Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

Which method is not allowed for SCBA, airline respirators, or combination units?

1. Compressed air

2. Hospital grade oxygen

3. Filtered air

4. Supplied air

The correct answer is: Hospital grade oxygen

The use of hospital grade oxygen is not permitted for Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), airline respirators, or combination units due to safety concerns and compatibility issues. These breathing devices are designed to provide a reliable source of breathable air that meets specific safety standards. Hospital grade oxygen, while safe for medical use, may contain impurities or be delivered in a manner that is not compatible with the filtration systems of these respirators, which are intended for industrial or emergency use where the air quality is guaranteed to be controlled and safe. In contrast, compressed air, filtered air, and supplied air are designed to meet the rigorous safety criteria set out for use in various work environments. Compressed air systems can deliver air that is purified and conditioned to remove contaminants. Filtered air refers to air that has gone through a filtration process to eliminate harmful particles, making it safe for breathing. Supplied air systems take air directly from a safe source and deliver it to the wearer, ensuring a constant supply of clean air. These methods are crucial for ensuring that users can work safely in environments where air quality may be compromised.