THE GENERAL CHECK (CABA)
Reference: Draeger Technical manual
- Purpose – The aim of a General Check on breathing apparatus is to ensure that the set has no faults prior to use, which could endanger the wearer. It should be carried out prior to entry.
Note: The ‘Monthly’ test referred to consists of subjecting the set to a period of wear of not less than 50 bar, followed by a general check.
- Procedure – An individual nominated to wear breathing apparatus is responsible for conducting a general check as follows:
- A. Check the records for the set and ensure that a ‘Monthly’ test has been carried out within the previous 30 days and if appropriate, report to the supervisor that the apparatus does not appear to have been tested;
- B. Examine the set to ensure it is complete and free from damage;
- C. Check that all connections are secure;
- D. Push the re-set lever to the test position, open the cylinder valve slowly and fully, there should be a minimum reading of 90% of the full contents (270 bar for a 300 bar cylinder or 180bar for a 200bar cylinder), there should be no audible leaks;
- E. Close the cylinder valve, observe the pressure gauge, the pressure indicated should not drop more than 10 bar in one minute. If the set fails, report the set unserviceable.
- F. Open the cylinder valve;
- G. Fit the face mask;
- H. Positive pressure will automatically be selected upon first breath;
- I. Test operation of apparatus, by twice inhaling and exhaling deeply to prove airflow, and whilst holding the breath after the second inhalation, ensure that no airflow (through the LDV) is audible.
If air passes through the LDV when holding breath, there is an outward leak, which will reduce the set duration. If removing and refitting the facemask cannot correct this, then the set should be placed unserviceable.
- J. Check the supplementary flow facility is working, by pressing the centre of the lung demand valve (LDV).
- K. Check for gas tightness (inward leaks) close the cylinder valve and continue to breath until the air is exhausted, checking that the low pressure warning whistle operates at the correct setting (58 bar).
When breathing down, this should be done slowly to avoid exhausting the air too quickly, otherwise the whistle may fail to sound or the gauge may register a false reading. The mask should pull onto the face and remain so, if the system is free from leaks.
- L. Remove the facemask and clean it using a Drager cloth (or an acceptable alternative) and ensure clear vision through the facemask visor.
Do not remove the facemask from the LDV when cleaning during the general check. The set should be stowed with the re-set lever in the positive pressure position.
- M. Check the pressure gauge returns to zero.
- N. Enter your name and pressure gauge reading onto the breathing apparatus identification tally.(if fitted).
- O. Test the automatic distress signal unit (DSU) by carrying out a DSU general check. (if fitted).
- P. Check the personal line to ensure it is correctly packed in its pouch and attached to the set, the line should be checked for damage. (if fitted).
- Q. Test the torch or lamp as fitted to the set. (if fitted).
- R. Enter your name, set number and pressure gauge reading in the log book, and annotate the set records.