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 back pack.
These respirators may be worn continuously for more than 1 hour.
Some types may have outlet valves, which must be in a 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 OK 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.

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 three 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. four hours, or at the end of the day).

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.