Copyright © 2013 by The S.E.A. Group

Gas and particles There are two major categories of filters: gas filters and particle filters. Gas filters protect ONLY against gas and vapour. Particle filters protect ONLY against particles. If the atmosphere contains a mixture of gas and particles, both filter types must be used. Copyright © 2013 by The S.E.A. Group

No all-rounders Particle filters and gas filters work in very different ways. A particle filter is a very fine fibre mesh which captures dust particles while letting clean air through. But it will not stop gas or vapour from getting through. A gas filter contains activated carbon, which absorbs gas molecules. However, the carbon is not an effective barrier to fine dust particles. Copyright © 2013 by The S.E.A. Group

No all-rounders Gas filters do NOT protect against particles Particle filters do NOT protect against gas Copyright © 2013 by The S.E.A. Group

One single particle filter Dust Fibres Smoke & fume Aerosols (wet particles; spray, mist) Mould Bacteria Viruses Other solid particles Copyright © 2013 by The S.E.A. Group

Several gas filters There are different gas filters for various gases or types of gas. Some can handle several types of gas Each gas filter can be recognised by its colour coding on the label. Copyright © 2013 by The S.E.A. Group

Colour & letter coding White P — Particles Brown A — Organic gas Brown AX — Organic gas, low boiling point Grey B — Inorganic gas Yellow E — Acid gas Green K — Ammonia Red Hg — Mercury Copyright © 2013 by The S.E.A. Group

Filter classes Gas filters, class 1 or 2 Particle filter, class 3 Copyright © 2013 by The S.E.A. Group

Where NOT to use Not enough oxygen Unknown hazard IDLH Concentration too high Hair, beard, skin Asthma or similar Copyright © 2013 by The S.E.A. Group

Storage Keep new filters in their sealed, unbroken packaging. Store filters away from the work area. Gas filters continue to absorb gas even when you are not using the respirator. Keep them in a sealed container, plastic bag or similar. Copyright © 2013 by The S.E.A. Group

Tell supervisor You are unsure whether you are using the correct filter or filters. You can smell or taste the contaminant through the filter. You feel dizzy or nauseous. You experience throat irritation or other discomfort. You experience any problems breathing through your respirator. You are unsure of the use or maintenance of your respirator and filters. Copyright © 2013 by The S.E.A. Group

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