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Poor air quality means more health risks. That’s where powered air purifying respirators (PAPRs) come in.
They push clean, filtered air into a hood or mask so you can breathe easier and safer on the job.
If you’re here, you probably want to know:
This blog breaks it all down.
Passive respirators and powered respirators all have the same aim - to protect your lungs with clean air.
The difference is in how they work:
TOP TIP: Consider a powered respirator if the job is risky or takes too long.
When you’re on shift all day, you need reliable protection. We get it.
The trouble is, a dead respirator battery can’t filter out airborne hazards. So, always factor in battery life when choosing a powered respirator.
On average, expect around eight hours from a powered respirator battery - enough for a standard shift.
Some models can stretch from four to nineteen hours, depending on how they're used.
What about those long, 12-hour days?
Your battery life also depends on:
Other things to think about:
TOP TIP: Pick a PAPR with battery indicators, fast-charge options, and spare swappable battery packs for all-day use.
Not sure which setup suits your team? We’re ready to help.
Call us on 0330 441 3500 or drop us a message - let’s find the right fit for your site.
Powered respirators don’t just block airborne hazards - they keep air flowing.
Unlike regular air filtering masks, these use built-in fans to pull in and filter the air. The result? Cleaner air, easier breathing, and staying cooler while you work.
Let’s explore the benefits of powered air purifying respirators:
PAPRs protect your team from the dangers of polluted air with a continuous filtered air flow.
They protect against:
Best for sites with inconsistent air quality, like:
PAPRs are made to be worn all day, unlike traditional masks that get hot and hard to wear.
Key features include:
Do you work for hours in PPE respirators? PAPRs reduce tiredness and improve comfort levels on the job.
There’s no need for a tight seal around the nose and mouth to filter air with PAPRs - the powered airflow does the hard work for you.
They offer:
Need to talk, see clearly, and stay aware of your surroundings?
When seeing and hearing are a breeze, so is getting the job done.
From dusty sites to sterile labs, PAPRs are built for it all.
Depending on the model, they provide:
Do you deal with dust, fumes, vapours, or other toxins at work? You need respiratory protection.
HSE guidance says employers must assess site air quality for airborne hazards. Then, they must provide proper protection if local exhaust ventilation (LEV) can’t control these risks.
The rule? Match the respirator to the risk.
Protect your team against airborne hazards by choosing the right powered respirator.
Match the respirator to the hazard:
TOP TIP: Always consider the jobsite, the type of hazard, and how long it'll be worn.
Our quick PAPR tick list:
TOP TIP: Match the filter to the risk for the most protection.
Is there a danger to your health from airborne hazards? Look for a certified PAPR.
That said, not all powered respirators are automatically PAPR-certified. Make sure that you always check before you buy.
Look for models marked with:
Certified PAPRs meet strict standards for:
Shopping for a powered respirator? Always check for a certification.
No one wants to take risks with their team's respiratory protection. But which powered respirator is right for your workforce?
Choosing the right PAPR is easier than you think.
Shop our full respiratory range or PPE range to find the right protection.
Or, filter out the risk and learn about respiratory markings with our blog.
Chat with our friendly team today.
Drop us a message, or give us a call on 0330 441 3500.
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