Choosing the right respiratory protection

Choosing the right respiratory protection is essential for ensuring the safety of the respective wearer and is a process that requires the utmost care. In order to choose the filtering respirator that meets your requirements, be sure to observe the following points:

• The type, composition and concentration of the hazardous substances must be provided/known (note the CAS number and OEL).
• After determining the protection class required (FFP1, FFP2 or FFP3), the table below can be used to select a respirator model that meets the requirements of the respective working conditions.
• If further PPE is required, this must be compatible. uvex respirators are ideal for use in combination with uvex safety spectacles — see our compatibility table.
• Respiratory protective devices are not suitable for people with beards, sideburns or deep scars near the respirator sealing lines as these prevent a secure fit.
• Masks marked “NR” should not be used for more than eight hours. Masks marked “R” may be used for up to 24 hours but must be cleaned after each period of use. Masks should be replaced without delay if the breathing resistance becomes noticeably higher.
• If a half-mask with gas filters is required for the workspace, please note that the uvex respirator models do not offer adequate protection.
• The Standard Assigned Protection Factor (APF) helps employers comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH), aimed at controlling exposure to and protecting workers health when working with chemicals. The APF is an estimate of how much protection a respirator provides. When fitted (face fit test) and worn correctly an FFP1 respirator should reduce exposure to airborne particles by a factor of 4, an FFP2 by a factor of 10 and an FFP3 by a factor of 20.
• European harmonised standards for respiratory protective equipment have been developed as a means of demonstrating equipment conformity with the basic health and safety requirements of the EC Personal Protective Equipment Directive (89/686/EEC). This directive is implemented in Ireland as the European Communities (Personal Protective Equipment) Regulations, 1993.