← Making Synapses
Making Synapses · Bringing Knowledge to Mankind

FirefightersSCBA inspection

Before use, you run an operational check of your self-contained breathing apparatus: you take the cylinder out and put it back, say out loud what you check and what you find, and leave the unit ready or report it. It is station 4-1 of Ohio's Firefighter I practical exam (NFPA 1001 4.5.1).

Free to start
Better than a PDF: practice it live with Blocky See how it works

The steps

  1. Take the cylinder out of the pack and check the manufacture and hydrostatic test dates.
  2. Check the cylinder is at least 90% full, and the O-ring on the high-pressure line before reconnecting it. Critical point
  3. Check the harness is in good condition with every strap fully extended.
  4. Before pressurizing, check every hose connection is tight and the universal air connection is free of dirt. Critical point
  5. After pressurizing, check the system and its hoses for leaks. Critical point
  6. Check the face piece is in good condition with its straps fully extended.
  7. Check every gauge: cylinder and regulator within 10% of each other, and the heads-up display matching them. Critical point
  8. Check the PASS device cycles through every phase of activation. Critical point
  9. Activate the PASS device by hand. Critical point
  10. Check every valve works, with the bypass valve fully closed. Critical point
  11. Check the unit is clean. Critical point
  12. Check the low-pressure alarm works at the right cylinder volume. Critical point
  13. Choose the right tools for each part of the equipment.
  14. Follow the department or agency guidelines.
  15. Record and report what you found.
  16. No unsafe act during the evaluation. Critical point

To pass

  • At least 13 of the 15 steps and every critical point.
  • The steps can go in any order, except checking the seals and O-rings before making connections.
  • The evaluator can stop the station at any time for an unsafe act.

Official source

State · Ohio EMS 5919

Firefighter I Practical Examination Skill Sheets (EMS 5919)

Ohio publishes every Firefighter I skill sheet free: the steps, the critical points and the minimum to pass.

Making Synapses is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by NFPA, IFSAC, Pro Board, OSHA or any state agency. NFPA 1001 and NFPA 1010 are trademarks of their respective owners and are named only to describe the exams.

Better than a PDF: practice it live with BlockyAll the steps of the district