ISRP 2002 abstract
| Presenter/author | Title | Abstract |
|
Albers, T. TNO Prins Maurits Laboratory, Chemical and Biological Protection, Physical Protection |
Protection by Positive Pressure | Fire fighters and other emergency workers are often protected by a Self Contained Breathing Apparatus against harmful substances. Such an overpressure system should provide a high protection factor for a limited period of time. Recently, some Dutch fire fighters returned to their fire stations with black soot on their faces. This was a clear signal that their overpressure system had failed to protect them properly and these firemen were possibly exposed to harmful substances. Potential causes of the leakage were studied extensively, both in the laboratory and in the field. For the field study a special system was developed, which enables monitoring of the protection factor and the pressure inside the facemask during real-life exercises. The first laboratory and field trails indicate high protection factors and no signs of underpressure. Further field trails are planned to take place later this year. The presentation will feature an overview of possible causes of the leakage and the results of laboratory and field trails. |