BS 137:2006 pdf download – Respiratory protective devices — Self-contained open-circuit compressed air breathing apparatus with full face mask — Requirements, testing, marking
The design of the apparatus shall be such as to allow its inspection in accordance with the information supplied by the manufacturer.
The apparatus shall be sufficiently robust to withstand the rough usage it is likely to receive in service with respect to its classification.
The apparatus shall be designed so that there are no protruding parts or sharp edges likely to be caught on projections in narrow passages.
The surface of any part of the apparatus likely to be in contact with the wearer shall be free from sharp edges and burrs.
All parts requiring manipulation by the wearer shall be readily accessible and easily distinguishable from one another by touch. All adjustable parts and controls shall be constructed so that their adjustment is not liable to
accidental alteration during use.
The apparatus shall be so designed that the wearer can remove it and, while still wearing the full face mask,continue to breathe from the apparatus.
The apparatus shall be designed to ensure its full function in any orientation.
The main valve(s) of pressure vessel(s) shall be arranged so that the wearer can operate it (them) while wearing the apparatus.
If apparatus (of the same type) are designed for use with different sizes of pressure vessels, changing of pressure vessels shall be possible without the use of special tools. Where the manufacturer claims the apparatus can be
used with a different range of pressure vessels then the worst case(s) shall be identified and tested.
Apparatus fitted with more than one pressure vessel may be fitted with individual valves on each pressure vessel.
It shall not be possible simultaneously to fit two or more pressure vessels of different rated filling pressures to the same apparatus.
It shall not be possible to fit an apparatus which is designed to operate with a lower rated working pressure to a pressure vessel with a higher rated filling pressure.
Testing shall be done in accordance with 7.3 and 7.11.
The apparatus shall continue to function satisfactorily after being submerged in water. Before immersion and after removal from the water the apparatus shall meet the requirements of 6.21.
Testing shall be done in accordance with 7.8.
6.4 Materials
All materials used in the construction shall have adequate resistance to deterioration by heat and adequate mechanical strength.
Testing shall be done in accordance with 7.3, 7.4 and 7.11 after pre-conditioning according to 6.24.
Exposed parts, i.e. those which may be subjected to impact during use of the apparatus shall not be made of aluminium, magnesium, titanium or their alloys.
Materials which come into direct contact with the wearer’s skin shall not be known to be likely to cause irritation or any other adverse effect to health.
Testing shall be done in accordance with 7.3 and 7.11.
6.5 Cleaning and disinfecting
All material shall be visibly unimpaired after cleaning and disinfection by the agents and procedures specified bythe manufacturer.
Testing shall be done in accordance with 7.3 and 7.11.
6.6 Mass
The mass of the apparatus as ready for use with full face mask and fully charged pressure vessel(s) shall notexceed 18 kg.
Testing shall be done in accordance with 7.1 and 7.3.6.7 Connections
6.7.1General
Components of the apparatus shall be readily separated for cleaning, examining and testing. All demountableconnections shall be readily connected and secured, where possible by hand.Any means for sealing used shall beretained in position when the joints and couplings are disconnected during normal use and maintenance.
Testing shall be done in accordance with 7.3 and 7.11.
6.7.2Couplings (if fitted)
The apparatus shall be constructed so that any twisting of the hoses and tubes does not affect the fit orperformance of the apparatus,or cause the hoses and or tubes to become disconnected. The design of thecouplings shall be such as to prevent unintentional interruption of the air supply.
Testing shall be done in accordance with 7.3 and 7.11.
6.7.3 Strength of connections to full face mask, demand valve and breathing hose ( if fitted)
Connections of the breathing hose (if fitted) to the full face mask connector and to the demand valve or betweenthe full face mask connector and the demand valve shall withstand a force of 250 N.
Testing shall be done in accordance with 7.9.BS 137 pdf download.