'Swine Flu' and Avian Influenza or ‘Bird Flu - suitable protection

 

SMH Products can provide practical and comfortable respiratory protection solutions for those concerned about contact with and preventing the spread of Avian Influenza or ‘bird flu’. SMH is a major distributor of a range of suitable RPE that will meet the needs of those working with birds and poultry, those involved in clean-up and clearance operations, medical staff and carers, and individuals concerned about contact and infection.

To find out more about what SMH can do to protect you from Swine Flu/Bird flue - click here


Respiratory Protection

Swine Flu and Avian influenza are viral infections. Protection against viruses, bacteria and other micro-organisms requires use of a particulate filter. The highest efficiency is provided by a P3 filter. Current advice from DEFRA (UK) recommends use of P3 filtration, plus close fitting eye protection, where activities result in high levels of airborne dust (DEFRA give examples of catching during thinning and broiler house clearing).

The Scott Profile2 is an economically priced half mask which accepts P3 and combination Gas/P3 filters from the Pro2 range, and is designed to fit comfortably with goggles and spectacles. Profile2 is offered complete with 2 x P3 filters, ready to use, in the “Medi-Pak”. Masks and filters are also available separately, along with other Ready-Pak’s with combination filters.
(Also pictured at the top of this page).

If facial hair or other factors will prevent an efficient seal with these respirators use of a powered respirator (PAPR) with hood should be considered. SMH offers a choice of Tornado and Proflow powered respirators with TH3 hoods, the highest protection class. Most appropriate are the T2, a lightweight soft-top hood, and T25, which also provides impact protection for the head and face. Both hoods are compatible with disposable overalls, also recommended by DEFRA along with wellington boots and surgical type rubber/vinyl gloves.


Personal Protective Equipment
Disposable Masks:
P2 Disposable Fold Flat mask
Carton of 20: Product Code: 517411
P3V Valved Fold Flat mask
Carton of 10: Product Code: 517414
Coveralls:
SMH recommends the Microguard® 1500 hooded coverall for protection against hazardous dry particles and effective liquid repellency.

Product Code: 517006
Eye Protection:
Clear polycarbonate lens, Direct ventilation for mist free vision
CE Approved to EN 166 1B
Product Code: 538006
Aprons:
Large PVC / Nylon, green:49x 36
Product Code: 538035
Gloves:
Vinyl Gloves, Blue:
Conforms to Department of Health Standard.
Gloves:
PVC Coated, Red:
Cotton interlock lining, knitted wrist.
Product Code: 528013
Disposable Head Cap/Cover
Made from soft polypropylene with stitched elastication around the edge.
Wellington Boots:
Black, general purpose
PVC wellington
Product Code: 538011
Steel toe+mid-sole:
Product Code: 538012
Disposable Overshoes:
Cast Polyethylene (CPE).
Integral elasticated opening, large 16" size
Product Code: 517042

Face-Fit Testing and Mask Servicing

SMH undertake a nationwide, on site, face mask face fit test service as detailed in HSE Regulations.
It is recommended that the initial selection of respiratory protection/facepieces should include a fit test.
This is to ensure that the selected respiratory protective equipment has the potential to provide adequate protection for the wearer.

Click here for more information


Swine Flu - Application specific recommendations:

  1. Contact with potential sufferers:
    Anyone concerned about contact with potential sufferers should use a half or full facemask with a P3 filter or a powered respirator system using a TH3 hood or TM3 mask and a PSL filter (the powered system equivalent to P3). The hood or full facemask option will alleviate any difficulty in comfortably combining a half mask and goggles, and is significantly more comfortable if use periods are longer than one hour.
  1. Carers:
    Carers, medical staff and those involved with disease control activities are also more likely to find a PAPR with TH3 hood and PSL filter most suitable as powered equipment is significantly more comfortable to work in for periods over one hour, but the same choices apply. Eye protection, gloves and gown are again recommended.

Links / Further Information
Respiratory Protection Against Swine Flu by Scott Health & Safety

For further information, recommended actions and the latest advice refer to:
The Health Protection Agency www.hpa.org.uk
The World Health Organisation www.who.int


Respiratory protection from Avian Influenza by Scott Health & Safety
For further information, recommended actions and the latest advice refer to the World Health Organisation web site, http://www.who.int/ and the DEFRA web site, http://www.defra.gov.uk/
Health and Safety Implications of Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease in Poultry (pdf)
 
If you can't view some of the documents available from this web site, click on this link to get Acrobat Reader.
Top of Page