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The requirement for fire fighters involved in interior structural firefighting operations to use self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is rooted in the need to protect them from inhaling toxic smoke and gases that can be present in such environments. When fighting fires inside structures, the air can become hazardous due to a variety of combustion byproducts, including carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and other poisonous substances. SCBA provide a continuous supply of breathable air, ensuring that firefighters can perform their duties safely while minimizing the risks associated with inhaling hazardous materials.

Using an SCBA is crucial, as it not only supplies safe air but also mitigates the risk of suffocation or lung damage that can result from exposure to the dangerous atmosphere inside a burning building. This requirement aims to enhance the safety and survivability of firefighters in high-risk situations, ensuring that they are properly equipped to manage the unpredictable conditions they will face while performing rescues or extinguishing fires.