Overview There are three types of elastomeric respirators: Elastomeric quarter facepiece respirators Elastomeric half mask respirators (EHMRs) Elastomeric full facepiece respirators Elastomeric respirators are reusable devices. They must form a tight seal to the user's face; and therefore, require fit testing. Some elastomeric respirators have an exhalation valve. These valves can increase the ...
Graphic of an elastomeric quarter-mask respirator. How Well It Protects You: NIOSH Approved elastomeric half-mask respirators (EHMRs) and elastomeric quarter-mask respirators (EQMRs) protect you against gases, vapors, and particles when equipped with the appropriate filter, cartridge, or canister.
Fit tests confirm that a respirator forms a tight seal to your face before you use it in the workplace. A qualitative fit test relies on your senses to determine if there is a gap in the seal of your respirator. A quantitative fit test uses an instrument to numerically measure the effectiveness of your respirator. Facial hair can impact the fit of your respirator.
Particulate respirator The particulate respirator is the simplest, least expensive, and least protective of the respirator types available. These respirators only protect against particles. They do not protect against chemicals, gases, or vapors, and are intended only for low hazard levels. The commonly known “N-95” filtering facepiece respirator is one type of particulate respirator ...
Scientific American: Why We Need to Upgrade Our Face Masks—and Where to Get Them
Why We Need to Upgrade Our Face Masks—and Where to Get Them
Additionally, a respirator's effectiveness depends heavily on proper fit and use. For information on how to properly select and use respirators see Selection and Use of NIOSH Approved respirators.