The construction industry employs a variety of respiratory protection devices to safeguard workers against different airborne hazards. Each type of protection is designed for specific situations and types of exposure. Here are some common forms of respiratory protection used in construction:

Disposable Dust Masks

These are the most basic form of respiratory protection, suitable for low-risk environments with non-toxic dust particles. Disposable dust masks are often used during tasks like woodworking, sanding, or other activities where general dust is a concern.

While simple and cost-effective, disposable dust masks are limited in their filtration capabilities. They typically do not create a seal against the face and are not suitable for very fine or toxic particulates like asbestos or silica dust. They're rated with a NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) classification, such as N95, which means they filter out 95% of airborne particles.

Half-Face Respirators

Half-face respirators cover the nose and mouth. They are commonly used in environments with particulates, mists, and fumes. For instance, during tasks like spray painting or handling certain chemicals, a half-face respirator with the appropriate filter can provide effective protection.

Half-face respirators must be properly fit-tested to ensure a tight seal. They are compatible with different types of filters to suit different hazards, like P100 filters, which are oil-proof and capture at least 99.97% of airborne particles. They are more effective than disposable masks for a range of applications.

Full-Face Respirators

Offering a higher level of protection, full-face respirators cover the entire face, protecting the eyes as well as the respiratory system. These are crucial in environments where workers are exposed to harmful gases, vapors, or very fine particulates that might irritate or damage the eyes. They are often used during activities like abrasive blasting or when working with hazardous chemicals.

Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPRs)

PAPRs use a battery-powered blower to pass contaminated air through a filter, supplying the wearer with clean air. They are used in situations where a higher level of protection is required, or where the worker needs respiratory protection for an extended period.

PAPRs are particularly useful in scenarios with toxic fumes or in environments with a high concentration of particulates. The blower unit can be worn on the belt, reducing the breathing resistance and the burden on the wearer. They can be equipped with various filters, including HEPA filters for highly effective particle filtration.

Supplied-Air Respirators (SARs) or Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)

These systems provide the highest level of respiratory protection and are used in the most hazardous environments. SARs supply clean air through a hose from an external source, while SCBAs have their own air supply, like a compressed air tank.

They are essential in environments with a complete lack of oxygen, extreme pollutants, or in confined spaces, ensuring that the wearer has a safe and controlled air supply. These systems are complex and require significant training to use safely. They are typically used for specific high-risk tasks rather than general construction work.

Regarding asbestos exposure, full-face respirators equipped with P100 filters, PAPRs with HEPA filters, or SCBAs (in extreme cases) are generally recommended. Disposable dust masks and half-face respirators are not suitable for asbestos as they do not provide adequate protection against these fine, toxic fibers.

Asbestos removal is a highly specialised task that requires the highest level of respiratory protection to prevent any inhalation of asbestos fibers, which can cause severe long-term health issues, including mesothelioma and lung cancer.