What does NFPA 1981 focus on?

NFPA 1981 specifically addresses the standards for Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) used by firefighters. This is a crucial area of safety in firefighting operations, as SCBAs are essential for providing breathable air in hazardous environments where smoke, toxic gases, or other harmful atmospheres are present. By establishing guidelines for the design, performance, testing, and marking of these devices, NFPA 1981 ensures that fire service personnel are equipped with reliable equipment that meets safety standards, thereby enhancing their protection while performing their duties.

The other options, while relevant to firefighter safety and operations, do not fall under the purview of NFPA 1981. Safety gear for firefighters encompasses a broader category of protective clothing and gear, hazard assessment pertains to identifying risks in various environments, and emergency medical equipment focuses on tools used in medical emergencies, none of which are specifically addressed by NFPA 1981.