Quantitative Respirator Fit Testing through Dynamic Pressure Measurement
Abstract
Respirators are worn in industry and Armed Forces to reduce the inhalation of contaminants. These contaminants include vapors, gases and aerosols. The best protection, generally, is provided by a full-face piece respirator. Frequently, however a negative pressure half-face respirator of choice for lower costs, less burden on the user and less visual obstruction. This type of respirator covers the face from the bridge of the nose to underneath the chin. When the user inspires, a negative pressure is produced in the respirator cavity pulling air through the filters. Any contamination entering the respirator cavity, resulting in the user's exposure to this contaminant, is due to failure of either the filter or the face seal. In the half-face, negative pressure respirator, with replaceable filters, the incomplete face seal is generally the major cause of leakage. To determine the amount of leakage into the respirator cavity, several test methods have been developed. These methods can be categorized into two types, qualitative and quantitative fit test methods.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA187393
Entities
People
- David R. Carpenter
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology