Measuring performance of a half-mask respirator in a styrene environment

A workplace protection factor (WPF) study was conducted with a half-mask air-purifying respirator during fiber glass boat production. Styrene was the measured analyte, and the geometric mean WPF found was 39.7. Analytical detection limits, sample contamination, and pulmonary elimination from previous exposures or from skin absorption were identified as important considerations that can bias the WPFs measured. There were significant differences in the mean concentrations found inside the respirator when analyzed by time period. An increase in the concentration found inside the facepiece cavity and a decrease in the WPF over time was found for people with three or four measurements. This indicates either a change in performance of the respirator over time or a bias from low-level exposures during the day or skin absorption.