Cylinder and Cylinder Valve Assembly

Do all inspections and tests for SCBA cylinders in accordance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. DOT regulations require that composite cylinders be removed from service after the 15th year. This does not include cylinder valve assemblies that can be reused. Contact an MSA distributor or sales associate for more information about this policy.

For external and internal inspections of the cylinders, refer to the latest edition of CGA C-6.2, Standard for Visual Inspection and Requalification of Fiber Reinforced High Pressure Cylinders.

1.

Look for the hydrostatic test date on the cylinder approval sticker (located on the cylinder neck). Carbon-wrapped cylinders must be tested every 5 years.

2.

Make sure the needle and face on the gauge of the cylinder valve assembly are clearly visible and that the gauge stem is not bent.

3.

Make sure there is a rubber boot on the cylinder valve assembly. If the boot is missing, remove the cylinder from service until a new boot is installed.

4.

Make sure the dovetail feature on the cylinder valve assembly is not cracked or damaged. If the dovetail feature is damaged, remove the cylinder from service.