Determination of average inspiratory pressures and flow rates in industrial respirators at various work rates

Abstract

This study determined the parameters which affect the internal mask inspiratory pressure and flow rate during respirator wear. The average inspiratory pressure and inspiratory flow rate were measured on 30 subjects who performed various submaximal work rates on a cycle ergometer while wearing air purifying respirators. The half-mask and full-face respirators were equipped with three levels of cartridge resistance. The results indicated that work rate, cartridge resistance, and mask type affected the inspiratory pressure and flow rate significantly. The findings of this study would allow the quantitative negative pressure respirator fit test to evaluate respirator fit over a wide range and representative of actual work condition.