The apparatus consists of a yellow universal fit hood which provides protection in emergencies from toxic combustion, hazardous chemical substances, aerosols, and short term action of open flames and carbon composite cylinder manufactured to EN 12245/ PED Standard with 1 or 2-liter water capacity cylinder filled with air to 300 bar placed in the front pocket lying in the chest. The pressure gauge is fitted on the cylinder to give consistent readings to the user. The equipment is operated by the means of an ON/OFF handwheel allowing air to pass from the cylinder to the pressure reducing valve where it is reduced in pressure to approximately 5.5 bar (80 psi).

The air then passes through a flow control office and then via a flexible hose to the hood. The apparatus gauge should be checked once a week to see that the cylinder is full and ready for use. The apparatus needs to be operated every six months to ensure that it performs correctly.