NFPA (Fire) 53

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Improve safety in oxygen-enriched atmospheres (OEAs) with the latest edition of NFPA 53, Recommended Practice on Materials, Equipment, and Systems Used in Oxygen-Enriched Atmospheres.

NFPA 53, Recommended Practice on Materials, Equipment, and Systems Used in Oxygen-Enriched Atmospheres, was created by industry experts to help ensure users have the vital information they need for the safe use of oxygen (liquid/gaseous) and the design of systems for use in OEAs. Designers, engineers, and facility managers in the health care, industrial, and fire service fields use this recommended practice to make it easier to select materials and components that can be used safely in these types of environments.

NFPA 53 applies to the following:

• Gas and compressed air supplies
• Medical applications, including home oxygen systems
• Spaceflight operations
• Industrial processes
• Welding applications
• Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
• Self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA)
• Underwater tunneling and caisson work
• Commercial and military aviation

Important distinctions were made in the 2021 edition of NFPA 53 to ensure safety in OEAs.

In this edition, annex material was provided to explain the differences in OEA thresholds between various standards and organizations. Revisions were made to help ensure SI/US unit conversions are available and accurate throughout the recommend practice. 

Help protect lives and stay informed about OEA safety with the 2021 edition of NFPA 53, Recommended Practice on Materials, Equipment, and Systems Used in Oxygen-Enriched Atmospheres. (Print, 68 pp., 2021)