EASA SIB NM-13-34
O2 Corporation Low Pressure Flexible Oxygen Hoses
Summary
The FAA Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB: NM-13-34 addresses an airworthiness concern involving low pressure flexible oxygen hoses manufactured by O2 Corporation, used in various aircraft oxygen systems. The bulletin highlights issues with hoses becoming brittle and failing, potentially compromising oxygen delivery to masks. It applies to hoses with base part numbers O2C20T1, O2C20T3, O2C20T5, O2C20T13, O2C20T14, O2C20T15, and O2C20T16, regardless of manufacture date.
What Changed
This bulletin introduces awareness of the potential failure of certain O2 Corporation low pressure flexible oxygen hoses and recommends inspection and replacement guidelines as outlined in O2 Corporation Service Letter 02-SL-001. It does not mandate regulatory action but encourages operators and design approval holders to review and enhance their maintenance and inspection programs for these hoses.
Why It Matters
The condition of these oxygen hoses directly affects the reliability of oxygen delivery systems critical for crew and passenger safety. Failure to detect hose degradation could result in oxygen system failure during flight, posing a serious safety risk. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must be vigilant in inspecting and replacing these hoses to maintain airworthiness and operational safety.
What To Do
Owners and operators should follow the inspection and maintenance guidelines in O2 Corporation Service Letter 02-SL-001, paying close attention to hose condition and installation. Design approval holders should review their continued airworthiness instructions to ensure adequate procedures are in place for hose inspection and replacement. Periodic inspections are encouraged, considering that hose failures have been observed after eight years in service.