vented face mask? 1

[miyo]

In some works in our plant a full-face mask (made of hard, transparent plastic) is needed. On the other hand, ambient temperature is quite high. Is there any face mask with a venting device?

 

[FOETS]

In mining we use the Racal helmet in certain areas which is force vented.
See the link below for some pictures and details

http://www.regency-uk.com/html/airstream.html

There must also be other suppliers as we have them in Canada
Try Googling "Racal Airstream"

 

[safetydan]

Why do you not engineer out the inhalation hazard?

 

[FOETS]

Yes anything can be engineered out at a cost. Though this needs to be viewed against practicality, risk and probability. The helmets are the most practical engineered solution.
There was no mention of a inhalation hazard. This is more of a comfort issue for "warmer" environs.
In highly humid environs, where masks tend to fog these vents help making it more likely that the guys are going to use the protection versus not, if it should become a nuisance.


FOETS
"social drinker with a golfing problem"

 

[safetydan]

Yes the Racal PAPR's are better in hot environments for people who are forced to wear PPE, but PPE is the last course you want to take when mitigating a hazard. Also depending on the environment and what substances you are trying to eliminate, you may not be able to only use PPE. Too often, engineers and management look at a situation and try to develop a countermeasure but only look towards PPE as the solution, when it is the last line of controls. The best solution is to eliminate the hazard and depending on the situation, it is the only solution.