New self-rescue apparatuses arrived to Lazy

LAZY – Eight large crates appeared in the lamp room of the Karviná Mine’s Lazy Shaft. They contained new OXY K50S/AS self-rescue breathing apparatuses (“masks” in the vernacular of miners) manufactured by Dräger, Germany, which will replace existing Ukrainian ŠSS 1/PV models that have been in service for close to nine years.

“This is just the first consignment. However, all 2,300 masks should be replaced by the end of February,“ explains Lamp Room Supervisor Martin Schottek. Although the “Drägers” have the same weight as the previously used equipment, their shape is different. This means that new stowage shelves will have to be made and installed.

Compared to other breathing apparatuses, the new product has a different centre of gravity, better webbing (including a strap across the chest) and, first and foremost, a humidity indicator. “Now everyone can check whether his mask is tight enough. The indicator case is filled with violet-coloured granules which change their colour if the face piece does not fit tightly,” explains ZBSZ (Mine Rescue Service) mechanic ZBSZ Jiří Ščerba.

Another improvement of the breathing apparatuses are goggles, yellow-coloured and not unlike those used in snorkeling. “They are particularly useful in a smoke-laden environment,” notes the rescuer. Just like the previous masks, the new ones will protect the miners for 50 minutes. However, they will last a year longer. 

OXY K50S/AS

• a self-rescue breathing apparatus based on chemical generation of oxygen
• independent on ambient conditions, with a closed alternate breathing system
• used in emergencies to escape from danger areas
• dimensions (W x H x D) 210 x 260105 mm
• weight approximately 3 kg (unopened), or 2.4 kg (when used)
• minimum capacity of the breathing bag - 6 litres
• breathing support time - 50 minut
• maximum temperature of inhaled air - 55 °C

(Radek Lukša)