A quantitative respirator fit test system based on controlled negative pressure was evaluated by comparison testing with a computerized aerosol fit test system. Experiments ranged from multiple sequential tests of a single subject wearing a respirator equipped with a series of fixed leaks to sequential fit tests of 125 U.S. Air Force personnel using both systems. Throughout each test phase, measured negative pressure fit factors were consistently more conservative and less variable than aerosol fit factors. Comparison of subject and fixed leak fit factors indicated significant loss of aerosol during subject fit tests. Negative pressure system results did not show any effect from subject-related losses.
The Occupational Health Studies Group industrial hygiene studies at a group of 14 tire and tube manufacturing plants chosen to represent a cross-section of the industry include numerous evaluations of potential exposure to airborne particulate matter. Results of these environmental particulate sampling studies are reported by plant and by occupational groups within plants. High volume, open face and cyclone samplers were employed to evaluate both personnel and area particulate concentrations. The concentrations of particulates yielded by high volume and open face total particulate samplers are compared with those of comparison samples of respirable material. Personnel samples of particulates are compared with general air samples taken in the same work areas. An overall review and comparison is given of particulate exposures to workers in various occupational title groups where particulate materials are released to the air from processes or operations.
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