Except where exposure has been controlled by other means, the following legislation requires RPE in hazardous areas: Control of Lead
at Work Regulations (1980) CLAW, ionizing Radiation Regulations (1984) IR; Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations (1987) CAW; Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (1988) COSHH
TYPICAL HAZARDS
Toxic Dust (particles) and Mist Gases and Vapors
Fumes, Oxygen Deficiency (less than 18% in air) Microorganisms
Do not use filtering respirators where
oxygen deficiency is suspected, use Self Contained Breathing Apparatus or Airline BA under supervision.
RISK ASSESSMENT
A comprehensive assessment of hazards is essential under the legislation listed above. Check the contaminants. Are they dusts,
gases, vapors, or a mixture of each? Do contaminants have Occupational Exposure Limits? Check the concentrations by references to HSE Publication EH 40 (obtainable from HSE Library Service, Broad
Lane, Sheffield S3 HQ or from your local Stationery Office). We world be pleased to assist in your assessment of suitable RPE, and provide you with further information where required.
PRODUCT STANDARDS / CE MARKINGS
CE Mark: Category 3 (Complex design, denoting risks of mortal danger, or that may seriously and irreversibly damage health). All RPE
is classified in this category. Some of hte more commonly used RPE products and their EN Standards are shown below, together with EN Standards and colour coding for filters. EN136: Full face filtering respirators (face piece only) EN140: Half face filtering respirators (face piece only) EN 141: Gas/vapour
filters, Type A: Organic vapors Colour Code Brown
Type B: Inorganic vapours
Colour Code Grey(Excl. CO) Type E: Sulpher dioxide Colour Code Grey(Exel. CO) Other acid gases:
Colour Code Yellow Type K: Ammonia and derivatives Colour Code Light Green
These are classified by their capacity as 1 (Low) 2 (medium) 3 (High)
EN143: Partial filters Class P1 NPF 4 Half face Respirator filters
Class P2S NPF 12 Half face Respirator filters
Colour/Code Class P2SL NPF 12 Half face Respirator filters
Class P3S NPF 50 Half face Respirator filters
Class P3SL NPF 50 Half face Respirator filters
Key: NPF = Nominal protection factor S - Solids SL - Solids and liquids EN149: Disposable filtering respirators incorporationg filter material.
EN137: Self contained breathing apparatus EN139: Compressed airline breathing apparatus EN405: Valved filtering half masks to protect against gases or gases and particles.
