Gas masks are more than just military devices and range from basic respirators in a half mask form to full oxygen systems that include a tank and eye protection. Chemical and biological hazards in the work place can be as simple as flour dust in a grinding facility or as dangerous as hazardous material clean up. Having the right gas mask for the application provides safety and increased productivity.
Half gas mask systems cover the mouth and nose to limit exposure to the respiratory system. These gas masks leave the eyes exposed and are ideal for low exposure situations. The eyes are particularly vulnerable to chemical exposure and full-face gas masks offer protection for the entire face. SCBA gas mask systems use a tank to provide oxygen for short-term use. SCBA systems must be recharged and require heavy oxygen tanks. Consider the following gas masks information when making a purchasing decision:
1. A good gas masks provider helps determine the best equipment for your business needs.
2. Gas masks must meet or exceed the protection requirements of your business application.
3. Self-contained gas masks systems offer the highest level of respiratory protection.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Choose the right half gas masks to balance employee protection and comfort for better productivity
Limited exposure to dusts and other non-lethal situations call for a half gas mask that is lightweight and allows employees to move freely. High dust areas and light chemical vapor exposure is handled easily with half masks that are either single use or with replaceable filters.
I recommend: Find gas masks at
Allergy Be Gone for use in industrial and home applications.
Lab Safety Supply has a gas masks list full of half face units and accessories.
Use full-face gas masks in high toxicity environments
Full-face gas masks are difficult to work in for extended periods but are a necessity for companies that handle any kind of hazardous chemicals. These gas masks provide protection to the respiratory system and eyes allowing employees to get out of hazardous situations or giving them time to resolve and clean up spills.
I recommend: Name Brands has options for many applications in their gas masks directory.
SafetyTech International sells military grade gas masks for long-term exposure situations.
Purchase SCBA gas masks for extreme conditions to eliminate toxins a filter system can't
SCBA systems, used for ultimate protection, have carry along oxygen tanks and full-face protection. SCBA gas mask systems have limited oxygen supplies and are heavy, forcing users to take regular breaks. Used only for the most dangerous situations such as fire fighting and highly toxic exposures, these expensive systems have rechargeable tanks and allow use with full body suits.
I recommend: Approved Gas Masks (AGM) manufactures and distributes SCBA systems to meet the strictest requirements. Rent or buy gas masks from
Argus-HAZCO including emergency and SCBA equipment.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Gas masks providers carry a large variety of filter and canisters option designed to work in specific applications. Consult with a professional to better define the precise needs of your company to provide the highest level of safety.
The official source of Gas Masks is the Gas Masks page at Business.com
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