Half mask/dust masks and half masks (elastomeric) are both quite common PPE that can be found just about anywhere, but they are only a basic defense to otherwise some very hazardous environments. They carry a low APF of 10 from NIOSH and OSHA, and they also need to be fit tested annually and fit checked with each use. These types of masks are negative pressure respirators, thus relying on the wearer’s inhalation to deliver air. They rely on a seal to the wearer’s face for protection and cannot be worn with most facial hair. There’s also a chance these masks will not interface well with some glasses or goggles. As a minor benefit, these masks do have an inexpensive up-front cost.
Full face-piece elastomeric type respirators are another common PPE that can be found just about anywhere, but they are somewhat of an upgrade from the previous masks. They carry a moderate APF of 50 from NIOSH and OSHA, but also need to be fit tested annually and fit checked with each use. These respirators are another negative pressure model, thus relying on the wearer’s inhalation to deliver air. They rely on a seal to the wearer’s face for protection and cannot be worn with most facial hair. There’s also a chance these masks will not interface well with some glasses or goggles. They have a moderate up-front cost and use cartridges or filters that need to be replaced often.
Loose-Fitting Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPR) are the next type of respirator and are less common in some industries but have an overall better protection value than masks and even full face-pieces. This is mainly because loose-fitting PAPRs, even though they have a lower APF of 25, they are a positive pressure hood and the wearer does not need to constantly breathe for the respirator to operate. These respirators have a battery-powered blower that delivers a positive pressure of at least 6 cfm of air. They rely on a loose seal to the wearer’s face for protection, and do not require annual fit testing. These types of respirators can be worn with most facial hair as well. They do have a higher up-front cost and require cartridges or filters that need replaced in order to operate.
The final type of respirator that also provides the most protection is the Hood Powered Air-Purifying Respirator. These hood-style PAPRs are positive pressure respirators that come with a battery-powered blower that delivers 6 cfm (or greater) of air to the wearer. They mainly rely on a bib, shroud or neck cuff for protection, and do not require annual fit testing. They can be worn with most facial hair and also have the best field of view for the wearer. They have a higher up-front cost and use cartridges and filters that need replacement. These PAPRs initially carry an APF of 25 from NIOSH and OSHA but can go up to 1,000 with the proper testing and validation.
Much of this content is also available from the following article authored by Doug Durney, ILC Dover’s Product Line Director for PPE.
