New SCBA combines firefighter search-and-rescue capabilities, reduced weight and enhanced ergonomics
MSA Safety has launched the G1 City Edition SCBA, a new self-contained breathing apparatus designed to help fire departments locate firefighters more quickly during emergency search-and-rescue operations.
The latest addition to MSA Safety’s G1 platform integrates LUNAR Beacon Technology directly into the SCBA power module. The technology enables a LUNAR Connected Device to search for and locate firefighters wearing the G1 City Edition SCBA, supporting firefighter accountability and rapid intervention during critical incidents.
The G1 City Edition SCBA combines connected firefighter-safety technology with a lighter, more streamlined design and a range of enhancements developed from firefighter feedback and field experience.
Key features of the MSA G1 City Edition SCBA
Integrated LUNAR Beacon Technology enables LUNAR Connected Devices to help locate firefighters wearing the G1 City Edition SCBA during search-and-rescue operations.
Enhanced situational awareness through integration with the LUNAR search network, thermal imaging and FireGrid connectivity.
Reduced weight, including up to a half-pound reduction in standard configuration compared with the previous G1 model, as well as a lighter cylinder retention system designed to help reduce fatigue.
Firefighter-informed design improvements focused on comfort, usability and operational effectiveness.
Adjustable fit and simplified cleaning and maintenance features designed to support everyday use and long-term performance.
NFPA 1970 (1981 & 1982) compliance, meeting the requirements of the 2025 edition of the performance standard.
Advancing firefighter search and rescue with LUNAR
The G1 City Edition SCBA was designed to reduce the time needed to locate firefighters who require assistance.
Its integrated Beacon radio receiver is built directly into the SCBA power module. When a firefighter wearing the G1 City Edition SCBA enters an alarm condition, firefighters carrying a LUNAR Connected Device can use the system to help identify and move toward the firefighter’s location.
LUNAR is a handheld situational-awareness device that combines search-and-rescue capabilities, thermal imaging and connectivity. MSA Safety’s FAST (Firefighter Assist Search Technology) network provides directional information intended to help firefighters locate a colleague in an alarm condition more efficiently.
When paired with the G1 City Edition SCBA, LUNAR can support firefighter searches while also displaying SCBA air-pressure information and sharing data such as alarm status and location information.
This information can be transmitted through MSA’s FireGrid Monitor application, providing real-time visibility during emergency operations when data or radio connectivity is available.
“Firefighters tell us that accountability and the ability to locate personnel quickly during emergency situations are among their highest priorities,” said Steve Blanco, MSA Safety President and Chief Executive Officer.
“The G1 City Edition SCBA was designed to address those needs while enabling departments to integrate connected technologies into their operations. As the fire service evolves, we bring new safety solutions to market that meet our customers’ needs while advancing our mission of helping firefighters return home safely after their calls.”
Lighter design for greater mobility
Firefighters often operate for extended periods while wearing heavy protective equipment and working in physically demanding environments. The G1 City Edition SCBA incorporates several design changes intended to improve comfort, mobility and reduce fatigue.
A newly engineered lightweight cylinder retention system provides more than a 10% weight reduction compared with the standard G1 SCBA retention band. According to MSA Safety, the redesigned system maintains durability while supporting efficient cylinder changes and long-term reliability.
The SCBA also features a low-profile swiveling lumbar pad that reduces weight by up to a half-pound compared with a traditional adjustable swivel lumbar configuration.
The lower-profile design allows the SCBA to sit closer to the firefighter’s body while retaining the pivoting movement that allows the unit to move naturally with the wearer.
Together, these changes are designed to improve balance and comfort while helping reduce fatigue during extended firefighting operations.
Design improvements based on firefighter feedback
MSA Safety has incorporated a number of usability improvements into the G1 City Edition SCBA based on firefighter feedback gathered through years of field experience and product development.
These include:
Thicker regulator and cylinder-valve controls for easier operation while wearing gloves.
Redesigned, thinner shoulder pads.
Longer pull straps with larger end terminations to improve grip and adjustment.
G1 Facepiece harness enhancements designed to support smoother one-handed donning while wearing gloves.
Control module updates providing a continuous display of cylinder pressure and estimated time remaining.
These changes are intended to make the SCBA easier to operate in demanding conditions while improving overall firefighter usability.
Built on the G1 SCBA platform
The G1 City Edition SCBA builds on the electronics, connectivity and integrated design of MSA Safety’s G1 platform, which has been used by fire departments for more than a decade.
Powered by a single rechargeable battery, the system incorporates telemetry capabilities and supports connectivity across the MSA FireGrid ecosystem.
The G1 City Edition SCBA meets the requirements of the 2025 edition of NFPA 1970 (1981 & 1982), the consolidated performance standard covering structural and proximity firefighting.
With its combination of integrated LUNAR technology, reduced weight and firefighter-focused design improvements, the G1 City Edition SCBA is positioned as a connected respiratory protection platform designed to support firefighter accountability, mobility and emergency rescue operations.
