ISRP 2002 abstract
| Presenter/author | Title | Abstract |
|
Clayton,
M. P.* *) Health & Safety Laboratory, Sheffield, UK **) Health & Safety Executive, Merseyside, UK |
RPE Fit Testing Using a Controlled Negative Pressure Device |
The revision of the COSHH Regulations in
2002 will increase the demand for RPE fit testing. To assist in the
production of HSE guidance on RPE fit testing, a study was undertaken to
gain experience in the performance and general ease of use of a
controlled negative pressure fit testing device.
A series of tests were undertaken using both test subjects and a dummy head to determine the repeatability of this method. Tests were also undertaken to determine whether different breath hold techniques had an effect on the resultant fit factor. Measurements of fit were also compared to those obtained with the ambient aerosol method. The study found that the fit factors measured with the controlled negative pressure device were lower and less variable than those measured with the ambient aerosol method. The study also identified a number of parameters, including breath hold techniques and face mask exhalation valve leakage, which can have a significant effect on the resultant fit factor. The presentation will summarise the major findings of the study and the usefulness of the controlled negative pressure device for RPE fit testing. |