Presentation of PREMEDIA
A software for estimating the service life of respiratory protective equipment (RPE) cartridge filters
PREMEDIA is a predictive calculation tool for estimating the service life of respiratory protective equipment (RPE) cartridge filters based on conditions encountered and specified by the user.
The purpose of this tool is to assist all occupational health and safety operators in determining a cartridge replacement frequency.
This first version is limited to calculating the service life for Type A and Type ABEK cartridges, which are recommended for exposures to gases and organic vapors with boiling points higher than 65 °C.
Prior to accessing the calculation tool, the user must be in possession of the following data:
-
Identification of the contaminant(s) (3 maximum)
-
Contaminant atmospheric concentrations (measured or estimated)
-
Ambient temperature and relative humidity
-
Estimated workrate(low, average, high)
-
RPE and cartridge characteristics (manufacturer, model)"
The calculation algorithm is based on the Wheeler-Jonas empirical model, complemented by tests conducted at the INRS laboratories.
Before resorting to wearing respiratory protective equipment, it is essential (and required by the regulations) to implement other prevention solutions, such as substituting hazardous substances or air treatment techniques (process enclosure, pollutant capture, room ventilation, etc.).
Usage of RPE is necessary when such measures are technically impossible to apply or are insufficient or require an implementation time.
Manufacturers have designed multiple types of RPE, each adapted to a precise, restricted range of usage situations.
A user may find himself or herself in a very hazardous situation, if the type of equipment selected is unsuitable or if the equipment was used beyond the limits intended by its manufacturer.
PREMEDIA will be directly accessed after acknowledging this warning message.