Quick Donning Mask
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Quick Donning Mask is an emergency oxygen mask designed to be donned (put on) quickly, typically with one hand, within 5 seconds or less, to provide immediate oxygen in case of a sudden loss of cabin pressure or smoke/fume inhalation.
Purpose
Quick-donning masks are crucial safety equipment for flight crew, ensuring they can access and use oxygen quickly in emergency situations.
Design
- They are designed to be easily accessible and stored in a way that allows for quick retrieval.
- Many models feature an inflatable harness that inflates upon activation, allowing for a quick and secure seal.
- They are typically designed to accommodate prescription glasses.
- Some models are designed to be a "one size fits all" mask.
Function
- The mask is connected to the aircraft's oxygen system, providing a source of breathable oxygen.
- The mask can be used in different modes, such as diluter-demand (mixing oxygen with ambient air) or 100% oxygen.
- Some masks are designed to provide positive pressure, which is helpful in smoke or fume events.
Regulations
- Regulations require that flight crewmembers on flight deck duty be provided with quick-donning oxygen masks when operating at flight altitudes above a certain level (e.g., flight level 250).
- These masks must be able to be donned with one hand and within five seconds or less.
- After donning, the mask must not prevent immediate communication between crewmembers.
Examples
- AEROX offers quick-donning high-altitude diluter demand masks.
- Collins Aerospace provides quick-donning crew masks.
