Surprisingly it’s not common knowledge that working in polluted environments leaves you vulnerable to harmful particulates and gases. Well-known substances such as asbestos, gas and vapours from chemicals, carcinogenic particles, hardwood, MDF and silica dust, can and will cause serious damage to the respiratory system when inhaled, even leading to dangerous, long-term health conditions.
Face-fitted respirators and disposable masks help protect us from these to a certain level, however, it’s becoming more apparent that this equipment simply isn’t enough to ensure the safety and well-being of workers.
This is where powered respirators play a key role. In this post, we’ll explore what powered respirators are, how they work and why they are becoming increasingly popular across many industries.
What is a powered respirator?
Also known as PAPRs or power air-purifying respirators, powered respirators are pieces of personal breathing devices with machine-powered fans. This protective equipment offers a heightened level of safety for wearers, with a constant stream of clean air being delivered by filtering out particulate-polluted air.
How does a powered respirator work?
Typically, a powered respirator works by utilising a built-in blower which forces the air you breathe through a filter first. This filter prevents dangerous particulates, both large and small, from reaching you, leaving you inhaling clean and filtered air. These machine-powered systems, provide continuous airflow vertically, down the user’s face and out through exhalation holes, which makes breathing more natural and unhindered, even while you’re active.
PAPRs are made up of three main components:
- Protective headgear – This is the only similarity you’ll find with standard respiratory equipment. The headgear will be a mask, hood or helmet which distributes the filtered air for you to breathe.
- Filters – These are the components that remove the harmful particulate matter from the air you breathe while working.
- Battery-powered blower – The blower draws in air, pushes it through the filters and pumps it into the headgear to give you safe, clean air.
Most powered respirators are cordless, creating an incredibly efficient piece of equipment that won’t stop you from getting on with your tasks while ensuring safe air to breathe.
The benefits of using PAPR
Beyond clean, particulate-free air to breathe, using PAPR has several other advantages:
All-day comfort
The headgear on powered respirators can be loose-fitting due to the battery-powered blower and filters, so there is no need for tight, uncomfortable seals around the face.
Full protection
Unlike standard masks, your entire face, head and neck (when using a stroud) will be protected.
Moving air
PAPRs supply clean, positive pressure airflow, offering a much more comfortable and pleasant experience while wearing the headset with no humid moisture build-up.
Face fit testing
PAPRs do not require a legal face fit test, as the unit is a loose fitting piece of RPE.
Accessories
Some powered respirators can be supplied with extra useful accessories, from ear protection to impact protective visors and hard hats.
How do I choose the right powered respirator?
Choosing the right PAPR for you or your staff is down to several factors. Make sure to consider these when choosing which powered respiratory equipment will work best for your business and workers:
- What particulates or pollutants are present? Select the right filters for the working environment.
- How long will the equipment be worn during a shift? Ensure the battery life covers the full wear time.
- What kind of facepiece do you require? Different types offer different visibilities and benefits.
- Does your protective gear need to meet any regulatory requirements?
PAPR comes in various models and styles, so take some time to understand which is best for you. If you need support with your decision, don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01842 765 634 and we’ll be happy to help.
Powered respirators from Dust Masks Direct
More and more workplaces are turning to powered respiratory units to ensure the complete safety of their employees and that they are compliant with HSE, laws and regulations. Your health is a priority to us at Dusk Masks Direct, so we offer you our range of PAPR from the most trusted and established brands to give you the power to protect yourself and your team.
Our power air-purifying respirator range is full of top-quality equipment from leading manufacturers, including Sundstrom, JSP, Centurion, 3M and Pureflo, to give you the best choice of protective gear. Each piece in our selection is designed and built to safeguard workers against the dangerous short and long-term repercussions that come from breathing in harmful particulate matter.
If you’re interested in upgrading your personal protective gear for your team, get in touch with us today. We are experts in protective masks, hoods and helmets for the workplace, and you can trust us to offer the right advice to help you make the best decision for your workers.
Call us on 01842 765 634 to talk to one of our experienced team members, and let’s get you and your staff kitted out for the ultimate lung safety. With powered respirators, you have the power.
