Designing an improved respirator for automotive painters
In this study four types of respirators used by auto painters in a certain company were evaluated using gap analysis in twelve features specified by OSHA, work observation, and OSHA's fit test standard. Gap analysis showed that top reasons for dissatisfaction include odor filtration, strap adju...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | text |
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Animo Repository
2014
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/faculty_research/1770 https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/context/faculty_research/article/2769/type/native/viewcontent |
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| Institution: | De La Salle University |
| Summary: | In this study four types of respirators used by auto painters in a certain company were evaluated using gap analysis in twelve features specified by OSHA, work observation, and OSHA's fit test standard. Gap analysis showed that top reasons for dissatisfaction include odor filtration, strap adjustment, filtration of particles, and ease of breathing. Discomfort and poor fitting were cited as common reasons for not wearing respirators at work when users were observed. A prototype respirator was developed considering relevant facial anthropometry gathered from auto painters in the company. The new respirator used headband design for straps, silicone as material, and a single cartridge for odor filtration. The prototype was evaluated using the same methods employed in the evaluation process. The acceptability of the prototype was evaluated in twelve aspects. Results showed that users were significantly satisfied with the prototype in all features evaluated except for weight. The prototype was heavier than two of the respirators evaluated. The contour developed based on the facial anthropometry of users was able to lock the spaces along the side of the face sealing out harmful odor from the environment.Relevance to industry: This procedure described in this study may be used by respirator designers in developing new designs. Alternative ways of evaluating the comfort and effectiveness of respirators presented in the study may be used by companies in choosing respirators to buy in the market. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. |
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