Services, 2013 Edi- tion.

7 1. BACKPACK HARNESS AND FRAME The backpack consists of a lightweight aluminum backplate with an aluminum hip plate that both hing- es and swivels on the backplate. The backplate has four integrated carrying handles with carabineer attachment points. Each attachment point is rated to 1,000 pounds. The air cylinder is retained by a stainless steel band that provides positive retention and requires two independent actions to open. The stainless steel band has adjustment points that allow for the use of 30-minute, 45-minute or 60-minute air cylinders. A reflective strip will be adhered the center section of the stainless steel band. A color coded system will allow for general identification of each SCBA assigned.

Black Front line Apparatus

Red Reserve Apparatus

Orange Battalion Spare

Blue Training

Green SCBA Repair Shop

Designed for a secure, stable fit, with weight concentrated at the hips, the straps are made Kevlar and incorporate a metal automotive-style waist buckle. The waist straps adjust from both sides by pulling on the gray tabs keeping the SCBA centered during donning. There are two regulator receiver clips. One clip is located on the lower left shoulder strap and the other is located on the left side waist strap for storage of the second stage regulator. The regulator belt clip is designed to keep the second stage regulator clean and secure until it is attached to the facepiece. The shoulder straps adjust by pulling on the yellow tabs and maintain their adjusted position using an alligator type clip.

The intermediate pressure hose is routed over the left shoulder and incorporates the electrical/ pneumatic connector. This connection can only be completed one way. The completed connection sends air and power to the second stage regulator and the electronics required for the Heads-Up Display. The quick connect fittings employ a push/pull release to prevent accidental disconnection. The male connection has to be pushed into the female fitting and the sleeve on the female fitting pulled back to allow separation.

Located at the base of the backpack is the battery compartment that houses four C size batteries. All electronics are supplied by these batteries except the Voice Amplifier. The back PASS has an amber LED battery status indicator. In storage or when the SCBA is activated manually or by pressure from the cylinder, the amber LED flashes every ten seconds to indicate a low battery condition, and will cease flashing altogether to indicate a dead battery. An audible beep will also sound every ten seconds to indicate a low battery condition.

8 Honeywell Titan Components

Carrying Handle and Strap Integrated Carrying Handles with Shoulder Carabiner Attachment Points Straps

Low Air Air Cylinder Reten- Alarm tion Band and Latch

First Stage Regulator

Dual Motion Regulator Sensors Receivers

Pass Alarm & Air Pressure Gauge Second Stage Regulator Emergency Air System Universal Air Battery With Heads up Display (EAS)/ Buddy Breather Connection Compartment (UAC)

9 2. AIR CYLINDER A 45-minute (66 cubic foot - 1800 liter) air cylinder will be the standard issue for the Titan SCBA. The air cylinder is of composite construction with an aluminum liner overwrapped by a carbon fiber. The composite construction offers a significant weight savings compared to older hoop- wrapped de- signs. Attention to the appropriate handling of composite air cylinders shall be maintained. Composite air cylinders will not withstand the abusive treatment that the aluminum hoop-wrapped air cylinders could. When placing an SCBA in service, FULLY OPEN the air cylinder valve. Partial opening can cause the loss of breathing air as cylinder pressure decreases. The air cylinder valve does not incorporate a locking sleeve. The valve knob is designed not to close under normal operations. All air cylinders intended for use with the Titan SCBA's have a maximum fill capacity 4500 psi. Air cylinders less than 4000 psi shall be exchanged for a full air cylinder. All 45-minute air cylinders for use in the field have a two inch luminescent band at the upper end of the cylinder. Printed three times within the band is the Los Angeles County's three letter designator, LAC. The color of the letters indicates the date of manufacture and original hydrostatic test. The color rotation will repeat every five years as hydrostatic testing on carbon-fiber air cylinders is required every five years.

Year of Purchase Color First Hydro Second Hydro Third Hydro 2008 Black 2008 2013 2018 2009 Red 2009 2014 2019 2010 Blue 2010 2015 2020 2011 Yellow 2011 2016 2021 2012 Green 2012 2017 2022

10 3. FIRST-STAGE REGULATOR The first-stage regulator is housed and protected within the backpack assembly. It connects to the air cylinder valve using a high pressure hose and a large, easy- to-grip stainless steel hand wheel. The stainless steel hand wheel provides a positive connection reducing the risk of cross threading or thread damage. The first stage regulator lowers air cylinder pressure to approximately 115 psi, which is supplied to the second stage regulator via the intermediate pressure hose. A relief valve activates to protect the system should the regulator pressure exceed 200 to 225 psi. A high-pressure connection for the HUD transducer, UAC, and the remote Pressure Gauge/PASS Alarm on the right shoulder are all housed and protected within the backpack assembly. 4. LOW AIR ALARM The integrated low air warning alarm emits an audible warbling whistle when the air cylinder pressure reaches between 1485 psig and 1665 psig. (approximately 33 to 37 percent of the rated capacity of the air cylinder). The low air warning whistle will operate until the air cylinder pressure drops below 200 psi. The whistle is located in the upper left corner of the backpack and protected by the thermal and im- pact resistant enclosure. 5. AIR PRESSURE GAUGE / PASS ALARM A high pressure air hose is routed over the right shoulder strap and attach to the Air Pressure Gauge/PASS Alarm assembly. The gauge is luminescent for low light viewing and indicates the quantity of air remaining in the air cylinder once the air cylinder valve is opened. Air pressure is illustrated from full "FULL" to empty "EMPTY" using quarter increments “1/3, 1/2, 3/4 " similar to a fuel gauge on a vehicle. Opening the air cylinder valve arms the PASS device as air pressurizes the system. An ascending tone and alternating green flashing LED lights indicate activation. The PASS device can be manually trig- gered to full alert by depressing and holding the red alarm button for 1to 2 seconds. Once the PASS reaches full alert, it can only be reset to normal operation by two slow and deliberate clicks of the yellow reset button the side of the housing. Reset is indicated by a descending tone. Two additional slow and deliberate clicks of the yellow reset button will shut-off the PASS device if the air has been bleed from the system. Lack of movement will start the staged alarm in approximately 20 seconds. The LED lights will alternate flashing green and red. The alarm will increase in volume approximately every 5 seconds until full alert at 30 to 35 seconds. In full alert, the LED lights flash red and the alarm tones alternate between the front mounted speaker. The PASS device is powered by the 4 C-cell batteries in the backpack. An amber LED in the PASS device acts as the battery status indicator for the front of the SCBA. 6. THERMALERT ThermaAlert is a real-time heat alarm, giving an indication of the present state of the temperature, meaning that it is a sliding curve of heat and time. The ThermaAlart provides an alarm based on the heat and the time an individual has spent in a fire environment. A firefighter could be in a room at a certain temperature for 25 miniutes with the Thermalert never going off, or prior to the Thermalert alarm sounding off; or a per- son could be in a room at a much higher temperature for 5 minutes prior to the alarm going off. It is all de- pendent on the heat the firefighter is exposed to and the length of time they are exposed. The sound of the ThermAlert is different from the sound of a standard PASS alarm. It is not a locking alarm; that is, it activates when the user reaches any point on the curve, but it automatically stops sounding once the user leaves the range of the curve.

11 PASS STATUS INDICATORS

When everything is OK. The LED’s in the PASS blink Bright Green

When in one of the three pre-alarm phases. The LED’s in the Pass blink, alternatng be-

When the PASS is in full alarm. The LED’s in the PASS blink red.

When your cylinder gets low on air. The LED’s blink a super bright, pinpointed light

When your bateries are low. A blinking amber light indicates that your PASS

Air Pressure Gauge On / Alert Buton

LED Super Bright Pinpoint Light Reset / Of Buton

LED Lights PASS Alarm Speaker

12 7. SECOND STAGE REGULATOR The second stage regulator attaches to the facepiece using the Air Klic system. This mechanism automatically locks when the regulator is pushed into the AirKlic on the facepiece. The second stage regulator is activated by the “First Breath On” mechanism or by the manual override button on the front of the regulator. To disengage the regulator from the facepiece two steps need to be followed. First, press the black rectangular shut-off button at the twelve o'clock position on the regulator to stop the air supply. Second, depress both opposing gray release buttons at the twelve and six o'clock positions and pull the regulator from the facepiece. The second stage regulator is capable of supplying the user in excess 350 liters per minute of breathing air. The large red knob on the regulator controls the adjustable bypass valve. Turning the bypass valve knob counterclockwise provides a constant flow of breathing air. The bypass valve is intended for emergency use only to supply breathing air should regulator failure occur. The bypass valve is capable for supplying a maximum of 130 liters per minute of breathing air. When not in use the regulator should be stored in the regulator belt clip located on the left waist strap. The second stage regulator supplies breathing air via an intermediate pressure hose with a quick connect fitting.

Shut-Off Button Bypass Valve

Low Air Supply Red LED Light

Manual Override Button

Regulator Release Button

13 8. HEADS-UP DISPLAY (HUD)

The HUD is mounted as part of the second stage regulator. When the second stage regulator is attached to the facepiece, the HUD display is visible through opening in the facepiece nozzle cover. When the air cylinder valve is opened, the HUD will activate automatically, and indicate the pressure available in the air cylinder. The display consists of four green LED's indicating from right to left, Full, ¾, ½, and ¼. A cylinder at 4500 psi will illuminate all 4 green LED's. As the pressure in the air cylinder decreases, the LED's turn off one at a time for each 1/3 (33%) drop in air cylinder pressure.

Regulator Release Bypass Valve Button

Bottle pressure less than 1/3 will Low Battery Warning cause LED to switch from green Amber LED will flash every second. to blinking red.

When the pressure drops below 50% of air cylinder capacity, the LED representing % cylinder capacity starts to blink. The blinking will continue for approximately 20 seconds before returning to constant illumination. When the pressure drops below 33% of air cylinder capacity, the LED representing 1/3 cylinder capacity changes color to red and starts to blink. A corresponding red LED on the front of the HUD will blink warning others of the users low air supply. When the pressure drops to 10% of air cylinder capacity, the LED representing 1/3 cylinder capacity blinks noticeably faster. The LED on the front will also increase is blinking rate. The increased rate of blinking will continue until air cylinder pressure drops below 200 psi at which time the HUD will shut-off.

14 9. FACEPIECE The Titan SCBA Twenty/20+ facepeice is made of butyl rubber which enables it to pass the CBRN certifi- cation test. It has a wide lip sealing surface and four point adjustable head net harness. The polycarbonate lens is treated with an abrasion resistant coating on the outside and an anti-fog solution on the inside. Air from the second stage regulator enters the facepiece and is directed onto the polycarbonate lens. The cool air allows the lens to withstand the heat and flame impingement test required for NFPA compliance. The integrated nose cup allow fresh air to enter the nose and mouth while capturing exhaled air and touting it through the exhalation valve., minimizing CO2 retention in the facepiece and reducing lens fogging. The nose cup also houses the speaking diaphragm and microphone for the Voice Projection Unit (VPU). The “AIR KLIC” port is threaded into the housing by a ratchet mechanism to prevent leakage and provide a secure mount for the second stage regulator. Note: The Twenty/20+ facepiece should not be stored in direct sunlight. Sunlight will degrade the butyl rubber and nomex materials.

Nose Cup

4-Point Adjustable Head Strap

AIR KLIC Port

Voice Amplification System (VAS)

Exhalation Valve

Speaking Diaphragm

10. VOICE AMPLIFICATION SYSTEM (VAS)

The Voice Amplification System is designed to facilitate verbal communication while wearing a facepiece. The unit provides the wearer a choice of brief or constant voice amplification by pushing the power button on the top of the VAS. One depression of the power button activates the VAS for two seconds. Two consecutive pushes of the power button activates the VAS of continuous use. Two more consecutive pushes of the power button will turn the VAS off. A red LED light is visible to the user on the right side of the facepiece to indicate the unit is on. An amber LED light will blink to warn the user of a low battery. The VAS is powered by three AAA batteries and can be changed in the field by opening the battery compartment door at the front of the housing. The VAS attaches to the right side of the facepiece using an alignment tab and a threaded knurled knob. Electrical contacts connect the VAS to the microphone located within the facepiece. The amplifier’s low attachment location minimizes obstruction of the wearer’s vision, and the ergonomic controls allow operation with a gloved hand.

Red LED “Power On” Indicator Light Knurled Knob

Speaker

Amber LED “Low Power” Indicator Light

Power Button

Battery Compartment

16 11. INFORMATION LIGHTING

A LED informational lighting component has been added to the Titan SCBA to allow the user and surround- ing crew members to assess each unit’s status. All rear facing informational lights are found on the two PASS devices affixed to the lower right and left sides of the air cylinder. Informational lighting on the front of the SCBA is located on the second stage regulator and PASS device.

An amber LED located on the left rear PASS indicates battery status. Under normal conditions this light will remain off. In storage or when the SCBA is activated manually or by pressure from the cylinder, the amber LED flashes every ten seconds to indicate a low battery condition.. An audible beep will also sound every 10 seconds to indicate a low battery condition. The SCBA may continue to be used until the incident is conclud- ed. The batteries shall be replaced immediately following the incident.

The red LED located on the right PASS will begin to blink when the user’s remaining air supply reaches 33%. An audible low air alarm will activate at the approximately the same time. A corresponding red LED on the front of the HUD will begin to blink. The will notify others of the low air condition.

There is an LED light located on the lower half of each PASS device. The lights are designed to act as a visual reference. Alternating green LED’s will blink every second during normal operation. The LED lights will alternate blinking green and red as the PASS device begins its staged operation. At full alert, alternating red LED’s will blink once every second.

Amber LED indicates Red LED indicates low battery condition. low air condition

Rear Speaker Rear Speaker

Red / Green LED Red / Green LED PASS Alarm Lighting PASS Alarm Lighting

17 12. SPECTACLE KITS Spectacle kits are available for personnel who require corrective lenses when donning a SCBA facepiece. The spectacle kits are NIOSH approved for use with the Titan facepiece. The spectacle kits are NIOSH approved for use with the Honeywell Titan facepiece. Any employee requiring a spectacle kit may order one by submitting a memo to the breathing apparatus repair shop, Pacoima. The memo must include the employee’s current work location and be signed by the employee’s supervisor and/or battalion chief. A copy of a lens prescription shall be attached to the memo as verification of the necessity. Upon receipt of the spectacle kit, employees will seek their own vendor to provide and install their prescription lenses in the frames. Reimbursement for the lenses may be obtained by submitting a County of Los Angeles Expense Claim, Form 76E928, along with the original receipt for the prescription lenses to the Financial Management Division.

18 13. UNIVERSAL AIR CONNECTION (UAC)

The Titan SCBA comes equipped with the Rapid Intervention Crew/Universal Air Connection (RIC UAC). Located on the left side of the CGA hand wheel, the UAC has a dust cover that must be used at all times. Connection to the UAC via the mating fill coupling allows a one direction flow of air into the user’s air cylinder. A directional flow control piston is located in the quick disconnect coupling to prevent accidental air loss. A relief valve is designed to vent air to the atmosphere if the fill pressure exceeds the air cylinder service pressure. The UAC is intended for emergency refilling of an air cylinder. It must never be used as a “Buddy Breathing” device, SCBA to SCBA refilling, or for continuous air supply.

The Universal Air Connection dust cover must be used at all times.

The UAC is intended for emergency refilling of an air cylinder.

19 14. EMERGENCY BREATHING SAFETY SYSTEM (EBSS)

The Emergency Breathing Safety System is designed to allow connection to a supplied air line or an- other EBSS. It is intended to supply “EMERGENCY AIR” to a firefighter who has become lost, trapped or disoriented in an IDLH environment. The EBSS is located in a storage pouch on the wear- ers left hip and consists of a 39 inch intermediate pressure hose and a “Y” block with a male and female quick connect. When two SCBA’s are connected using the Emergency Breathing Safety System, there is no transfer of air. The SCBA with the higher intermediate pressure will automatically supply both SCBA’s. The users will have no way of knowing which air cylinder will be supplying the air unless they are monitoring their air cylinder pressure gauges. The acceptable range for setting intermediate pressure is between 80 and 150 psi. This pressure range is more than capable of maintaining positive pressure to the facepieces of both firefighters.

(EBSS) “Y” block with male and female quick connect

39 inch intermediate pressure hose

20 TITAN SELF-CONTAINED BREATHIN APPARATUS: DONNING THE BACKPACK HARNESS/FRAME

Many SCBA’s are mounted in the seats on fire apparatus to facilitate fire fighter readiness en- route to emergencies. For other situations, the Los Angeles County Fire Department recognizes two methods of donning self-contained breathing apparatus. They are the overhead and sling methods. It is necessary that all personnel review and maintain proficiency in all donning methods. All firefighters should be able to don their breathing apparatus in a rapid, safe manner.

1. Overhead Method

a. With the SCBA on the ground, open the air cylinder valve fully. Check the air cylinder pressure gauge. A full cylinder will read in the green zone. b. If the second stage regulator is flowing air, close the red by-pass valve and de press the manual shut-off button

c. Position the SCBA with the air cylinder on the ground and the top of the SCBA facing your body. Lay the should and waist straps along the right and left side of the backpack harness.

d. Grasp the cylinder and backpack near the center with both hands in a manner that will place the shoulder straps on the outside of your hands.

e. Lift the SCBA over your head and allow the shoulder straps to drop below your elbows.

f. Release the SCBA and extend your arms above your head. Allow the pack to slide onto your back.

g. Lean forward and pull the harness adjustment straps until the back support rests in the small of your back.

h. Fasten the waist belt buckle. Pull forward on the backpack waist straps and tighten until snug.

i. Readjust the shoulder harness straps so that the weight of the SCBA is distributed properly on the hips. If the harness adjustment straps are properly tightened, the weight of the SCBA will be carried on the hips instead of the shoulders.

22 2. Sling method

a. Remove the SCBA from the apparatus mount. Open the air cylinder valve fully. Check the air cylinder pressure gauge. A full air cylinder will read in the green zone.

b. If the second stage regulator is flowing air, close the red bypass valve and depress the manual shut- off button.

c. Position the SCBA with the harness facing the wearer. The air cylinder valve should be pointing toward the body and the harness straps spread to each side.

d. Grasp the left shoulder strap with the right hand and pick up the SCBA.

e. Lift the SCBA by the left shoulder strap and with a swinging motions, insert your left arm through the left shoulder strap. Continue to swing the SCBA onto your back.

f. Remove the right hand from the left should strap and insert it through the right shoulder strap.

g. Lean forward and pull the shoulder harness adjustment straps until the back support rests in the small of your back.

h. Fasten the waist belt buckle. Pull forward on both of the backpack waist straps and tight until snug.

24 TITAN SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS: DONNING THE FACEPIECE

The Titan facepiece is made of butal rubber and utilizes a five-point attachment headnet harness with four adjustable straps. The headnet system provides an increase in comfort while maintaining a positive pressure seal for various facial configurations. The facepiece mounted second stage regulator and heads up display enables the user to have constant monitoring of remaining air supply.

1. Donning the Titan Facepiece

a. Loosen helmet chinstrap, place helmet on shoulders, which is held in place by the chinstrap.

b. Fully loosen the headnet straps on the facepiece and grasp the headnet as shown.

c. Place your chin in the chin cup and pull the headnet over your head. Center the facepiece and flatten the headnet on the back of your head.

d. Tighten the two chinstraps first. Always pull in a backward direction when tightening any facepiece strap.

e. Tighten the two temple straps. All head straps and headnet should lay flat on your head.

f. Performance Leak Check: Inhale, pull your gauntlet to the side and place the palm of your hand over the Air Klic as shown. Exhale to insure the exhalation valve is operating properly. Inhale and hold your breath for 3 seconds. The facepiece should collapse on your face without leaking. If the facepiece leaks, reposition the mask, adjust the straps and repeat the leak test.

g. Pull hood over head and secure opening around the facepiece.

h. Don helmet and adjust chin strap.

i. Remove the second stage regulator from the waist strap receiver and insert the regulator into the Air Klic on the face piece. The second stage regulator will only attach in one position. A slight twist can assist in making the connection. Press firmly until you hear both release buttons snap into place.

j. Take a sharp deep breath to activate the regulator and quickly open and close the bypass valve to ensure that it is operating properly.

k. Don structure fire fighting gloves.

27 B. TITAN SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS: INSPECTION, TESTING, CLEANING AND SANITIZING

1. DAILY INSPECTION: Titan SCBA’s shall be visually inspected at the beginning of each duty day and after each use. After completing the inspection, initial and note the air cylinder pressure on the appropriate Form-20.

a. BACKPACK HARNESS AND FRAME: Assure that the air cylinder is properly seured and the stainless air cylinder strap and latching mechanism are working properly. In- spect the backpack frame for bends, breaks and cracks. Check the harness assembly for discoloration, excessive wear or fraying, cuts or damaged stitching. Check all buck- les for damage or corrosion. All straps should be stored fully extended to allow for rapid donning. Change batteries if low battery amber LED light indicates a low battery condition.

b. AIR CYLINDERS: Check air cylinder pressure; change the air cylinder if the pressure is below 4000 psi. Inspect the exterior of the cylinder for dents, gouges, or cuts which have penetrated and caused separation of the composite over-wrap. Check for evidence of exposure to high temperature, such as darkened or blistered paint, or charred compo site over-wrap. The cylinder valve should also be examined for obvious external dam age.

c. FIRST STAGE REGULATOR CONNECTION: Check hand wheel for a snug connection to the air cylinder valve. The high pressure hose should show no signs of separa tion.

d. PRESSURE HOSES: Inspect all rubber hoses for cracking, obvious physical damage, and separation at the connections. Check hoses for secure attachment to the frame at the top of the backpack. Inspect the braided stainless air line for separation at the cou plings, fraying and kinks. The quick connect fitting on the intermediate pressure hose should be properly connected.

e. SECOND STAGE REGULATOR: Fully depress the shutoff button on the second stage regulator and check that the red bypass knob is in the closed position. Inspect for cracks or damage to the regulator housing Check for dirt or debris in the air outlet port and cracks in the screen and grill. Dirt and debris can be cleared by opening the air cylinder valve and the bypass valve with the outlet port facing down. Check both gray release buttons for proper operation and good spring tension. Assure HUD display lights are fully visible.

28 f. GAUGE: Inspect the gauge lens for cracks, the gauge pressure indicator should point to the red empty area with the air cylinder valve off.

g. FACEPIECE: Inspect the lens for scratches and abrasions that significantly impair visi- bility. Any evidence of heat deformity to the lens is cause for immediate removal form service and inspection by the SCBA Repair Shops. Check the facepiece body, sealing skirt, and five point head net for nicks, tears, pliability, and damage from age, heat, or contamination. The five point head net should be stored fully extended to allow rapid donning. Inspect the air inlet port for damage and dirt.

h. VOICE AMPLIFICATION SYSTEM: Inspect the Voice Amplification System (VAS) for cracks or damage. Ensure that the unit is securely attached to the facepiece. Turn on the VAS and visually check the red LED light for operation, a flashing amber light indi cates low battery power, replace the three AAA batteries. Place the facepiece to your face and speak to check amplification function. The Voice Amplification System shall be turned off for storage.

i. PASS DEVICE: Inspect the PASS Device for cracks or damage. Ensure that the unit is securely attached to the dual quick connect fitting. Manually activate the PASS, note the ascending tone and green flashing LED lights. Allow the PASS to cycle to full alert; the LED lights should flash green and red as the alert tone increases in volume. At full alert the LED lights should flash red. Tum off PASS device.

2. WEEKLY TEST: The weekly tests shall comprise all of the requirements of the daily inspection and include the following: Facepiece Leak Test 1. Don and adjust the facepiece. 2. Block the Air KLIC opening with the palm of your hand. 3. Inhale gently and hold your breath for 3 seconds. The facepiece should collapse slightly without leaking 4. Keeping the Air KLIC opening covered, exhale gently. The exhalation valve should open freely without sticking or fluttering.

SCBA Leak, Visual and Audible Alarm Test 1. Insure the shut-off button and the bypass valve on the second state regulator is in the off position. 2. Open the air cylinder valve to fully pressurize the hoses and regulators. The PASS device should automatically activate, note the ascending tone and green

29 flashing LED lights on the Pass and the backpack. The low air whistle should sound briefly as the system pressurizes. 3. Close the air cylinder valve. 4. Observe the gauge/alarm for 10 seconds. Significant needle movement from the air pressure loss indicates a leak. The SCBA shall be sent to the BA Shops for repair. 5. Slightly open the bypass valve and allow the system pressure to bleed down stopping at 3/4, 1/2, 1/3. the indicator lights on the HUD take a few seconds to respond.

6. The audible low air whistle should begin to sound at approximately the 1/3 full mark on the pressure gauge. The red low air warning lights on the second stage regulator and backpack should blink. 7. The audible whistle alarm should continue until the air is almost depleted. Bleed all the residual air out of the system and close the bypass valve. 8. Allow the PASS to cycle to full alert. The LED lights should flash green and red as the alert tone increases in volume. The LED lights should flash red at full alert. The LED lights on the backpack should flash at the same rate and color as the PASS. 9. Manually click the on/off button twice to turn the PASS device off.

C. SCBA Function Test 1. Insure the shut-off button has been depressed and the bypass valve on the second stage regulator is turned to the off position. 2. Open the cylinder valve and check that the cylinder valve gauge and gauge on the PASS device both indicate a pressure of 4000 psi or more. 3. Don facepiece and check for a proper seal. 4. Attach the second stage regulator to the facepiece and inhale. The regulator should activate automatically delivering an acceptable airflow without excessive breathing effort, free flow or fluttering. 5. Slowly open the bypass valve. A steady flow of air should enter the facepiece. 6. Close the bypass valve and depress the shut-off button on the second stage regulator. Airflow should stop. 7. Push the manual override button. A small burst of air should enter the facepiece and the regulator should activate. 8. Depress the shutoff button and remove the facepiece. Close the cylinder valve and bleed all the residual air from the system using the bypass valve. Manually click the on/off button twice to turn the PASS device off.

CLEANING AND SANITIZING

All SCBA’s shall be cleaned and sanitized after each use. Always remove the Voice Amplification System and Second Stage Regulator prior to rinsing or immersing the facepiece in water, cleaning solution, or disinfecting solution. A. Facepiece Cleaning and Sanitizing 1. Make a cleaning solution of warm (110 degrees F maximum) water and mild soap or Simple Green. Industrial cleaners like Zep or cleaners containing ammonia will re move the anti-fog coating. The shall not be used.

2. Immerse the facepiece top first in the solution until the exhalation valve is covered. Agitate the facepiece and gently clean with a soft brush if necessary.

3. Thoroughly rinse the facepiece in fresh water, paying particular attention to the removal of all soap residue from the exhalation valve. If possible, direct running water onto the exhalation valve.

4. Make a hypochlorite disinfecting solution of 2 tablespoons of chlorine bleach per gallon of warm (110 degrees F maximum) water.

5. Immerse the facepiece top first into the solution until the exhalation valve is cover. Soak the facepiece for 2 to 3 minutes.

6. Thoroughly rinse the facepiece in fresh water, paying particular attention to removal of all soap residue from the exhalation valve. If possible, direct running water onto the exhalation valve.

7. Allow the facepeice to drip dry. A clean lint free cloth may be used to dry the exterior surfaces. Do not used compressed air at any time.

8. Once the facepiece is completely dry, hold the facepiece firmly against your face. Cover the Air KLIC opening with the palm of your hand and exhale several times to ensure that the exhalation valve functions smoothly.

31 B. Second Stage Regulator Cleaning Always hold the regulator with the outlet tube facing downward and the protective cleaning cap installed during washing and rinsing. Dirt or soap residue could degrade regulator performance. Do not allow water to enter the breathing air opening on the regulator. Do not submerge regulator in water or cleaning solution. Do not allow water to enter intermediate pressure hose at the male quick connect fitting.

1. Make a cleaning solution of warm (110 degrees F maximum) water and mild soap.

2. Install the red second stage regulator cleaning cap.

3. With the regulator facing downward, scrub the exterior surfaces with the cleaning solution and a soft brush.

4. Immediately rinse the exterior surfaces with fresh water, again holding the regulator facing downward. Thoroughly rinse all excess soap and dirt form the regulator.

5. Remove the second stage regulator cleaning cap. If water enter the second stage regulator while cleaning, flow the regulator and bypass to expel all moisture.

6. Using a damp, lint free cloth, clean the interior of the outlet tube. Dry the exterior with a clean cloth or let air dry.

C. Backpack Harness Assembly Cleaning

The backpack harness assembly is comprised of the aluminum frame and internal components, hoses, shoulder and waist strapping, pressure gauge/PASS assembly, air fitting/ HUD connection and the air cylinder.

1. When possible, all components should be cleaned using only a damp cloth.

2. When a more extensive cleaning is required, make a cleaning solution of warm (110 degrees F maximum) water and mild soap solution. Industrial cleaners Zep or any cleaners containing chlorine bleach will damage the Nomex/Kevlar harness and shall not be used.

32 3. Clean all components using a soft brush and cleaning solution. Always have the air cylinder attached to the high pressure connection during cleaning to keep water or cleaning solution from entering the system.

4. Rinse thoroughly and air dry or wipe with a clean cloth.