Brammer reminds plant engineers of respirator regulations04 October 2010

European respiratory standard EN149:2001 +A1:2009, amended last year, means new responsibilities for plant managers.

Ian Lofthouse, of industrial maintenance firm Brammer, points out that the revisions to the standard, which apply to all filtering face masks, require more stringent efficiency tests. They are now loaded with 120mg of oil mist before their efficiency is measured, to better replicate working conditions.

As a result, some masks now have increased breathing resistance, which can make them less comfortable for wearers. This also means that, once they start to become loaded with filtered-out particles, they rapidly cross the 300 Pascal breathing resistance threshold – meaning they need to be replaced more frequently.

In addition to the requirements of EN149:2001 +A1:2009, Brammer is also reminding employers of their responsibility to undertake fit testing of tight-fitting face pieces, under the COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations) and Approved Code of Practice.

"With filtering face masks now subject to even tighter regulation, fit testing is more important than ever, as gaseous particles will always seek the route of least resistance and will penetrate any gaps around the face, resulting from poor fitting," comments Lofthouse.

"Tight-fitting face pieces will only perform adequately if there is a good contact between the wearer's skin and the face seal," he adds. "If this is not achieved, the wearer could be subject to a significant health risk – indeed, poor fitting is of the major reasons identified by the HSE for inadequate protection."

Lofthouse also reminds users that face masks marked NR should not be used more than once. However, if reusable products are chosen, they need to be regularly monitored.

Brian Tinham

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Brammer UK

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