🔍 Key Concepts

• Normal operating position of the bypass valve on an SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus) • Purpose of the bypass/emergency air supply versus the mainline demand valve • How using the bypass affects air consumption rate and emergency use only procedures

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: under normal conditions, when the regulator and mainline are working correctly, should air be flowing continuously or only on demand? • Think about what would happen to your air supply and system safety if the bypass were left open during normal use. • Which position of the bypass keeps it reserved strictly for emergency operation if the main regulator fails?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify that the mainline valve controls normal on-demand breathing air. • Confirm that the bypass valve is intended for emergency use only, not routine breathing. • Consider which setting would prevent unintended continuous air flow and conserve the air supply for an emergency.