64
Cleaning and Disinfecting the SCBA
G1 SCBA 2018 Edition
US
11.2 Cleaning the Remainder of the SCBA
If the SCBA is soiled with heavy smoke residue or dirt accumulation, in a well ventilated area, use a
sponge dampened with a mild soap solution or a soft/medium bristle brush to remove deposits from
the following components:
• Harness (straps and buckles)
• Carrier (band and latch assembly)
• Cylinder (handwheel, gauge, outlet connection)
• Pressure reducer (bell and coupling nut connection)
• Control module
• Power module
• Battery module
• Speaker module
• Regulator surface
NOTE: Put a cover on the regulator outlet to prevent water, dirt, or debris from going into the regulator.
Make sure there is no water, moisture, or dampness on or in any of the components before returning
the SCBA to service.
Use the inspection procedures in Section 4 "Visual Inspections" to examine the entire SCBA as it is
reassembled.
11.3 Using a Water Hose to Clean the SCBA
WARNING!
Using a water hose to clean and decontaminate the SCBA increases the risk of water going into the
regulator. If cleaning with a water hose is a requirement of local fire department procedures, obey the
following instructions to clean and decontaminate the SCBA (not including the facepiece) and
decrease the risk of water going into the pneumatic components (such as the regulator). Failure to
obey these instructions can result in serious personal injury or death.
NOTICE
Do NOT use a pressure washer or fire hose to clean the SCBA.
If it is a requirement of local fire department procedures to use a fire hose to do decontamination
at the fire scene before a firefighter removes the SCBA, make sure to decrease the pressure of the
fire hose to prevent damage to the equipment.
Use a ½ in. water hose connected to a water supply source.
Failure to obey these notices can cause damage to the SCBA components.
Water/moisture can cause problems in the SCBA if it freezes. Water/moisture can cause freezing
problems even if the surrounding air temperature is above 32°F (0°C). Air flowing from the cylinder
through the pressure reducer and regulator decreases from cylinder pressure to close-to-atmospheric
pressure very quickly. This causes the air to expand and creates a cooling effect. Although the
surrounding temperature may be warmer than 32°F (0°C), the temperature inside the regulator may
be lower. Any water, moisture, or dampness inside can freeze and restrict airflow.
Do the following when using a water hose to clean and disinfect the SCBA:
To Next Page
Loading...
