How much time do you have to don the PBE?

The correct time to don the Portable Breathing Equipment (PBE) is 10 seconds. This timeframe is critical in emergency situations, as the PBE is designed to provide vital respiratory protection when dealing with smoke, toxic fumes, or other hazardous atmospheric conditions. Rapid donning of the PBE is essential for ensuring that personnel can quickly and safely navigate environments that may pose immediate health risks.

The training emphasizes the importance of speed and efficiency in donning the equipment, reflecting the urgency of responding to emergencies. That is why 10 seconds is the standard; it allows enough time to secure the equipment without compromising the responder's safety or effectiveness. Other time frames, either shorter or longer, would not adequately prepare personnel to respond promptly to emergencies while ensuring maximum protection against exposure.