Much has been written about, speculated on and even mandated as to what clothing materials are suitable for use in a hyperbaric chamber. This article provides some of the factual and practical considerations when selecting materials for chamber clothing.

All clothing fabrics burn, especially in the presence of elevated concentrations of oxygen. There are other considerations to take into account, including static-electricity control, comfort, fit, functionality, appearance, soil-resistance, laundering suitability and even control of dedicated clothing within a department.  However, the overriding consideration remains fire safety and this largely affects the final decision.

Objectives

At the conclusion of this review, the reader will be able to:

1. Understand that there is no ideal clothing material.
2. Have a degree of confidence in making a decision based on the best compromise between the relevant decision factors.
3. Place static electricity into context in the selection of clothing material.

Continuing Education

[CHT] This program has been reviewed and is acceptable for 0.5 Category A credits by the National Board of Diving and Hyperbaric Medical Technology.

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