Concept Standard for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN), Full Facepiece, Closed-Circuit, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)

DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION

November 04, 2005

1. Purpose

The purpose of this standard is to specify minimum requirements to determine the effectiveness of a full facepiece, closed-circuit, self-contained breathing apparatus (CC-SCBA) used for entry into chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) atmospheres that are Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH). Currently, there is a NIOSH prohibition for entry into high radiant heat and open flame environments while wearing a pure oxygen, positive pressure CC-SCBA. Paragraph 4 of this standard specifies minimum requirements to ensure that the CC-SCBA possesses some features of high radiant heat and open flame resistance characteristics. These requirements are not meant to sanction its use in a firefighting situation.

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