See Mike Busch's perspective on smoke hoods. Note: EVAC-U8 is no longer available.
The PLUS 15 is intended to be used as an escape filter hood in fire and smoke emergencies where oxygen exists in sufficient quantity to sustain life. Most fire situations contain sufficient oxygen. It is for a single use only. The PLUS 15 has been designed in consideration of testing done by recognized international regulatory agencies that have studied fires. The contaminants that the PLUS-15 will remove, are based on these international studies. A High Quality U.S.A. Made Smoke Hood That Fits In The Palm Of Your Hand Clear FEP Hood Offers Maximum Visibility 5 - 1/2 Year Shelf Life Lowers Replacement Cost Lightweight, Portable, Easy-to-Use One Size Fits Most Adults Cost-Effective Solution for Large Groups or Individuals Donning: The PLUS15 can be donned in less than 20 seconds. This includes the time to: remove the PLUS-15 and barrier puch from the nylon puch; removing the PLUS-15 from its barrier pouch; and placing the PLUS-15 over the head and positioning in front of the mouth and nose and tightening all fit straps. Oxygen: The PLUS-15 does not provide oxygen. The contaminated air is drawn through the filter, cleaned and delivered to the user. Do not use the PLUS-15 in an oxygen deficient atmosphere. Carbon Dioxide: Carbon Dioxide is introduced into the hood by the reaction of the carbon monoxide filter and by the breath exhaled by the user. Carbon Dioxide is removed from the hood when the user exhales, opening the exhalation valve adjacent to the filter and emitting air from inside the breathing zone. Carbon Monoxide: Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a toxic gas found in almost all fires. It is the by-product of incomplete combustion. The PLUS-15 protects against CO concentrations as high as 10,000 ppm for over 15 minutes. Inspection Method: The PLUS-15 is acceptable for use if the "Replace By Date" marked on the label of the barrier pouch has not been exceeded and the barrier pouch has not been punctured, torn or lost vacuum. Storage and Maintenance: The PLUS-15 may be stored at temperatures between 85ºC/185ºF and -30ºC/-20ºF. The only maintenance needed for the PLUS-15 is to inspect the barrier pouch for any tears, punctures, and loss of vacuum or gain in weight. If there is any damage to the barrier pouch or the pouch has lost vacuum or the unit is otherwise damaged DO NOT USE THE DEVICE. Materials of Construction: Hood Materials: Hood: FEP Film Neck Seal: Elastic Draw Chord With Synch Ball Adjustable Head Harness: Flame Retardant Nylon Nose Cup: FDA Grade Silicone Filter Materials: Filter Holder: Polycarbonate Particle Screen: Pleated N95 Filter Acid Gas Pack: Granular Activated Carbon Carbon Monoxide Removal: Granular CO Catalyst Challange Atmosphere: The PLUS-15 Filter Assembly has been tested against the following single toxic gases: Challenge Gas Concentration Allowable Breakthrough Actual Breakthrough Carbon Monoxide 10,000 ppm 200 ppm <30 ppm (24 min) Hydrogen Cyanide 400 ppm 10 ppm <10 ppm (60 min) Hydrogen Chloride 1000 ppm 5 ppm <5 ppm (170 min) Acrolein (Propenal) 100 ppm .5 ppm <0.5 ppm (50 min) Protects Against Carbon Monoxide