Choosing the right respirator for the nature of the work is critical to a worker’s safety. Exposure to different hazards means that not just any respirator will suffice.
Air-Purifying Respirators (APR)
Air-purifying respirators (APRs) filter airborne contaminants such as dusts, fumes, vapors, or gases. Some APRs use filters for particulates, while others use cartridges or canisters that absorb or chemically remove contaminants.
Designs
- Full face piece - Fully covers the face from under the chin to above the eyes and also protects the eyes from irritants.
- Half-face mask - Covers from under the chin up to the nose and provides protection for the mouth and nose.
- Quarter-mask - Protects only the mouth and nose.
- Mouth-bit respirator - Typically used only for escape; it includes a bite piece and a nose clip to seal the nostrils.
Supplied-air respirator (SAR)
Supplied-air respirators provide breathable air from a remote source such as an air line or a compressed air tank. They are used when the atmosphere is immediately dangerous to life or health or when filtering is inadequate.
Common types
- Loose-fitting hoods or helmets that cover the head and neck and receive purified air through airlines.
- Tight-fitting half or full face pieces that are supplied with air from a tank or line and form a snug seal.
Choosing the Most Suitable Respirator
Selecting the correct respirator should be done by a qualified safety professional after identifying and evaluating the respiratory hazards and the limits of available equipment. For workplace program guidance, see Respiratory Protection Safety Plan.
Key Questions to Ask
Employers should consider several factors when deciding whether respirators are required and which type to use.
- What hazards exist based on material warnings, chemical components, or the particulates released by the work?
- Is there a potential for low oxygen in the work area?
- Is the hazard airborne (particulate, fume, or vapor)?
- Will the respirator be needed for emergencies or firefighting?
- Is the work strenuous or performed in abnormal temperatures?
- Are there agents present that are fatal, carcinogenic, harmful by skin absorption, or strong irritants?
- Will the work be in confined spaces or otherwise restrict escape and ventilation?
The key is to match the respirator to the specific work and hazard. Proper selection, fit, and maintenance are vital to protect workers effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should an employer require respirators?
Respirators should be required when hazards cannot be adequately controlled by ventilation or other measures and when air monitoring shows airborne contaminants or oxygen deficiency.
How do APRs differ from SARs?
APRs filter ambient air to remove contaminants, while SARs supply breathable air from a safe source and are used when filtering is insufficient or the atmosphere is immediately dangerous.
Does facial hair affect respirator effectiveness?
Yes, facial hair can interfere with a tight-fitting face piece seal; employers should follow fit-testing and facial hair policies to ensure protection.
What is fit testing and why is it important?
Fit testing verifies that a tight-fitting respirator forms a proper seal on an individual’s face and is essential to ensure the respirator provides the expected level of protection.