| Document ID (ISN) | 56945 |
| CIS number |
91-1938 |
| ISSN - Serial title |
0002-8894 - American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal |
| Year |
1991 |
| Convention or series no. |
|
| Author(s) |
Crutchfield C.D., Eroh M.P., Van Ert M.D. |
| Title |
A feasibility study of quantitative respirator fit testing by controlled negative pressure |
| Bibliographic information |
Apr.1991, Vol.52, No.4, p.172-176. Illus. 25 ref. |
| Abstract |
The feasibility of using a direct measure of respirator leakage flow rate as a quantitative index of respirator face seal fit is explored through a new controlled negative pressure method. The method is based on exhausting air from a temporarily sealed respirator facepiece at a rate sufficient to generate and sustain a constant negative pressure inside the facepiece while the wearer holds his breath. The feasibility of using the new method to quantify respirator fit was assessed by comparing its performance with a quantitative fit test method based on use of dichlorodifluoromethane as a challenge agent. There was a high degree of correlation (r > 0.99) and no significant difference between the two methods over a range of controlled mask leakage rates. However, the new method does not require a destructive sampling probe. Other benefits include (1) ease of test administration, (2) simplicity of test components, (3) lack of a potentially toxic challenge agent, (4) a straightforward calibration procedure, (5) multiple test capability, (6) immediacy of test results, and (7) field portability of the test system. |
| Descriptors (primary) |
negative pressure application; leakage testing; equipment testing; respirators |
| Descriptors (secondary) |
facepieces; dichlorodifluoromethane |
| Document type |
D - Periodical articles |
| Country / State or Province | USA |
| Subject(s) |
Personal protection
|
| Broad subject area(s) |
Chemical safety
|
| Browse category(ies) |
Ventilation
Respiratory protection
|
