Pittsburgh, PA – [Current Date: July 13, 2025] – MSA Safety, a global leader in firefighter safety equipment, has announced the launch of the new G1 SCBA XR Edition, an advanced evolution of its popular G1 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus. Unveiled at FDIC International 2025, the XR Edition builds upon a decade of continuous innovation, introducing key enhancements designed to improve firefighter comfort, operational efficiency, and overall safety, while also serving as the core of MSA’s Connected Firefighter Platform.
The original G1 SCBA has long been lauded for its integrated technology, ergonomic design, and comprehensive safety features. The XR Edition takes these strengths a step further, demonstrating MSA’s commitment to responding to the evolving needs of the fire service, particularly in areas of usability, contamination control, and seamless information flow.
Key Enhancements and Features of the G1 SCBA XR Edition include:
- Improved Breathing Air Regulator: The XR Edition features an enhanced breathing air regulator with a valve designed for easier grasping, even with gloved hands. This seemingly small improvement can make a significant difference in high-stress, low-visibility environments.
- Removable Soft Goods for Easier Cleaning: Addressing the critical concern of contaminant exposure in the fire service, all soft goods on the G1 SCBA XR Edition – including straps, the lumbar pad, and emergency and quick-fill pouches – are now removable. This facilitates thorough cleaning and decontamination, helping to reduce firefighters’ exposure to harmful carcinogens and other hazardous substances.
- Enhanced Ergonomics and Fit: The XR Edition introduces a shorter lumbar pad and a basic swivel lumbar, allowing the SCBA to sit closer to the body. These adjustments contribute to easier donning and doffing, improve overall comfort, and provide a better fit for a wider range of body sizes. The design also leads to a slight reduction in overall weight, approximately half a pound, further enhancing maneuverability. Longer straps are also incorporated to accommodate diverse body types. The electronic-free G1 Facepiece minimizes weight and helps prevent snag hazards.
- Backward Compatibility: A significant advantage for existing G1 SCBA users is the backward compatibility of all new enhancements. This means departments can upgrade their current G1 units with the XR Edition features without needing to replace entire systems, providing a cost-effective pathway to enhanced safety.
The Core of the Connected Firefighter Platform:
Beyond physical enhancements, the G1 SCBA XR Edition stands as the central component of MSA’s Connected Firefighter Platform. This innovative system goes beyond simply delivering air, providing a seamless stream of critical information:
- Real-time Data Display: Firefighters can view essential data such as battery life, air pressure, and estimated time remaining directly on the G1 display or on a paired LUNAR Connected Device.
- Enhanced Communication: The XR Edition includes an integrated, noise-canceling voice amplifier and standard Bluetooth radio communications, eliminating the need for additional hardware.
- Situational Awareness: Situational awareness is greatly improved through an integrated thermal imaging camera (optional) or when connected to LUNAR, aiding navigation in low-visibility environments. When connected to LUNAR, critical SCBA data like air status, alarm information, and search status are transmitted to Incident Command, enabling confident decision-making during scene management.
- Long-Term Value and Adaptability: Designed for a 15-year lifespan, the G1 SCBA offers a strong return on investment. Its technology capabilities can be expanded through connectivity with other MSA equipment like LUNAR and are easily updated via software. The use of a rechargeable battery also eliminates the need for disposable alkaline batteries.
The G1 SCBA platform, with its 15 U.S. patents, has consistently prioritized firefighter safety, comfort, situational awareness, and operational efficiency. The XR Edition reinforces these foundations while introducing practical and impactful improvements that integrate seamlessly with a broader connected safety ecosystem.
Available for order since May 2025, the G1 SCBA XR Edition is set to further solidify MSA’s position as a leader in firefighter protection. By focusing on user-driven innovation and addressing key industry challenges through advanced connectivity, MSA Safety continues to equip firefighters with the advanced tools they need to perform their demanding duties safely and effectively.
For more information on the G1 SCBA XR Edition and the Connected Firefighter Platform, you can visit the MSA Safety website.
| Article by John S. Retsios | |
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John S. Retsios is a Health & Safety / Security consultant and trainer in personal protective equipment, with more than twenty years of field experience. He is also a specialist in equipment related to hazardous materials and emergency situations involving Haz.Mat & C.B.R.N.e. | https://www.linkedin.com |
