COLD WEATHER OPERATION
SUGGESTED PROCEDURES FOR COLD WEATHER
OPERATION
Moisture can cause problems in respirators if it freezes.
However, moisture can cause freezing problems even if
the surrounding air is above freezing. This is due to air
flowing from the cylinder through the regulator drops from
cylinder pressure to close to atmospheric pressure very
quickly. As it does so it expands, causing the air and the
regulator to become colder. Although the surrounding
temperature may be warmer than 32°F, the temperature
inside the regulator may be lower. Any water inside could
turn to ice and restrict airflow.
1. To keep moisture from entering the Firehawk
Regulator. Stow the regulator in the stand-by mount.
2. When the respirator is away from heat, water spray
can freeze on the regulator surface. Ice can build up
and freeze the buttons and bypass valve. Before
entering or re-entering a hazardous atmosphere, make
sure the buttons and bypass valve are ice-free and
operating properly. Periodically, check the bypass to
be sure it is ice-free.
3. NIOSH certification requires a nosecup at tempera-
tures below 32°F. The nosecup reduces lens fogging
and must be used whenever freezing conditions are
encountered.
4. During cleaning, be careful to keep water from enter-
ing the regulator.
5. Thoroughly dry the facepiece and mask mounted reg-
ulator after cleaning and disinfecting. Follow
Confidence Plus® Cleaning Solution Instructions.
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