How to maintain reusable respiratory protective equipment (RPE)
Reusable respiratory protective equipment (RPE) needs to be maintained. Cleaning your respirator is essential to make sure it remains hygienic and continues to offer the intended level of protection.
Regular inspection is necessary to identify dirty, damaged or expired components. Many components are replaceable, allowing individual parts to be replaced to extend the life of the respirator.
?
Cleaning half masks and full face masks
The mask itself needs to be cleaned regularly. An unclean facepiece can cause dermatological reactions. Dusts or other particles may also be left on the mask, presenting a hazard to the wearer.
Valves need to be removed, inspected and cleaned thoroughly to ensure the mask can function as designed. Valves and other components can be replaced if damaged, helping to keep the mask in good working condition.
Full face mask visors
Visors on full face masks must be kept clean to ensure the wearer can see clearly. Dirt and dust on the visor can obscure the wearer’s view and affect optical properties, causing discomfort and eyestrain.
Keeping the visor clean is also important for inspection purposes, allowing any cracks or other damage to be easily identified. The mask should be replaced if the visor is cracked or damaged.
Replacing half mask and full face mask filters
Replacing half mask and full face mask filters is essential. There is an expiry date printed on each filter that must not be exceeded. Once in use, filters should be changed regularly to ensure continued protection.
Filter life is affected by concentration levels and usage. JSP encapsulated filters have a recommended usage of 5 days. JSP unencapsulated filters have a recommended usage of 1 day. However it is important to pay attention to the filters during use.
Particulate filters become blocked as they reach the end of their usage life. If breathing effort increases when using particulate filters, this indicates they should be changed.
When gas/vapour cartridges become exhausted, the cartridge is unable to absorb any more, meaning the gas/vapour can be smelled or tasted by the wearer. If gas/vapour can be detected via smell or taste whilst wearing the mask, the cartridges should be changed.
领英推荐
Establishing a regular schedule for changing filters helps to prevent equipment becoming exhausted whilst in use.
Powered air purifying respirators (PAPRs)
Powered air purifying respirator (PAPR) filters need to be changed regularly. PAPR devices have a built-in warning system to alert the wearer when filters are becoming exhausted. Pre-filters also require changing on a regular basis. Make sure to check expiration dates on filters and pre-filters.
The battery must be charged to maintain the power unit. The PAPR system warns the wearer when battery is low.
Loose-fitting PAPR headtops must be cleaned thoroughly in accordance with the user instructions. Cleaning the hood, helmet or faceshield keeps the unit hygienic and ensures the respirator can function as intended. Visors must be kept clean to maintain vision and optical properties.
Replace visors and helmet headtops when required. Headtops must be replaced at the end of their usage life, or if subjected to an impact. Inspect visors for cracks and damage, replacing them immediately if defects are identified.
Any other damaged or expired components should be replaced to maintain the PAPR system and extend usage life. Modular PAPR systems make it easy to inspect the respirator and replace individual parts.
It is important to clean and maintain RPE in accordance with the manufacturer’s user instructions. Some substances and abrasive cleaners can damage the respirator. Components must only be replaced with genuine parts supplied by the manufacturer. For more information about PPE cleaning and maintenance visit jspgo.com or the JSP Youtube channel.
?
?
QSHE Manager
2 个月Hi, has your moulded mask model no. BEK130-001-M00 been discontinued?