Aerosol generating procedures (AGPs) release airborne particles and droplets that can increase the risk of respiratory infections. Nederman’s aerosol control solutions proactively help protect dentists, their patients and their employees from these airborne hazards.
Controlling Aerosol Exposure
The CDC’s National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends applying a hierarchy of controls to mitigate risk of airborne contaminants resulting for aerosol generating procedures (AGPs). While no single system can fully mitigate risk, the use of well-designed engineering controls, as a part of a multi-tiered safety strategy and independent working interactions, can significantly reduce worker exposure to hazardous aerosols. Nederman offers a highly effective, source capture aerosol control solution that aligns with relevant health and safety organization recommendations.
Source Capture – The Most Effective Engineering Control
Common approaches to indoor air quality are based on ambient air cleaning with air-change schedules by the HVAC system or by adding auxiliary air cleaning equipment. While these techniques may be effective over time, this approach does not remove the immediate worker exposure to aerosols.
https://www.nederman.com/en-au/applications/aerosols-suction
Ambient Air Cleaning
• Relies on frequent room air volume changes
• Difficult to predict room air patterns
• Only filters what makes it into the system
• Does not protect worker breathing zone
Source Capture
Nederman’s source capture method is the most effective and energy efficient engineering control solution. An independent study found that the Nederman FX2 extraction arm achieved 100% capture efficiency with adequate air volume and proper hood positioning.
Capture Hood Options
Transparent hoods available based on dentist preferences or requirements
Planning Your Solution
Proper Hood Position – The ideal position for the hood is above the patients chest approximately 30 cm (12”) from the patient’s mouth at a slight angle pulling the aerosol away from the dental professionals.
Ceiling Mounting Location – Choose a location where the fully extended arm will be properly positioned but fully out of way when the arm is not in use. Additional Equipment – Review the motion of other equipment such as lights or tool carts to avoid potential interference.Installation – Work with a HVAC or mechanical contractor for the duct layout, local building adaptations and code compliance to ensure safe installation of the exhaust system.
Duct materials should be smooth, round, sealed industrial-grade duct made from a non-corrosive material.
1. Capture the aerosol at the source using a high air volume extraction (HVE) system with articulating extraction arm with well positioned hood.
2. Where possible, exhaust the captured aerosol safely from the building using a certified, High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter when necessary.
3. Where exhaust is not possible, filter the aerosol with a medical grade HEPA filter and recirculate within the room
A Trusted Solution
Maximum aerosol capture
Reduce patient and staff exposure to potentially infectious particles with an effective, source capture extraction method.
Permanent refined solution
Designed and engineered to as a lasting solution to aerosol with a smooth, aesthetic and durable design that matches medical office environments.
Installation flexibility
One size does not fit all. Configurable solutions allow offices to exhaust aerosols, filter the air stream or recirculate and can be adapted for single or multiple chair arrangements reducing the average cost per chair.
Low noise
Noise levels less than 60 dB, equivalent to a normal conversation, at the rated airflow.
Save valuable floor space
A secure, ceiling-mounted extraction arm maximizes valuable workspace and minimizes trip hazards.
Aesthetic design
A smooth and low-profile design to match medical office environments. Constructed of durable anodized aluminum.
Unique maneuverability
The FX2 extraction arms are highly flexible and simple to position, extend and retract.
The two outermost arm joints can rotate 360°. Position the hood exactly where required and lock in place without obstructing the dental procedure.
Always in the right spot
Flexible and simple to position. Outer joints can rotate 360° to position exactly where you need it.
Case Study – The Bila Muuji Mobile Dental Initiative
