Pilot training and operational missions can be disrupted by respiratory or sinus issues. A grounded pilot not only loses valuable training hours but also directly impacts unit readiness. Protecting their respiratory health protects the mission.
Proper cleaning of oxygen masks significantly reduces pilots’ repeated exposure to pathogens and biofilm that can accumulate in both shared and personal use environments. It also removes debris such as hair, food particles, and other contaminants that can clog masks or inlets. After every flight, masks collect sweat, facial oils, skin cells, bacteria, and often makeup or lotion residue. When these contaminants are not thoroughly removed from internal hoses, valves, regulator connections, and mask cavities, buildup occurs rapidly.
Inhaling these residual contaminants can lead to sinus infections, bronchitis, throat irritation, skin rashes under the mask seal, and other forms of respiratory irritation.
Studies conducted by AGarvey in partnership with Air Force and Navy training facilities identified the following microorganisms persisting after standard cleaning: Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus spp. (CoNS), Coagulase-positive Staphylococcus spp., Micrococcus/ Kocuria spp., Bacillus spp., unidentified Gram-negative rods, Gram-negative cocci, and Coryneform bacilli.
These are opportunistic pathogens known to cause skin, eye, and respiratory infections—particularly when in prolonged close contact with the face and mucous membranes. Coagulase-positive and -negative staphylococci, Micrococcus/ Kocuria, and Coryneform bacilli are commonly associated with skin and soft-tissue infections and can cause more serious illness in stressed or immunocompromised individuals. Bacillus species and Gram-negative organisms can include toxin-producing strains capable of causing respiratory and systemic infections.
AGarvey’s Automatic Mask Cleaner (AMC) offers significant advantages over traditional manual cleaning methods. It delivers a deeper, more consistent clean that reaches crevices and hard-to-access areas. The system also reduces man-hours required for cleaning and eliminates personnel exposure to cleaning chemicals. The AMC is compatible with approved cleaning and decontamination solutions or can utilize AGarvey’s e-water generation system.
AGarvey, LLC strives to define its customers’ wants and needs and to deliver the best solution to the problem
