What is the term for when excessive air blows into the facepiece of a breathing apparatus?

The term for when excessive air blows into the facepiece of a breathing apparatus is known as "free flow of air." This phenomenon occurs when the airflow through the regulator exceeds what is required for normal breathing, leading to air rushing into the facepiece. This situation can arise due to various factors, such as equipment malfunction or incorrect regulatory settings. The presence of free-flowing air can pose challenges for the user, such as potential noise distraction and difficulty in maintaining proper airflow balance for effective respiration.

Understanding this concept is critical for firefighters and emergency responders, as they must be aware of their equipment's performance during high-pressure situations. Proper training on recognizing and addressing free flow situations ensures that users can maintain their safety and operational effectiveness while utilizing breathing apparatuses in smoke or hazardous environments.