Breathe Easy with the Right Face Mask (June 10, 2011)

June 10, 2011 by Austin Cushing.

Disposable respirator masks are designed to cover the mouth and nose to provide single-use protection in environments where breathing protection is needed. All disposable face masks are classified according to series and protection level. Knowing what these numbers mean is vital for ensuring you are using the most appropriate breathing mask for your job.

The most commonly used and known series of respirator is the N-Series, a particulate respiratory mask that protects against particles and ‘dust’ from janitorial, construction, mining, logging, and other industrial work. They can be used as long as the mask is not damaged and no breathing difficulties are present. N-series masks also provide protection against non-oil-based liquid particles, though not against gases or vapors.

A less commonly used, but still important, series is the R-series - rated to resist oil and protect against oil-based liquid and solid particles as well as non-oil-based particles. They are rated for use for up to eight hours.

The best level of protection comes from the P-series masks, which like the R-series provide protection against solid and liquid particles, oil-based or otherwise. However, the P-series respirator is rated for use for as long as the mask is undamaged and breathing impairment does not occur. The best of the best, the P100 air mask, is also referred to as the HEPA face mask; filters that provide this level of protection are commonly known as HEPA filters.

Each grade of respiratory mask is also rated by efficiency level - for example, the most common dust mask used in industrial environments is known as the N95 - N for the N-series, 95 for the efficiency grade. An efficiency grade of 95 protects against a minimum of 95% of all applicable particulate materials; an efficiency grade of 99 protects against least 99%; and an efficiency grade of 100 protects against at least 99.97% (near-perfect protection) when worn properly.

Note, however, that none of these disposable face masks designed specifically to protect against harmful gases and vapors, and for this purpose a half-mask or full-mask respirator is required. These air purifying respirators require replaceable cartridges rated to protect against chemicals or gases, and are not specifically rated to protect against particulates; however, combination filter cartridges that do both are available.

When working in a capacity that requires any form of breathing equipment, always make sure to thoroughly inspect your equipment before use, to replace disposable face masks after use, and to replace filter cartridges and other respiratory equipment immediately when their service life expires.

Anchortex Corporation sells a full range of disposable face masks, air purifying respirators, APR cartridges, and other industrial safety equipment. Contact our sales department today for quotes on comprehensive safety solutions for your workplace requirements.

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