How long should you check for leaks while listening for air leaks and monitoring pressure indicators?

Monitoring for air leaks while using the MSA G1 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus is essential for ensuring the equipment functions properly and is safe to use. A duration of 10 seconds is widely recommended because it provides enough time for the individual to conduct a thorough and effective check for any leaks. This timeframe allows the user to listen carefully for hissing sounds, which may indicate a leak, and closely observe the pressure indicators to ensure they remain steady.

A shorter duration, such as 5 seconds, may not provide adequate time to fully assess the integrity of the system. On the other hand, extending the check to 15 or 20 seconds may be excessive, potentially leading to unnecessary delays in readiness, especially in emergency situations where time is critical. Therefore, the 10-second duration serves as a balanced approach, allowing for both thoroughness and efficiency in leak detection.