Comparing the effectiveness of negative-pressure barrier devices in providing air clearance to prevent aerosol transmission.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

To investigate the effectiveness of aerosol clearance using an aerosol box, aerosol bag, wall suction, and a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter evacuator to prevent aerosol transmission.

Methods

The flow field was visualized using three protective device settings (an aerosol box, and an aerosol bag with and without sealed working channels) and four suction settings (no suction, wall suction, and a HEPA filter evacuator at flow rates of 415 liters per minute [LPM] and 530 LPM). All 12 subgroups were compared with a no intervention group. The primary outcome, aerosol concentration, was measured at the head, trunk, and foot of a mannequin.

Results

The mean aerosol concentration was reduced at the head (p < 0.001) but increased at the feet (p = 0.005) w

SUBMITTER: Hung TY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8059829 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature