Usually disposable, or come with disposable filters.Filter out dust, fume, and microparticles. Often, they are used in hospitals to protect against infectious diseases. The most known type of this class is the NIOSH-approved “N-95” mask which can filter up to 95% of microparticles (0.3 microns). They are not highly effective against chemicals, vapors, and high hazard levels. The N filter effectively filters up to 95% of microparticles, whereas the R series filters up to 97%% and the P series filters up to 99.97%. Each of these series has three separate levels of efficiency. These respirators are classified into nine groups and three series– N, R, and P. These types of respirators only give protection against dust and microparticles. They are most affordable, simple, and least protective compared to the rest. Particulate respirators are the most basic type available. Now, let’s take a look at how these devices work across several categories. Basically, they function by either filtering particles from the air, chemically purifying the air, or supplying clean air from an external source. So far, we’ve learned about the basic types of respirators and their use. For a more in-depth look at the various types of respirators available, please check our article on the Types of Respirators. ASRs are required in situations like these. While, with an SCBA, the user can carry their own air supply with them.Ĭonsider scuba diving, where there is no air from which to filter. The first one is connected to an external air source outside the work area. These respirators come in three types– supplied-air respirators (SARs), self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBAs), and– a combination of both– SARs/SCBAs. Rather than filtering and detoxification, these respirators provide safe air in the case of an oxygen-deficient environment or when the exposure level surpasses an APR's filtering capacity. Thus, air-purifying respirators are utilized in a wide range of industries, including construction, carpentry, textile, medical, and many more.Ītmosphere-supplying respirators (ASRs) supply clean air from an external source. This type also includes particulate respirators which filter airborne particles and gas masks that protect you from chemicals and gases. Air-purifying Respirators (APRs)Īn air-purifying respirator (APR), like the name suggests, removes toxic substances from the air and provides breathable, pollution-free air. Let's look at how these two differ and are used in practical situations so you can find the right respirator for your needs. The type of respirator you need depends on the contamination level in the atmosphere you are going to be exposed to. The level and type of protection provided by each, as well as their design, serve to differentiate them. The first type is called an air-purifying respirator (APR) and the other one is an atmosphere-supplying respirator (ASR). Thus, if you are exposed to an atmosphere with the possibility of air contamination, respirators are the best option for safe inhalation. Respirators, like face masks, cover the nose and the mouth, forming a tight seal against the face to filter out airborne particles and harmful gasses. If your work makes you visit places where toxic elements are present aplenty in the atmosphere, you should consider wearing a respirator. Simply put, a respirator is a face-worn device, used to protect the wearer in toxic and hazardous atmospheres. In this article, you will learn all you need to know about respirators, the different options available, and which one you should use. When it comes to respirators, you’ll find different options to choose from– ranging from inexpensive disposable ones to reusable ones with options for you to change the filters & cartridges. If you are someone who has to deal with dust, fumes, vapors, or gases, you must know the ins and outs of respirators to pick out the best alternative for you, to the least. In many cases, they don’t even know why wearing a respirator is so crucial, or how it’s saving them from severe health hazards.Įven worse, inadequate training or learning materials on respirators make things more complicated! People from different walks of life wear respirators, either voluntarily or to follow the laws set by authorities.
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