Do you work with hazardous substances, gases and/or vapors? Then respiratory protection may be necessary. The range is wide and varies from simple dust masks to full face masks. In this article we tell you how to choose the right item for yourself and show you our recommendations.
Face masks protect you against the dangers of hazardous substances. The two most commonly used face masks are full face masks and half face masks. Both types of masks are reusable and are used in combination with a dust, gas, vapor or combination filter. For optimal protection it is important that you choose the right filter.
When to use a half face mask or full face mask?
The Working Conditions Act states that: respiratory protection should be used if exposure to hazardous substances cannot be prevented at the source. Respiratory protection is therefore an additional measure when other solutions, for example ventilating the work area prove insufficient.
- Full face mask
A full face mask covers the entire face including mouth, nose, chin and face. A face mask is ideal for long-term work in rooms with contaminated air. Full face masks have a higher wearing comfort and protect the eyes in addition to the respiratory tract.
- Half-face mask
In addition to full face masks you also have half-face masks. The half-face masks only cover the nose, mouth and chin. These are generally used in environments where the substances are not toxic to the face or eyes. This makes it ideal for various industrial tasks such as painting and light sanding. The contaminants the masks provide protection against depend on the connected filter.
Filters
For the right protection it is important that you use the right filter in addition to the right face mask. But before you choose the filter it is important to identify the hazards and assess the risks.
Gas filters and vapor filters
Gas and vapor filters provide protection against inhaling gases and vapors. The filters have a color and letter coding from which you can determine which filter you need.
- A (Brown): Organic vapors and solvents with a boiling point of >65° C
- AX (Brown): Organic vapors and solvents with a boiling point of <65° C
- B (Gray): Inorganic gases and vapors (exception carbon monoxide)
- E (Yellow): Sulfur dioxide & hydrogen chloride
- K (Green): Ammonia
- P (White): Protection against particulate matter
Combination filters
Combination filters protect against gases, vapors and solid and/or liquid particles. An ABEK filter provides protection against the most common harmful substances. Always make sure you know what kind of gases, vapors and substances you are working with so that you can use the correct filter.
Recommendations
Our 3M 6200 & 6300 half masks are maintenance-friendly, economical, easy to use and extremely light. The bayonet click system ensures a safe and assured fit and the double filters ensure low breathing resistance. The mask can be used in combination with most filters from the 2000, 5000 and 6000 series.
The 3M 6800/6900 full face masks are easy and comfortable to use. The new exhalation port provides increased durability and is easy to keep clean. The masks are equipped with a bayonet mounting system so that various double, lightweight filters can be attached. Depending on your needs you choose filters that protect against gases, vapors or particles. Furthermore, the exhalation valve ensures lower breathing resistance and the full facial lens ensures a wide field of view. In addition, the masks are well balanced and equipped with soft, non-allergenic elastomer. You can also choose from three sizes; small, medium or large.