When we talk about compressed air breathing apparatus (CABA) we are talking about a cylinder majorly, a container or vessel where air is forced into, and the air forced into this container is said to be compressed air. Compressed air can be used as a form of energy, as in, to power pneumatic machinery such as drills, hammers, wrenches and grinders; it can also so serve as an oxygen store for breathing within oxygen deficient area.
What is Compressed Air Breathing Apparatus (CABA)
Compressed air breathing apparatus can be said to be a respirator or an oxygen store which serves as a respiratory protective equipment providing necessary oxygen to employees or workers working in area with;
l. Toxic particles and aerial fog
2. Toxic gases
3. The oxygen concentration is less than 17%
4. The smog caused by fire disaster
Component of CABA:
Compressed air breathing apparatus (CABA) has different components which includes:
- Mask
- Air supply valve
- Back belt unit
- Quick connector
- Pressure reducer
- Cylinder valve
- Back support
- Shoulder belt
- Pressure meter
- Alarm device
- Cylinder belt group
- Air cylinder
Procedures for using Compressed Air Breathing Apparatus (CABA)
According to OSHA, any workplace where respirators are necessary to protect the health of the employee or whenever respirators are required by the employer, the employer shall establish and implement a written respiratory protection program with worksite-specific procedures.
The program shall be updated as necessary to reflect those changes in workplace conditions that affect respirator use.
Procedures for selecting respirators for use in the workplace / Safety Considerations
- Carry out medical evaluations of employee required to use respirator
- Carry out fit testing procedures for tight-fitting respirators
- Draw out a procedures for proper use of respirators in routine and reasonably foreseeable emergency situations
- Draw out procedures and schedules for cleaning, disinfecting, storing, inspecting, repairing, discarding, and otherwise maintaining respirators
- Draw out procedures to ensure adequate air quality, quantity, and flow of breathing air for atmosphere-supplying respirators
- Train your employee in the respiratory hazards to which they are potentially exposed during routine and emergency situations
- Train your employee in the proper use of respirators, including putting on and removing them, any limitations on their use, and their maintenance.
How to use CABA
Here is a video of how CABA works, its an imbedded video and does not belong to HSEWatch.
Watch the video with concentration to understand how it is used with other very vital information. Feel free to ask questions when necessary via the comment section.
Conclusion
Compressed air breathing apparatus is a very important personal protective equipment as it protect the user against toxic environment, depleted oxygen supply, etc. Also not that that you must be trained on how to use it before lunching out, this is why this article covers procedures and safety considerations.
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