Measurement of carbon dioxide levels during use of ELSA and the effect of venting on these levels.
METHODS
A prospective, objective assessment of ELSA use, in order to determine whether venting of the ELSA influences carbon dioxide (CO2) levels.


METHODS
Inspired and expired CO2 levels.


METHODS
On board RFA ARGUS during Operation TELIC.


METHODS
10 volunteers had a baseline of inspired and expired CO2 levels taken. These levels were measured at one minute intervals during use of an ELSA in 3 conditions--sitting, jogging and jogging with venting.


RESULTS
There was no difference in expired CO2 levels between baseline and use of ELSA whilst sitting. Periodic venting of the ELSA made no difference to inspired and expired CO2 levels.


CONCLUSIONS
Venting of the ELSA during use makes no difference to CO2 levels whether inspired or expired. Therefore, venting is unnecessary and potentially wastes vital time during escape from a smoke-filled compartment and adds additional stress to the escapee.
Dekker
B J
BJ
RFA ARGUS.
Heames
R M
RM
Hughes
D J
DJ
Hett
D A
DA
Johnston
C G
CG
D000328:Adult; D001944:Breath Tests; D002245:Carbon Dioxide / Q000032:analysis*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008020:Life Support Care / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009326:Naval Medicine / Q000379:methods*; D011446:Prospective Studies
D002245:Carbon Dioxide