The NFPA Technical Committee on Respiratory Protection Equipment has issued a Report on Proposals (ROP) for the proposed changes for the 2007 edition of NFPA 1981: Standard on Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus for Fire and Emergency Services. Comments on the ROP are being accepted through March 3, 2006.

The ROP proposes allowing interchangeability of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) breathing air cylinders and valve assemblies between the SCBA of various manufacturers. Noting that there are disadvantageous as well as advantages to SCBA interchangeability, the NFPA urges the emergency services community to review the proposed changes and submit comments reflecting one of three positions: 1) support of the proposed changes, 2) support of the concept of interchangeability but would like to see the proposed changes modified, or 3) opposed to interchangeability. Regardless of the positions they might support, the comments should include reasons or substantiation for positions taken.

To view additional information about NFPA 1981 go to http://www.nfpa.org/aboutthecodes/aboutthecodes.asp?docnum=1981