FAA Office of Aerospace Medicine
Civil Aerospace Medical Institute

Report No: DOT/FAA/AM-70/20

Title and Subtitle: Protective smoke hood studies

Report Date: December 1970

Authors: McFadden EB, Smith RC

Abstract: The report describes the evaluation and testing of a high-temperature resistant, transparent, polyimide hood designed to protect aircraft passengers and crew from the effects of toxic fumes, smoke and flame resulting from an aircraft accident. As a 'get-me-out' device, the hood was developed to provide protection of the respiratory system and maintain the occupant in a conscious and mobile state so that the aircraft can be evacuated before smoke and high temperatures render the cabin environment uninhabitable.

Consisting of a series of independent studies, this report encompasses contributions from the fields of physiology, psychology, and human factors. The general smoke hood concept is examined with respect to environmental protection, vision, hearing, safety briefings, and the effect of the hood upon vacuation efficiency.

Key Words: Protective equipment, Protective coverings--smoke, Evacuation, Physiology, Protective masks--smoke

No. of Pages: 72