SEDL / STP / STP1561-EB / STP20120013

Risk Evaluation Approach for Polymers in Oxygen Breathing Systems

Chiffoleau, Gwenael J.
Wendell Hull & Associates, Inc., Las Cruces, NM

Newton, Barry E.
Wendell Hull & Associates, Inc., Las Cruces, NM

Forsyth, Bradley S.
Wendell Hull & Associates, Inc., Las Cruces, NM

Forsyth, Elliot T.
Wendell Hull & Associates, Inc., Las Cruces, NM

Pages: 12    Published: Nov 2012

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Abstract

An approach for fire risk assessment of polymers in oxygen breathing systems is presented. The approach separates the fire risk of polymers into the probability of ignition and the consequence (severity) of ignition. Recommended methods for estimating the probability of ignition, the severity of fire damage, and the severity of any toxic combustion product exposure are provided. The ignition probability and severity of fire damage are based on ASTM G63. The severity of toxic combustion product exposure is based on ISO 15001 and a new methodology developed as part of a toxicity risk research program. Consistent with international risk assessment standards for medical devices (ISO 14971), the approach then combines the elements of risk according to the risk evaluation method. To complete the risk assessment, mitigation strategies are also presented for various results of the risk evaluation.