One of the most important factors in quality odor evaluation is the selection and training of odor panelists. In order to qualify to participate in the odor evaluation, one must adhere to the following qualifications:
- Panelists must be at least 18 years of age so their olfactory system is fully developed. They should not have a chronic allergy which affects the olfactory system. If female, the panelist should not be pregnant.
- All panelists must not smoke, use smokeless tobacco, or reside with a smoker.
- Panelists must remain within the acceptable independent threshold estimate ranges for n-Butanol: 20-80ppb with a standard deviation of <2.3 over time. This will be evaluated over two or more interviews, as determined by the lab manager.
- Maintain an acceptable level of personal hygiene to prevent any personal odor.
- No personal scents such as perfume, cologne, aftershave, scented shampoos, body washes, or hand lotions the day of the lab session.
- Cannot work in livestock facilities for at least 24 hours prior to a lab session.
The Iowa State University Olfactometry Lab generally employs students for the odor panel. However, anyone fitting the guidelines above is welcome to apply. Hiring occurs in August (before fall semester), January (beginning of spring semester), and May (beginning of summer term). Please contact the lab manager if you would like to apply.
Iowa State University Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, 100 Davidson Hall , Ames, Iowa 50011, 515-294-1434, abe
iastate.edu
Copyright 2005, Iowa State University of Science and Technology. All rights reserved.
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