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Respiratory Protection Against Swine Flu
While the incidence of human to human infection has so far been limited, the outbreak of Swine Flu has raised concerns over the possibility of a flu pandemic. The following information is provided by Scott Health & Safety Ltd to assist individuals, specifiers or those providing respiratory protection to select or recommend the most appropriate equipment for protection against Swine Flu.
Scott recognizes the need for practical and comfortable respiratory protection solutions for those concerned about contact with and preventing the spread of infection in the event of an influenza pandemic. Scott manufactures a range of suitable respiratory protective equipment (RPE) that will meet the needs of medical staff and carers as well as individuals concerned about contact and infection.
Swine Flu is a viral infection. Protection against viruses, bacteria and other micro-organisms requires use of a particle filter. The highest efficiency is provided by a P3 filter.
CDC, WHO and HPA* have issued guidelines, particularly for carers, on precautions that should be used with regard to flu viruses. Current advice recommends use of P3 filtration, plus close fitting eye protection.
Scott RPE
The Scott Profile² is an economically priced half mask which accepts P3 filters from the Pro2 range, and is designed to fit comfortably with goggles and spectacles. Profile2 is offered complete with 2 x P3 filters, ready to use, in the “Medi-Pak”, the P3 Ready-Pak, and with a hood attached in the P3 LiteHood Ready-Pak. Masks and filters are also available separately. There are several other half masks using single or twin P3 filters available in the Scott RPE range.
An alternative to combining a half mask with close fitting eye protection is to use a full facemask which combines these facilities in a single item offering higher protection factors. The Scott Sari, Promask and Vision full facemasks offer a choice of designs and all accept the Pro2000 P3 filter, either front or side fitting.
If facial hair or other factors will prevent an efficient seal with these respirators then use of a powered respirator (PAPR) with hood should be considered. Scott offers a choice of Tornado and Proflow powered respirators with TH3 hoods, the highest protection class. Most appropriate is the T2, a lightweight soft-top hood. T2 is fully compatible with disposable overalls and other garments typically worn by medical staff and carers.
Application specific recommendations:
- Contact with potential sufferers:
Anyone concerned about contact with potential sufferers should use a half or full facemask with a P3 filter or a powered respirator system using a TH3 hood or TM3 mask and a PSL filter (the powered system equivalent to P3). The hood or full facemask option will alleviate any difficulty in comfortably combining a half mask and goggles, and is significantly more comfortable if use periods are longer than one hour.
- Carers:
Carers, medical staff and those involved with disease control activities are also more likely to find a PAPR with TH3 hood and PSL filter most suitable as powered equipment is significantly more comfortable to work in for periods over one hour, but the same choices apply. Eye protection, gloves and gown are again recommended.
*For further information, recommended actions and the latest advice refer to the Health Protection Agency, www.hpa.org.uk, the World Health Organisation, www.who.int, and the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov.
Scott Health & Safety is a unit of Tyco Fire & Security, a major segment of Tyco International Ltd. Tyco Fire & Security designs, manufactures, installs and services electronic security systems, fire protection, detection and suppression systems, sprinklers and fire extinguishes. With $11 billion in annual sales and more than 90,000 employees, Tyco Fire & Security includes more than 60 brands, which are represented in more than 100 countries. Its products are used to safeguard firefighters, prevent fires, deter thieves and protect people and property.
Tyco International Ltd. is a global, diversified company that provides vital products and services to customers in five business segments: Fire & Security, Electronics, Healthcare, Engineered Products & Services, and Plastics & Adhesives. With 2003 revenue of $37 billion, Tyco employs 260,000 people worldwide. More information on Tyco can be found at www.tyco.com.
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