OHST Practice Exam

What type of respiratory protective equipment is best for a rescuer in a confined space incident?

1. Air Line Respirator with chemical cartridge escape

2. Gas mask

3. Air Supplied Hood with escape bottle

4. Self Contained Breathing apparatus

The correct answer is: Self Contained Breathing apparatus

In a confined space incident, the optimal choice for a rescuer is a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). This equipment is designed to provide breathable air in environments where the air quality cannot be guaranteed due to potential contaminants, low oxygen levels, or the presence of hazardous materials. The SCBA consists of a high-pressure tank, a pressure regulator, and a facepiece or mask, which together ensure that the user can safely breathe while being protected from harmful gases, vapors, and particles. This makes it particularly suitable for rescue operations in confined spaces where conditions can change rapidly and where the: - Air quality is unknown or may deteriorate. - Risks include toxic gases or an oxygen-deficient atmosphere. The other options, while they may offer some level of protection, do not provide the same level of safety in the uncertain and often hazardous conditions found in confined spaces. For instance, air line respirators rely on a continuous supply of air from a remote source, which may not always be feasible in emergencies. Gas masks may not adequately protect against all toxic substances or lower oxygen levels found in confined spaces. Air supplied hoods with escape bottles can provide limited protection but are typically designed for escape rather than extended protection during a rescue. Thus, SC