Approximately how long should a SCBA last in a typical situation?

A self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is designed to provide respiratory protection in environments that are immediately dangerous to life or health. The duration for which an SCBA lasts can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the tank and the level of exertion of the individual using it.

In a typical scenario, an SCBA is generally expected to last around 30-45 minutes. This timeframe assumes moderate physical exertion, as the breathing rate and oxygen consumption can significantly impact the duration of available air. When users are engaged in more strenuous activities, the duration may decrease due to higher oxygen consumption.

The choice indicating 30-45 minutes reflects an understanding of real-world applications where firefighters or emergency personnel operate under varying levels of intensity. This timeframe aligns with training and standards within the industry, making it a practical answer for most situations encountered during emergency response.