What is a Respirator?
A respirator refers to a device that is worn over the nose and mouth to protect the lungs from an unknown or dangerous substance. Respirators are commonly used by industrial workers, medical professionals, and members of the public when they need to be in contact with airborne contaminants or in an area where something hazardous is present.

Types of Respirators
Respirators come in different types and levels of protection depending on the specific application. For example, the most common type of respirator is the N95 respirator, also known as a filtering face piece respirator, which features a tight-fitting facepiece that helps to filter out airborne particles. Other common types of respirators include half-mask respirators, full-face respirators, elastomeric respirators, powered air-purifying respirators, and self-contained breathing apparatus.

How to Use a Respirator
Using a respirator correctly is an important part of protecting oneself from inhaling harmful substances. It is important to understand the difference between a respirator and a medical mask, as medical masks are not designed to filter out airborne particles. The first step in using a respirator is to ensure that the fit is correct. Respirators must fit tightly in order to ensure that they are effective. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that the respirator fits properly.

The next step is to inspect the respirator before each use. It is important to check that the seals are intact and that the breathing apparatus is functioning properly. It is also important to check the filter and replace it if it is clogged. Finally, when wearing the respirator, it is important to use a positive pressure technique, which refers to exhaling slightly harder than normal to ensure a tight seal.

Conclusion
A respirator is a device that can help to protect the lungs from various hazardous substances. There are different types of respirators that can be used depending on the specific application. It is important to ensure that a respirator fits properly and that it is inspected before each use to ensure that it is still functioning properly. Following these steps can help to ensure maximum protection when using a respirator.