Q1: What are the works regarded as high exertion?
For examples: most construction/tunnelling work involving frequent bending and heavy lifting, operating an impacting drill on a concrete wall, sanding over a ceiling, etc.
Q2: Why aren’t paper masks or non-powered respirators sufficient for high-exertion work?
A: They rely on a tight seal to the face, which is hard to maintain during high-exertion tasks. They are also harder to breathe than powered respirators, especially when dust is loaded.
Q3: Why isn’t fit testing for non-powered respirators effective to ensure a good fit during high-exertion work?
A: Fit testing ensures a proper seal only in a controlled environment, such as in an office. However, even if having a good fit in the test, physical strain during heavy work causes sweating, facial shifts, and frequent head movements, which can shift the mask fit and make a good fit into a bad fit. Workers can’t readjust masks mid-task (e.g., while handling tools, or needing focus on complex or risky job), leading to gaps and rendering protection ineffective.
Relying on fit testing for good protection during high-exertion work is in reality just an act of Self-comfort or Self-deception.
Q4: Why are beards a problem for non-powered respirators?
A: Facial hair prevents a secure seal, allowing contaminants to bypass the mask. Clean-shaven is required, but not always practical, e.g. due to strong personal preference or religion, stubble grows mid-day or late in a shift.
A: Loose-fitting PAPRs don’t require a tight seal to work, the protection is ensured via positive pressure in the breathing zone.
They tolerate mask shifting during movement, no need for fit testing and adjustments, letting workers focus – ideal for high-exertion work or workers with beards.
They reduce breathing effort compared with a non-powered respirator, thus can improve comfort.
They also provide fresh airflow – reduces heat buildup and fogging.
Q6: Do Loose-fitting PAPRs provide better protection than well-fitted non-powered respirators?
A: Yes. Most certified loose-fitting PAPRs can provide at least 5 times better protection for a bearded worker than a well-fitting nonpowered respirator for a clean-shaven worker.
Q7: What type of Loose-fitting PAPRs are most suitable for High-Exertion work?
A: PAPRs that hinder the work: belt-mounted PAPRs with hoses, helmet mounted PAPRs (top heavy).
Around-neck Loose-fitting PAPRs are most suitable, as they offer best mobility, can be worn like a non-powered respirator, such as Aimwell® AYO™ WX FFM-LF Loose-Fitting Full-Face PAPR System.
Conclusion: For High-Exertion tough jobs, Loose-fitting PAPRs ensure safety, comfort, and focus. Non-powered masks risk failure when it matters most. Around-neck Loose-Fitting PAPRs are most suitable among all types of loose-fitting PAPRs.