Firefighter outfits and SCBA
What is being checked
The inspector is checking whether the complete arrangement for firefighter outfits and self-contained breathing apparatus is correctly located, maintained and understood by the crew expected to use it.
Ready onboard
0/6 completePractice questions
Answer aloud, then open the preparation point.
1How do you inspect firefighter outfits and self-contained breathing apparatus before use?
Check protective clothing, helmet, boots, gloves, lamp, axe, lifeline, face seal, cylinder pressure, low-air alarm and spare charges, then confirm the item is suitable for the intended hazard.
2Show the latest service status.
Match the physical identification and seal or marking to the service certificate and onboard inventory.
3How is this equipment used safely?
Explain correct donning, pre-entry checks, team control, communications, duration calculation and emergency withdrawal, including personal limitations and withdrawal criteria.
4What if an item is missing or discharged?
Replace it immediately with an equivalent approved item and record the defect and restoration.
5How do you know it is in the correct location?
Compare the fire-control plan, station marking, risk and approved inventory with the actual position.
Where an observation may arise
Required equipment was absent, obstructed or incorrectly located within the arrangement for firefighter outfits and self-contained breathing apparatus.
Inspection identified damaged PPE, low cylinders, leaking sets, expired tests, incompatible connections or missing spares.
Service, pressure test or consumable replacement was overdue or not traceable.
The approved plan or inventory did not match the physical arrangement.
Crew could not explain correct donning, pre-entry checks, team control, communications, duration calculation and emergency withdrawal.
The equipment or extinguishing medium was unsuitable for the identified hazard.
Past observations for practice
The lifeboat air cylinders were set to 200 bars working pressure. However, the air compressor was fitted with safety valve set to 330 bars.
Master's practical note
Select equipment from a remote station, not only the emergency headquarters. Condition and crew familiarity should be consistent across the vessel.
Equipment boundary and references
Equipment boundary: Use the approved inspection, demonstration and test method. Do not consume, contaminate, discharge or otherwise impair safety equipment solely to satisfy an interview.
References
- OCIMF SIRE 2.0 Question Library Part 1, Version 1.0, Question 5.3.1
- SOLAS Chapter II-2 regulation 10.10
- IMO FSS Code Chapter 3
Last reviewed: 2026-09-13