What percentage of the SCBA air supply is considered the emergency reserve?

The emergency reserve of the SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus) air supply is defined as 33% of the total air supply. This reserve is crucial for ensuring that the user has enough air to evacuate the hazardous environment safely in case of an emergency. By designating 33% of the air supply as an emergency reserve, it provides a reliable buffer for unexpected situations, allowing users to exit safely without running out of air.

This percentage is a standard practice within firefighting and emergency response protocols, emphasizing the importance of safety and preparedness. Ensuring that one-third of the air supply is maintained for emergencies gives responders a well-defined margin of safety, reducing the risk of becoming incapacitated or trapped. Consequently, the correct percentage for the emergency reserve is 33%.