A Baseline Air Quality Assessment Onboard a Victoria Class Submarine: HMCS Windsor
Abstract
In 1998, as part of the management plan for the purchase of the Royal Navy (RN) Upholder Class Submarines (subsequently designated Victoria class), initiatives for submarine air quality were identified. This air quality study is a continuation of this plan; with the objective to obtain information to assist in confirming the status of the submarines and what future air quality management was necessary. This trial thus represents a baseline habitability evaluation of Canada's Victoria class submarines to confirm compliance with the current maximum permissible contaminant limits stipulated in the Air Purification Standard, BR 1326, and how that can best be achieved. To achieve this aim the study monitored the effects of: air purification capabilities (management of Oxygen (O2) and Carbon Dioxide (CO2)); routine housekeeping procedures (cleaning and cooking); lifestyle effects (smoking); system effects (engine, compressor and motor); and the effectiveness of snorting, the resulting air exchange and the reliability of monitoring instruments. Monitoring the atmospheric conditions has shown that under normal routine operational conditions, following standard operating practices and procedures, all contaminants found in the atmosphere were within limits set in BR 1326. However, when there are unexpected contributions of contaminants, such as the intake of engine backfire emissions, combustible by-products and key aromatics (i.e., Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene and Xylenes) remain within limits, but the total allowable organics limit is exceeded (40 mg/m3).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA473000
Entities
People
- Y. D. Severs
Organizations
- Defence Research and Development Canada