When a worker needs a respirator with a charcoal-type filter (for a gas) a significant amount of time per day to protect from a significant air contaminate hazard, traditional practice is to use a fitted respirator. Many companies are not yet aware that the new Powered Air Purifying Respirators (abbreviated PAPR) are often a better choice...(than a fitted respirator) for the both company and the worker.

A PAPR system is 5 times more effective in purifying the air the worker breathes, the system is more comfortable (with cool air flow), and the OSHA requirement for annual fit testing and facial hair shaving for fitted respirators does not apply for a PAPR system.

Traditional Half Mask Fitted Respirator:

Pros of fitted mask:

• Cost: System is less expensive ($20-40 ea + filters)

Cons of fitted mask:

• Effectiveness: 1/5 the protection rating (compared to PAPR)
• Annual Fit Testing: Required / expensive
• Facial Hair: Not allowed (users must shave)
• Seal check: Required with each use (and after any repositioning on face)
• Sharing: Don’t share, purchase for each user
• Comfort: Hot, damp, heavy on the face

 Modern PAPR Respirator:

Pros of PAPR:

• Effectiveness: 5X the protection rating (compared to fitted respirator)
• Annual Fit Testing: Not needed
• Facial Hair: No requirement for worker to shave
• Seal check: Not needed (elastic seal only, slightly pressurized so leakage is not an issue)
• Sharing: If not used at same time, each worker can have their own Tyvek hood & use the same filter/pump belt
• Comfort: Comfortable airflow, Tyvek style is very light

Cons of PAPR:

• Cost: Higher cost per unit ($850 - $1600)

Summary:

Companies currently using fitted respirators on a daily basis will likely be more satisfied with PAPR systems. The PAPR systems provide improved worker protection & comfort, and PAPR use greatly reduces the complex and expensive administrative actions companies must take to remain OSHA compliant.

 Joe Eudy is President of Impact Safety -Providing safety consulting and training services for Texas based companies since 2005. We help companies build effective & compliant safety programs that employees are proud to support.