During a buddy SCBA check prior to entry, which item is verified to ensure a proper seal and fit?

• A. Facepiece seal and fit.
• B. Cylinder pressure.
• C. Regulator function.
• D. PASS status.

Answer: (A)

A proper seal and fit is what ensures the breathing air goes into the lungs instead of leaking around the mask. In a buddy SCBA check, you verify that the facepiece sits firmly on the face with the straps tightened so no air escapes at the edges. A seal check is typically performed by applying positive pressure (exhale with the exhalation path blocked) and sometimes a negative pressure test (inhale with the facepiece slightly collapsed) to confirm there are no leaks around the seal. If air leaks are detected, the mask needs to be refitted or the straps adjusted until the seal holds. While cylinder pressure, regulator function, and PASS status are important, they don’t confirm that the mask itself is sealing properly, which is essential for safe entry.