When Do I Need a Respirator?
Respirators are necessary when there’s a risk of breathing in dangerous substances. While some respirators, such as those used in firefighting, supply clean air from a tank or other secondary source, air-purifying respirators — those that filter or clean particles, gases or vapors from the air as you breathe — are necessary for do-it-yourself (DIY) tasks such as sanding, painting, grinding, cutting and working with insulation or drywall. Air-purifying respirators can either be disposable masks or reusable masks with disposable cartridges or filters.
The equipment you choose needs to provide the right amount of protection, but you should also consider comfort. If the devices allow you to work comfortably, you’ll be more likely to use them consistently.
When shopping for respirators, look for products that are approved by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). NIOSH is part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Particulate Respirators
Particulate air-purifying respirators are designed to remove particles such as mist or dust from the air. These are usually lightweight face masks. Some have a metal bar that you can conform to the bridge of your nose for a better fit. While some have a layer of carbon to remove nuisance odors, particulate respirators don't protect the wearer from vapors or gases. Particulate respirators are classified with a letter and a number. For example, N95.
The letter (N, R or P) indicates resistance to oils. You need to know when oils might be present in the air because some reduce the filter's performance.
- N: The respirator isn't resistant to oils.
- R: The respirator is somewhat resistant to oils.
- P: The respirator is strongly resistant to oils.
The number (95, 99 or 100) indicates the effectiveness of removing particles during testing. A higher number indicates the filter has greater effectiveness at removing particles. Make sure the respirator is designed for the type of particles you’ll come into contact with.
- 95: The respirator removes at least 95% of the particles.
- 99: The respirator removes at least 99% of the particles.
- 100: The respirator removes at least 99.97% of the particles.
Particulate respirators are disposable so you shouldn’t reuse them. You should also replace a particulate respirator any time it's damaged or becomes difficult to breathe through.
If you live in an area where wildfire smoke is common, consider having a supply of NIOSH-approved N95 respirators on hand. When used correctly, these respirators can remove many of the particles contained in smoke.
Gas/Vapor Respirators
Gas/vapor air-purifying respirators generally come in the form of cartridges that attach to a reusable partial- or full-face mask. Each cartridge is designed to be effective for specific gases or vapors. As with particulate respirators, you must match the cartridge to the hazard for the respirator to work properly. A gas/vapor cartridge alone won’t protect you from particles, unless it's specifically designed to include particle filtration. Cartridges are color-coded to indicate the type of hazards they filter. Common color codes include:
- Black: Organic vapors
- White: Acid gases
- Yellow: Organic vapor and acid gases
- Green: Ammonia gas
There are additional color codes for other hazards, including colors for particulate filters designed for use with gas/vapor respirators.
While you can usually clean and reuse the mask portion of a gas/vapor respirator, it won’t last forever. Check it for wear or damage before and after using it and according to the manufacturer's instructions. Store the cartridges properly and don't use them after their expiration dates. When using the cartridges, you must replace them periodically to maintain protection. The cartridges don't offer protection once their capacity to absorb is exhausted, so follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Other Masks and Face Coverings
You may also see other types of face masks for uses beyond DIY projects. Depending on the mask, they can reduce irritants such as dust, pollen and wood shavings from the air that you breathe or help obstruct droplets from your coughs and sneezes. Some are disposable and shouldn't be reused, but you can also find fabric face coverings that you can wash and reuse. As with any mask or respirator, pay attention to the intended use and what it’s effective for. Follow any manufacturer’s instructions.
Using Respirators and Safety Masks
The protection level of a respirator depends on correct use. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Here are some considerations:
- Respirators are designed for specific hazards. Before you purchase or use a respirator, make sure it's effective for the type of work you’ll be doing.
- Air-purifying respirators require a tight seal against your face to be effective. They must be the right size and there must be nothing — such as facial hair, sideburns or piercings — that prevents them from sealing against your face.
- Some respirators are labeled for homeowner or DIY use, and some are labeled for professional/workplace or occupational use.
- Valved/vented respirators allow easier exhalation and reduce heat buildup, making the respirator more comfortable. They also help keep eyewear from fogging up.