MSA’s W65 Self-Rescuer and Ocenco’s M20 are prominent self-rescuers used across various industries, from mining to chemical manufacturing. Both offer excellent design, functionality, and overall reliability, so how can you ensure that you are buying the best solution for your operation?
MSA’s W65 Self-Rescuer: Breathable air
The MSA W65 Self-Rescuer is primarily designed for escape from environments where carbon monoxide is the immediate hazard. It uses a hopcalite catalyst to convert deadly carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide in a breathable air mixture, all contained in a device that is lightweight and provides protection for up to four hours, making it suitable for short-duration emergencies.
Stored oxygen self-rescuers provide an independent supply of oxygen, which is a significant advantage in environments where the air may be heavily contaminated or devoid of oxygen. This makes them particularly useful in situations where the ambient atmosphere is non-breathable due to pollutants or an absence of oxygen. These devices are designed to offer a reliable source of oxygen for durations that can extend from one hour to several hours, depending on the device’s capacity. This longer duration of support is ideal for prolonged emergencies where escape routes are lengthy or obstructed.
Ocenco’s M20: Stored oxygen
Ocenco’s M20 is an oxygen-generating self-rescuer, which sets it apart by providing a chemically generated oxygen supply rather than filtering or converting ambient air. This device is compact and offers up to 32 minutes of oxygen, which is generated regardless of the external atmosphere. Its broad application potential makes it suitable for a variety of industrial environments.
Breathable air self-rescuers do not carry their own oxygen but instead filter toxic gases and particulates from the surrounding environment. This design is beneficial in conditions where the air is breathable but contaminated with harmful gases or particles. These devices are typically lighter and less cumbersome than stored oxygen units, making them easier to carry and use, particularly in emergencies that require quick response and mobility.
MSA’s W65 Self-Rescuer vs. Ocenco’s M20
The M20’s advantage lies in its ability to function independently of the surrounding atmosphere, providing oxygen even in environments where the air is irrespirable. This feature makes it exceptionally reliable in varied and unpredictable conditions. On the other hand, the W65, while effective against carbon monoxide, does not provide protection against other toxic gases or oxygen-deficient environments.
The W65 provides a significantly longer duration of use (up to 4 hours) compared to the 32 minutes offered by the M20. This makes the W65 ideal for situations where a longer escape time might be necessary, such as in extensive underground settings. However, the quick activation and immediate oxygen supply of the M20 are critical in sudden emergency scenarios.
The choice between these devices often comes down to the specific industry and the nature of the potential hazards. The W65 is tailored for environments with a high risk of carbon monoxide exposure, typical in the mining sector. The M20’s broader protective capabilities make it suitable for a wider range of industries, including chemical manufacturing, where chemical spills or fires might create various toxic conditions.