What is prohibited in the area where the SCBA face piece seals with the face?

• A. Nothing shall be allowed to enter or pass through the area where the SCBA face piece seals with the face.
• B. A specific fit test can be obtained.
• C. A well-designed preventative maintenance program is essential for the reliable long-term operation of JFRD SCBAs.
• D. An immediate response will be required anytime the SAR system is used.

Answer: (A)

Maintaining an airtight seal between the facepiece and the face is essential for effective respiratory protection. The area where the SCBA facepiece seals with the face must stay unobstructed so no gaps can form. If anything enters or passes through this seal area—such as hair, debris, or other obstructions—the seal can be compromised, allowing contaminated air to leak in or clean air to escape. That’s why nothing is allowed to intrude into that interface.

Fit testing, maintenance programs, and responses when using the SAR system are important topics for overall SCBA safety and reliability, but they don’t address what is prohibited specifically at the seal interface.