Analysis of Air Purifying Respirator Cartridges and Filters as a Determination of Occupational Exposure
Abstract
A worker's exposure to airborne contaminants can be measured by several methods. This research attempted to determine occupational exposure from the amount of contaminant deposited on respirator cartridges. The flowrate through the respirator was estimated by existing ergonomic and respiratory ventilation models. The respirator concentrations were compared with simultaneous breathing zone air samples. A respiration flow model was modified into 18 different variations depending on (1) the increase in oxygen required per increase in workload; (2) estimate of total ergonomic workload; and (3) the basal metabolic rate. Models were rejected if the required flowrate of oxygen exceeded the calculated maximum possible flowrate. Seven dust/mist samples and five organic vapor samples were taken during sanding and spray painting operations. Of the 18 models only 5 were acceptable. Dust/mist respirator results were 1.5 to 2.2 times less than the breathing zone samples. The results of organic vapor respirator cartridges did show countenance for this procedure in screening workplace exposures or estimating a respirator workplace protection factor. (SDW)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA222078
Entities
People
- Bryan E. Ramstack
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology