Which method is prohibited for SCBA and airline respirators?

Using hospital grade oxygen as a method for supplying breathing air to SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus) and airline respirators is prohibited due to safety and health standards. Hospital grade oxygen is intended for medical use and comes with specific purity and pressure requirements that make it unsuitable for applications outside medical environments.

In the context of respiratory protection, acceptable breathing air must meet specific criteria set by regulatory agencies, such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). These criteria ensure that the air provided is clean, safe, and free from contaminants that could jeopardize the health and safety of the user. For example, compressed air can be an appropriate source when it meets quality standards, while filtered oxygen can be used under specific controlled circumstances.

Natural air, which consists of atmospheric air, is commonly used in SCBA systems as long as it is not contaminated, making it a standard choice for many applications. Therefore, the prohibition of hospital grade oxygen is rooted in ensuring appropriate standards and safety for workers using breathing apparatuses in potentially hazardous environments.