Fan-powered respirator with reusable hood, helmet or visor

General information

Fan Powered Respirator With Reusable Hood, Helmet Or Visor

General information

  • It is usually possible to alter the airflow into the hood.
  • Reusable hoods can be made from a variety of materials.
  • Filters may be located within the hood or in a backpack.
  • These respirators may be worn continuously for more than 1 hour.
  • Some types may have outlet valves, which must be in good condition.
  • Hoods cover the whole area of the face and come in different shapes and sizes.
  • They can be cleaned and reused many times, as recommended by the manufacturer.
  • They are suitable for a high work rate (heavy manual work requiring a lot of exertion and energy).
  • Hoods can be fitted with particle filters, gas filters, vapour filters or a combination of gas, vapour and particle filters.
  • Fan-powered hoods, helmets and visors are all right for medium work rate (work involving sustained hand and arm movements).
  • This type uses a motorised fan to pull air through filters. It does not depend on wearer's breathing. However, if the motor fails, the wearer must remove the facepiece before exiting to a safe place.

Do​

  • Fit restraining facilities as recommended.
  • Select the right size hood for each wearer.
  • Ensure that the respirator has a flow indicator.
  • Change used filters at the manufacturer's recommended frequency.
  • Always fit identical filters to all filter holders (up to 3 per respirator).
  • Ensure that wearers check the RPE fits correctly every time, as recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Ensure you have the right filter(s) for the substance – particle or gas or vapour, or the required combination.
  • Always recharge or change the battery after the recommended period of use (e.g. 4 hours, or at the end of the day).

Don't

  • Store in dirty areas between uses.
  • Make DIY modifications to the RPE.
  • Use AX filters with hoods, helmets or visors.
  • Use filters other than those recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Damage or deform the hood, helmet or visor when putting it away.
  • Use in oxygen-deficient atmospheres, for example confined spaces.
  • Use a damaged respirator – hood, helmet, visor, filters, straps, valves or hose.
  • Get dirt inside the hood, helmet or visor, or use solvents to clean the hood, helmet or visor, straps or filters.

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