WAC 296-842-20010   Prevent conditions that could create a hazardous breathing air supply.  (1) Use SCBA and air-line respirators safely:

     – DO NOT supply compressed oxygen to SCBAs or air-line respirators that previously used compressed air.


Note: Compressed air leaves residues containing hydrocarbons such as oil or grease. Fire or explosion can occur if compressed oxygen makes contact with these residues.

     (2) Use breathing air couplings on air-line respirators that are NOT compatible with couplings for nonrespirable air or other gas systems, for example, utility air used for manufacturing purposes.

     (3) DO NOT allow asphyxiating substances to enter breathing air lines; for example, do not flush nitrogen through worksite air lines also used for breathing air.

     (4) Use equipment specifically designed for oxygen service or distribution IF oxygen concentrations greater than 23.5% are used.


Note: Respiratory equipment NOT designed for oxygen service or distribution can create fire or explosion hazards in oxygen concentrations higher than 23.5%.

     (5) Make sure cylinders used to supply breathing air for SCBAs or air-line respirators are tested and maintained as described in the federal Department of Transportation's (DOT) Shipping Container Specification Regulations, Title 49 CFR.


Note: • Use only cylinders marked (with serial number, cylinder pressure, DOT exemption number, and test dates) according to these DOT regulations
• To find any Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) visit: www.access.gpo.gov.




[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. 07-05-072, § 296-842-20010, filed 2/20/07, effective 4/1/07; 03-20-114, § 296-842-20010, filed 10/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]