What type of respirator is classified as SCBA?

The correct answer is Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus, often abbreviated as SCBA. This type of respirator is specifically designed to provide breathable air in environments that are immediately dangerous to life or health, such as those with high levels of toxic gases, vapors, or particulate matter.

Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus units consist of a tank of compressed air that the wearer carries, along with a full-face mask or a helmet, allowing for maximum protection and mobility in hazardous situations. This makes SCBA essential for firefighters, emergency responders, and workers in industrial environments where air quality may be compromised.

In contrast, a Supplied Air Respirator provides fresh air from a separate source, which does not involve a self-contained system. Dust Masks and Particle Respirators, on the other hand, offer limited protection and are primarily intended for filtering out particulate matter rather than supplying breathable air in oxygen-deficient or toxic atmospheres. Thus, SCBA is uniquely suited for scenarios requiring a reliable and independent air supply.