IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Development of a procedure for measuring the effectiveness of filters for collecting nanoparticles

Abstract

The phenomenal growth in nanotechnology products is raising concerns about human exposure to the nanoparticles thus produced, which can pose health and safety risks for workers. Besides elimination at source or exposure reduction, ventilation (either local or general) and personal protection (particularly respiratory protection) are the means of control to be favoured in this context. The proper functioning of these processes is mainly based on filter efficiency. The aim of this project is to develop a method for characterizing respirator and ventilation system filters at different air flow rates. The method thus developed could also apply to the evaluation of the effectiveness of porous protective clothing. The results of this study will allow workers exposed to nanoparticles to be better protected and will contribute to the development of specific expertise, currently nonexistent in Canada.

Additional Information

Type: Project
Number: 0099-7920
Status: Completed
Year of completion: 2012
Team: