A portable sampler (PARTRAP FA 52) for microbiological evaluation of airborne particles: comparison with standard sedimetric and volumetric methods in haemodialysis rooms

Experiments for microbiological evaluation of airborne particles were led in two haemodialysis rooms at the beginning and at the end of activity time (6 h). The efficiency of a new personal and portable aerobiological sampler in comparison with a fixed sampler and a traditional sedimetric method was evaluate. The personal and portable sampler allowed a good evaluation of concentration of bacteria and fungi per cubic metres of sampled air. Since its aspiration flow is equal to Minute Ventilation of an adult; this device provides a quantification of inhaled particles. We propose this device for evaluating the risk for patients and sanitary operators, for monitoring air quality and in implementing adequate environmental prophylaxis and for other applications, e.g. environmental applications.