Selection made easy The Zone range offers three distinct levels of ‘noise blocking’ protection to select from, with each ear defender simply labelled 1, 2 or 3 for a clear indication of attenuation performance. Zone’s high visual impact colour scheme not only contributes to improving the visibility of the worker in industrial environments, it also enables supervisory managers to instantly identify that workers are wearing adequate level of hearing protection for a designated noise zone.

Ease of selection is a key feature of Zone, which reduces the risk of under protection, resulting in hearing damage and over protection that can result in workers feeling isolated, failing to hear vital warning signals, or even having difficulty communicating. Workers with excessive levels of hearing protection often feel isolated and are more likely to remove ear defenders, exposing the inner ear to irreversible damage, which should be totally avoidable.

Passive, active listening (Alert Zone) and inbuilt AM/FM (Focus Zone) radio protection options, encourage appropriate selection for the application and exposure duration, helping to avoid the risk of dangerous short term removal.

Comfort Zone The Protector ‘Zone’ range is ideal for use over long duration’s, delivering a balance between comfort and safety. Lightweight designs with soft, supple cushion materials provide for an effective and essential seal between the face and the ear defender.

Available in helmet mounted, headband or neckband versions, Zone ear defenders are approved to acknowledged global protection standards (CE, ANSI & AUS/NZ). The Zone range offers total flexibility and can be integrated with head, face and eye PPE for comprehensive protection in many applications.

With regular maintenance, the cost effective, high quality and durable range of Protector Zone ear defenders will provide consistent high calibre attenuation performance over the product lifetime. To support customers, Scott Health and Safety offer a universal maintenance kit that includes replaceable cushions and first stage acoustic foam liners. Self adhesive antibacterial hygiene pads can be easily fitted to absorb excess moisture, extend ear cushion life and improve hygiene by preventing dirt and bacteria build up. Further information on the complete Protector hearing protection range click here http://www.scottsafety.com/categories/Hearing-Protection/2495.

The new Scott IRIS (Integrated Radio Information System) takes breathing apparatus protection to the next level. In its simplest form, IRIS can be used purely as an Electronic Monitoring Unit (EMU) with integrated man down alarm, or, by inserting a radio module, IRIS becomes a state-of-the-art Telemetry System. This system is ideal for the effective fireground monitoring of multiple fire-fighters during large or small scale incidents.

The Scott IRIS EMU delivers a number of key advantages to the fire-fighter over traditional SCBA. A highly visible, backlit, digital gauge makes information and signals easy to read and instantly recognisable icons have been utilised to aid intuitive operation. The large digital display provides the wearer with accurate information on air reserves, ambient temperature and time to whistle. This system is backed up by a fail-safe, integral pneumatic gauge, which allows the SCBA set to continue functioning even if the digital display’s batteries should fail.

Operation of the IRIS EMU couldn’t be simpler. The digital display awakens rapidly on the activation of air pressure or by simply removing the tally key from the Personal Alert Safety System / Automatic Distress Signal Unit (PASS/ADSU). The IRIS tally key has been designed to work in conjunction with existing Fire & Rescue Service tally board procedures to maintain a proven and trusted process.

Scott Health & Safety Ltd Security understands that one of the biggest problems fire-fighters encounter on the fireground is inadequate communications, particularly whilst wearing breathing apparatus. To help overcome these challenges, an optional IRIS telemetry module can be integrated into the EMU as an upgrade at any time. This telemetry module allows information to be sent between the IRIS Base Station and EMU in real time via radio waves, so that an Entry Control Officer (ECO), for example, is aware of and can take action on man down alarms quickly.

The IRIS base station will actively monitor up to 50 fire-fighters and transmits commands and signals to the fire-fighters individual EMU. Therefore as an incident develops the ECO can take control of the situation effectively by communicating individually, in groups or on mass as appropriate. Fire-fighters can also acknowledge that they have received the ECO’s command, which prevents the need for potentially unnecessary rescue action. For post event analysis, the base station can data log up to 50 users to ensure maximum efficiency and safety is improved.

The Scott IRIS telemetry module incorporates the unique and innovative ‘Ricochet’ feature that provides the fire-fighter with the best possible chance of receiving an evacuation signal from outside the fire ground. Even when out of range or when obstacles block an evacuation signal, every EMU can be utilised as a transmitter to bounce the signal to the nearest EMU within range, like a chain reaction until eventually any EMU outside the direct signal range receives the command.

The Scott IRIS electronic monitoring and telemetry system works in conjunction with the ProPak, Scott’s top of the range professional fire fighting SCBA which conforms to prEN137:2002 Class II or the Contour range of fire fighting SCBA. IRIS follows Scott’s breathing apparatus development ethos, which ensures that as functional and operational advancements are made to the range, an easy upgrade path is designed into the new products. Consequently, existing Scott or Sabre SCBA users can easily retrofit the EMU and PASS/ADSU to their current sets by swapping out their existing pneumatic gauge and whistle.

Full details of the Scott IRIS (Integrated Radio Information System) click here. http://www.scottsafety.com/products/Air-Supplied/IRIS---Electronics-and-Telemetry/4247

Avian influenza is a viral infection. 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.

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. Scott 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.

For details of the Scott PAPR range:http://scottsafety.live.x-rm.com/categories/Air-Purifying/Powered-(PAPR)/2490.

1. Contact with potential sufferers: Those concerned about contact with potential sufferers should use a half or full facemask with a P3 filter, or a powered respirator system using a hood or mask and a P3 filter. The hood or full facemask option will alleviate any difficulty in comfortably combining a half mask and goggles.

2. Carers: Carers are more likely to find a PAPR with Hood and P3 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.

3. Poultry Workers and Control Operatives: For those involved with disease control and eradication activities, or working with birds and poultry, or having to handle or dispose of them, exactly the same applies as detailed above, but they may additionally be challenged by decaying organic matter (bird carcasses or bedding), which would require combination AP3 filtration. Where ammonia is encountered from animal droppings or where it has been used to clear poultry houses a KP3 filter is needed. A multi-gas combination ABEKP3 filters is suitable for both uses.

For further information, recommended actions and the latest advice refer to the World Health Organisation website, http://www.who.intand the DEFRA website, http://www.defra.gov.uk

Procap can be combined and supplied with Scott Proflow SC and Protector Tornado PAPR’s as well as the Tornado T-A-Line, and is also available as a modular upgrade to existing users of these market-leading systems.

Procap features a high heat polyamide shell and offers a choice of visors and optional purpose built ear defenders. A balanced ergonomic design combined with a wide elastic face seal and leatherette sweatband ensures the product fits a wide range of users, whilst enabling the headtop to be worn comfortably for long periods and preventing associated neck strain.

A unique feature of Procap is the patented dual visor-glide system, which allows the user to smoothly retract both the inner visor and optional welding shield – thus affording maximum flexibility. Throughout this movement, Procap maintains its balance and weight distribution.

Another innovative feature of the headtop is the unique in-built seal located behind the visor edge. This is a silicone buffer, which sweeps the helmet free from contaminants, preventing ingress into the breathing zone when the visor is retracted.

The air supply is connected to the helmet via a freely rotating swivel hose joint, which quickly snaps and locks into place and is revolutionary for an integrated headtop of its class. Its design greatly increases freedom of movement and enables easier storage, cleaning and maintenance.

Procap utilises the high levels of flexibility afforded by the Proflow SC or Tornado respiratory protection systems offering the most advanced feature set available on any integrated helmet combination. Being waist mounted, quieter operation is guaranteed compared to systems using a head-mounted motor. The user can choose between the highest efficiency particulate, gas and combination filters or compressed air supply. Electronic airflow control, audible and visual filter and battery alarms are just some of the additional features provided on these two systems. The Prowflow SC/Procap combination also offers downloadable usage and service records. For further details on the Procap/Tornado combination click here http://scottsafety.live.x-rm.com/categories/Air-Purifying/Tornado/2487.

For details on Procap/Tornado Welding combination click here http://scottsafety.live.x-rm.com/products/Air-Purifying/Powered-(PAPR)/Autoflow/Procap-Weld/4435.

For information on the Scott Proflow/Procap combination visit http://scottsafety.live.x-rm.com/categories/Air-Purifying/Proflow/2536

To ensure a high degree of user acceptance, the Profile² is designed for long duration comfort and incorporates chin cup drainage channels to direct perspiration away from the face. Manufactured from an odourless, lightweight TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) proven to be non-dermatitic, the Profile² facepiece is extremely soft, moulding to the contours of the face for an efficient fit.

Profile²’s large diameter valves and carefully designed filter range provide extremely low breathing resistance, optimum protection and reduce wearer fatigue. The head harness incorporates an adjustable comfort cradle and neck buckle that distributes weight evenly, preventing head movement from interfering with the faceseal and avoids the straps feeling tight.

A central exhalation grill allows for clear and audible speech transmission. The low profile and swept back filters provide balance, an unobstructed field of vision and crucially, compatibility with other forms of Personal Protective Equipment.

Profile2 utilises the comprehensive new Scott Pro² TM range of highly efficient gas, particulate and combined filters that provide respiratory protection in a wide variety of applications. Every Pro² cartridge comes complete with a pre-filter holder cover designed with rear facing filter inlets that draw air furthest away from the immediate working area, maximising filter life. The holder also extends filter usage life by protecting against sparks, splash and contaminants. A hygiene storage bag is supplied with every mask, to protect and extend the products life.

Profile² half mask respirator from Scott - the cost effective fitting solution to respiratory hazards.

For further product info http://scottsafety.live.x-rm.com/products/Air-Purifying/Profile2/4143

Therefore, monitoring for the presence of VOC's - Volatile Organic Compounds - is critical in a number of situations and applications- whether for the purpose of confirming compliance with emission standards or providing personal protection from toxic levels in the work environment.

VOC's are predominantly organic chemicals which exist as a vapour at relatively low ambient temperatures and are among the most common pollutants emitted by the petrochemical industries. They are the cornerstone of an incredibly varied route to production of a wide array of industrial and domestic products such as de-greasers, dyes, fuels (distribution and utilisation), insulation, industrial solvents, metallurgical, paints, pharmaceuticals, plastics, printing inks and many, many others.

There are many markets and professions where VOC monitoring is not only useful but vitally important: industrial hygienists monitoring for compliance with legislated occupational exposure levels/ safety programme monitoring; environmental consultants/ contractors undertaking site surveys for waste or fuel remediation assessment; or even more critical, HazMat 'First Responders' requiring to assess and make decisions quickly and accurately at an accident scene or during enforcement operations.

The most common method of detecting VOC emissions is with Photo Ionisation Detectors (PID's), which typically uses ultra-violet energy to ionise VOC molecules as they pass across the sensor. The UV energy emitted by the sensor, excites the electrons in the molecules producing positive and negative ions. These charged ions conduct current across two collector plates and the size of current produced is proportional to the concentration of ions.

PID's will also respond to many toxic inorganic compounds such as:- Ammonia, Carbon Disulphide, Nitrogen Oxides, Arsine, Hydrogen, Phosphine, Bromine and Hydrogen Sulphide

Multi gas monitor with plug-in PID Sensor - the 'Spectrum' The PID sensor opens up a whole new 'Spectrum' of gas detection for the already versatile Scout multi-gas monitor from Scott Health & safety, by adding the capability to measure for VOC's at levels as low as 100 parts per billion (ppb).

All-in-one, the Scout offers many configuration options: standard confined space entry checks; flammable gas measurements in ranges of 0-100% Lower Explosive Level, 100% volume or ppm leak detection; Occupational Exposure Levels for a wide range of toxic gases, Long Term and Short Term; plus, VOC assessments.

Combining the Spectrum PID with the multi gas capabilities of the intrinsically safe Scout provides an instrument with all the features and benefits of several instruments in one easy to use cost effective monitor.

The Spectrum PID simply plugs into one of the Scouts four sensor ports to work alongside other toxic and flammable sensors. An additional feature of data logging, provides the option to download information to a PC for record maintenance either via a direct hard wire or an infra-red link..

The Scout Spectrum PID is a universal detector and monitors many different VOC's with great sensitivity, from 0.0 - 99.9ppm, auto ranging to 100 - 3000ppm, based on a primary calibration on isobutylene. For further information on the Scout click here http://scottsafety.live.x-rm.com/products/Gas-Detection/SCOUT/4177

A fit test is a test carried out to verify that a tight fitting respirator issued to a worker actually fits that person. Tight fitting respirators are those such as half masks, disposables and full facemasks, which rely on a tight seal to prevent leakage of contaminant.

Why do it?

Unless the mask fits the wearer, you cannot assume that it gives the quoted protection. A fit test helps to check that it does fit. Recent studies carried out by the UK Health and Safety Laboratory show that some female firefighters had been issued with masks that were far too big for them. Apart from the reduced protection, their comfort was compromised. Fit testing would have shown up the problem and allowed a better fitting mask to be selected.

Fit testing is an excellent way of demonstrating the correct way to put masks on and can assist wearer training.

In some countries fit testing may be a legal requirement.

How is it done?

There are two basic methods, qualitative (QLFT), and quantitative (QNFT).

Qualitative methods rely on the use of an innocuous contaminant, which can easily be detected by taste or smell. Examples of contaminants commonly used include saccharin powder, bitter agents such as Bitrex™, Isoamyl Acetate (banana oil vapour) and in the military, tear gas! This kind of test is usually quick and easy, and can be quite sensitive, however it does rely on the honesty of the wearer, and the tester being sufficiently experienced to generate the contaminant accurately.

Quantitative methods use a measurement of leakage, either by using a contaminant, which can be accurately detected or by measuring an air leak directly. Usually the leakage values can be recorded, and there is no reliance on the judgement of the wearer.

In both cases an attempt should be made to simulate normal activities, such as, a head movement and talking, so that it can be shown that the mask still retains an adequate seal.

Scott recommends only the quantitative Portacount™ method. This machine uses ambient aerosol particles as a challenge for the respirator. It is not widely known that there are usually upwards of 10,000 sub-micron dust particles per cc of air, and these make an excellent challenge aerosol for fit testing. The Portacount counts these particles and compares the concentration outside the mask with that inside the mask to get a fit factor. Fit factors up to 10,000+ can be measured with reasonable accuracy, and the results downloaded to a PC file. Mask adapters are available which allow a sample probe to be placed into the mask without modifying it.

How long does it take?

Typically less than 10 minutes.

Do I have to go to a special lab to get it done?

No, most of the fit test methods including Portacount are totally portable and the test can be done almost anywhere.

Does the result tell me how much protection I am getting? No, the test is merely a snapshot, and it just tells you the mask is fitting. Although fit is probably the most important factor in protection, there are many others which also have an influence. A number of studies have shown very poor correlation between fit factors and workplace protection, although it is certainly true that if your mask is a poor fit, you will not get the quoted protection from it.

Do I have to do it? In most countries there is no legal requirement, however it is required under OSHA regulations in the USA, and in the UK it is required for all asbestos workers under the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations. It is soon expected to become a general requirement under the Approved Code of Practice for the COSHH regulations in the UK too. Certain other countries have some provision, and it is generally becoming recognised as best practice.

How often does it need doing?

There is usually no specific requirement, but the test will need to be repeated if there is a change of model of mask, or if the facial features change markedly. Scott would recommend a repeat test approximately every two years as a way of reinforcing training and keeping records up to date.

Do I use a test mask, or my own mask?

If you use your own mask, the test may show up maintenance or cleaning problems with it. This might mean you fail even if the mask actually fits OK. If you use your own mask, make sure it well cleaned and maintained first. There is no problem using a test mask if you want to, it is perfectly valid, since you are just checking if that model and size fits you.

What factor do I need to pass?

Scott recommends a minimum factor of 100 for half masks, and 2000 for full face masks, for all exercises in the standard regime. This is in line with HSE requirements in the UK.

What do I do if I fail? First check that the mask is working properly; perform all the inspection checks described in the user manual. You will also need to make sure that there is no hair, stubble or any other object interfering with the seal. The Portacount method is sensitive to exhaled smoke particles, if you smoke, leave at least an hour between your last cigarette and the test. Make sure you are fitting the mask properly, follow the instructions, and use a mirror if that is helpful. Having checked all these factors, repeat the test. If it still fails, look firstly for an alternative size of mask. It may be also that you need to consider another model of mask completely. Don’t forget you cannot use conventional spectacles with full-face masks; if you need glasses, you will need a special frame to fit inside the mask.

Where can I get this done?

Contact the mask manufacturer or supplier for details of organisations offering fit testing in your area. If you are using Protector or Sabre masks, contact our customer service department who will direct you to one of our recommended service providers. The Sabre training department also offers its own fit testing service.

How else can Scott help?

There is a huge choice of mask model and size options available from both Sabre and Protector. We can provide fit test adapters for these masks if you wish to arrange your own testing, or can arrange testing for you. If you would like a quotation, please contact our customer service department who will assist you.Top of page