Los Angeles City Fire Department Training Bulletin No. 195 PDF

LOS ANGELES CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT TRAINING BULLETIN KRISTIN CROWLEY, FIRE CHIEF Date of Issue: June 17, 2024 Training Bulletin No. 195 MSA G1 SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS INTRODUCTION The MSA G1 Self-Contained Bre...

LOS ANGELES CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT TRAINING BULLETIN KRISTIN CROWLEY, FIRE CHIEF Date of Issue: June 17, 2024 Training Bulletin No. 195 MSA G1 SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS INTRODUCTION The MSA G1 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) is a pressure-demand SCBA that is certified by National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1981, NFPA 1982, and by the National Institute of Safety and Health (NIOSH). This SCBA is to be utilized in atmospheres that are Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH). NIOSH defines IDLH as a situation “that poses a threat of exposure to airborne contaminants, likely to cause immediate, delayed or permanent adverse health effects up to death prohibiting an escape from such an environment.” The MSA G1 SCBA operates independently of ambient air for use in hazardous or oxygen-deficient atmospheres that are considered to be the IDLH. Use the SCBA with adequate skin protection when worn in gasses and vapors that poison the skin by absorption (e.g., hydrocyanic-acid gas). Breathable air is Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 2 supplied to the user from a compressed air cylinder via a pressure reducer, a regulator, and a facepiece. The exhalation air is released directly into the ambient atmosphere. The integrated Personal Alert Safety System (PASS) provides the user with the ability to monitor movement through a motion sensor. A lack of movement by the user for 20 seconds, will activate the PASS alarm consisting of the Light Emitting Diode (LED) lights flashing red and the alarm increasing in stages until full alert at 30 seconds. The pass device also will monitor the battery status, air cylinder pressure, and time remaining on air, which is calculated based on individual breathing rates. This SCBA has several additional features, including Bluetooth technology (currently not approved for use by the Los Angeles Fire Department), and an integrated Thermal Imaging Camera (iTIC). The iTIC is built into the PASS device, placing thermal imaging capabilities into the hands of individual firefighters as part of the SCBA ensemble. The MSA G1’s unique ergonomic design, combined with an adjustable waist belt and wide shoulder straps, allows the SCBA weight to be distributed evenly over the firefighter’s hips. The G1 includes a “Central Power” feature that powers the entire unit from a single rechargeable battery compartment which has eliminated the need for additional individual batteries. The MSA GI SCBA consists of 9 major components: Air Cylinder with Valve Assembly Carrier Frame and Harness First Stage Pressure Reducer with Low-Pressure Warning Device Second Stage Regulator / Heads-Up Display (HUD) Facepiece Speaker Module Power Module Battery Module and Charging Control Module with PASS and iTIC Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 3 MSA G1 Air Cylinder with Valve Assembly The MSA G1 air cylinder holds 66 cubic ft. of breathing air. The SCBA bottle is an aluminum bottle wrapped in a high-strength carbon fiber weave, impregnated with epoxy, and overlaid with an epoxy fiberglass resin for protection. The cylinder weighs 13.9 lbs., is 23.2 inches high and 6.3 inches in diameter. These cylinders feature changes that are unique to the MSA G1 SCBA harness, including dovetail interlocking which allows for secure mounting of the bottle into the harness in only one direction, preventing rotation of the bottle. The bottle's quick connection feature allows for easy hookup to the SCBA hose by pressing the receiver directly onto the bottle. Removal of the quick connection is accomplished by rotating the handwheel counterclockwise 1/4 turn and squeezing the quick connection while pulling away from the cylinder. This feature allows for a more secure bottle to harness mount and faster bottle changes on incidents. The glow-in-the-dark luminescent band around the bottle features a three-letter identifier “LFD”, indicating that the air cylinder is the property of the Los Angeles City Fire Department (LAFD). The color bands located nearest the cylinder valve (see image to right) come in 5 colors (Blue, Red, Green, Orange, and Yellow) to facilitate the Department's hydrostatic testing rotation. Carrier Frame and Harness The MSA G1 SCBA frames are equipped with 3 built-in carrying handles of various load ratings. The two side handles are rated at 500 lbs. static force and the top handles are rated at 1000 lbs. static force. The harness is made of kevlar webbing straps designed for a secure stable fit while also concentrating the weight on the user’s hips. The shoulder straps have built-in tunnels held together with snaps to protect the electronic and pneumatic components of the pass device and shoulder- mounted speaker or Voice Projection Unit (VPU). The waist straps adjust from both sides to keep the SCBA centered during donning. The regulator storage clip, which is designed to keep the second-stage regulator secure and clean, is located on the left side of the waist belt. Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 4 The adjustable swiveling lumbar pad has three settings so that the lumbar portion can be adjusted to the small of the user’s back to ensure the weight is carried on the hips. The air cylinder is secured to the carrier frame in two locations. The first is at the bottom of the SCBA bottle by a dovetail design, which positions the bottle for quick connection, and the second is by the stainless-steel band with an integrated adjustment mechanism and band release at the top of the SCBA bottle. Also located on the harness are two speakers from which the audible alarms will sound. The Universal Air Connection (UAC) is a male fitting rated for 4500 PSI systems located adjacent to the cylinder quick connection. The UAC is designed to be connected to the hose from the Rapid Intervention Company (RIC) bag cylinder for a quick fill in emergencies. When air cylinder pressure is at 1575 PSI or 35% of remaining air, a white LED light will illuminate the UAC fitting to assist with locating it for use. The Universal Emergency Breathing Safety System (UEBSS)/Y Block is a 39- inch intermediate pressure hose with male and female quick connection fittings. The UEBSS is to be used in firefighter rescue operations/emergencies to allow for a quick connection when another firefighter needs an air supply. The connection from the supplying SCBA can either be made male to female or female to male by pushing the coupling firmly over the receiving SCBA’s opposite fitting. To uncouple the UEBSS push the two couplings together, slide the sleeve back, and pull apart. Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 5 First Stage Pressure Reducer and Low Air Warning Device The first stage regulator attaches directly to the air cylinder valve via a large gray quick- connect fitting that connects the SCBA bottleneck to the harness. The first stage regulator lowers the air cylinders' high pressure to approximately 115 PSI, which is then supplied to the second stage regulator via an intermediate high-pressure hose. In the event of a regulator failure, the regulator will fail in the open position, and a relief valve will open to regulate pressure to the second stage regulator. The pneumatic bell integrated into the low air warning alarm is located on the first stage regulator and emits an audible ring when the pressure reaches 1575 PSI or 35% of the rated air cylinder pressure remaining. Once activated, the low air warning bell will operate until the air cylinder pressure reaches 200 PSI before shutting off completely. Second Stage Regulator The second stage demand valve regulator supplies breathing air via a 24-inch intermediate pressure hose at over 120 liters of breathing air per minute to the user. The regulator houses an electronic module which provides a HUD function and dual microphone placement. The microphones are activated when the regulator is connected to the facepiece and the user begins breathing. Inhalation noise is not amplified by the system. The large red knob on the second stage regulator controls the adjustable bypass valve. When the bypass is turned counterclockwise it provides a constant flow of breathing air at a maximum of 120 liters per minute. The bypass valve is intended for emergency use only should a regulator failure occur. The bypass valve shut-off is the translucent and gray button on the regulator, which also houses a forward-facing LED and air status indicator, which provides the following information: 50% - LED activates and flashes yellow 35% - LED changes from yellow to red and flashes at a faster rate Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 6 When the regulator is not in use it should be stored in the regulator belt clip on the left waist strap. The second stage regulator is attached to the facepiece in proper orientation by firmly pushing it into place with the red bypass knob on the right. When engaging the regulator onto the facepiece press firmly until you hear both release buttons snap into place, then pull firmly on it to ensure it is securely attached. The second stage regulator, including the speaker modules and Bluetooth connectivity (currently disabled for LAFD), is activated by a sharp inhale. To disengage the regulator from the facepiece, depress both the top and bottom gray release buttons and pull the regulator from the facepiece. Heads-Up Display (HUD) The HUD transfers lights through windows on the second stage regulator. The right side of the HUD provides air management information. The left side provides icons for battery status, and PASS status as listed below: Battery icon flashes yellow - battery is low The PASS triangle flashes red - PASS is in pre-alarm and thermal alarm The PASS triangle stays solid red - PASS is in full alarm and/or manual alarm The HUD PASS triangle flashes blue - indicating the LCD may be overheating Facepiece The MSA G1 SCBA facepiece offers a wide field of view and is NFPA-compliant with a polycarbonate lens that provides heat protection of 500 degrees for 5 minutes. The facepiece weighs 1.4 lbs. and is sized individually to the user in 3 sizes: small, medium, and large. The facepiece mask is constructed of a heat- resistant hydrocarbon seal and a silicon rubber nose cup that prevents lens fogging. To reduce weight and lessen the chance of snags or entanglement there are no electronics on the facepiece, which allows for the facepiece mask to be completely submersible for decontamination purposes. Additionally, the mask is equipped with a mechanical speech diaphragm that enhances speech clarity while off- air. When in a safe atmosphere without the regulator attached, ambient air can be inhaled through the opening to facilitate breathing and speaking with minimal resistance. The pressure demand exhalation valve is located underneath the chin cup and at the bottom of the nose cup and should be checked daily to ensure the diaphragm is clean and operates freely. The mask is secured to the user’s head by a four-part harness with an adjustable kevlar net. Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 7 Speaker Module The speaker module amplifies and clarifies the speech from the facepiece during use. When inhaling, the breathing sound will not be amplified. The speaker module is turned OFF when the complete SCBA is turned OFF and can also be activated/deactivated with its button. Pressing the button is acknowledged by a beep. The department has programmed the speaker module to default to the ON position when the complete SCBA is turned on and the facepiece is connected to the second stage regulator. Power Module The power module acts as the central unit that provides power and data to the entire SCBA. The power module is located at the bottom of the carrier frame and consists of a rechargeable lithium-ion battery which supplies all lights, communications, and controls. The SCBA is equipped with seven (7) buddy lights, which provide 360-degree visibility to surrounding firefighters. Four (4) of these lights are located on the bottom of the SCBA carrier frame to be visible to surrounding firefighters whether standing upright or crawling. These lights provide the user’s air status information to surrounding firefighters by illuminating in the three colors (green, yellow, and red) which also correspond to the user's HUD and the pass status lights. Additionally, white light illuminates the SCBA Universal Air Connection (UAC) when the SCBA reaches 35% to assist in providing firefighters with better visibility locating and utilizing the UAC. Battery Module and Charging The MSA G1’s lithium-ion battery charge is designed to last for 6-8 hours of continuous use and has an average battery life of 3-8 weeks depending on the frequency of use. The battery status can be checked by pressing the green button on either side of the control module. The lithium-ion battery takes 4-6 hours to fully charge a completely depleted battery. The battery shall be replaced at 50% capacity. The SCBA’s lithium- ion battery on specialty apparatus (i.e., Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) and Hazardous Material (HAZMAT)) and fire station spares shall be checked weekly at a minimum and replaced if battery is less than 50%. Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 8 To remove and change the rechargeable battery module, unlock the battery module with the battery removal tool. Push the notched removal tool (located under the user's right shoulder strap slide buckle) into the slot above the battery, click into place, and pull the removal tool and the rechargeable battery module out of the power module from the user side of the SCBA. When the rechargeable battery module is charging, the LED will be red and when it is fully charged the LED will be green. The rechargeable battery module can stay connected to the charger until the battery is needed. When there is no battery in the terminal or when there is a battery charging error there will be no indicator light visible on the charger. If a battery is in the terminal and no light is visible, remove and re-insert the battery module into the charger. If charging does not resume, the rechargeable battery module may be exhausted or defective. Ensure the rechargeable battery module and charger connectors are free of water or debris. Consideration should be given to changing the lithium-ion battery prior to deployment on any anticipated extended incident (i.e., brush fire strike team deployments). Control Module / Personal Alert Safety System (PASS) The Control Module / PASS is attached to the high-pressure hose on the right shoulder strap and contains an analog gauge and a digital screen, both indicating cylinder pressure. The PASS is powered by a lithium battery at the base of the carrier frame. Opening the air cylinder valve counterclockwise activates the PASS device as air pressurizes the SCBA. The opening image on the digital screen will display the SCBA’s status: Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 9 A green check - SCBA has completed its self-check and is operational A red X - indicates the SCBA has failed its self-check and should be taken out of service and tagged with an F-175 tag The digital screen will display the remaining pressure in the cylinder, and automatically turn on when lifted into the viewing position and timing out when placed in the position for 5 seconds. The control module background on the PASS will display a different color based on the cylinder pressure as follows: GREEN - cylinder pressure is between 4500-2300 PSI YELLOW - cylinder pressure is 2200-1600 PSI RED - cylinder pressure is lower than 1500 PSI After 3 minutes of use, the SCBA will calculate breathing rate and air consumption to determine the user’s remaining time on air in minutes, which will be automatically updated every 30 seconds. Pushing either green button on the sides of the PASS will display the individualized remaining time, the battery status icon, the long-range radio icon, the Bluetooth connectivity icon, and a secondary temperature gauge. The thermal alarm will activate an ascending tone every 5 seconds, and an alarm icon, a temperature symbol with a yellow triangle and exclamation point, will show on the PASS digital screen. The alert will automatically reset once a change in ambient temperature has been detected. A lack of movement by the user for 20 seconds, will activate the PASS alarm consisting of the LED lights flashing red and the alarm increasing in stages until full alert at 30 seconds. In emergencies or when deemed necessary the emergency alert can be manually activated by depressing the red button on the PASS for 2-3 seconds, resulting in a yellow symbol of a speaker outlined in red will be displayed on the control module. Once activated, the PASS can be turned off by pressing either left or right reset button (green) on the side of the control module two times within approximately one second, which will result in the PASS being shut off and a descending tone. MSA G1 Integrated Thermal Imaging Camera (iTIC) The MSA G1 SCBA has an iTIC located within the control module and can be used with the SCBA on or off. Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 10 To utilize the iTIC while your SCBA is turned ON, locate and press either of the green recessed buttons on the side of the pass device by pressing and holding one of the green buttons until the pass beeps twice, the screen will then switch from the digital pressure readout display to the iTIC display. To utilize the iTIC device, point the lens, located at the top of the pass when the screen is oriented towards you, at the object you wish to assess. To operate the iTIC with the SCBA OFF: 1. Hold down the red alarm button until the PASS activates 2. Silence the PASS alarm by pressing either the left or right reset button (green) on the side of the control module two times within approximately one second. 3. Enter TIC mode by pressing and holding either of the two green buttons (long press for approximately 2 seconds) 4. The control module will beep twice 5. The display on the control module face will switch to the TIC There are 5 color iTIC palettes, to switch, and depress the green button until you get the desired color imagery you would like displayed. To disengage the iTIC hold down one of the green recessed buttons on the pass until you hear two beeps from the control module; the display will then switch back to the digital pressure readout. The MSA iTIC may be used in the event of a firefighter emergency or as a secondary source to look for extension. SCBA Checks The SCBA morning check and daily inspection shall be performed before each use and at the change of platoon or positions. This check should include a visual inspection of the SCBA bottle harness, and mask as well as a manipulative test of all electrical components in the entire SCBA ensemble including the PASS, iTIC, and all low air alarms and indicators. Inspect the entire ensemble including straps, shoulder pads, pull straps, lumber pads, waist belt, and facepiece head harness for tears, cuts, wear, abrasions, damaged buckles, and/or straps. Inspect the facepiece by assessing the lens for scratches, cracks, deformation, or discoloration. Check the facepiece rubber for a tight seal and ring fit around the facepiece housing. The facepiece exhalation valve should be clean and operate freely. The exhalation valve must move off the seat and return once released to function properly. Inspect the facepiece inlet for damage and ensure the inhalation valve is in place. Assess the nose cup ensuring it is in place and secured to the housing. Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 11 Inspection of the G1 second stage regulator should consist of inspecting the regulator to ensure it is free of moisture and debris, paying particular attention to inside the regulator and the microphone ports, while ensuring the O-ring and seal ring are in place and free of debris. Ensure the quick connect (buddy breathing connections) operate properly and fit securely. Inspect the high-pressure relief valve for damage, ensuring the warning label is in place and the relief valve ports are not visible making it susceptible to debris. Inspection of the first stage pressure reducer quick connection is done by turning the gray quick connect knob 1/4 turn and pulling it away from the cylinder valve to allow for inspection of the quick connect for damage or excessive wear. If any damage is noticed immediately take the SCBA out of service and have the SCBA serviced by a qualified repair technician at the Supply and Maintenance Division. When reattaching the first stage pressure reducer to the cylinder valve push the quick connect coupling onto the adapter, and then pull on the adapter and the coupling to ensure a secure connection. Inspect the bell alarm assembly to ensure the bell is properly aligned and the screws are tight. The bell assembly should not be loose and should not rotate. To conduct a proper air cylinder and valve inspection, open and close the cylinder valve slightly to ensure proper operation by turning the cylinder valve handwheel. Note the cylinder’s hydrostatic test date, located on the cylinder approval sticker, is within 5 years. Make sure the cylinder’s valve needle and gauge face are visible and the gauge stem is not bent. Check that the rubber boot on the cylinder valve is present, if it is not present or is damaged, immediately remove the cylinder from service. The G1 carrier assembly (harness) inspection should be performed starting with the cylinder band latch assembly by ensuring it opens and closes properly and is adjusted correctly to secure the SCBA cylinder. Check that the lumber pads are securely attached. The power module and pressure reducer should be secured to the backplate by the protective cover. Lastly, ensure the SCBA cylinder is placed into the harness dovetail near the pressure reducer assembly Inspection of the G1 Control Module (PASS) begins by checking all displays for cracks or other visible damage. Ensure that no buttons are missing or damaged, that the hose assembly is securely attached to the control module, and that the gauge stem is not bent, and that the gauge needle and gauge face are visible. The power module and battery compartment must be securely attached to the backplate. Inspect the round sound emitters on both sides of the power module. Emitter covers should be cleared of dirt and debris. Anytime the battery is unlocked from the backplate, inspect the battery back for visible damage, ensure the connection seal is in Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 12 place and undamaged, and that the battery module compartment is free of debris. Battery shall be replaced at 50% capacity. Prior to out of area dispatch (i.e., Strike Team deployment, US&R deployment), replace battery prior to deployment. SCBA Functional Test Before beginning the functional test, ensure the cylinder valve pressure gauge is performed with a full cylinder, also ensure the regulator and facepiece can hold negative pressure. Don and secure the SCBA facepiece to your face tightening all straps to appropriately create an adequate seal. Check that you have achieved the appropriate seal by covering the inhalation valve and inhaling. The facepiece should remain collapsed against your face for 10 seconds to confirm proper sizing and donning. Do not use the SCBA if negative pressure in the facepiece cannot be maintained. Open the cylinder valve fully by turning the valve counterclockwise, while simultaneously observing the LED display and the LED sequence pattern. After the sequence is complete, the corresponding system pressure will be displayed. Next, don your facepiece, and connect the second stage regulator to ensure proper attachment and first breath airflow activation. The regulator should not make any unusual sounds including whistling, shattering, or propping. With two fingers, near your cheek, break your facepiece seal by pushing outwards from the facepiece ensuring that air flows freely, then push the regulator release buttons to ensure airflow stops. Check the operation of the bypass knob, by turning it towards the user (counterclockwise) to ensure airflow occurs through the regulator when opened and stops when closed. While the unit is pressurized inspect the regulator hose for bulging, deformity, and wear. If observed, take the SCBA out of service immediately and send it in for repair. With the regulator remaining connected to the facepiece and the system pressurized, press and hold the speaker module on/off button, which is located on top of the remote speaker module, until it beeps. The illuminated purple/blue LED on top of the remote speaker module, located on the left harness shoulder strap, will indicate the speaker is on. The HUD and the PASS device must be on and the cylinder pressurized for the remote speaker module to transmit. The user’s voice will be transmitted to the remote speaker module by speaking into the built-in microphone near the second stage regulator connection. Check the functionality of the HUD, control module, power module, and low-pressure warning device by observing the control module gauge and display when the alarm sounds. To do this, first pressurize the system by opening the cylinder valve and observing for the following: Watch for the regulator LED starting sequence Listening for the power module for 2 beeps Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 13 Listen for the low-pressure warning alarm to sound briefly Watch for the flashing green buddy lights on the rear lower lumbar of the harness Next, wait for the control module to remain motionless for approximately 20 seconds, and then observe the following: Listen for the power module to sound past pre-alarm tones Watch to verify the buddy lights flash red Watch for the HUD to display a red flashing LED Shake the Control Module (PASS) to reset the alarm before the PASS goes into full alarm Next, allow the control module to remain motionless for 30 seconds until the full alarm sounds, and then observe for the following: Listen for the power module to sound the PASS into full alarm Watch to verify the buddy lights are flashing red Watch for the HUD to display a red LED Resetting the PASS is accomplished by pressing the green button on the left side of the control module twice within approximately one second. To check the PASS alarm’s manual activation, do the following: Press and hold the red alarm button on the front of the control module until the alarm activates Listening for the power module to sound the full alarm tones Watch for the illuminating buddy lights flashing red Watch for the HUD to display a red LED Reset the PASS alarm by pressing the green button on the left side of the control module twice within one second. With the facepiece on close the cylinder valve, partially open the bypass valve slowly bleed the control valve observing the low air alarms and light indicators. The low air alarm will alert the user at the following pressures: 1575 PSI for a 4500 PSI bottle The low pressure will be indicated in the following: Observe a flashing red LED in the HUD Listen for a low-pressure warbling bell Observe that all buddy lights will be flashing red Alarms will continue on the ensemble until air pressure is 200 PSI or less. Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 14 As a recommended practice, fully deplete your SCBA bottle with your facepiece by observing the low air alarms, indicators, and visual alarms on the HUD while simulating the final breaths of SCBA air, feeling the collapse of the facepiece to your face. This is also an opportunity to simulate your Mayday operation in the event of being missing, down, or trapped. Proceed by doffing the facepiece, shutting off the control module by pressing the green reset button two times within one second, continuing to purge the system with the bypass valve until the system reaches 0 PSI, and then closing the bypass valve, thereby resetting the SCBA for normal operation. Press and hold both green buttons on the PASS for 3-5 seconds to bring up the battery indicator light, and change the battery if a yellow battery indicator light is observed. DO NOT use the waist belt seat belt clip to assist in removing the battery. Donning the SCBA The MSA G1 SCBA should be placed securely on the member by utilizing the left and right backpack straps with the corresponding arms ensuring correct orientation of the harness with minimal twist. Once donned, the user should lean forward, resting the SCBA harness and carrier on their back while pulling both waist belt straps to tighten to a snug fit. Most of the SCBA weight is designed to be carried on the user’s hips. The user should then proceed to stand up straight while pulling down on the backpack parachute straps and adjusting the waist belt if necessary. The user should then grasp the second stage regulator from the left side of the waist belt while pushing the side buttons to release the regulator from the keeper, and ensuring that the red bypass is closed. The user should then reach behind with their right arm to fully open the cylinder. Open the cylinder FULLY to allow for proper air delivery and continuous demand airflow without interruption. The user will listen carefully for hissing and popping sounds as the system is pressurized, and if observed, should troubleshoot the SCBA connection before proceeding. As the system pressure is pressurized from 50-200 PSI, the following visible and audible alerts activate automatically ensuring proper SCBA function: Pressure Reducer Low-Pressure Warning Device Chirp from the Power and Speaker Module Air Pressure LEDs Illuminating on the HUD Buddy Lights Flashing Green on the Power and Control Module No Air should flow from the Regulator If any of the visual or audible indicators fail to operate as designed, do not use the SCBA. Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 15 DO NOT use the SCBA if the cylinder gauge and control module pressure readings are not within 5% (225 PSI for a 4500 PSI bottle) of the full cylinder pressure. Cleaning and Disinfecting The department-approved cleaning solution for the SCBA facepiece is mild soap and water, which will clean, disinfect, and prevent deterioration of rubber, plastic, and metal parts. Do not use alcohol as it may result in the deterioration of the rubber parts. If the SCBA is significantly soiled, clean the SCBA using a mild soap solution with a damp sponge or soft bristle brush. Following the decontamination process, inspect the entire SCBA to ensure it is in working order. The SCBA should be rinsed or brushed with a soft fox tail brush to remove excess debris and contaminants following a fire. The facepiece will require cleaning and disinfection after every IDLH entry. Before cleaning the facepiece remove the regulator from the facepiece. The Nomex head harness can be removed or left on for cleaning. If removed, machine-wash in warm water with mild detergent and hang dry. It is recommended that the head harness be removed and cleaned periodically. In no instance shall cleaning products that contain hydrocarbons or solvents be used to clean and/or disinfect the SCBA ensemble. Manufacturer specifications recommend submerging the facepiece for 30 seconds in mild soap and water or cleaning solution. Use a soft sponge to rub the areas needing additional attention and detailed cleaning. Following cleaning, rinse the facepiece in clean warm water (110 degrees Fahrenheit) and drain thoroughly. Proceed by operating the exhalation valve manually to ensure it works properly. Flush the exhalation valve assembly with clean hot water to remove all residual soap and contamination from the facepiece. At completion shake the facepiece to remove residual water, and use a soft lint-free cloth or microfiber towel to thoroughly dry the facepiece inside and out, while also inspecting for excessive wear, damage, and cracks. Should any damage be noticed, immediately notify your station commander and follow the department's procedure to repair or replace. Once cleaned, allow the facepiece to completely air dry resting on the facepiece seal, and then perform a facepiece seal check to ensure proper operation. Contaminated PPEs can increase your exposure to carcinogens and cancer-causing toxic substances. Cleaning the SCBA will significantly help reduce contaminants and unnecessary exposure to our members. Perform the following steps to remove gross contaminants form the SCBA before leaving the incident scene by: Inspect the SCBA Thoroughly wash the SCBA utilizing a soft brush with mild soap and water Reinspect to ensure cleanliness Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 16 Dry the SCBA out of direct sunlight Store out in a well-ventilated area Inspect and test to ensure the operational readiness of your SCBA before placing back into frontline service Rapid Intervention Company (RIC) Kit RIC Kit will be available on all LAFD Truck Companies, US&R, and HAZMAT Squads. The components of the RIC Kit include: Carrying Bag 4500 PSI 60-minute bottle Facepiece Second Stage Regulator UEBSS/Y Block Pressure Gauge UAC Female connection The RIC Kit ensemble is enclosed in a durable carrying bag that has a carrying handle and adjustable carrying strap with self-locking carabiners encased in a durable plastic bottom liner that allows the RIC KIT to skid, minimizing snags when being dragged. The bag can be easily opened by undoing the clip and the velcro to expose the components inside the bag. The UEBSS/Y Block takes the highest-pressure bottle and pulls air from that bottle. The UAC is a transfilling device that if utilized by connecting the female connection of the RIC kit to a down firefighter’s male connection on their SCBA will automatically equalize the pressure within the two SCBA bottles. Should a rescuer need to supply a member with air, the transfilling line from the RIC Kit may be deemed the most feasible option for rescuers. The member needing supplied air will be indicated by the flashing red lights on the member’s harness and PASS, indicating low air. When deemed necessary connect the transfilling line from the RIC Kit or the member’s SCBA (supplied air) to the member needing supplied air. The transfilling connection is the high-pressure line that is capable of transferring air into the member’s cylinder. Unlike buddy breathing, once the tank is equalized the transfilling line can be Training Bulletin No. 195 June 17, 2024 Page 17 disconnected from the firefighter that needs air to better facilitate an operational retreat or firefighter rescue, without remaining connected to another member. The transfer connection is located in each SCBA harness on the lower left lumbar portion of the harness. Equipment Replacement If any SCBA harness or components are found to be damaged or inoperable, immediately remove the SCBA from service, place an F-175 tag marking the SCBA harness as “UNSAFE,” and provide a brief description of the damage on the tag. Simultaneously notify your station commander and log the damaged SCBA in the station's equipment log. A spare replacement SCBA should be placed into service in the position of the damaged SCBA. Supply and Maintenance is the only authorized section permitted to repair the MSA G1 SCBA and its components. Safety The MSA G1 has enhanced safety features which include, improved voice communication capabilities and electronic voice amplification enhancements. These features will help every firefighter give and receive clear communications on the fire ground. The facepiece is designed with an open breathing port design which increases speech clarity when not on air. When on air with the SCBA mask donned, there are two microphones placed in optimal positions at the bottom of the second stage regulator to capture voice communications. When speaking, whispering, or yelling the speaker's voice is projected through the shoulder module located on the left shoulder strap. The SCBA’s speaker module is equipped with a filter that removes the user’s inhalation and exhalation sounds, thereby improving communications. The voice amplifier is incorporated into the speaker module and is no longer a component of the individual facepiece. MSA’s communication enhancements have contributed to a lighter facepiece, improved visibility, and a streamlined profile. Firefighter visibility has increased, when the SCBA is donned with the retro-reflective heat-resistant shoulder straps and the reflective cylinder bands. CONCLUSION The hazards of today's fire service pose a significant risk to firefighters. With this in mind, Los Angeles City Firefighters must be extremely proficient in donning and doffing the MSA G1 SCBA, and intimately familiar with the features, alarms, indicators, limitations, and safety devices. The implementation and use of the MSA G1 SCBA promotes a safe, healthy, and progressive work environment that effectively manages personal and organizational risk.