What is the realistic duration of an SCBA air supply compared to its rated duration?

The realistic duration of an SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus) air supply is often much shorter than its rated duration due to various factors that influence air consumption. The rated duration of an SCBA is based on certain standard conditions, such as a calm and steady breathing rate under low work conditions. However, in real-world scenarios, several variables can lead to a quicker depletion of air.

Physical exertion is a primary factor—when firefighters engage in strenuous activity, their breathing rates increase significantly, which accelerates air consumption. Additionally, stress and the complexities of the emergency environment can also cause increased anxiety and rapid breathing. Environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity may add to the overall demand for oxygen, further reducing the available time.

Understanding this discrepancy is crucial for firefighters, as it reinforces the need for proper air supply management and frequent monitoring of remaining air to ensure safety during operations. Therefore, it's important to conduct regular training and drills that simulate realistic conditions to prepare for the variations in air supply duration in practical situations.