What is the O2 supply time of the PBE (Protective Breathing Equipment) regardless of workload?

The O2 supply time of the Protective Breathing Equipment (PBE) is designed to provide a minimum of 15 minutes of oxygen regardless of the workload. This safety feature ensures that crew members can manage an emergency situation, such as smoke or fire in the airplane, allowing them to breathe in hazardous conditions while they carry out essential tasks like evacuation or addressing an in-flight emergency.

Each PBE is equipped with an oxygen supply that consists of a canister which is specifically engineered to deliver this amount of oxygen efficiently. The 15-minute duration is a standardized time frame that ensures adequate protection, offering both enough time to respond effectively and a clarity of operation in an emergency scenario. This ensures that, even in high-stress situations where physical exertion might be necessary, the equipment remains capable of providing the required life support function.