How to Buy a Respirator

Determine the type of respirator facemask you need by the type of exposure you expect to encounter. Just because you don a respirator, doesn't necessarily guarantee protection from dangerous substances. If you don't have the proper respirator and fit, you won't have the protection you need. The guidelines in this article will help you to determine which respirator facemask you need.

Instructions

• 1

  Choose the right respirator for your work conditions. Disposable, single-use dust respirators are for protection against low concentrations of irritant particulates such as dust, mists or pollen. Due to poor sealing, they offer minimal protection, and facial hair hinders the seal even further.

• 2

  Ask for a particulate respirator if you are a carpenter, farmer, painter or a hospital worker. It offers protection, by accommodating three different types of filters, according to the type of exposure. This is the type of respirator used for protection against infectious tuberculosis.

• 3

  Pick the air purifying half mask respirator with a rubber seal that fits over the nose and under the chin. Different types of cartridges, which purify the air, are available according to the type of contaminant exposure you experience. If there are high concentrations of contaminants or there isn't sufficient oxygen, these masks aren't the right choice. They also require a good fit to provide adequate protection.

• 4

  Get the full-face air-purifying respirator, which covers the entire face, protecting your eyes, nose, chin and mouth, for greater protection. You'll have a better seal with this respirator and have protection for your eyes from vapors or splashed chemicals. Good fit is critical, and people who wear glasses must make sure they don't interfere with the seal. As with the half mask, there must be sufficient oxygen because of the difficulty drawing air in through the purifying cartridges.

• 5

  Be aware of the other respirators used in the work place. They are the airline respirators and the self-contained breathing apparatus. These require special instruction and practice to use properly.