What is the main risk of failing to inspect an SCBA cylinder before refilling?

The main risk of failing to inspect a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) cylinder before refilling is the potential for catastrophic failure. SCBA cylinders are under high pressure and are essential for ensuring the safety of firefighters in hazardous environments. If a cylinder has any deformations, cracks, or other types of damage that go undetected during an inspection, it poses a significant risk when the cylinder is refilled.

Under the pressure of a refill, a compromised cylinder can fail catastrophically, which could result in violent explosion and expose personnel to lethal hazards. This risk underscores the importance of regular inspections, as ensuring the integrity of the cylinder is crucial for operational safety and the well-being of the firefighters relying on those devices.

While inaccurate pressure readings, increased operational costs, and reduced air supply efficiency may stem from not properly maintaining or inspecting an SCBA, these issues do not present the immediate and severe life-threatening risks posed by a catastrophic failure. The primary focus, therefore, is on ensuring the physical integrity of the equipment to prevent dangerous situations during its use.