N015

Civilian Protective System - CAPS 2000

Tamar Miller(1), Esther Krasner(1), Uri Alon(2)

(1) IMOD - NBC Protection Division, Hakirya, Tel Aviv, 61909, Israel.

Tel: +972-3-6977650 Fax:+972-3-6977683

e-mail:nbc_pd@mod.gov.il

(2) DEA R&D, Merkaz Sapir, Givat Shaul, P.O.Box 35242, Jerusalem, Israel.

ABSTRACT

CAPS 2000 is a new concept for civilian respiratory protection against CBRN hazards. The system is designed as a protective hood which is sealed around the neck and is integrated with a rigid optical visor allowing an almost natural field of vision. It was designed to provide the civilian population with a reliable high protection factor and increased physiological comfort regardless of facial structure and donning skill.

CAPS 2000 can become an overpressure system once connected to a personal blower. As a result the levels of protection and physiological comfort during extended use are significantly improved. This configuration of the system meets the mission requirements of first responders and military personnel.

The CAPS 2000 Israeli certification was obtained after various examinations and trials, including the testing of protection factor, respiratory safety and functional aspects. The system was subjected to trials in Israel, USA and the UK. In Israel it was examined as a primary civilian protective respiratory system for a war scenario and terror scenario as well. In the US it was tested as an escape hood designed for terror attacks.

The system's various features and advantages will be described in this proceeding. Furthermore, the different trials and their results will be discussed as well.