Page:Current Strategies for Engineering Controls in Nanomaterial Production and Downstream Handling Processes.pdf/61

 3.4.4.1 Filter Change–out–Bag In/Bag Out Systems

Bag in/bag out procedures are typically designed to protect workers performing maintenance on air filter change out. Bag in/bag out housings are specifically designed to allow for removal of a dirty air filter while minimizing worker exposure [Filtration Group Inc. 2012]. In these systems, a plastic liner is attached to a service port on the filter unit, as shown on the following page in Figure 19. When the filter is ready for replacement, the facility maintenance worker, wearing appropriate PPE, removes the filter into a liner. This process contains the filter with its contaminants so the worker is not exposed and the particulates are not resuspended in the workplace environment.

3.4.4.2 Spill Cleanup Procedures

An organized, clean workplace enables faster and easier production, improves quality control, and reduces the potential for exposure. It is important to maintain good general housekeeping practices so that leaks, spills, and other process integrity problems are readily detected and corrected. Proper practices regarding spills include:


 * Allowing only individuals wearing appropriate protective clothing and equipment and who are properly trained, equipped, and authorized for response to enter the affected area until the cleanup has been completed and the area properly ventilated.


 * Using HEPA-filtered vacuums, wet sweeping, or a properly enclosed wet vacuum system for cleaning up dust that contains nanomaterials.


 * Cleaning work areas regularly with HEPA-filtered vacuums or with wet sweeping methods to minimize the accumulation of dust.


 * Cleaning up spills promptly.


 * Limiting accumulations of liquid or solid materials on work surfaces, walls, and floors, to reduce contamination of products and the work environment.



Figure 19. Removal of a dirty air filter from a ventilation unit into a plastic bag to minimize worker exposure to particles captured by the filter unit (Used with permission from Filtration Group Inc. [2012]) 46