Which device should be used in hazardous atmospheres?

• A. Portable radio.
• B. SCBA only.
• C. PASS (Personal Alert Safety System).
• D. Standard PPE.

Answer: (C)

In hazardous atmospheres, you need a device that actively communicates your status to the team and helps others locate you quickly. A Personal Alert Safety System (PASS) does exactly that: it continuously monitors your movement and, if you stop moving or you manually activate it, it emits a loud audible alarm and beacon. This immediate distress signal is crucial when visibility is poor, temperatures are high, or you’re at risk of becoming incapacitated, because nearby teammates can hear or see the alarm and pinpoint your location for rescue.

A portable radio is essential for communication, but it does not automatically signal distress or location if you’re unable to speak or move. SCBA provides breathing protection in contaminated air, yet it by itself doesn’t alert others to your status. Standard PPE offers protection but does not serve as a signaling device. Therefore, the PASS is the best choice for ensuring you can be quickly located and rescued in hazardous atmospheres.