Half mask respirators filter harmful particles and fumes but don’t protect eyes or skin above the nose. Interchangeable cartridges remove noxious particles and fumes. Each cartridge is marked with a filter type and color-coded. Additional safety devices like goggles and chemical-resistant gowns protect against unknown hazards. Clean with mild soap and water to avoid cracking.
Half mask respirators filter harmful particles and fumes in the air. Unlike the full-face respirator, half-mask respirators do not provide eye protection or protection of the skin located above the bridge of the nose. Interchangeable cartridges that fit on the sides or front of the respirator remove noxious particles and fumes from the air that passes from the air into the person wearing the respirator’s system. Choosing the correct filter cartridge and any additional safety devices for a situation will ensure the safety of people working in environments containing lung irritants or other harmful airborne contaminants.
Each type of replaceable filter cartridge for a half mask respirator has a designation on the types of particles and/or fumes it can filter from the contaminated air. They range from the organic, like paint, to particulate matter, like mercury. To indicate filter type, each cartridge will be marked with the filter type and will be color coded for easy identification. Surveying and testing the air quality of an area will ensure you choose the correct filter for your application. During an air quality test, a filter cartridge with maximum particulate filtration should be used to avoid accidental exposure to fumes.
Additional safety devices must be used when the hazards of an area are unknown or when hazardous liquids are in an area. Safety glasses, goggles and face shields protect the eyes of the half mask respirator. The type of eye protection required will depend on the type of eye hazards and the severity of possible irritation from airborne particles and fumes. Chemical resistant gowns protect the skin of the half mask respirator wearer when contact with skin irritants is possible. The combination of eye and body protection ensures that the wearer does not get chemical burns or harmful substances are absorbed into their body.
Cleaning a half face respirator after each use will eliminate cross contamination and possible reactions with chemicals when the respirator is used in different environments. The facepiece of a respirator is made from petroleum-based rubbers. Cleaners containing solvents or harsh chemicals will cause the respirator rubber to crack and reduce its ability to adhere to the wearer’s face. Use only mild soap and water to clean a respirator. Immediate drying of the half mask respirator after cleaning will keep the respirator facemask flexible and ready for the next time it is needed.
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