There is significant science behind evaluating the fit of respiratory protection. Have you ever heard of qualitative fit testing and quantitative fit testing? No? Let’s learn more. U.S. OSHA specifies approved procedures for both qualitative fit testing (QLFT) and quantitative fit testing (QNFT). There are several methods of QNFT – some involve measuring the concentration of an aerosol challenge agent
What is diacetyl? Diacetyl is also known as an alpha-diketone, 2,3-butanedione, or by its Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) number, 431-03-08. That's the science. Diacetyl is a volatile organic compound most known as a flavoring agent in microwavable buttered popcorn. What you may not realize, is that diacetyl is also produced naturally during coffee processing and in other food processing with
Properly addressing unique overhead anchorage and confined space entry needs can often require complex and expensive equipment. It can be challenging to visualize the correct solution before you purchase equipment. You don’t always have access to the equipment to do a set-up and see if it will work. It also takes a lot of time to see which group of
Isocyanates. Iso-what?? While you may not have heard of this before, it’s what makes paint stick and makes it possible to create such glossy, vibrant colors. Isocyanates are a class of highly reactive, powerful compounds that react with alcohol-based compounds to produce polyurethane polymers and certain solvent-based paints. Painters and Foam Blowers Take Note Jobs that may involve exposure to
Industrial shipbuilding requires large numbers of welders. The health and safety challenges that accompany this work can often include eye injuries, respiratory exposure to weld fume, and heat management. Historically, Newport News Shipyard (Newport News, VA) has utilized a number of individual pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) to help protect their welders. This includes passive welding helmets, grinding shields,
Coughing, hacking, phlegm, even things like ‘black snot’. These are real things that you are likely all-too-familiar with if you work in or around welding. If you’ve been welding a long time, or spend much time around welders, you may think these are normal effects from welding. That it’s your body’s way of keeping impurities out. However, this is not
