 | ||
We carry disposable masks and half-mask respirators from top manufacturers like MSA, Moldex, 3M and North.
Respirators protect the user in two basic ways. The first is by the removal of contaminants from the air. Respirators of this type include particulate respirators, which filter out airborne particles; and "gas masks" which filter out chemicals and gases. Other respirators protect by supplying clean respirated air from another source. Respirators that fall into this category include airline respirators, which use compressed air from a remote source; and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), which include their own air supply.
Respirators should only be used as a "last line of defense" when engineering control systems are not feasible. Engineering control systems, such as adequate ventilation or scrubbing of contaminants should be used to negate the need for respirators.
NIOSH issues recommendations for respirator use. Industrial type approvals are in accordance to the NIOSH federal respiratory regulations 42 CFR Part 84. Development of respirator standards are in concert with various partners from government and industry.
As always, check your respiratory needs based on recommendations from the manufacturer of the product you're using!
General respiratory information along with product specific info please visit our Respiratory Protection General Information page.
Questions involving respiratory protection or any regulations and safety concerns please see our Respiatory FAQ's page.
Also see, OSHA's new Respiratory Protection Standard.
 | | ||||||
| | ||||||
Respirators either act like a filter or supply air from a secondary source. The first type, which removes contaminants from the air, is particulate respirators or “gas masks.” The second kind, such as airline respirators with a self-contained breathing apparatus, supplies clean air from an outside source. Our store carries half-masks, full-face masks, and disposable and reusable respirators and dust masks.
Half-mask respirators have a face seal area and offer stability. Most have two cartridges and filters and will not collapse during wear. In addition to half-mask respirators, our store also carries filters and cartridges. Full-face mask respirators lower breathing resistance and have nose cups to reduce fogging and scratch-resistant, wraparound lenses. A full-face mask will offer eye, face, and respiratory protection.
Disposable and reusable face masks are best used in environments free from oil because the material is not oil resistant. Reusable masks have a reusable face piece but the filter is disposable. A filter can also keep a mask from collapsing. The filter of a disposable mask also has 95% efficiency for blocking non-oil particulates.
