The amendment to the Rail Safety Act that was enacted in October, 2008 includes a provision for Emergency Escape Breathing Apparatus (EEBA) for all crewmembers on freight trains that carry hazardous materials that may become airborne. All rail carriers that fall under this requirement must be in compliance by April, 2010.
Click here for more information about the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008, Section 413. EMERGENCY ESCAPE BREATHING APPARATUS.
The North Model 845 Emergency Escape Breathing Apparatus (EEBA) is designed and intended to be used to supply breathable air for a limited period to permit emergency escape from oxygen deficient or other life-threatening gas or vapor atmospheres, at temperatures above -25°F (-30°C).
The Model 845 has a rated duration of 5 minutes, and is designed and intended for personal escape use only.
The North Model 845 provides an average flow of 40 liters per minute of breathable air for its rated duration and is intended for use in normal exertion escape situations. Examples of normal exertion would be walking or running on level ground.
The Model 845 consists of:
- an aluminum air cylinder with an integral cylinder valve and pressure gauge
- a detachable pressure reducing valve with an integral flow control orifice
- an air supply hose
- a transparent hood with an integral deflector system which forces the air to flow across the viewing portion of the hood
- a carrying bag in which the complete apparatus is stored.
With its portable, lightweight air cylinder and compact carrying bag, the EEBA is easily carried by the user until a life threatening atmosphere is encountered, and is then easily operated for an emergency escape. A quick, positive method of operation allows air to pass from the cylinder to a flexible and transparent hood which can be quickly slipped over the head without adjustment and offers protection to any wearer, even those with beards and spectacles.
