Types of Respirators Used in OSHA N95 Mask Guidelines

A standard N95 mask is an abbreviated term for an advanced, particulate-filter respirator, which, as the name suggests, is an advanced respirator designed to meet the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) requirements. These masks are worn by those working in hazardous environments such as chemical plants, power plants, paper mills, aircraft, and other such areas. Because their purpose is to prevent respiratory infections from occurring, it's important for these masks to be comfortable enough to protect the wearer.

A full-face N95 mask, for instance, requires a mask topper to fit over the user's existing face protection, a chin strap to attach to a backpack, and a strap that attaches to the front portion of the wearer's collar to attach to the mask. Some versions of the full face mask, such as the Bi-Xenon, have a ventilated mesh design. A wide-brimmed, one-way-vent design is available as an optional accessory. The one-way-vent masks may be used to provide protection from dust, pollen, and other airborne particles but are less effective at reducing dust and pollen. A full-face mask is the most recommended option for those working in areas where particles of dust are large.

Since the early 1980s, when the first mask designed for use in workplaces was produced, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued standards for this type of protective equipment. The main purpose of these standards is to ensure that the safety of the individual who wears it is maintained. The standards are designed to provide protection against both chemicals and biological hazards.

The OSHA safety guidelines for these types of respirators state that they should be designed in such a way as to provide proper protection against dust and particles and not allow them to enter the wearer's eyes or mouth. Although all N95 masks are approved for use in most places, some may be restricted to particular industries. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets these limits based on industry, the number of employees using the respirators, and the amount of exposure that could occur to these materials.

Respirators are manufactured from a variety of materials, including rigid polyurethane foam (RPE), visco-elastic polyurethane foam (VRPE), neoprene, neoprene with a neoprene base, and memory foam. {RWB, and neoprene with memory foam core. {RW. The RPE is a flexible, hard plastic material that is the most commonly used in industrial respirators. This material holds the wearer's mouth and nose shut. It has been designed to be very comfortable and easy to put on, taking up little space in the workstation.

Visco elastic polyurethane is another form of respirator used in N95 masks. This type of respirator is also known as a fire retardant (PRC). Like the RPE, it is flexible and holds the mouth and nose shut.

A neoprene breathing apparatus is similar to the neoprene breathing apparatus, but the latter has no ribs or openings at the top and bottom of the device. The neoprene face shield, however, does have a number of air pockets to help prevent particles of dust and debris from entering the user's lungs. It also has a Velcro fastener that fastens the device into a helmet, band, or other headgear. The neoprene has a "face seal" to keep out dust and particles.

The memory foam is another form of respirator used in N95 masks that is made from a thick, waxy foam. It holds the mouth and nose shut, as well as a mouthpiece or chin strap. It can be placed over the entire face or just over the nose and mouth. The memory foam also provides the comfort of the RPE and neoprene materials, while maintaining maximum safety.