NPAC refers to the inner chamber, which measures 10 x 10 x 8 feet. The inner chamber may be entered and exited by staff before aerosolization or after decontamination. It utilizes a proprietary exhaust mechanism to maintain negative pressure when studies are underway. Surrounding NPAC is a larger enclosure refered to as “The Shield.” The shield is 20 x 16 x 13 foot, HEPA-filtered negative pressure containment shell. This is the area where staff conduct and oversee testing.
Aerosols are generated by twin 6-jet nebulizers, powered by compressed air supplied externally. Air samples are collected by SKC Biosamplers via impingement. After testing, air and surfaces within the chamber are disinfected by four high-intensity UV lights, one of which is movable. In the event of a power failure an external generator takes over.