Common QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS about
EVAC-U8 Emergency Escape Smoke Hood




Does EVAC-U8 have an air supply?
EVAC-U8 is a filter respirator, and it contains no oxygen or compressed air. When you breathe through the filter, the incoming air is purified. Toxic gases such as Carbon Monoxide are filtered out. Unlike many inferior smoke hoods, EVAC-U8's uniquie one way exhalation valves and nose-clip system ensures you do not re-breathe exhaled air. A further benefit is the fact that each time you exhale, a slightly positive pressure is created within the hood. This keeps smoke and harmful chemicals away from the eyes, thus avoiding irritation.

How long does it last?
Under typical fire circumstances, depending on the density of smoke and the breathing rate of the user, EVAC-U8 will provide breathable air for up to twenty minutes. If you use EVAC-U8 in an actual fire or emergency, we will replace it free of charge.

What is the "Shelf Life" of EVAC-U8?
5 years from date of manufacture. Each unit is date stamped at the factory. After the expiry date, the unit should be replaced.

What if the unit is opened accidentally? Does this affect shelf life? Can you recharge it?
If the unit is opened and the "one time use only" sticker is broken, the unit should be replaced. Once the filter is exposed to atmosphere, a chemical reaction begins which will ultimately alter the chemical state of the filter from its original form. This reaction is caused by natural moisture present in the air we breathe. This reaction is common to all types of filtering respirators of this type. EVAC-U8 can not be recharged.

Can I travel with EVAC-U8?
Of course. It is easy to pack in hand luggage, can be a valuable travel aid, on airlines or particularly when visiting unfamiliar hotels, offices and public buildings where escape routes many not be immediately obvious.

Where should I place my EVAC-U8?
EVAC-U8 comes complete with a wall bracket which is easily mounted to Drywall using the screws provided. At home, the bedroom, is a good area, preferable close to your escape route. At the office, close to your desk or immediate work area, meeting rooms, in machinery spaces, close to escape routes or in control rooms, cabins, corridors, etc. EVAC-U8 can be carried easily in hand luggage when travelling.

Why would you put a plastic bag over your head to escape a fire?
Because it isn't a plastic bag! EVAC-U8's hood is made of a high-tech DuPont material called Kapton. It is heat resistant to 800 degrees Fahrenheit which is a far higher temperature than the human body can withstand. It is also resistant to wear and tear, and IT WON'T MELT!

How do you know that it works?
EVAC-U8 has been rigorously tested: first as it was being developed at BC Research at the University of British Columbia, and then at Miller Nelson Research Laboratory in California, USA. The toxic gases most commonly found in smoke have been tested on the filter to determine how long it will protect against each gas. EVAC-U8's filter performed against each individual gas for up to twenty minutes before breakthrough was experienced.

How do you know how to test it? Is it certified or UL approved?
There are no performance standards or certification available for personal civilian respirators or smoke hoods in North America. However, there are standards for this type of product in Europe (EN403), Australia and Japan. EVAC-U8 has therefore been developed to meet the smoke and gas testing requirements of these countries. At the same time, it is pursuing the establishment of an industry standard for emergency escape smoke hoods in North America. Meanwhile, it should be noted that EVAC-U8 is manufactured under the ISO9002 standards which confirms products of the highest quality.

Are there any environmental considerations for safe disposal of EVAC-U8?
No. The EVAC-U8 may be disposed of as non-hazardous waste.



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