A respirator is a device to protect you from inhaling dangerous substances, such as chemicals

and infectious particles. There are several different types of respirators, as described below.

Some company and consumers are considering buying an escape hoods or other respirators to

protect themselves against potential terrorist threats, including biological and chemical

substances. This guidance will provide information on what respirators are, how they work, and

what is needed for a respirator to provide protection.

If available and used correctly, a respirator can selectively reduce the exposure you might

otherwise receive. Respirators have been used for many years in the workplace, where employers

have programs to make sure the proper masks are selected and that the respirator fits. When

consumers use respirators, they dont have such support, so this fact sheet includes lots of

background information to help consumers understand the limitations and cautions that need to

be considered. The goal is to avoid unintended problems that might occur through lack of

understanding or a false sense of security.

As a first step, plan how to respond if an emergency happens. A respirator is only one small

part of that plan. There may be situations in which its simply best to stay where you are and

avoid any uncertainty outside, a process known as shelter-in- place, as a means of survival. Use

available information to assess the situation. If you see large amounts of debris in the air, or if

local authorities say the air is badly contaminated, you may want to take this kind of action.

Respiratory protection is effective only if:

ï‚· it’s available when you need it,

ï‚· the correct respirator is used,

ï‚· you know when and how to put it on and take it off, and

ï‚· you have stored it and kept it in working order in accordance with the manufacturers

instructions

Each type of respirator can come in a number of varieties, each with its own set of cautions,

limitations, and restrictions of use. Some respirators need testing to ensure a tight fit to the face,

and should not be used with facial hair. Others use a nose clip and mouthpiece, which is

clenched between your teeth, similar to a snorkel. a number of respirators prevent the user from

talking while others have speaking capabilities. Every respirator contaminated with hazardous

chemicals should be decontaminated and disposed of properly.

All respirators require training to be properly used. from time to time you can practice using

your own respirator. Some escape respirators come in a package that must remain sealed until

use, so you need to be trained using a special practice version. Training is extremely important

in regard to the storage, maintenance, use, and discarding of the respirator. This information is

provided by the supplier of the respirator (i.e. seller, distributor, or manufacturer).

If you do not use a respirator properly, it is very likely that it will not protect you-and may even