Breathing protection
What is the occupational exposure limit?
The occupational exposure limit is the time-weighted average concentration of a substance in workplace air at which no acute or chronic injury is to be expected to employees not wearing breathing protection.
The application thresholds for breathing masks are specified as multiples of the limit value.
What to be aware of when choosing the right breathing protection
Determine the appropriate mask type for each activity
Filter classes for disposable masks - the Würth colour-coded system ensures safety
Our colour-coded system makes it easier to select the correct breathing protection in day-to-day working life and ensures that the appropriate class of filter is used. The colour of the head harness or the printing directly on the mask indicates the class of respiratory mask and provides an additional level of safety. Furthermore, the colour-coded system allows the mandatory wearing of breathing masks to be monitored.
Classification of filter classes
The appropriate breathing protection is selected based on the risk assessment. Particle filters are divided into three categories:
| Filter class | Application | Area of use |
|---|---|---|
| FFP1 | Protects against non-toxic and non-fibrogenic particles, dusts and aerosols | Up to a maximum of 4 times the limit value |
| FFP2 | Protects against harmful or less toxic particles, dusts, solid and liquid aerosols, mists and smoke | Up to a maximum of 10 times the limit value |
| FFP3 | Protects against harmful/toxic dusts, mists, smoke, solid and liquid aerosols, carcinogenic substances, radioactive substances, enzymes and microorganisms (viruses, bacteria, fungi) | Up to a maximum of 30 times the limit value |
Important:
- Particulate filters may only be used once against radioactive substances and airborne biological agents.
- Particulate filters do not protect against fumes and gases!
For reusable masks, use the correct filter type
Breathing masks usually consist entirely of several layers of filter material and are ideally equipped with an exhalation valve. The different layers are used to ensure dimensional stability, tear resistance and filtration. In order to minimise breathing resistance, the filter material must be able to allow air to pass through while also filtering particles. The more particles have to be filtered, the more layers of filter material that are used. This means masks in higher protection classes are increasingly dense to possess a higher respiratory resistance. To prevent small particles from passing through the filter material, the filter material is provided with an electrostatic charge.
Which filter
Gas filters are divided into classes depending on the group of substances. They only protect against gases and vapours, not against the inhalation of particles. We show you which filter is suitable for which application:
| Filter type | Application | Colour code |
|---|---|---|
| A | Against organic gases and vapours, e.g. solvents such as turpentine, nitro thinner, petrol, PER, toluene, xylene with boiling point > 65°C. | Brown |
| B | Against inorganic gases and vapours such as chlorine, bromine, hydrogen sulphide etc. | Grey |
| E | Against acidic gases and vapours such as sulphur dioxide, hydrogen chloride etc. | Yellow |
| K | Against ammonia and organic amines such as dimethylamine etc. | Green |
| AX | Against low-boiling organic compounds with a boiling point ≤ 65°C. | Brown |
| Hg | Against mercury | Red |
Using breathing protection safely - what you should know
How to put your mask on properly
Note: If you cannot achieve a good seal, please do not enter the workplace! Greater protection is achieved in combination with Würth safety goggles.
The most important properties of disposable masks
Cleaning, durability and storage of your breathing protection
How long can breathing masks be used for?
Breathing masks have variable lifetimes, depending on being reusable or non-reusable:
The "NR" mark can be found on all disposable masks and means non-reusable.
The "R" stands for reusable. Only masks that can be cleaned have this marking and can therefore be used for further work after cleaning.
Disposable masks may only be worn for a maximum of one working shift (eight hours). If respiratory resistance increases before this point, the mask must be replaced sooner. Reusable mask filters may be used for several working shifts. Regardless of the type of filter, the following applies: As soon as breathing resistance increases or the taste/odour of gas can be perceived, the filter must be replaced. The same applies when the minimum service life of the filter has been exceeded.
Cleaning of reusable masks
Reusable masks should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after each use. Cleaning should ensure that no residues remain, including skin care products. Otherwise, there is a risk that the elasticity in the sealing area will be lost and the mask will no longer fit properly. In the worst case, this can lead to poisoning and potentially death.
- First, remove the respiratory filter.
- Use a suitable cleaning solution of water and a cleaning agent and wipe thoroughly over all parts with a soft cloth.
- Thoroughly rinse all parts under running water.
- Prepare a disinfectant bath with water and a suitable disinfectant. Place all parts into it.
- Thoroughly rinse all parts again under running water.
- All parts should be dried in the air or a drying chamber (max. temperature: 60°C). Please protect from direct sunlight!
Beware of the risk of material damage: Please refer to the respective product instructions. Only suitable or recommended cleaning agents and disinfectants as stated in the product instructions may be used. The use of incorrect products can lead to product damage.
Optimal storage for your breathing protection
Make sure that the container is clean and dry. Air-tight and UV-protected storage prevents the respiratory valves from premature ageing. The same applies to all other components. This will extend the life of the mask.
Your face mask or respirator can be stored in a:
- Carry case
- Lockable box
- Plastic bag
Get the right breathing protection now
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