An Evaluation of Occupational Exposure to Hydrazine (H-70) during Routine Maintenance Tasks Associated with the F-16 Emergency Power Unit

摘要

During the week of 23 to 27 January 1978 , a survey team from the USAF Occupational and Environmental Health Laboratory conducted an analysis of maintenance tasks associated with the F-16 Emergency Power Unit (EPU). This analysis involved definition of tasks for both aircraft and hydrazine fill stand activities and included the collection of personal and short period air samples to define airborne exposure to hydrazine during these tasks. The tasks which were identified include: nitrogen depressurization, catalyst purge, poppet valve replacement and the entire refilling procedure. Measurements indicate compliance with a Time Weighted Average value of 0.1 ppm hydrazine, however, potential peak exposures which range as high as 5 to 8 ppm do occur during some tasks. A technician would be unaware of many such exposures since concentrations below the odor threshold of 3 to 5 ppm give no warning but are at least an order of magnitude above acceptable occupational exposure limits. Recommendations are provided for the elimination of these sources of potential peak exposure and for the use of personal protective equipment during specific tasks. (Author)