Slice of History - Mask Training in 1957

Mask Training in 1957

In November 1957, Scott Aviation Corporation was invited to hold a training session next to the JPL fire station, demonstrating how to use their Scott Breath Air Pak. It was a full-face mask with attached air tank, in case of accidental release of fumes, gas, air pollutants, etc. The mask and tank were stored in a case that allowed easy access during an emergency. From left to right are: Robert Poynter, Chemistry; James Flannery, Scott Aviation; Jack Lawless and Roy Vincent, Plant Protection and Safety; and Julia Whittick, Chemistry. Photograph P-902B, CL#20-3604.

Original text from Lab-Oratory, December 1957, page 8

"AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION...you know the pitch. It's old but it never goes out of style. The best way to handle fumes, gas, air pollutants, etc., is not to have them in the first place. But if they do occur through accident you sometimes need some air -- fast! If it's in a tank and mask close by, you must be able to use it. Thus, the reason for the activity above, which took place next to the Fire House a few weeks ago.

Jack Lawless, Plant Protection and Safety (in the middle looking like an over-dressed skin diver) has been supplying customers to James Flannery, a representative of Scott Aviation Corp., for instruction on the proper procedure on handling the Scott Breath Air Pak. Left to right: Dr. Robert Poynter (Chemistry), Flannery, Lawless, Roy Vincent (Plant Protection and Safety) and Julia Whittick (Chemistry).