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Face Masks & Respirators

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Face masks and respirators are essential for ensuring that the user does not come into contact with harmful substances that could be found in the air. Certain environments may be more dangerous than others, so using face masks or respirators can ensure that workers are as safe as can be.

With a range of disposable face masks and reusable face masks and respirators available, there is a product that is suitable for every situation. Potential problems in the air include gases, vapours and dust, all of which can cause health problems if inhaled, particularly if the worker is exposed to them on a regular basis.

Never have face masks been more important than during the current pandemic as research has shown that they help to reduce the spread of the coronavirus from people who are contagious, including those who are asymptomatic or who are yet to develop symptoms. They have become compulsory on public transport in the UK and in many indoor situations, including in shops, supermarkets and shopping centres.

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Choosing the right face masks and respirators

Choosing the right face masks and respirators

All masks and respirators are designed to meet current British standards of safety, and they can help to protect the wearer against viruses and germs, even keeping respiratory viruses such as colds and flu at bay. The respirators are lightweight and therefore ideal for wearing for several hours at a time. Filter cartridges can be provided as needed and will help to deal with mists and fumes that are water-based, as well as radioactive substances. From disposable units to full-face respirators, all sizes and levels of safety rating are covered.

Different types of face masks & respirators

Not sure which type of mask you need? There are many different varieties of specialised masks, respirators and shields. As such it can be difficult to decide which is right for you. At SafetyShop, we stock a comprehensive range of full and half face covering products and accessories, such as filters - all with fast, fuss-free delivery from our UK distribution centre - so you can compare your options and save time searching high and low.

Keep reading for more information on each of the product categories that Safetyshop offers.

Dust and face shields

Face shields such as the Lightweight Face Shield are easy to wear and prevent particles in the air from reaching the wearer’s eyes. While they are not valved, like other options in the range, they can easily be donned with only one hand. They also double up as an ideal face guard for COVID-19 protection.

Dust masks

Dust masks provide varying levels of protection and are rated accordingly:

  • FFP1 Face Mask – such as the JSP Martcare FFP1 single use dust masks. These are comfortable masks that are suitable for low levels of airborne particles. They are ideal for use when sawing wood or using drills to protect you from particulate matter.
  • FFP2 Face Mask – such as the 3M Aura 9300 FFP2 Mask. These are comfortable to wear that provide an additional level of protection from the FFP1 and are manufactured to protect the wearer from fine particles, mists of oil or water, and airborne germs.
  • FFP3 Face Mask. These provide the wearer with a high level of protection against dust or air that contains fine particles, oil and water. Stock with equally protective gloves for superior hand and respiratory protection for your team.

Respirators

Full face respirators are our most heavy-duty respirators and provide workers with an optimal level of protection. We stock different types of full face respirators to give protection from different types of harmful substances – for example, the Honeywell Panoramasque Full Face Respirator Helmet provides optimal protection from harmful gases and fumes, particles, chemicals and other harmful fine powders.

For further guidance on selecting the best respiratory PPE for your employees, download the download the HSE’s guide to respiratory protective equipment (RPE).

Face masks and the law

Face masks and the law

According to the requirements of the Personal Protective Equipment (Enforcement) Regulations 2018, employers are required to provide their employees with suitable PPE for the type of work being performed. If employees are not supplied with the appropriate protection and an accident occurs, the employer may be held liable. Not providing suitable PPE products is not a good way to save on company costs.

It is essential to check regularly for any updates to these regulations to fulfil your duty of care to your employees and protect yourself from liability. Workers should also receive training in how to wear and use PPE correctly, and how to maintain their apparatus to ensure that it remains effective.

If you are still unsure about the type of PPE needed in your workplace, the HSE has issued a PPE Guide to help employers understand their duties concerning the provision of PPE and protect their workers against health and safety risks in their specific workplace.

Face masks and COVID-19

The use of face coverings and visors has become more significant during the COVID-19 health crisis. We are all familiar with the simple surgical type coverings that became synonymous with going out in public. While the average person no longer needs to wear a covering or store one in their car, ready to venture outdoors, employers now have a legal responsibility to meet COVID-19 legislation and guidelines.

Face masks and COVID-19

The specific type of protection that workers need will depend on their job role. Face shields and surgical masks are a minimum requirement, and you may need to stock up on additional supplies such as safety glasses, ear defenders, helmets, gloves or pack of coveralls.

Compare what supplies you already have with the recommendations in your risk assessment to identify if there are gaps. With SafetyShop's extended range of product options, at a competitive price, it is now easier than ever to add everything you need to save the wellbeing of your staff or visitors.

Face mask care and maintenance

Good care and maintenance will extend the life of PPE materials and accessories. For the benefit of everyone's health, single use coverings should be safely disposed of after use. However, reusable masks, respirators and face shields can be used for extended periods of time if they receive proper care and attention. This will include hand cleaning the apparatus, fitting a new filter when required and selecting a suitable dry place to store it, out of view from direct sunlight.

Frequently asked questions

What is PPE (personal protective equipment)?

PPE (personal protective equipment) includes clothing and materials that has been designed to protect the wearer’s body from injury, infection or hazards such as electrical, heat, chemicals, biohazards or airborne particles. Such items should be high on your list or priorities, when it comes to the health and safety of your team.

At SafetyShop, we stock a full assortment of full and half respirators as well as the required filters and other accessories. All carry high user rating scores and as low a price as possible. Need it fast? We include rapid delivery with all orders as standard.

How often should a face mask or respirator be replaced?

When taking delivery of your respiratory protection product, you should make a note of any expiry dates or when they will need to be replaced. Disposable or single use masks such as Safetyshop’s JSP 111 FFP1 Disposable Dust Mask and JSP 132 FFP3 Disposable Respirator Dust Mask should be safely disposed of after use.

However, reusable lightweight face masks and lightweight dust masks can be used multiple times if treated correctly, and a half or full-face respirator can be safely used until the product begins to show signs of wear. Remember, if multiple team members are sharing equipment, it is advised to replace the filter, if fitted, when switching users - nobody wants to think their employer is trying to save money by leaving a used filter in their PPE.

What are the best kinds of industrial face masks?

The type of industrial face mask you need will depend on the type of work being performed. If, in your view, your workers are likely to come into contact with hazardous particles, you will need to purchase a pack of full dust masks or a reusable respirator product, such as the Honeywell Optifit Ergonomic Silicone Respirator Mask or the Honeywell Panoramasque Full Face Respirator Helmet. Don't forget to add suitable accessories and consumables, in your order.

If there is a view that the work involves minimal contact with airborne contaminants, lightweight face masks such as our Deluxe Disposable Fold Flat Masks and JSP Flexinet FFP3 Disposable Respirator Masks are likely to be a more comfortable option, while the valved design helps ensures optimal protection.