Respirator provides clean air

The equipment is a powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) and provides clean air to the user. Air is drawn through a two-stage filter then blown through an air tube into the Air-Hood worn by the wearer. Healthcare practitioners (HCP) should use the Worksafe PAPR when exposed to air-borne hazards. The Air-Hood provides protection against aerosolised pathogens or other particles which cause respiratory infections. The PAPR reduces the aerosol concentration inhaled by the wearer providing increased protection and a decrease in the likelihood of infection transmission.  The Worksafe PAPR and Air-Hood provide increased performance as compared to other face fit respirators or face disposable masks.

The Worksafe PAPR has several advantages over tight-fitting non-powered air-purifying respirators, including.

• Clean, disinfect and re-use HEPA filters, hoses and hoods
• The Worksafe PAPR uses high-efficiency filters, which are more comfortable and more effective than face fit respirators.
• The Worksafe PAPR is less taxing from a physiological/breathing resistance perspective than other respirators.
• The design of the fan unit reduces noise. An in-line hose silencer reduces noise further.

Filtration

A wipe-clean casing houses the respirator components. Discard the single leaf disposable primary filter after every use which absorbs most of the airborne material. However, the HEPA filter which stops small particles is both cleanable and reusable. Access to the HEPA filter is simple and quick using thumbscrews. Wash the HEPA filter by immersing the removed filter in a bath of Milton fluid.

Comfort and safety

Wear the Worksafe respirator on a belt and located at the centre of the HCP back where the air-intake is furthest most from the patient. This is comfortable for the user and leaves minimal weight worn above the waist. The PAPR has several safety features which include. The on/off switch requires continued press action to prevent an unintended shutdown. Two visual and vibrating alarms warn the user of low-battery or low pressure. Recharging the respirator uses a simple recharging point in the base of the unit. However, batteries have a working duration of at least eight hours continuous usage between recharging.

The noise level inside the Air-Hood remains below 65 dB(A) which is no louder than quiet conversation.