Industrial hygiene and the F-16 air combat fighter

This paper describes a program of mutual cooperation between a defense contractor and the line and medical service of the USAF in controlling potential exposures to hydrazine as it is used on the F-16 aircraft. The early involvement of USAF industrial hygienists in the evaluation of exposures to hydrazine during various maintenance activities is described. These efforts have led to an engineering design concept which emphasizes control of exposure and minimizing the potential for accidental exposure. Recognizing that the risk of an accidental exposure will never be reduced to zero, the USAF Medical Service has implemented a comprehensive program of medical surveillance and health education directed towards the work force responsible for maintenance of the F-16 hydrazine system.