Speaker
Description
Specifying the correct respiratory protection equipment (RPE) for environments with potential for beryllium exposure is challenging due to the ultra-low permissible exposure limits (PELs), the high toxicity of the metal, and the need to integrate RPE into a broader, complex control program. Because beryllium causes chronic beryllium disease (CBD) and cancer, RPE must be carefully selected, fitted, and maintained to handle both particulates and potential exposure. In addition, the importance of engaging wearers is paramount to achieve wearer compliance and consistent performance.
Over several years, Sundström safety technical experts at have worked closely with safety professionals in the beryllium field to develop, trial, and deploy high performance PAPR units, product after service support and certificated employee training to protect employees potentially exposed to beryllium.
The objectives were not only to offer the most effective solutions, delivering the highest levels of protection, wearer comfort and sustainability, but also provide critical value to the beryllium industry by ensuring that high-performance respirators maintain their performance through rigorous, documented servicing while ensuring that wearer compliance is consistently maintained.
Sundstrom technical support engineers developed an effective solution for the beryllium environment and extended the lifecycle warranty of Sundström PAPR devices for up to five years in service. In this presentation we look at the challenges and successes of the process.