R&B R.A.T. Bag Field Manual: SOP for RIT Air Cylinder Transport

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R&B R.A.T. Bag Field Manual: SOP for RIT Air Cylinder Transport

Category: Tool Bags

Difficulty Level: Tier 4: Professional or Advanced Training Required

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Written by: Valerie Ellis Lavin

Quick Overview

The R&B R.A.T. Bag is a compact, hardened air cylinder transport system used by Rapid Intervention Teams to deliver a complete breathing air assembly to a downed, trapped, or out-of-air firefighter in an IDLH environment.

The R.A.T. Bag is engineered for the worst conditions a RIT operator will face: collapse zones, confined spaces, debris fields, and entangled hallways where a full RIT pack cannot be effectively maneuvered. Its "Tuff Bottom" molded drag plate enables low-friction movement over rebar and concrete, while the reinforced end drag strap allows single-operator transport with hands free. The 22 oz. red vinyl body and 3M Scotchlite reflective trim maintain visibility in smoke-filled, low-light environments. It is a delivery vehicle, not a complete RIT system, and must be deployed as a component within a broader RIT operation.

The main compartment is sized to contain a full air assembly, including cylinder, regulator, and facepiece, secured by three internal quick-release web straps that immobilize the cylinder and protect the valve during transport. A segregated top exterior pocket measuring 7 by 20 inches stages ancillary tools including wire cutters, rescue webbing, door wedges, and search rope, keeping them accessible without creating entanglement risk with the primary life support equipment.

Readiness for this system is non-negotiable. The department is solely responsible for sourcing, inspecting, and maintaining all life support components to NFPA, NIOSH, and manufacturer standards. The bag itself must be inspected every shift for hardware integrity, fabric condition, reflective cleanliness, and correct contents staging. Any compromise to the bag's ability to securely carry and protect its contents requires immediate removal from service.

Field Application Steps

1. CONFIRM CYLINDER READINESS: Verify the staged air cylinder is full and its valve is fully closed before loading. A cylinder with an open valve or insufficient pressure cannot support the rescue mission.

2. LOAD THE CYLINDER: Place the cylinder into the main compartment valve-end first. This orientation protects the valve and regulator connection during insertion and transport.

3. SECURE WITH INTERNAL WEB STRAPS: Fasten and tighten all three internal quick-release web straps until the cylinder is completely immobile. Movement during transport risks valve damage and compromises the air assembly.

4. STAGE THE REGULATOR AND FACEPIECE: Coil the regulator and facepiece assembly neatly and place them in the main compartment with hoses unkinked. Pre-staged equipment enables immediate presentation upon arrival at the victim.

5. VERIFY EXTERIOR POCKET CONTENTS: Confirm all specified ancillary tools are present and mission-ready in the top exterior pocket. Items such as wire cutters, rescue webbing, door wedges, and search rope must be staged before entry, not sourced on scene.

6. CLOSE AND SECURE ALL ZIPPERS: Close and confirm all zippers are fully secured before transport. An unsecured compartment creates snagging hazards and risks losing critical equipment in a debris field.

7. SELECT TRANSPORT METHOD BASED ON TRAVEL PATH: Upon entry, assess the route to the victim. Use web carry handles for movement through open hallways or stairwells. Transition to the "Tuff Bottom" drag plate and end drag strap for tight crawl spaces, debris fields, or confined spaces where a low profile is required.

8. MANAGE THE DRAG STRAP ACTIVELY: When dragging, maintain constant control and situational awareness of the connecting strap's path. The strap is an entanglement hazard in debris-laden environments and must never be left unmonitored.

9. POSITION THE BAG AT THE VICTIM: Place the R.A.T. Bag adjacent to the downed firefighter's torso and head. Announce clearly: "Firefighter, I am here to give you air." Proximity and communication reduce time to air supply transfer.

10. PRESENT THE AIR ASSEMBLY: Unzip the main compartment and remove the facepiece and regulator first, preparing them for immediate transfer. Access the exterior pocket tools only if disentanglement is required before the air transfer can be completed.

11. EXECUTE AIR SUPPLY TRANSFER: Follow department-specific protocols for emergency air supply transfer, including full mask swap or Universal Air Connection procedures. The R.A.T. Bag's operational function is complete once the equipment is delivered and accessible to the victim.

Equip Yourself: R&B The R.A.T. Bag – Rapid Air Transport RIT Cylinder Carrier

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER & SAFETY WARNING:
The information provided in this Luminary Global Field Manual is strictly for educational and informational purposes. It is not a substitute for formal medical, tactical, or professional training. In the event of a medical emergency, immediately seek professional help or contact emergency services. Luminary Global assumes no liability for the misuse of equipment, improper application of techniques, or any injuries/damages resulting from the use of these guidelines. Always rely on your official agency training, local laws, and established protocols during a crisis.