EVAC-U8 Emergency Escape Smoke Hood
Does EVAC-U8
have an air supply?
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.