Respirators are personal protective equipment (PPE) devices that primarily protect the wearer from inhaling hazardous substances or harmful airborne particles. They are specifically designed to filter out pollutants, airborne pathogens, toxins, or contaminants commonly found in the air, thus preventing the wearer from breathing them in and minimizing the risk of respiratory illnesses or diseases.
Respirators typically cover the nose and mouth or the full face, forming a sealed barrier between the wearer's respiratory system and the surrounding air. They work by utilizing filters or cartridges that trap and remove harmful particles, such as dust, smoke, fumes, or infectious agents, before they can be inhaled.
These devices are commonly used by healthcare professionals, construction workers, industrial workers, and individuals working in environments with potentially harmful airborne substances. Respirators can provide different levels of protection depending on their classification, such as N95, N99, or N100, which represent their filtration efficiency against airborne particles.
In addition to protecting against particulate matter, some respirators also have the capacity to filter out certain gases, vapors, or chemicals, enhancing their effectiveness in hazardous environments. The selection of the appropriate respirator depends on the specific task, the surrounding environment, and the potential risks involved.
It is important to note that respirators differ from surgical masks, which are primarily designed to protect others from the wearer's respiratory emissions rather than to protect the wearer.
