Field evaluation of a new prototype self-contained breathing apparatus

Abstract

Firefighters are required to use a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) for respiratory protection when engaged in a variety of firefighting duties. While the SCBA provides crucial respiratory support and protection, it is also cumbersome and heavy, thus adding to the physical work performed by the firefighter. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate and compare the low profile SCBA prototype to a standard SCBA, as assessed by the objective and subjective measures of mobility and comfort, time of donning/doffing, as well as by acquiring user feedback on SCBA design features during field activities. The results of the present study indicated that the prototype SCBA was rated as a significant improvement over the standard SCBA in the areas of range of motion (ROM), mobility, comfort, induction of fatigue, interaction with protective clothing, and operability when worn over a standard firefighter ensemble, while performing a series of International Association of Fire Fighters Fire Ground Survival Program training exercises.

Statement of Relevance: A prototype SCBA was evaluated and compared with a standard SCBA, focusing on the objective and subjective measures of mobility and comfort during field activities. Feedback from end users was collected during the evaluation. The findings of the present study can be used for improving the system design and overall performance of new prototype SCBAs.

Keywords:

• self-contained breathing apparatus
• range of motion
• subjective perceptions
• firefighters

Acknowledgements

Support was provided by the IAFF and the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Academy. The authors would like to thank the firefighters and law enforcement personnel who participated in this study for their time and valuable feedback, and this included members from the Prince Gerorge's County Fire/EMS Department, Prince George's County Police Department, Washington, DC, Fire and EMS Department, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Department, and Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department. The authors would like to thank Mr. Tom Pouchot and Mr. Vance Kochenderfer for their technical assistance during data collection and their excellent suggestions and also would like to thank Ben Mauti and Dr. Raymond Roberge for their careful review of this manuscript. This research was performed while one author (Kim, J.-H.) held a National Research Council Resident Research Associateship at the National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory (NPPTL/NIOSH/CDC). All photographs are the property of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and are reproduced here with permission.