EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT POWERED AIR PURIFYING RESPIRATORS (PAPR)

WHY USE A POWERED AIR PURIFYING MASK (PAPR)?

A Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) is a highly effective solution for respiratory protection in hazardous environments. Unlike traditional disposable or tight-fitting respirators, a PAPR actively filters and supplies clean air to the wearer, reducing strain on the lungs and ensuring continuous airflow.

PAPRs are particularly beneficial for individuals who require long-term respiratory protection, as they eliminate the discomfort and breathing resistance associated with passive respirators. With their ability to filter airborne contaminants such as dust, fumes, chemicals, and pathogens, PAPRs are widely used across healthcare, construction, mining, and industrial settings.

By providing superior protection, comfort, and usability, PAPRs help workers stay safe and productive in environments where clean air is essential.

WHEN IS A POWERED AIR PURIFYING MASK THE BEST CHOICE?

A Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) is the preferred choice in environments where high-level respiratory protection is essential. These masks provide continuous airflow, reducing fatigue and improving comfort for long-term wear. They are particularly beneficial in the following situations:

• Healthcare & Infectious Disease Control – Used in hospitals, laboratories, and quarantine settings to protect against airborne pathogens like COVID-19, tuberculosis (TB), and influenza.

• Industrial & Construction Work – Essential for workers exposed to fine dust, asbestos, silica, and welding fumes, reducing the risk of long-term respiratory diseases.

• Hazardous Chemical Handling – Required in environments where toxic gases, vapours, or aerosols pose a significant health risk.

• Mining & Manufacturing – Provides protection against airborne contaminants in enclosed or poorly ventilated workspaces.

PAPRs offer superior protection and comfort, making them the ideal choice for industries where respiratory hazards are a constant concern.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST POWERED AIR PURIFYING MASK

Selecting the right Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) is crucial for ensuring proper protection and comfort. When choosing a PAPR, consider the following factors:

• Type of Filter Required – Different workplace hazards require specific filters. HEPA filters are ideal for airborne particles, while gas and vapour cartridges protect against chemicals and toxic fumes.

• Facepiece Style – PAPRs come in various styles, including half-face, full-face, and loose-fitting hoods. A full-face option provides eye protection, while a hood is beneficial for users with facial hair or those seeking greater comfort.

• Battery Life & Airflow Rate – Ensure the unit has sufficient battery life to last an entire shift and provides a consistent, adjustable airflow rate to suit your needs.

• Fit & Compatibility – Check if the PAPR is compatible with other personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hard hats, safety goggles, and hearing protection.

• Workplace Regulations & Compliance – Choose a PAPR that meets Australian Standards (AS/NZS 1716:2012) to ensure it provides the required level of protection.

Our team at Fit Test Australia are trained to recommend the best Powered Air Purifying Mask for your specific needs. Contact us today to discuss which PAPR mask would be best suited for you.

WHEN AND HOW OFTEN SHOULD A POWERED AIR PURIFYING MASK BE TESTED?

Regular mask fit testing and maintenance are essential to ensure your Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) provides reliable protection. Follow these key guidelines:

• Before Each Use – Conduct a pre-use inspection, checking the battery charge, airflow rate, and filter condition. Ensure all components are securely attached and functioning correctly.

• Routine Inspections – Perform weekly or monthly checks according to the manufacturer’s guidelines to identify wear and tear, damaged seals, or airflow issues.

• Annual Servicing & Fit Testing – If your PAPR includes a tight-fitting facepiece, it must undergo quantitative fit testing (link to quantitative fit testing blog above) annually to confirm a proper seal. Regular servicing by a qualified technician ensures all parts, including fans and filters, function optimally.

By maintaining a consistent testing and inspection routine, you can extend the lifespan of your PAPR and ensure it provides the highest level of respiratory protection.

FILTERS FOR POWERED AIR PURIFYING MASKS

Filters are the most critical component of a Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR), directly impacting its ability to protect against hazardous contaminants. Selecting the right filter ensures effective protection for your specific work environment.

TYPES OF PAPR FILTERS:

• HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) Filters – Capture airborne particles, including dust, smoke, bacteria, and viruses, making them ideal for healthcare, construction, and hazardous dust environments.

• Gas & Vapour Cartridges – Designed to filter out specific chemicals, toxic gases, and vapours encountered in industries such as chemical handling, painting, and hazardous material response.

• Combination Filters – Offer dual protection against both particulates and gases, making them suitable for industrial, mining, and emergency response applications.

WHEN TO REPLACE FILTERS:

• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations based on usage, exposure levels, and environmental conditions.

• When the device alerts that filter replacement is due. The wearer can routinely replace them based on a schedule for best practice in line with wear time and exposure levels but the time must be reduced for best practice

• Store spare filters in a clean, dry, and sealed environment to maintain their effectiveness and prevent contamination.

Regular filter maintenance and timely replacements ensure your PAPR continues to provide optimal protection in hazardous work settings.

AUSTRALIAN REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR PAPRS

To ensure safety and compliance, Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) used in Australian workplaces must meet strict regulatory standards. These guidelines help protect workers from hazardous airborne contaminants while ensuring proper use and maintenance.

KEY AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS FOR PAPRS:

• AS/NZS 1716:2012 – This standard outlines performance criteria for respiratory protective devices, including filtration efficiency, airflow rates, and overall effectiveness.

• Workplace Safety Requirements – Employers are responsible for providing suitable respiratory protection and ensuring that PAPRs are appropriate for the specific hazards present in the workplace.

• Fit Testing Requirements – If a PAPR includes a tight-fitting facepiece, it must undergo annual quantitative fit testing (link to quantitative fit testing blog above) in line with Safe Work Australia guidelines to ensure a secure seal and proper protection.

• Maintenance & Training – Workers must be trained in the correct use, care, and limitations of their PAPR. Regular maintenance, including filter replacement and battery checks, is essential to keep the respirator functioning effectively.

Adhering to these standards ensures both worker safety and legal compliance, reducing risks associated with respiratory hazards in industries such as healthcare, construction, and hazardous material handling.

WHY CHOOSE A POWERED AIR PURIFYING MASK?

While all respirators have a place, Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) accommodate a larger group of people, catering to religious beliefs and people with facial hair. These masks provide better comfort with less sweat and pressure points, meaning that you get respiratory protection with ease of use. p Unlike traditional respirators, PAPRs reduce breathing resistance, supply a continuous flow of filtered air, and are suitable for extended wear—ideal for industries like healthcare, construction, hazardous material handling and tunneling.

To maximise safety and effectiveness, it’s crucial to select the right PAPRs, maintain it properly, and ensure compliance with Australian standards. There are a number of PAPR options on the market, and Fit Test Australia can help you select the best option for your circumstances. Regular testing, correct filter selection, and proper training all play a key role in keeping you protected.

PAPR masks also provide those with facial hair for personal, medical or religious beliefs, that would have some users unable to shave, to wear alternative tight fitting negative pressure respirators.

Need expert advice or fit testing for your PAPR? Contact us today to ensure your respiratory protection meets industry standards and provides the highest level of safety.