A breath of fresh air
September 1st 2006

Ideal for use in industrial applications requiring either a short duration entry unit, airline emergency escape breathing apparatus, or dual function unit, the new Draeger Personal Airline System (PAS) Colt compact lifesaver offers a versatile solution to the problems associated with hazardous atmospheres.

Worn on the hip, this lightweight breathing apparatus incorporates a "drop down" feature which enables the cylinder to be un-clipped from the waistbelt. Providing additional manoeuvring capabilities in, for example, confined space entry applications or when escaping to rescue vessels on board ship, it also benefits from a smaller, lightweight cylinder and a sophisticated harness.

Suitable for use in extreme conditions and easy and quick to don, the lightweight harness has been specially designed to retain its form in a wide range of temperatures. Using an anti-static material that is inert to chemicals and oil, and impervious to most acids and alkalis, it also has a high resistance to abrasion and meets the requirements of EN137 heat and flame resistance. To reduce the risk of snagging and further improve the streamline design, the buckles follow the contours of the set and, for maximum wearing gloves.

Featuring state-of-the-art technology inherited from Draeger's advanced PSS range of professional firefighting breathing apparatus and approved to EN317 (short duration entry unit) and EN402 (airline emergency escape unit), the PAS Colt combines comfort with ease of use.

For instance the pressure gauge, which is located next to the cylinder at the hip in the entry unit configuration, is easy to see and provides the user with an immediate visual update of working duration. When used for escape purposes, either independently or in conjunction with Draeger's PAS AirPack 1 or 2 airline systems, the gauge is integrated into the cylinder valve to allow for easy periodical inspection.

Providing stability and quiet operation with first breath activation, the Plus Lung Demand Valve has a centrally located switch-off button and a tough wrap-around silicone cover which further accentuates the modern, streamlined shape and facilities easy handling. With state-of-theart pneumatics, it utilises a simple fail-safe reducer system which ensures excellent flow characteristics and provides a consistent air flow rate at all cylinder pressure levels. An optional low pressure whistle can also be provided for escape purposes as well as a ChargeAir port for easy, rapid refilling of the cylinder. As an added bonus, the cylinder can be recharged whilst being worn.

Compatible with cylinder configurations of 200 and 300 bar, it can be supplied with lightweight carbon composite cylinders and the Draeger Panorama Nova full facemask which combines maximum comfort with high visibility and performance.

Reflecting Draeger's ongoing commitment to user comfort and safety, the PAS Colt is designed with the user in mind and is the latest addition to the Draeger range of breathing apparatus, personal escape sets and gas detection systems.

More articles from Draeger Safety UK Limited: