NIOSH Approves Scott Plan To End Air-Pak Problems
Scott Aviation has taken corrective action to eliminate the problems in the Scott Air-Pak II/IIA and Presur-Pak II/IIA self-contained breathing apparatus that resulted in a National Institute for Occupational Safety (NIOSH) recommendation to stop the sale of these units. As a result of the Scott modification and upgrading program, which involves units already produced and future production, NIOSH announced on Aug. 30 that it “has withdrawn the stop sale request of May 3.”
NIOSH Director Anthony Robbins, M.D., stated, in referring to punctures or ruptures of the regulator diaphragms:
“Two major causes of these problems were found to be abrasion of the diaphragm by the retaining ring and over-pressurization caused by blocked airflow . . . The regulator outlet port has been redesigned to prevent the possibility of blocked airflow while the bypass valve is open. In addition, a thicker, more resilient diaphragm has been adopted. New specifications for the retaining ring will ensure a smoother finish and eliminate sharp edges that could puncture the diaphragm.”
Scott’s comment
In announcing its field modification and upgrading program, Scott Aviation included Sling-Paks and Hoseline/Air-Paks in the program.
Scott stated, “It is Scott’s position that damage to diaphragms can only occur through misuse or abuse. However, we wish to do everything possible to improve these products for the benefit of our customers. All customers should arrange for modification and upgrading as soon as possible. We are issuing this warning to avoid any possible misuse or further damage.
“We also wish to reassure all users that if these products have been tested and properly maintained without misuse or abuse, the equipment can continue to be used with reliability and full respiratory protection until modification and upgrading of the apparatus is completed.”
Warning issued
Scott Aviation warned that failure to modify and upgrade the breathing apparatus mentioned “may cause OSHA citations or reduce respiratory protection if damage to the diaphragm occurs. We urge all customers to respond promptly to this notice.”
Users were advised by Scott Aviation to contact their Scott distributor or Scott Aviation, Lancaster, N.Y. 14086, telephone 800-828-1577, for full information on modification and upgrading procedures.
In regard to Scott’s program, Robbins commented, “NIOSH believes these modifications—if made by experienced, authorized persons in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions—will ensure that Scott Air-Pak II/IIA and Presur-Pak II/IIA and other SCBA and combination units noted above will operate safely.”
