AD/OXY/1 - Mask Rebreather Bag Security - Inspection and Modification

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, which were enacted by the Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia, serve to regulate civil aviation within Australia, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the nation's airspace. Part 39, specifically, addresses various safety directives and standards, with 107 focusing on the authority and oversight of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). This legislative instrument, F2006B11420, introduces the requirement for inspections and modifications of oxygen systems, particularly targeting the Scott constant flow mask assembly (semi-disposable) P/N 28302, as outlined in the Scott Mod Instruction No. 1-298 (Attachment to SL No. 485). The overarching policy objective is to enhance the safety and reliability of oxygen systems in aircraft, ensuring compliance within 100 hours of time in service after 30 July 1971.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, under PART 39 - 107, pertains specifically to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's schedule of airworthiness directives, focusing on oxygen systems. This regulation mandates the inspection and modification of the Scott constant flow mask assembly (semi-disposable) part number 28302, referencing Scott Modification Instruction No. 1-298, which is attached to Service Letter No. 485. This directive applies to aircraft operators and owners who utilise the specified oxygen system components, necessitating compliance within 100 hours of time in service following 30 July 1971. The regulation encompasses all aircraft registered in Australia and operating under Australian civil aviation law, thereby extending its jurisdictional reach across the Commonwealth. No specific exclusions or exemptions are mentioned in the text, and the applicability is direct without extension through subordinate instruments.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically under Part 39 - 107 (section 39.107), mandate the issuance of airworthiness directives concerning oxygen systems, including the Scott constant flow mask assembly (semi-disposable) P/N 28302. This directive, identified as AD/OXY/1, focuses on the inspection and modification of the mask rebreather bag security. According to the directive, compliance is required within 100 hours of time in service after 30 July 1971. The document Scott Mod Instruction No. 1-298 (Attachment to SL No. 485) provides the necessary details and guidelines for this inspection and modification process. The obligations under this directive are clear and specific. Operators and owners of aircraft equipped with the Scott constant flow mask assembly must ensure that the inspection and any necessary modifications are carried out within the specified timeframe. This involves a thorough examination of the mask rebreather bag security to confirm it meets the required safety standards. Operators must also keep records of the inspections and modifications performed, as these records may be required for verification by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) or during routine checks. Failure to comply with the airworthiness directive AD/OXY/1 can lead to serious consequences. Under section 39.107, non-compliance may result in the aircraft being deemed unairworthy. This can lead to enforcement actions by CASA, which may include grounding the aircraft until the necessary modifications are made. Additionally, operators who fail to comply with these directives may face civil penalties, including fines, and in severe cases, criminal charges. The exact penalties can vary, but they are intended to ensure that all safety standards are met to prevent potential hazards during flight operations.