1 Application
This chapter details the specifications for personnel protection as required by chapter II-2 of the Convention.
2 Engineering specifications
2.1 Fire-fighter's outfit
A fire-fighter's outfit shall consist of a set of personal equipment and a breathing apparatus.
2.1.1 Personal equipment
Personal equipment shall consist of the following:
.1 protective clothing of material to protect the skin from the heat radiating from the fire and from burns and scalding by steam. The outer surface shall be water-resistant;
.2 boots of rubber or other electrically non-conducting material;
.3 rigid helmet providing effective protection against impact;
.4 electric safety lamp (hand lantern) of an approved type with a minimum burning period of 3 h. Electric safety lamps on tankers and those intended to be used in hazardous areas shall be of an explosion-proof type; and
.5 axe with a handle provided with high-voltage insulation.
2.1.2 Breathing apparatus
Breathing apparatus shall be a self-contained compressed air-operated breathing apparatus for which the volume of air contained in the cylinders shall be at least 1,200 l, or other self-contained breathing apparatus which shall be capable of functioning for at least 30 min. All air cylinders for breathing apparatus shall be interchangeable.
2.1.3 Lifeline
For each breathing apparatus a fireproof lifeline of at least 30 m in length shall be provided. The lifeline shall successfully pass an approval test by statical load of 3.5 kN for 5 min without failure. The lifeline shall be capable of being attached by means of a snap-hook to the harness of the apparatus or to a separate belt in order to prevent the breathing apparatus becoming detached when the lifeline is operated.
2.2 Emergency escape breathing devices (EEBD)
2.2.1 General
2.2.1.1 An EEBD is a supplied air or oxygen device only used for escape from a compartment that has a hazardous atmosphere and shall be of an approved type.
2.2.1.2 EEBDs shall not be used for fighting fires, entering oxygen deficient voids or tanks, or worn by fire-fighters. In these events, a self-contained breathing apparatus, which is specifically suited for such applications, shall be used.
2.2.2 Definitions
2.2.2.1 Face piece means a face covering that is designed to form a complete seal around the eyes, nose and mouth which is secured in position by a suitable means.
2.2.2.2 Hood means a head covering which completely covers the head, neck, and may cover portions of the shoulders.
2.2.2.3 Hazardous atmosphere means any atmosphere that is immediately dangerous to life or health.
2.2.3 Particulars
2.2.3.1 The EEBD shall have a service duration of at least 10 min.
2.2.3.2 The EEBD shall include a hood or full face piece, as appropriate, to protect the eyes, nose and mouth during escape. Hoods and face pieces shall be constructed of flame resistant materials and include a clear window for viewing.
2.2.3.3 An inactivated EEBD shall be capable of being carried hands-free.
2.2.3.4 An EEBD, when stored, shall be suitably protected from the environment.
2.2.3.5 Brief instructions or diagrams clearly illustrating their use shall be clearly printed on the EEBD. The donning procedures shall be quick and easy to allow for situations where there is little time to seek safety from a hazardous atmosphere.
2.2.4 Markings
Maintenance requirements, manufacturer’s trademark and serial number, shelf life with accompanying manufacture date and name of approving authority shall be printed on each EEBD. All EEBD training units shall be clearly marked.
