When might SCBA breathing air cylinders need to be exchanged?

The need to exchange SCBA breathing air cylinders is primarily based on their capacity to ensure optimal performance and safety during firefighting operations. If the cylinder contains less than 90 percent of its capacity during inspection, it indicates that the air supply may not be sufficient for the duration of use, particularly in high-demand situations where air consumption is critical. This preventive measure ensures that firefighters have a reliable and adequate air supply, which is essential for their safety while operating in hazardous environments.

The capacity threshold is established to help ensure that upon deployment, particularly in emergency situations, the firefighters are not put at risk due to insufficient air in their SCBA. Maintaining the air supply above a certain percentage helps reduce the likelihood of emergencies arising during their operations, where access to safe breathing air may be compromised.

While cylinder damage and paint wear are important factors for maintaining SCBA equipment, they are not directly related to the immediate need for an air exchange based solely on air capacity, making the capacity criterion the most critical for assessing when an exchange is necessary.