Self-Rescue Respirator

sketchfab

The self-rescue respirator used by mine rescue teams from 1950 to 1974 plays a crucial role in emergency situations. This vital tool consists of a filter attached to a mask that miners wear to safeguard their health when confronted with toxic fumes or contaminated air. Specifically, the device protects workers from carbon monoxide poisoning, which can occur in poorly ventilated areas where coal is being oxidized at low temperatures. To activate the respirator, users must pull the red belt inside the can and secure the mask on their face. Once activated, the device provides a 20-30 minute supply of oxygen, allowing miners to escape hazardous environments like those with toxic gases or contaminated air. The self-rescue respirator is typically worn on a harness attached to the miner's uniform and discarded after use. Created by Fabiënne Gerono, this remarkable object can be found in the Dutch Mining Museum in Heerlen, Netherlands.