When it comes to protecting workers from hazards, there's a hierarchy of controls that should be followed. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including breathing apparatus, should be the last line of defence. However, in many emergency scenarios, it becomes a critical safety measure.
1. Supplied Air Breathing Apparatus (SABA): Ideal for long-duration tasks, breathing air is pumped along a tube to workers. This allows them to have clean air for as long as needed.
2. Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA): Used for short-duration work and rescue operations, the breathing air is contained in a cylinder carried by the worker.
3. Emergency Escape Breathing Apparatus (EEBA): Designed for escape and self-rescue situations. These are smaller cylinders (generally 10-15 minutes) which are intended to be used in an emergency to allow the worker time to get to safety.
Each type serves a specific purpose, and understanding when to use each is crucial for offshore safety.
Regular testing and inspection of breathing apparatus is essential to ensure its effectiveness. This includes both pre-use and post-use checks.
Before using any breathing apparatus, a thorough visual inspection should be conducted. This includes checking for:
- Cuts, tears, or abrasions on the harness
- Scratches or cracks in the visor
- Damage to rubber components
- Proper functionality of all buckles and moving parts
- Secure connections
- Signs of contamination
- Full air cylinders
After use, similar checks should be performed, with any issues reported immediately. This ensures that the equipment is ready for the next use and maintains a high level of safety.
Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) is a critical tool when working in potentially hazardous environments, such as those that may contain H2S. Understanding how to properly don, use, and doff this equipment can be lifesaving.
Proper donning (putting on) and doffing (taking off) procedures are crucial for the effective use of SCBA. These procedures should be demonstrated and practiced regularly to ensure quick and correct application in emergency situations. PPE without appropriate training can be as ineffective as no PPE.
When working with breathing apparatus, knowing how to react in an emergency is vital. For example, with a FLITE escape cylinder:
1. Remain calm
2. Open the escape cylinder
3. Disconnect from the airline
4. Evacuate the area
For systems with an automatic changeover valve (COV), the procedure may differ slightly, but the principle of calm, quick action remains the same whatever the equipment and emergency.
Regular maintenance of breathing apparatus is crucial for ensuring its reliability in hazardous environments.
Depending on your offshore facility, there may be different procedures for refilling or exchanging air cylinders. Some locations may have on-board BA compressors with trained personnel, while others might use an exchange system.
Using breathing apparatus comes with its own set of challenges that offshore workers should be aware of:
1. Psychological effects: Claustrophobia can be an issue for some users as the mark need to be tight fitting and feels constricting on the face.
2. Fitting issues: Facial hair, face shape, or dental work can affect the seal.
3. Physical strain: The weight of the equipment can cause fatigue, especially for those not accustomed to its use.
4. Environmental factors: Dry air from the BA can potentially trigger asthma attacks or dehydration.
Understanding these challenges and knowing how to address them is key to effective use of breathing apparatus offshore or in other hazardous environments.
Breathing apparatus is a critical component of offshore safety, especially when dealing with potential hazards like H2S. Regular testing, proper use, and understanding of emergency procedures are all essential skills for anyone working in these environments. By prioritising knowledge and training in the use of SABA, SCBA and other breathing apparatus, we can ensure a safer working environment for all offshore personnel.
Remember, while breathing apparatus is crucial, it should always be part of a comprehensive safety strategy that includes proper risk assessment, hazard elimination where possible, and ongoing training.
