What is Full face mask Respirator?

This article suggests some general information about respirators, what can do and not do with respirators and two main types of Respiratory protective equipment (RPE).

Here is the content list:

l  General Information

l  what can do with respirators

l  what cannot do with respirators

l  Respiratory protective equipment (RPE) is divided into two main types

1.     General Information

They are available in different shapes and sizes.

Generally, Respirators are made of a flexible rubber or silicone material.

This type relies on the wearer's breathing to pull the air through the filter.

These masks have air inlet and outlet valves that must be in good condition.

Full-face masks can be uncomfortable when worn continuously for more than one hour.

They can be washed and used multiple times, according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Full-face masks cover the entire face area. Some brands of masks are equipped with an inner half.

Full-face masks can be fitted with particulate filters, gas filters, vapor filters or a combination of gas, vapor and particulate filters.

These Respirators are adequate for light work (work activities while seated) and moderate work rates (work activities involving continuous hand and arm movements, or work activities similar to brisk walking).

2.     Do

Install the Respirators straps as recommended.

Train users in the proper use of the Respirators.

Select the appropriate mask size for each wearer.

Always fit two identical Respirators filters into the duplex filter mask.

Replace used filters as often as recommended by the manufacturer.

Make sure the wearer checks the RPE for proper fit each time, according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

(Make sure you have the right filter for the substance - particle or gas or vapor, or the desired combination).

The first time this Respiratory protective equipment is used, a fit test is required for each wearer.

3.     Do not

Store in a dirty place between uses.

Make DIY modifications to the RPE.

Use damaged Respirators - masks, filters, straps or valves.

Damage or deform the mask, filter or straps when stowed.

Use in oxygen-deficient environments - such as confined spaces.

Use P1 filters to protect against fumes unless recommended by the manufacturer.

Get dirt in the mask or use solvent to clean the mask, straps, or filters.

4.     Respiratory protective equipment (RPE) is divided into two main types:

Respirator (filtering device) – uses filters to remove contaminants in the workplace air, there are two main types:

Non-powered Respirators – rely on the wearer's breathing to draw air through the filter

Powered Respirators – use a motor to pass air through the filter to give a supply of clean air to the wearer

Breathing apparatus (BA) – needs a supply of breathing-quality air from an independent source (eg air cylinder or air compressor)

Both Respirators and BA are available in a range of different styles, which can be put into two main groups:

Tight-fitting facepieces (often referred to as masks) - rely on having a good seal with the wearer's face. These are available as both non-powered and powered Respirators and BA. Examples are filtering facepieces, half and full-face masks.

Loose-fitting facepieces – rely on enough clean air being provided to the wearer to prevent contaminant leaking in (only available as powered Respirators or BA). Examples are hoods helmets, visors, blouses and suits.