What must supplied air respiratory systems be equipped with?

Supplied air respiratory systems are specifically designed to ensure the safety and health of individuals working in environments with potential hazards. One essential feature that these systems must be equipped with is escape cylinders. These cylinders serve a critical role by providing a breathable air supply for individuals in emergency situations, allowing them to safely evacuate from the hazardous area if the primary air supply becomes compromised.

Escape cylinders are crucial for ensuring that workers have a reliable alternative source of air, especially in confined spaces where oxygen levels may drop or toxic substances may be present. This safety measure is vital given that confined spaces can swiftly become dangerous, and having access to an escape cylinder can mean the difference between life and death.

The importance of having escape cylinders emphasizes that while other features—like quick fill attachments, high-pressure auxiliary cylinders, and demand valve capability—can enhance the functionality of supplied air systems, the presence of escape cylinders is a fundamental requirement for emergency preparedness.