Discover the science of respiratory protection

Respiratory protection and safety go hand in hand. Security is key. And effective respiratory protection must be designed by science, in order to help achieve respiratory protection that is safe, effective, fit properly, comfortable, durable and can get approval from the relevant regulatory body. When evaluating respiratory protection options for workers, ask yourself: has the respiratory protection you are considering been certified by a notified body? Does what you are selecting meet the requirements of your job and will it help protect you from potential risks? Respiratory protection can be a challenge because you often can't see what's harming you. In addition, when exposure is prolonged, there are many dangerous pollutants that have been associated with long-term health problems, such as exposure to elements such as welding fumes, isocyanates and/or other substances such as silica dust. Look for a manufacturer who takes into account different types of jobs, tasks, applications and workers when designing respiratory protection. You should also carry out an exposure assessment. Choosing the right respiratory protection for your application is an essential step when it comes to your safety. You want to know that you're choosing a quality product, but how? These are some of the signs that respiratory protection products have been designed using science thoroughly.

Disposable masks (DR)

Also called self-filtering masks (FFR) For example, consider all the scientific work that is done on the filter material of masks, which is a component of DR protection. Think about the science and extensive testing involved in developing filter material, which is:

• Fire resistant for applications such as metalworking

• Pressure resistant for more durable and easier breathing comfort when welding

• Patented advanced electrode material, allowing increased airflow while trapping contaminants in electrostatically charged microfibers

• Carbon filters to prevent certain annoying odors

Be sure to research and consult with health and safety experts, who can help you select respiratory PPE to protect you while you are working.

Reusable masks (RR)

When it comes to reusable (RR) masks, there can be many options, but look for an international manufacturer that has designed a wide range of cartridges, filters and materials that provide consistent protection for many different sectors. You should work with a reputable manufacturer who can not only help you choose the right RR, but can also help you estimate the shelf life of the cartridges needed for the mask.

There's also a lot of science involved in developing PR models. There are some models that are lightweight. Some RRs are designed to be durable and offer protection under demanding conditions. From low-maintenance half-mask RR models to full-mask RR models that allow wide visibility, there are RR options that offer a wide range of protection levels (assigned protection factors, as well as a large number of features that have been extensively developed to provide comfortable fit and sealing). This includes the science of pressure drop affecting breathability, where a cold flow valve or an exhaust valve can help reduce heat, moisture buildup and fogging. There are also models that offer a simple seal check using a button and a communication diaphragm to facilitate communication while working.

The science of adjustment

Speaking of adjustment, it should be something fundamental to the scientific development process when it comes to respiratory PPE. Developers of 3M they spend a lot of time working in the lab throughout the development process, investigating the impact of design iterations on the adjustment performance of new mask concepts, always with the goal of learning and progressing.

The adjustment test is an important component of PPE DR/FFR and RR. For example, 3M was a pioneer in the creation of the saccharin qualitative adjustment test protocol, the first qualitative adjustment test for self-filtering masks based on the taste of a test agent. You should know the key adjustment points when selecting and using respiratory protection and know how to perform an adjustment test correctly.

Motorised and air-supplied

Not only do motorized breathing equipment use a turbo instead of lung energy to draw air through the filter, but also different jobs require different types of head units to help protect workers from dangerous environments. The science behind motorised breathing equipment has enabled this type of respiratory PPE to be widely adopted in a wide variety of sectors, from healthcare to hygiene, painting and shipbuilding, as a high protection factor can be achieved when a motorised breathing equipment is used properly. It is the same if you have access to a source of breathable air right there, as air supply systems can also be supplied to various hoods, helmets, full masks, half masks and loose-fitting masks.

In addition, there are motorised breathing equipment that combine head, eye and face breathing protection that can be customized for different work environments. Some international manufacturers understand that each worker is different and that their tasks may change every day. As owners of integrated motorised breathing equipment, workers have a variety of accessories available to offer protection and comfort.

If you use this type of system, you should check your equipment regularly and work with a manufacturer who can help you understand proper care and maintenance techniques to extend the life of your system and who can advise you on the right spare parts to keep the protection in perfect condition.

Do you need help selecting the respiratory PPE? We're here to help you.

There's a lot of science involved with respiratory protection and a lot of options available.

Respiratory protection should be designed to help you have the peace of mind and confidence you need to do your job and return safely to your family at the end of the day. It's not just about safety, it's about your health. When choosing which respiratory protection products to use, look for a manufacturer that offers innovative solutions based on science. If you need help selecting respiratory protection, please contact our respiratory protection specialists today.

It's from: 3M Spain, S.L.