A new learning and training technology for application of selfcontained breathing apparatus

Abstract

People guard their respiratory organs during fire extinguishing and life-saving using self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBA) and self-rescue devices. Learning and training of skills of using SCBA and self-rescuers have certain deficiencies. Despite detailed rules and requirements provided by the existing specification documents, SCBA training and mastering lack efficiency. Regarding the prevailing causes of this situation, first, the formalist approach to the specification compliance often consists in simple ticking on the plus side of the learning and training record and, second, there is a notorious ‘human factor’. In particular, in the course of massive learning and training, it is impossible to trace actions or psychological and physical response of an individual without attending each trainee with a personal and specially trained supervisor. The quality of training is however not guaranteed in this case. There is a high probability that a user unacquires the required skill and fails to use SCBA correctly in case of an actual accident. The peculiarities of learning and training are discussed, and the new technology and outfit are proposed. The technology and the recording simulator enable learning and training of people using SCBA in their work or in emergency response, ensures the maximum control and improves the unbiased appraisal of physical capabilities of personnel to enable correct selection and managerial decision-making. The information obtained using the proposed technology can make it possible to undertake anticipatory estimation and analysis of various performance scenarios, plans and routes of escape, evacuation and elimination of possible emergencies.