Toxicology

Abstract

This chapter describes the many sources of air pollution that can affect crew health and performance, either immediately or later because of a subtle toxicological injury. Management of the risk of airborne exposure entails a risk analysis so that our limited resources can be targeted to managing the greatest risks. Major risks include excess offgassing from polymeric material, accumulation of anthropogenic pollutants, leaks from systems and payloads, pyrolysis events, external compounds and, under some conditions, celestial dusts. The risk of crew exposure from such sources is managed by suitable containment of the potential toxicants, a robust air revitalization system, air pollutant monitoring, and personal protective equipment for high-risk activities or contingencies. Standards that define safe exposures during space flight have been uniquely defined for contingency situations and for prolonged exposures.