Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus

A Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus is a compressed-air set that supplies breathable air to a fire-fighting team member operating in smoke or toxic atmospheres. SOLAS Chapter II-2 and the FSS Code require ships above certain sizes to carry a minimum number of sets, ensuring that two fire-fighting parties can operate simultaneously. Each set must be tested and recharged at regular intervals, and spare cylinders must be available. On watch, the officer on duty must know where the SCBA sets are stowed — typically in the fire equipment lockers at each fire station — and be able to don a set rapidly. Buddy systems are required under safe working practice: no crew member should enter an IDLH (immediately dangerous to life or health) atmosphere alone. Communications between the team inside and the boundary cooler team outside are essential. SCBA use demands trained personnel. STCW A-VI/1 requires all seafarers to receive basic fire-fighting training, including familiarisation with breathing apparatus. The air cylinder pressure must be checked before every entry; entering with an unnoticed low charge is a common factor in shipboard fire casualties. Compressor maintenance and filter quality are equally critical, as contaminated air can be fatal.