Abstract: An apparatus and method allows for the construction of an inflatable, protective enclosure that provides a temporary, contaminant free environment for one or more individuals. The approach results in a protective suit and/or enclosure that is inexpensive, compactly stored and light-weight, yet provides a reliable source of filtered, contaminant-free air as well as upper-body and/or full-body protection for one or more persons. The protective suits/enclosures described produce an over pressure environment within the protective enclosure so that a positive flow of filtered air is maintained between the interior of the suit or enclosure and the outside environment, thus assuring that no contaminants may seep into the protected, contaminant free interior.

Abstract: A fastener for removably securing a protective panel to a structure includes a shaft having a first portion and a second portion. The shaft includes a first opening extending through the second portion of the shaft. The fastener also includes a sleeve sized to fit over the second portion of the shaft. The sleeve includes second and third openings extending through the sleeve that are spaced apart by a distance greater than a thickness of the protective panel to be secured to the structure. The second opening corresponds to the first opening in the shaft and the third opening is located in the sleeve beyond an end of the second portion of the shaft when the first and second openings are aligned. The fastener also includes a first pin that is insertable into the first and second openings and a second pin that is insertable into the third opening.

Abstract: A fastener for removably securing a protective panel to a structure includes a shaft having a first portion and a second portion. The shaft includes a first opening extending through the second portion of the shaft. The fastener also includes a sleeve sized to fit over the second portion of the shaft. The sleeve includes second and third openings extending through the sleeve that are spaced apart by a distance greater than a thickness of the protective panel to be secured to the structure. The second opening corresponds to the first opening in the shaft and the third opening is located in the sleeve beyond an end of the second portion of the shaft when the first and second openings are aligned. The fastener also includes a first pin that is insertable into the first and second openings and a second pin that is insertable into the third opening.