TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 

1 

PPE CASE

Personal Protective Equipment Conformity Assessment Studies and Evaluations

Evaluation of Two Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus Involved in 

a Fatality in the Fire Service

Worcester Fire Department requested the evaluation of two Scott® Safety Air-Pak® 

Model 75, 45 minute, 4500 psi units

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) 

conducts a Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program, 

which is executed by its Division of Safety Research. In support of this 

Program, NIOSH’s National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory 

(NPPTL) inspects and evaluates the Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus 

(SCBA) used by the fire fighter during a fatality. 

This report provides a summary of NPPTL’s inspection and evaluation 

methods, and findings for two SCBAs that were used by the Worcester

Fire Department fire fighter during a fatal event. The SCBAs were the 

Scott® Safety Air-Pak® Model 75 4.5, 45 minute, 4500 psi units. The 

NIOSH Division of Safety Research (NIOSH DSR) and the Worcester Fire 

Department were advised that NIOSH NPPTL would provide a written 

report of the investigation and any applicable test results. 

What NIOSH Did to Protect the Worker

Upon receipt of the SCBAs, NPPTL staff managed the custody of evidence 

throughout the inspection and evaluation process at its Morgantown, 

West Virginia facility. NPPTL staff inspected all of the SCBA components

and documented their findings with written and photographic evidence.

They also tested the two SCBAs to determine conformance to the NIOSH

approval requirements as outlined in Title 42, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 84 (42 CFR 84). Further testing 

was conducted to provide an indication of the conformance of each SCBA to the National Fire Protection 

Association (NFPA) Air Flow Performance requirements of NFPA 1981, Standard on Open-Circuit Self-Contained 

Breathing Apparatus for the Fire Service, 2013 Edition. If the inspection or evaluation data suggested that the 

SCBA units may have contributed to the fatality, NPPTL would have engaged in corrective action to ensure that 

NIOSH received two SCBAs 

used by a fire fighter 

involved in a fatality. The 

SCBAs were not found to 

contribute to the fatality. 

A qualified service 

technician must inspect, 

repair, test, clean, and 

replace damaged 

components of any SCBA. 

involved in an incident 

before it may be returned to 

service.
 TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 2 

no other users of the product would experience an incident. In this case, no such corrective action was 

necessary. NPPTL then managed the disposition of the SCBAs. 

Chain of Custody

The SCBA units were submitted to NIOSH NPPTL by NIOSH DSR for the Worcester Fire Department for

evaluation. The SCBA units were delivered via FedEx in a plastic box to Lab H1513 in the NIOSH facility in

Morgantown, West Virginia on February 12, 2019. 

On February 25, 2017, NPPTL employees Jay Tarley and Angie Andrews inspected the SCBA units. The SCBA 

units remained in Lab H1513 throughout the inspection and testing process. 

The SCBAs were identified as belonging to the Worcester Fire Department and were visually examined,

component by component, in the condition received to determine the conformance of the units to the NIOSHapproved configuration. The units were both identified as the Scott® Safety Air-Pak® Model 75 4.5, 45 minute, 

4500 psi unit, with NIOSH Approval Number TC-13F-212CBRN. 
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 3

SCBA Inspection

On February 25, 2019, NPPTL employees Angie Andrews and Jay Tarley inspected the SCBA units. The SCBAs 

were identified as belonging to the Worcester, MA Fire Department and were visually examined, component

by component, in the condition received, to determine the conformance of the unit to the NIOSH-approved

configuration. The units were identified as the Scott® Safety Air-Pak Model 75, 45 minute, 4500 psi unit,

NIOSH Approval Number TC-13F-212CBRN. 

As Received (pictured below) SCBA Unit L43 and L14

• SCBAs were delivered by FedEx ground in a plastic container to Lab H1513

• SCBAs were in good shape

• A cylinder was included for each unit

• A mask was included with L43

• The donning switch was on with both units, with regulator intact

• Bypass was closed on L43 and open on L14

Figure 1: SCBA Units L43 and L14 as received
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 4

Figure 2: SCBA Units L43 and L14 as received

Components and Observations for SCBA Unit L43 (Figure 1) (“right” or “left” are from the user’s 

perspective) (see Figures in Appendix)

Facepiece AV 3000 (Figures 3 - 5)

• Facepiece seal P/N: 31001740; Large; MFG date: 02/2017

• Nosecup P/N: 201128; Size: Large; MFG date: 3rd Q 2015 

• Retaining ring top MFG date: 12/2016; P/N: 31002809; 

bottom MFG date 7/2076, PN 31002810 

• Lens P/N: 805337-13/-33/-36/39; MFG date: 03/2017

• Overall condition good, with minimal scratches

• Lens was good, with minimal scratches

• Hairnet was good condition, but dirty

• Hairnet straps good, straps moved freely and held in place 

by buckle, held securely to facepiece

• Attachment points for straps were good

• The facepiece seal was in good condition

• Regulator interface area was in good condition

Mask Mounted Regulator (MMR) (Figures 6, 7)

• Vibralert and with Heads-Up Display (HUD) 

• Regulator assembly P/N, S/N not readable MFG date: 

03/20/12

• Overall condition, fair

• Outer case good and front label fair

• Donning switch was on

• Bypass was closed

• Sealing area good with slight fraying around the edge, had

minimal scratches

• Locking assembly functioned

• HUD fully intact

Low Pressure Regulator Hose (Figures 6)

• Marking: L3521

• Overall condition is good

• No quick disconnect

Pressure Reducer Assembly (Figures 8, 9)

• P/N: 200925-02

• S/N 115S121005971

• MFG date: 3/17/12

• Overall condition was good, dirty

• All airline connections were secure with no sign of heat 

damage

High Pressure Hose and Cylinder Attachment (Figures 10, 11)

• Overall condition was good. No signs of heat damage on 

inside of high-pressure line attachment rubber cover 

• Markings on cylinder attachment: 802228-15; 0312
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 5

• Soot covered

• Cylinder attachment threads good and “O” ring in place

• RIC/UAC system connector markings: Parker RGX-N-05; 

230V

• RIC/UAC system connector cover in good condition

PASS Console Assembly (Figures 12, 13)

• Scott label: not readable

• Overall condition good, dirty/sooty

• Lines in good shape—pressure/electrical

• Gauge lens good and readable

• Attachment present 

• SEI label present, 2007 edition

• HUD US Patent#: 5,097,826

• Additional marking: FT1073

PASS Control Module with PAK-Alert (Figures 14, 15)

• Scott label Pak-Alert SE7 : PN 201110-11, SN 

115S1212004433, MFG Date 3/2/12

• USTC UL913; E105-0154

• Scott P/N: 200451-01, -11; Pak-Alert SE7

• Scott P/N: 200451-02, -12 with Pak-Tracker 

• MFG date: 5/3/2016

• Overall condition was good, dirty with soot and debris

• Held securely to backframe

• Wire connection connected to PASS device

• Wire held secure to backframe and connected to console 

assembly

Backframe Assembly (Figures 16, 17)

• SEI label present, 2007 ed

• NIOSH label TC-13F-212CBRN

• Other marking: three additional labels: L43, Industrial 

protection services flow tested 12/13ladder 4 SCBA 3

• Overall condition good, no bends/cracks in wire frame, or 

plate

• Shoulder straps were attached to the frame

• Cylinder strap latch good condition, functional

Straps and Buckles (Figures 18)

• Overall strap condition good

• Both shoulder straps attached at the top of the backframe 

• Hose lines and wires passed through shoulder straps

• All adjustable buckles moved and held in place

• Waist area buckle latched and released

• Lumbar strap in good condition; no fraying shown

Compressed Air Cylinder and Cylinder Valve Assembly (Figures 19, 

20)

Minute Duration: 45 minute

DOT –Number: DOT-SP 10915-4500

TC-SU5134-310 

IL 704115

REE: 99

Scott Part number: 805588-AC0841

• Scott logo visible Luxfer L5G

• Manufacture date: 2/2012

• Overall condition was fair, minimal surface scratches, but 

dirty

• Gauge was readable 

Threads clean 

• As received, cylinder valve fully closed with no air 

remaining

• Rubber bumper at base on cylinder valve was in good

condition

• Rehydro label present: 2/17

• Info on stem: Not readable

 
 

TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 6

Components and Observations for SCBA L14 (“right” or “left” are from the user’s perspective) (see Figures in 

Appendix)

Mask Mounted Regulator (MMR) (Figures 21, 22)

• Vibralert and with Heads-Up Display (HUD) 

• Regulator assembly P/N, S/N not readable 

• Other marking: A1012

• Overall condition, good

• Outer case good and front label fair

• Donning switch was on

• Bypass was open

• Sealing area good with slight fraying around the 

edge, had minimal scratches

• Locking assembly functioned

• HUD fully intact

Low Pressure Regulator Hose (Figures 21)

• P/N: 31001416

• Other marking: 1008

• Overall condition was good

• No quick disconnect

Pressure Reducer Assembly (Figures 23, 24)

• P/N: 200925-02

• S/N 115S1212000603

• FD Label: L14

• MFG date: 3/19/12

• Overall condition was good, dirty

• All airline connections were secure with no sign of 

heat damage

High Pressure Hose and Cylinder Attachment (Figures 

25, 26)

• Overall condition was good. No signs of heat 

damage on inside of high-pressure line attachment 

rubber cover. 

• Markings on cylinder attachment: 802228-15; 

0312

• Cylinder attachment threads good and “O” ring in 

place

• RIC/UAC system connector markings: Parker RGXN-05; 11NV

• High pressure hose marking: 0462P

• RIC/UAC system connector cover in good 

condition.

PASS Console Assembly (Figures 27, 28)

• Scott label: not readable

• Overall condition good, dirty/sooty

• Lines in good shape—pressure/electrical

• Gauge lens good and readable

• Attachment present 

• SEI label present, 2007 edition

• HUD US Patent#: 5,097,826

PASS Control Module with PAK-Alert (Figures 29, 30)

• Scott label Pak-Alert SE7 : PN 200451-02, SN 

115S1201002309, MFG Date 1/4/12

• Scott P/N: 200451-01, -11; Pak-Alert SE7

• Scott P/N: 200451-02, -12 with Pak-Tracker 

• Pak-Tracker ID#: 00144226

• Overall condition was good, dirty with soot and 

debris

• Held securely to backframe

• Wire connection connected to PASS device

• Wire held secure to backframe and connected to 

console assembly

Backframe Assembly (Figures 31, 32)

• SEI label present, 2007 ed

• NIOSH label TC-13F-212CBRN

• Backframe assembly P/N: 200275-01

• Other marking: three additional labels: L14, 

Industrial protection services flow tested 12/13, 

• Overall condition good, no bends/cracks in wire 

frame, or plate

• Shoulder straps were attached to the frame

• Cylinder strap latch good condition, functional

Straps and Buckles (Figures 33)

• Overall strap condition good

• Both shoulder straps attached at the top of the 

backframe 

• Hose lines and wires passed through shoulder 

straps

• All adjustable buckles moved and held in place

• Waist area buckle latched and released

• Lumbar strap in good condition; no fraying shown

Compressed Air Cylinder and Cylinder Valve Assembly

(Figures 34, 35)

Minute Duration: 45 minute

DOT –Number: DOT-SP 10915-4500

TC-SU5134-310 

IL 704039

REE: 99

Scott Part number: 805588-AC0841

• Scott logo visible Luxfer L5G-501?

• Manufacture date: 2/2012
 TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 

7

• Overall condition was fair, minimal surface 

scratches, but dirty

• Gauge was readable 

• Threads clean

• As received, cylinder valve fully closed with 

2000 psi air remaining

• Rubber bumper at base on cylinder valve 

was in good condition

• Rehydro label present: 2/17

• Info on stem: Not readable

• Other marking L1, L14

 
 

 TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 8

SCBA Testing

The SCBA unit was tested using the six NIOSH standard test methods and one NFPA test method as described in Table 1.

Table 1. Summary of results from testing SCBA Unit L43.

NIOSH Tests Description of Results PASS/

FAIL 

Positive Pressure Test - NIOSH Standard Test Procedure No. 120 42 CFR Part 84 Reference: 

Subpart H, § 84.70 (a)(2)(ii)

Requirement: 

The pressure inside the facepiece in relation to the immediate environment is positive during both 

inhalation and exhalation.

Procedure: 

A breathing machine with a 622 kg.-m./min. cam operating at 24 RPM with a 40-liter per minute 

flow rate (115 liters per minute peak flow) is connected to an anthropometric head for cycling. A 

pressure tap in the head is connected to a transducer which in turn is connected to a strip chart 

recorder for determining the pressure in the facepiece.

The unit did not meet the test requirement. 

The inhalation breathing resistance became 

negative approximately 10 minutes into the 

testing and remained negative throughout the 

remainder of the test.

*The PASS unit functioned and there was a 

HUD 

*The corresponding cylinder was used 

Inhalation Breathing Resistance: (inches of 

water column) = -0.2

FAIL

Rated Service Time Test - NIOSH Standard Test Procedure No. 121 42 CFR Part 84 Reference: 

Subpart F, § 84.53 (a) and Subpart H, § 84.95 (a) and (b)

Requirement: 

Service time will be measured while the apparatus is operated by a breathing machine as described 

in § 84.88. The open-circuit apparatus will be classified according to the length of time it supplies air 

or oxygen to the breathing machine. Classifications are listed in § 84.53.

Procedure: 

A breathing machine with a 622 kg.-m./min. cam operating at 24 RPM with a 40 liters per minute 

flow rate is connected to an anthropometric head for cycling. A pressure tap in the head is 

connected to a transducer which in turn is connected to a strip chart recorder for determining the 

pressure in the facepiece. The breathing machine is run until the inhalation portion of the breathing 

curve falls below the minimum requirement.

The SCBA did not meet the test requirement 

due to the pressure in the facepiece becoming 

negative. The test was stopped after the unit 

reached the rated service time of 45 minutes.

The PASS unit functioned during the test. The 

SCBA went negative on inhalation; therefore, 

it did not maintain positive pressure in the 

facepiece. 

Measured Service Time: 45 min

Test stopped after the unit reached 45 

minutes due to the pressure in the facepiece 

becoming negative.

FAIL
 

 TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 9

Static Pressure Test NIOSH Standard Test Procedure No. 122 42 CFR Part 84 Reference: Subpart 

H, § 84.91 (d)

Requirement:

The static pressure (at zero flow) in the facepiece shall not exceed 38 mm. (1.5 inches) water column 

height.

Procedure: 

The facepiece is fitted to an anthropometric head for testing. A pressure tap in the head is 

connected to a calibrated manometer. Full cylinder pressure is applied to the unit at zero flow and 

a reading from the manometer is recorded.

The SCBA met the test requirement. 

Facepiece Static Pressure: (inches of water

column) = 0.80 PASS 

Gas Flow Test - NIOSH Standard Test Procedure No. 123 42 CFR Part 84 Reference: Subpart H, § 

84.93 (b) and (c)

Requirement: 

The flow from the apparatus shall be greater than 200 liters per minute when the pressure in the 

facepiece of demand apparatus is lowered by 51 mm. (2 inches) water column height when full 

container pressure is applied. Where pressure demand apparatus are tested, the flow will be 

measured at zero gauge pressure in the facepiece.

Procedure: 

A pressure tap in the anthropometric head is connected to a manometer for determining when the 

pressure inside the facepiece is at zero. A mass flow meter is connected in line between the 

anthropometric head and an adjustable vacuum source to measure flow. The SCBA cylinder is 

replaced by a test stand which is adjusted initially to full cylinder pressure. The vacuum source is 

adjusted during the test to maintain the desired pressure inside the facepiece. Once the proper 

facepiece pressure has stabilized, a flow reading is recorded. The procedure is then repeated with 

the test stand adjusted to 500 psig.

The SCBA met the test requirement. 

Applied Pressure Air Flow (liters per min.)

4500 psig 362.5

500 psig 376.6

PASS 

PASS

Exhalation Resistance Test - NIOSH Standard Test Procedure No. 122 42 CFR Part 84 Reference: 

Subpart H, § 84.91 (c)

Requirement: 

The exhalation resistance of pressure-demand apparatus shall not exceed the static pressure in the 

facepiece by more than 51 mm. (2 inches) water column height.

Procedure: 

The facepiece is mounted on an anthropometric head form. A probe in the head form is connected 

to a slant manometer for measuring exhalation breathing resistance. The air flow through the 

apparatus is adjusted to a rate of 85 liters per minute and the exhalation resistance is recorded.

The SCBA met the test requirement. 

Exhalation Breathing Resistance: (inches of 

water column) = 1.95

Static Pressure: (inches of water

column) = 0.80

Difference: (inches of water column) = 1.15 PASS 
 

 TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 10

Remaining Service Life Indicator Test - NIOSH Standard Test Procedure No. 124 42 CFR Part 84 

Reference: Subpart H, § 84.83 (f) and Subpart G, § 84.63 (c)

Requirement: 

Each remaining service life indicator or warning device shall give an alarm when the remaining 

service life of the apparatus is reduced within a range of 20 to 25 percent of its rated service time or 

pressure.

This requirement is modified under § 84.63(c) as follows: For apparatus which do not have a method 

of manually turning off remote gage in the event of a gage or gage line failure the remaining service 

life indicator is required to be set at 25% ± 2% of the rated service time or pressure.

Procedure: 

A calibrated gauge is connected in line between the air supply and the first-stage regulator. The unit 

is then allowed to gradually bleed down. When the low-air alarm is activated, the pressure on the 

gauge is recorded. This procedure is repeated six times. The average of the six readings is 

calculated and recorded.

As these SCBA models do not have a remote 

gauge shutoff, the test requirement is 25% +2, 

-2, which is between 1215 psi and 1035 psi.

Electric Vibralert

Run # Alarm Point (psi) Alarm Point (psi)

1 1140 1140

2 1110 1110

3 1120 1110

4 1110 1110

5 1110 1110

6 1110 1110

 Avg: 1116 1115

The electronics did not work = PASS

Vibralert = PASS

PASS

PASS

 

 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Test (in accordance with NFPA 1981, 2013 Edition):

NFPA Test Description of Results PASS/

FAIL 

NFPA Air Flow Performance Test—NFPA 1981 (2013 Edition) Reference: Chapter 8, Performance 

Requirements, Section 8-1.1

Requirement: 

SCBA shall be tested for air flow performance as specified in Section 8.1, Air flow Performance Test, 

and the SCBA facepiece pressure shall not be less than 0.0 in. (0.0 mm) water column and not 

greater than 31⁄2 in. (89 mm) water column above ambient pressure from the time the test begins 

until the time the test is concluded.

Procedure: 

The required equipment specified in the NFPA standards were used to conduct the tests on this 

unit. A pressure tap in the head is connected to a transducer which in turn is connected to a flatbed 

chart recorder for determining the pressure in the facepiece.

The SCBA passed this test. PASS, HUD, and 

alarm systems were functional.

Maximum Facepiece Pressure: (inches of 

water column) = 2.7

Minimum Facepiece Pressure: (inches of 

water column) = 0.40 

PASS

s
 

 TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 11

SCBA Testing 

 The SCBA unit was tested using the six NIOSH test methods and one NFPA test method as described in Table 2.

 Table 2. Summary of results from testing SCBA Unit L14.

NIOSH Tests Description of Results PASS/

FAIL 

Positive Pressure Test - NIOSH Standard Test Procedure No. 120 42 CFR Part 84 Reference: Subpart 

H, § 84.70 (a)(2)(ii)

Requirement: 

The pressure inside the facepiece in relation to the immediate environment is positive during 

both inhalation and exhalation.

Procedure: 

A breathing machine with a 622 kg.-m./min. cam operating at 24 RPM with a 40-liter per minute flow 

rate (115 liters per minute peak flow) is connected to an anthropometric head for cycling. A pressure 

tap in the head is connected to a transducer which in turn is connected to a strip chart recorder for 

determining the pressure in the facepiece.

The unit did not meet the test requirement. 

The inhalation breathing resistance became 

negative approximately 11 minutes into the 

testing and remained negative throughout the 

remainder of the test. 

*The PASS unit functioned and there was a 

HUD 

*The corresponding cylinder was used 

Inhalation Breathing Resistance: (inches of 

water column) = -0.1 FAIL

Rated Service Time Test - NIOSH Standard Test Procedure No. 121 42 CFR Part 84 Reference: Subpart 

F, § 84.53 (a) and Subpart H, § 84.95 (a) and (b)

Requirement: 

Service time will be measured while the apparatus is operated by a breathing machine as described in § 

84.88. The open-circuit apparatus will be classified according to the length of time it supplies air or 

oxygen to the breathing machine. Classifications are listed in

§ 84.53.

Procedure: 

A breathing machine with a 622 kg.-m./min. cam operating at 24 RPM with a 40 liters per minute flow 

rate is connected to an anthropometric head for cycling. A pressure tap in the head is connected to a 

transducer which in turn is connected to a strip chart recorder for determining the pressure in the 

facepiece. The breathing machine is run until the inhalation portion of the breathing curve falls below 

the minimum requirement.

The SCBA did not meet the test requirement 

due to the pressure in the facepiece becoming 

negative. The test was stopped after the unit 

reached the rated service time of 45 minutes.

The PASS unit functioned during the test. The 

SCBA went negative on inhalation; therefore, 

it did not maintain positive pressure in the 

facepiece. 

Measured Service Time: 45 min

Test stopped after the unit reached 45 

minutes due to the pressure in the facepiece 

becoming negative.

FAIL
 

 TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 12

Static Pressure Test - NIOSH Standard Test Procedure No. 122 42 CFR Part 84 Reference: Subpart H, 

§ 84.91 (d)

Requirement:

The static pressure (at zero flow) in the facepiece shall not exceed 38 mm. (1.5 inches) water column 

height.

Procedure: 

The facepiece is fitted to an anthropometric head for testing. A pressure tap in the head is connected 

to a calibrated manometer. Full cylinder pressure is applied to the unit at zero flow and a reading from 

the manometer is recorded.

The SCBA met the test requirement. 

Facepiece Static Pressure: (inches of water

column) = 0.80 PASS

Gas Flow Test - NIOSH Standard Test Procedure No. 123 42 CFR Part 84 Reference: Subpart H, § 

84.93 (b) and (c)

Requirement: 

The flow from the apparatus shall be greater than 200 liters per minute when the pressure in the 

facepiece of demand apparatus is lowered by 51 mm. (2 inches) water column height when full 

container pressure is applied. Where pressure demand apparatus are tested, the flow will be measured 

at zero gauge pressure in the facepiece.

Procedure: 

A pressure tap in the anthropometric head is connected to a manometer for determining when the 

pressure inside the facepiece is at zero. A mass flow meter is connected in line between the 

anthropometric head and an adjustable vacuum source to measure flow. The SCBA cylinder is replaced 

by a test stand which is adjusted initially to full cylinder pressure. The vacuum source is adjusted 

during the test to maintain the desired pressure inside the facepiece. Once the proper facepiece 

pressure has stabilized, a flow reading is recorded. The procedure is then repeated with the test stand 

adjusted to 500 psig.

The SCBA met the test requirement. 

Applied Pressure Air Flow (liters per min.)

4500 psig 362.5

500 psig 376.6

PASS

PASS

Exhalation Resistance Test - NIOSH Standard Test Procedure No. 122 42 CFR Part 84 Reference: 

Subpart H, § 84.91 (c)

Requirement: 

The exhalation resistance of pressure-demand apparatus shall not exceed the static pressure in the 

facepiece by more than 51 mm. (2 inches) water column height.

The SCBA met the test requirement. 

Exhalation Breathing Resistance: (inches of 

water column) = 1.95 PASS
 

 TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 13

Procedure: 

The facepiece is mounted on an anthropometric head form. A probe in the head form is connected to a 

slant manometer for measuring exhalation breathing resistance. The air flow through the apparatus is 

adjusted to a rate of 85 liters per minute and the exhalation resistance is recorded.

Static Pressure: (inches of water

column) = 0.80

Difference: (inches of water column) = 1.15

Remaining Service Life Indicator Test - NIOSH Standard Test Procedure No. 124 42 CFR Part 84 

Reference: Subpart H, § 84.83 (f) and Subpart G, § 84.63 (c)

Requirement: 

Each remaining service life indicator or warning device shall give an alarm when the remaining service 

life of the apparatus is reduced within a range of 20 to 25 percent of its rated service time or pressure.

This requirement is modified under § 84.63(c) as follows: For apparatus which do not have a method of 

manually turning off remote gage in the event of a gage or gage line failure the remaining service life 

indicator is required to be set at 25% ± 2% of the rated service time or pressure.

Procedure: 

A calibrated gauge is connected in line between the air supply and the first-stage regulator. The unit is 

then allowed to gradually bleed down. When the low-air alarm is activated, the pressure on the gauge 

is recorded. This procedure is repeated six times. The average of the six readings is calculated and 

recorded.

As these SCBA models do not have a remote 

gauge shutoff, the test requirement is 25% +/-

2%, which is between 1215 psi and 1035 psi.

Electric Vibralert

Run # Alarm Point (psi) Alarm Point (psi)

1 1140 1140

2 1110 1110

3 1120 1110

4 1110 1110

5 1110 1110

6 1110 1110

 Avg 1117 1115

PASS

PASS

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Test (in accordance with NFPA 1981, 2013 Edition):

NFPA Test Description of Results PASS/

FAIL 

NFPA Air Flow Performance Test—NFPA 1981 (2013 Edition) Reference: Chapter 8, Performance 

Requirements, Section 8-1.1

Requirement: 

SCBA shall be tested for air flow performance as specified in Section 8.1, Air flow Performance Test, and 

the SCBA facepiece pressure shall not be less than 0.0 in. (0.0 mm) water column and not greater than 

31⁄2 in. (89 mm) water column above ambient pressure from the time the test begins until the time the 

test is concluded.

The SCBA passed this test. PASS, HUD, and 

alarm systems were functional.

Maximum Facepiece Pressure: (inches of 

water column) = 2.7

Minimum Facepiece Pressure: (inches of 

water column) = 0.44

PASS
 

 TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 14

Procedure: 

The required equipment specified in the NFPA standards were used to conduct the tests on this unit. A 

pressure tap in the head is connected to a transducer which in turn is connected to a flatbed chart 

recorder for determining the pressure in the facepiece.
 

TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 

15

Disposition of SCBA

Following testing on March 6, 2019, the SCBAs were returned to secure storage in Lab H1513 at the NIOSH

facility in Morgantown, West Virginia.

Synopsis of Findings

The SCBA units inspected and evaluated by NPPTL were Scott® Safety Air-Pak® Model 75, 45-minute, 4500 psi

units with NIOSH Approval Number TC-13F-212CBRN. The fire fighter was wearing one unit when the event 

occurred (L43). A second unit was provided for the victim during the rescue attempt (L14). One facepiece 

was used during the event, which was assigned to L43. The fire department provided a cylinder for testing

with both SCBAs. Overall, the SCBAs were in good condition. The NFPA approval label was present and 

readable. The PASS, HUD, and alarm systems functioned.

The SCBAs did not meet the requirements of the NIOSH Positive Pressure Test (NIOSH Standard Test Procedure 

120, 42 CFR Part 84 Reference: Subpart H, 84.70 (a)(2)(ii)), which made them fail the Rated Service Time Test 

(NIOSH Standard Test Procedure No. 121 42 CFR Part 84 Reference: Subpart F, § 84.53 (a) and Subpart H, § 84.95 

(a) and (b)). The units passed the NFPA “Airflow Performance” test and all the other NIOSH tests. 

The information obtained during this investigation does not suggest that the units contributed to the fatality. 

The SCBAs were returned to the shipping container to be shipped back to the Worcester Fire Department. 

If these units are to be placed back in service, the SCBAs must be repaired, tested, cleaned, and any damaged

components replaced and inspected by a qualified service technician, including such testing and other

maintenance activities as prescribed by the schedule from the SCBA manufacturer. Typically, a flow test is 

required on at least an annual basis.

CASE Conclusion

No evidence was identified to suggest that the SCBA units inspected and evaluated contributed to the fatality. 

NIOSH determined that there was no need for corrective action with regards to the approval holder or users 

of SCBAs manufactured under the approval number granted to this product.

Actions to be Taken by the Fire Departments With SCBAs Involved 

in an Incident

• Any SCBA unit involved in an incident may not be placed back in service until the SCBA has been

repaired, tested, cleaned, and any damaged components replaced and inspected by a qualified

service technician, including such testing and other maintenance activities as prescribed by the 

schedule from the SCBA manufacturer.

• All SCBA units, even those not involved in an incident, must undergo a flow test on at least an annual

basis.
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 16

Actions PPE Users, Selectors, and Purchasers May Take to Further 

Protect Themselves and Others from Hazards

• Sign up for NPPTL’s Listserv to receive email notifications relevant to PPE.

To request additional information about this report, contact NPPTL at ppeconcerns@cdc.gov, and reference 

NIOSH Task Number 22942 in your request. 

For more information related to personal protective equipment, visit the NIOSH NPPTL website

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/

To receive documents or other information about occupational safety and health topics, contact NIOSH:

Telephone: 1–800–CDC–INFO (1–800–232–4636) 

TTY: 1–888–232–6348

CDC INFO: www.cdc.gov/info

Or visit the NIOSH website at https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/

For a monthly update on news at NIOSH, subscribe to NIOSH eNews by visiting 

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/eNews/
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 17

Appendix: Photographs to Support Inspection Findings for SCBA

List of Figures

Figure 1: SCBA Units L43 and L14 as received............................................................................................................3

Figure 2: SCBA Units L43 and L14 as received............................................................................................................4

L43

Figure 3: Front of facepiece..................................................................................................................................... 18

Figure 4: Inside of facepiece.................................................................................................................................... 18

Figure 5: Facepiece headnet.................................................................................................................................... 19

Figure 6: Mask mounted regulator.......................................................................................................................... 19

Figure 7: Inside seal of mask mounted regulator and HUD .................................................................................... 20

Figure 8: Pressure reducer, top view....................................................................................................................... 20

Figure 9: Pressure reducer, label............................................................................................................................. 21

Figure 10: Cylinder attachment and RIC UAC connector ........................................................................................ 21

Figure 11: Cylinder attachment threads and O-ring and RIC UAC dust cover removed ......................................... 22

Figure 12: PASS control console.............................................................................................................................. 22

Figure 13: SEI label on back of PASS control console.............................................................................................. 23

Figure 14: PASS control module overview .............................................................................................................. 23

Figure 15: PASS control module sticker................................................................................................................... 24

Figure 16: Backframe .............................................................................................................................................. 24

Figure 17: Backframe showing cylinder attachment............................................................................................... 25

Figure 18: Straps and buckles on pack frame.......................................................................................................... 26

Figure 19: Compressed air cylinder......................................................................................................................... 27

Figure 20: Gauge, threads, cylinder valve, and rubber bumper.............................................................................. 27

L14

Figure 21: Mask mounted regulator ....................................................................................................................... 28

Figure 22: Inside seal of mask mounted regulator and HUD .................................................................................. 28

Figure 23: Pressure reducer, top view..................................................................................................................... 29

Figure 24: Pressure reducer, label........................................................................................................................... 29

Figure 25: Cylinder attachment and RIC UAC connector ........................................................................................ 30

Figure 26: Cylinder attachment threads and O-ring and RIC UAC dust cover removed ......................................... 30

Figure 27: PASS control console .........................................................................................................................................31

Figure 28: SEI label on back of PASS control console.............................................................................................. 31

Figure 29: PASS control module overview .............................................................................................................. 32

Figure 30: PASS control module sticker .................................................................................................................. 32

Figure 31: Backframe .............................................................................................................................................. 33

Figure 32: Backframe showing cylinder attachment............................................................................................... 33

Figure 33: Straps and buckles on pack frame.......................................................................................................... 34

Figure 34: Compressed air cylinder......................................................................................................................... 34

Figure 35: Gauge, threads, cylinder valve, and rubber bumper.............................................................................. 35
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 18

Figure 3: Front of facepiece

Figure 4: Inside of facepiece
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 19

Figure 5: Facepiece hairnet

Figure 6: Mask mounted regulator
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 20

Figure 7: Inside seal of mask mounted regulator and HUD

Figure 8: Pressure reducer, top view
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 21

Figure 9: Pressure reducer, label

Figure 10: Cylinder attachment and RIC UAC connector
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 22

Figure 11: Cylinder attachment threads and O-ring and RIC UAC dust cover removed

Figure 12: PASS control console
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 23

Figure 13: SEI label on back of PASS control console. 

Figure 14: PASS control module overview
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 24

Figure 15: PASS control module sticker

Figure 16: Backframe
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 25

Figure 17: Backframe showing cylinder attachment 
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 26

Figure 18: Straps and buckles on pack frame
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 27

Figure 19: Compressed air cylinder

Figure 20: Gauge, threads, cylinder valve, and rubber bumper
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 28

Figure 21: Mask mounted regulator

Figure 22: Inside seal of mask mounted regulator and HUD
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 29

Figure 23: Pressure reducer, top view

Figure 24: Pressure reducer, label
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 30

Figure 25: Cylinder attachment and RIC UAC connector

Figure 26: Cylinder attachment threads and O-ring and RIC UAC dust cover removed
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 31

Figure 27: PASS control console

Figure 28: SEI label on back of PASS control console. 
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 32

Figure 29: PASS control module overview

Figure 30: PASS control module sticker
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 33

Figure 31: Backframe

Figure 32: Backframe showing cylinder attachment 
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 34

Figure 33: Straps and buckles on pack frame

Figure 34: Compressed air cylinder
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 35

Figure 35: Gauge, threads, cylinder valve, and rubber bumper
TN-22942 Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department – Status Investigation Report 36

Disclaimer 

The purpose of this effort was to determine the conformance of a respirator to the NIOSH approval

requirements found in Title 42, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 84. A number of performance tests are

selected from the complete list of Part 84 requirements and each respirator is tested in its “as received” 

condition to determine its conformance to those performance requirements. Each respirator is also

inspected to determine its conformance to the quality assurance documentation on file at NIOSH.

In order to gain additional information about its overall performance, each respirator may also be subjected

to other recognized test parameters, such as National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) consensus

standards. While the test results give an indication of the respirator’s conformance to the NFPA

approval requirements, NIOSH does not actively correlate the test results from its NFPA test equipment

with those of certification organizations which list NFPA-compliant products. Thus, the NFPA test results

are provided for information purposes only.

Selected tests are conducted only after it has been determined that each respirator is in a condition that

is safe to be pressurized, handled, and tested. Respirators whose condition has deteriorated to the point

where the health and safety of NIOSH personnel and/or property is at risk will not be tested.