What issue may occur if the SCBA facepiece does not fit properly?

A properly fitting SCBA facepiece is critical for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the breathing apparatus. If the facepiece does not fit properly, one of the primary issues that may arise is the potential for contaminated air to enter the mask. This can happen due to gaps or improper seals around the facepiece, which compromises the respiratory protection that the SCBA is designed to provide.

The facepiece is meant to create a tight seal against the face, and if this seal is not achieved, unfiltered air from the surrounding environment can enter, exposing the user to harmful gases, smoke, and other contaminants. This is especially crucial in hazardous situations where the atmosphere may be toxic or lacking sufficient oxygen, making a proper fit essential for maintaining the user's health and safety.

While other concerns, such as increased air consumption, ineffective communication, or the risk of the facepiece falling off, are also potential issues associated with improper fit, the most significant and immediate threat is the risk of inhaling contaminated air, which directly undermines the purpose of using SCBA in the first place.