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Performance of dust respirators with facial seal leaks. II. Predictive model

Journal Article · · Am. Ind. Hyg. Assoc. J.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5323525

A performance model for half-mask and single-use respirators is presented. It represents a possible alternative to field measurements of respirator performance. Experimental data on filter and leak performance given in Part I were used to develop a model that allows one to predict 1) the overall respirator penetration as a function of particle size for any work rate and 2) overall total mass penetration for any work rate and exposure aerosol-size distribution for a known respirator filter and facial seal leak condition. A simplified method based on general regression equations is presented that allows one to estimate these quantities based on QNFT (quantitative fit testing) measurements and a knowledge of the exposure aerosol size distribution. Example calculations are given for a situation in which QNFT gives a fit factor of 50 for a half-mask with dust, fume and mist filter cartridges, but predicted protection factors for various use conditions range from 20 to 81 depending on exposure particle-size distribution and work rate of the wearer.

Research Organization:
Univ. of California, Los Angeles (USA)
OSTI ID:
5323525
Journal Information:
Am. Ind. Hyg. Assoc. J.; (United States), Journal Name: Am. Ind. Hyg. Assoc. J.; (United States) Vol. 48:10; ISSN AIHAA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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