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We carry disposable masks and half-mask respirators from top manufacturers like MSA, Moldex®, 3M™, and North®.
Respirators protect the user in two basic ways. The first is by the removal of contaminants from the air. Respirators of this type include particulate respirators, which filter out airborne particles; and "gas masks" which filter out chemicals and gases. Other respirators protect by supplying clean respirated air from another source. Respirators that fall into this category include airline respirators, which use compressed air from a remote source; and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), which include their own air supply.
Need more information about respirators? Check out our Safety Equipment Blog for more.
Respirators should only be used as a "last line of defense" when engineering control systems are not feasible. Engineering control systems, such as adequate ventilation or scrubbing of contaminants should be used to negate the need for respirators.
NIOSH issues recommendations for respirator use. Industrial type approvals are in accordance to the NIOSH federal respiratory regulations 42 CFR Part 84. Development of respirator standards are in concert with various partners from government and industry.
As always, check your respiratory needs based on recommendations from the manufacturer of the product you're using!
General respiratory information along with product specific info please visit our Respiratory Protection General Information page.
Questions involving respiratory protection or any regulations and safety concerns please see our Respiatory FAQ's page.
Also see, OSHA's new Respiratory Protection Standard.
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Respirators come in two varieties. The first kind, which remove contaminants from the air, are particulate respirators and “gas masks.” The second kind, such as airline respirators and a self-contained breathing apparatus, supplies clean air from an outside source. Our store carries half-mask, full-face mask, and disposable and reusable respirators and dust masks.
Half-mask respirators have a face seal area and offer stability. Most have two cartridges and filters and will not collapse during wear. Some, such as the 3M 5000 Series Organic Vapor, are for more industrial use and are used in spray painting, pesticide application, agriculture, construction, and transportation. In addition to half-mask respirators, our store also carries filters and cartridges.
Full-face mask respirators lower breathing resistance and have nose cups to reduce fogging and scratch-resistant, wraparound lenses. A full-face mask will offer eye, face, and respiratory protection.
Disposable and reusable face masks are best used in environments free from oil. Reusable masks have a reusable face piece but the filter gets replaced after use. In addition, for a reusable mask, the filter also keeps the mask dry. For disposable dust masks, the filter has 95% efficiency for blocking non-oil particulates.
