During impending decompression, which statement about the POC is accurate?

During impending decompression, which statement about the POC is accurate?

• A. The POC will automatically switch to battery backup
• B. The POC will not work
• C. The POC becomes a seating decoration
• D. The POC functions as normal

Answer: (B)

During impending decompression, the environment is about to lose pressure, and portable oxygen concentrators typically rely on a stable ambient environment and power to operate. As cabin pressure changes rapidly, the device may not receive enough ambient air to concentrate, its power supply can be disrupted, and many units aren’t rated for operation in a depressurized cabin. In contrast, the aircraft’s emergency oxygen system is designed to deploy immediately and provide breathable oxygen despite the loss of cabin pressure. For these reasons, the POC will not work in this situation.

During impending decompression, the environment is about to lose pressure, and portable oxygen concentrators typically rely on a stable ambient environment and power to operate. As cabin pressure changes rapidly, the device may not receive enough ambient air to concentrate, its power supply can be disrupted, and many units aren’t rated for operation in a depressurized cabin. In contrast, the aircraft’s emergency oxygen system is designed to deploy immediately and provide breathable oxygen despite the loss of cabin pressure. For these reasons, the POC will not work in this situation.