1. Air Purifying Respirators

These types of respirators use an activated, charcoal filter that has the ability to absorb the toxic fumes from the cleaners or paints. As the worker breaths in, the air passes through the filter (any dust will be collected first in the dust cups), then the air will go through the charcoal. As long as the charcoal is designed to capture the specific type of gas, the air going into the worker's lungs will be reasonably clean. Because there are many types of fumes and gases, there are many types of cartridges available depending on the situation. A painter would typically require a charcoal filter that would filter out 'HYDRO CARBONS". Solvents like Mineral Spirits, Xylene, Toluene, Lacquer Thinner, M.E.K., etc. are common solvents that would be found in a painting environment. These solvents can affect the nervous system as well as some of the organs (liver, heart, lungs, kidneys). Acute affects range from eye, nose and throat irritation, dizziness and disorientation to chronic effects such as liver and kidney damage and permanent brain disorders.

1.The oxygen level must be sufficient

(around 20% by volume). This is another reason the respirator should only be used along with ventilation.

2. The respirator must fit properly

If the respirator does not seal against the face, the potential for leakage is possible. Proper and specific training is required before wearing a respirator. A test must be conducted to ensure the respirator fits correctly.

3. Warning sign

The gases or fumes must have an odor or taste to ensure that the worker can tell exactly when the filters are not working or the fit is no longer correct. Isocyanates, used in Industrial Polyurethanes, have no warning signs so the worker would not know immediately if the respirator was not working.

4. Highly Poisonous/High Concentration

If the toxic vapor is lethal, then this style of respirator should not be worn. If there is no added or natural ventilation the concentration of vapors are too high for the charcoal filter to absorb fast enough. Working in enclosed environments, such as tanks, requires the use of fresh air supplied masks or hoods to ensure the worker has no exposure to the poisonous environment.

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