Respiratory protection (RPE): frequently asked questions

That depends on the substance, concentration and oxygen content. A half mask is permitted with a P3 or gas filter up to 30 times the workplace exposure limit, a full-face mask up to 400 times (DGUV Rule 112-190). The respirator finder guides you through the selection.

A filter with type A (brown) if the boiling point of the solvent is above 65 °C, for example AGA1E1 or AGABEKK1P3. If spray mist occurs too, you need a combination filter with P3. More under Filter classes and colours.

A filter against four gas groups: A organic gases and vapours (boiling point above 65 °C), B inorganic gases, E acid gases, K ammonia and amines. The number after it is the class: 1 up to 0.1 % by volume, 2 up to 0.5 % by volume.

No. Particle filters retain dust, smoke and mist, but not gases and vapours. For these there are gas and combination filters.

With oxygen deficiency or unclear oxygen conditions, in tanks and confined spaces, with unknown substances or concentrations and above 400 times the limit value. Then you need breathing apparatus.

Place the palm of your hand over the exhalation valve and exhale slowly. If air escapes at the mask edge, reposition the mask and tighten the straps. Before every use. More under Face seal and beards.

No, not if a beard or sideburns lie in the sealing area. Then the mask does not seal (DGUV Rule 112-190).

Particle filters when breathing becomes noticeably harder. Gas filters according to a fixed change schedule, at the latest at odour, taste or irritation. Always when damaged and after the expiry date. More under Changing filters.

According to the instructions for use after every use: remove the filters, clean the mask with warm water up to 50 °C and mild detergent, rinse, let it air-dry and store it in a closed bag or container.

For the mask bodies AG360, AG360W and AG700 the instructions for use state three years if stored correctly. Check for damage before every use, masks kept ready at least once a month.

The employer. Under the German Occupational Safety and Health Act, the costs of occupational safety measures must not be imposed on employees.

Before starting the work and at least annually afterwards, with practical exercises. See Respiratory protection duties.

Category III under Regulation (EU) 2016/425. The EU type examination was carried out by the notified body CCQS Certification Services Limited (identification number 2834).

In the B2B shop of DS SafetyWear. Every product page links directly to the matching item.

Yes. Choose the items in the enquiry form and enter your delivery address.

Yes, on every product page under Downloads and collected under Data sheets. What is still missing there we send on request.

Yes. The quality management of DS SafetyWear Arbeitsschutzprodukte GmbH is certified to EN ISO 9001:2015 by TÜV AUSTRIA, valid until 25 March 2028. The certificate is under Data sheets.