EEBD vs. EBS: An Essential Guide to Emergency Breathing Systems

Comprehensive understanding of emergency breathing equipment is essential. Among these critical tools are Emergency Escape Breathing Devices (EEBDs) and Emergency Breathing Systems (EBSs). While both provide life-saving oxygen in dire circumstances, their specific applications and design features differ significantly. Here are some key distinctions that every pilot, captain, crew, passenger, and professional in the field should understand.

1. Purpose and Use of These 2+ Types of Emergency Breathing Equipment

• Emergency Escape Breathing Device (EEBD): The EEBD is your lifeline in a hazardous atmosphere, such as a smoke-filled cabin or a toxic environment. It's designed for rapid deployment and provides a vital supply of breathable air and to facilitate a swift and safe evacuation. EEBDs, also known as escape respirators or emergency breathers, are used in commercial aircraft, marine, mining, military, and industrial settings where the risk of exposure to harmful fumes exists. They are very useful in confined spaces. They can also function as air-purifying respirators, filtering out contaminants rather than supplying oxygen. 

• It would also be helpful to mention a device called a self-contained self-rescuer or SCSR. SCSR’s are primarily used in mining and other underground environments, SCSRs are designed to protect against hazardous gases like carbon monoxide by providing oxygen for a limited time, usually 30 minutes to an hour. An EEBD would provide 5-15 minutes of air. Be sure to buy and deploy the right breathing system for your specific use. 

• Emergency Breathing Device EBS: In the unfortunate event of a water landing or crash, an EBS becomes an indispensable tool. Often integrated with life vests, an EBS delivers crucial air underwater, enabling personnel to safely exit a submerged helicopter, aircraft, or marine vessel and reach the surface. EBSs are essential for offshore helicopter operations, search and rescue teams, military operations, marine crews, and any aviation professional operating over water.

2. Design and Components: Engineered for Emergencies

• EEBD: Compact and easy to deploy, an EEBD typically comprises a small oxygen cylinder or a chemical oxygen generator connected to a mask or hood. Some models also incorporate air-purifying mechanisms for enhanced protection in toxic environments.
• Some EEBS may also utilize compressed air emergency breathing system.  Here is a great article to understand what a EEBD is and how it is used >>

• EBS: Designed for seamless integration with life-saving equipment, the EBS typically consists of a small compress air cylinder or bottle, a mouthpiece or mask, and a regulator to control airflow underwater. It prioritizes minimal bulk and maximum efficiency in a water emergency. Bottle can placed in EBS pouches and mounts for tactical vests and life vests.

Spotlight on a popular EBS: The Poseidon MKII EBS - 1.5, 2.0 and Carbon Fiber Bottles

The Poseidon MK II EBS is a trusted name in the world of Emergency Breathing Systems. Designed specifically for helicopter transport over water, it offers several key features:

• Compact and Lightweight: Easy to integrate with life vests and doesn't impede movement.

• Quick Water Deployment: Simple to activate, even in stressful situations.
• Reliable Air Supply: Provides up to 8 minutes of breathable air. Thoroughly tested to deliver a flow rate of 75 liters per minute.
• Comfortable Fit: Ergonomic design ensures a secure and comfortable seal.
• Reusability: Can be refilled and serviced for multiple uses.

For more information, you can view the Poseidon UBA MKII on the Emergency Breathing Systems website here.

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Spotlight on a Popular EEBD: The Ocenco M-20.2 EEBD

Ocenco M-20.2 EEBD is a widely used Emergency Escape Breathing Device in the maritime and offshore industries. Key features include:

• Extended Duration: Provides up to 20 minutes of breathable air.
• Ease of Use: Simple, one-step activation.
• Compact and Lightweight: Convenient for storage and carrying.
• Durable Construction: Resistant to harsh environments.
• Clear Visibility: Hood design allows for good peripheral vision.

3. Use Cases For Each Breathing Apparatus

• EBS: While critical for helicopter pilots and crew members flying over water, EBS systems also provide vital protection to these various professionals:
• Offshore oil and gas workers commuting by helicopter.
• Search and rescue personnel conducting marine operations.
• Military personnel involved in maritime deployments.
• Coast Guard and marine enforcement agencies.
• Commercial divers operating in underwater environments.
• Technicians servicing offshore wind farms.
• Fishermen and mariners traveling to remote locations.
• Underwater engineers and surveyors.
• Aviation safety trainers instructing in underwater escape procedures.

• EEBD: Uses vary and deal more with confined spaces
• Marine environments: EEBDs are standard equipment on ships and offshore platforms to protect crew members in case of fire or gas leaks.
• Mining operations: They are used to ensure safety in underground mines where air quality can quickly deteriorate due to fires, explosions, or toxic gas emissions.
• Military installations: EEBDs are used in various military operations, especially in confined spaces such as submarines or armored vehicles.
• Power plants: These devices are present in power generation facilities, where there is a risk of chemical exposure or fire.

4. Regulations and Standards: Ensuring Reliability

• EEBD & EBS: Both Emergency Escape Breathing Devices and Emergency Breathing Systems are subject to stringent safety regulations. EEBDs must adhere to international maritime standards, while EBSs are governed by aviation and marine authorities. These regulations ensure that these pieces of emergency breathing equipment function reliably when they are needed most.

5. Training and Usage: Preparation for the Unexpected

• EEBD & EBS: Proficiency in the use of these systems is crucial. Pilots, professionals and other users must receive comprehensive training on how to deploy these devices swiftly and effectively under pressure. For pilots, this often involves realistic underwater escape simulations to prepare for the possibility of a water landing.

Conclusion: The Right Tool, the Right Time

While both EEBDs and EBSs offer vital breathing support in emergencies, their specific applications differ significantly. An EEBD, also referred to as an escape respirator or an emergency breather, is your primary defense against hazardous, low oxygen and confined atmospheres, while an EBS, such as the Poseidon breathing system, is a lifeline in a water emergency especially for helicopters, aircraft and sinking marine vessels. Understanding their distinctions is crucial for pilots and professionals and anyone operating in these challenging environments.

If you have any questions or would like to place an order for Poseidon EBS systems, HEED 3 Emergency Egress Breathing Systems and other survival gear like aviation helmets and life rafts give us a call at 321-821-4724. 

*Bulk orders for agencies and government sales are also available.