Protective fashions for bird flu

France : IFTH offers protective clothing expertise in managing Avian Flu July 7, 2006

Growing concerns for the risk created by the spread of the Asian Flu virus, rescue teams or professionals caring for animals are asking themselves the question on the choice of a protective garment adapted to the different activities that may bring them into contact with the virus: removal of dead animals, contact with droppings of infected birds, etc. For some punctual operations, choosing a disposable suit may be sufficient. But caution must be exercised in choosing equipment that offers suitable protection, because it may be dangerous to opt for a type 5 or 6 chemical protection suit. The qualification of this type of equipment does not allow verifying the barrier offered against exposure to infectious agents. It is thus recommended to apply the EN 14126 “Effectiveness requirements and test methods for protective clothing against infectious agents” reference database and to choose the type of contamination the garment will protect against: contamination by liquids and/or aerosols, and/or dust particles. IFTH, an organisation certified (no. 0072) for protective clothing, can assist manufacturers in their EC marking approach. Propose a technical analysis of test reports making it possible to qualify materials, a complete report on all controlled elements, followed by an assessment of possible additional tests to be carried out in order to obtain EC markings for the suits. IFTH, the essential partner in the technological evolution of Textile and Apparel. The Institut Français Textile-Habillement (French Textile and Apparel Institute) carries out general interest missions and provides private services. Prospecting for innovations, promoting and training in new technologies, IFTH guarantees quality and plays a role of consultant and expert among industrial companies, distributors, government agencies and consumers.

Institut Français du Textile et de l'Habillement