Overview of types of gas masks

Personal protective equipment - gas masks appeared at the moment when the first ever gas attacks were carried out. These devices are still in use. During their operation, they have saved thousands of lives. A gas mask is able to effectively protect a person from any harmful substances entering his body. The gas mask covers almost the entire head: eyes, respiratory organs, etc. Not every person knows that today there is a wide variety of such protective devices. Today in our article we will consider the existing varieties of gas masks, as well as their distinctive characteristics.

First of all, it must be said that today there is a huge number of different classifications of gas masks, which are based on various characteristics of these personal protective equipment (RPE). Gas masks prevent carbon monoxide, radiation, ammonia, etc. from entering the human body. According to the principle of protective action, the devices are divided into several types as follows.

The design of this type includes a special filter box (hence the name of the category of gas masks), which protects the respiratory organs of a person and preserves the general health of the body. So, filter models are used when there are substances in the air, the spread of which can only be stopped by a mechanical filter or a chemical reaction. Thus, the person who uses the filter protector continues to breathe the atmospheric air that surrounds him.

It should be borne in mind that the filtering option will not be able to protect a person from all threats, so you should assess the environment in advance before putting on a filtering gas mask. Besides, the filter box, which is the main functional element, can function efficiently and correctly only for several hours, after which it needs a mandatory replacement. In the process of choosing and using a filtering option for a gas mask, you should pay attention to the existing markings (it usually consists of numbers and letters). For example, the figure "1" indicates a rather low level of protection (the amount of toxic substances in the atmosphere should not exceed 0.2%).

In addition to filtering masks, there are also insulating masks. Their main functional part is a special unit with a compressor box, thanks to which this type is considered more modern and perfect. An isolating agent is traditionally used when there is a certain lack of oxygen. The model is considered universal. The main difference between the insulating and the filtering type is that in the first case (as opposed to the second), a person does not breathe purified ambient air, but pure air that enters the body through the respiratory system from a separate source.

Self-contained gas masks are suitable if a person has his own compressor box with compressed air. Hose gas masks provide air access to a person from an external source through a specially designed hose. In addition, there are also combined varieties that combine the characteristics of both types described above.

Another classification of gas masks divides personal protective equipment into several large categories, depending on their scope. Let's consider the distinctive characteristics of the main ones.

Gas masks used in the military sphere are characterized by a high level of reliability and durability. Besides, in terms of their functional and design characteristics, they are universal. Such gas masks are mandatory included in the standard equipment set of a domestic serviceman. In addition to the military, this type is also used by representatives of other specialized structures: for example, employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations.

Such devices are used in case of emergencies. Personal protective equipment is issued to the civilian population (hence the name of the variety).

In the manufacturing process, materials of lower quality are used (compared to the military).

Such protective equipment is used by employees of the enterprise who, in the course of performing their professional duties, in any way come into contact with poisonous or harmful substances.

These gas masks differ significantly in size, as they are designed to protect the respiratory organs of young children. It should be noted, however, that there are several types of children's gas masks: for example, there are special models for babies, which are rubber masks with a metal base.

Thus, existing gas masks are divided into a large number of groups. It is very important to choose exactly the device that will be optimal for you in any given situation.

When studying the classification of currently existing gas masks, it is imperative to pay attention to the table of protective devices, depending on the class of their effectiveness. So, this indicator will be indicated to you by the corresponding marking.

• The letter a" indicates that the gas mask will protect you from vapors and gases of organic substances, the boiling point of which exceeds 65 degrees Celsius. These substances include cyclohexane, benzene, phenol, etc. If there is a color coding, you will see a brown tint.

• Gas masks marked "B" are used to protect the human respiratory system from inorganic elements: chlorine, hydrogen sulfide, iodine and many others. etc. Color coding is performed in gray.

• Yellow designation "E" inherent in personal protective equipment, which are used if acid gases and vapors (for example, phosphine or sulfur dioxide) are common in the atmospheric air.

• The letter "K" - labeling of a gas mask that protects you from ammonia and its derivatives. Usually these masks are made in green.

• Designation "P" is indicated on personal protective equipment that is intended to be used when the air contains a large amount of aerosols (such as smoke or dust).

• Complex designation "AX" indicates that by wearing this gas mask, you may feel safe about various forms of hazardous organic matter that boil below 65 degrees Celsius.

• English letter combination "Hg" usually left on gas masks, which are used to protect the human body from mercury vapor. The color coding in this case is red.

• Letters "СО" and purple colors are inherent in gas masks, which will protect you from carbon oxides.

• Combination of letters "NO" and blue indicates that personal protective equipment can be used if nitrogen oxides are found in the air.

Thus, today there is a wide variety of gas masks that can protect a person from almost any harmful organisms.

In addition to theoretical knowledge about the existing types of gas masks, each person should have practical knowledge regarding their use. Wherein filtering personal protective equipment is usually intended for the civilian population, respectively, and should be guided by them. So, in case of danger, first of all, you need to protect your mucous membranes, which means that you need to close your eyes and hold your breath. Next, you need to remove the special plug from the gas mask.

You need to start putting on a gas mask from below, putting personal protective equipment to your chin. Now you need to exhale and pull the gas mask over your face with sharp movements. In this case, it is important to ensure that no folds are formed, but if they have formed, then they must be straightened. Then you can open your eyes.

When using a gas mask (regardless of its type), you need to monitor its cleanliness and integrity. It is necessary to wipe the lenses of the gas mask on a regular basis. Make sure that the functional elements of the gas mask (filter or compressor box) work correctly and effectively.

In the process of wearing a gas mask, it is imperative to ensure that the sealing of the personal protective equipment is not disturbed in any case. Keep in mind that wearing a gas mask is uncomfortable and can be very uncomfortable. When using the device, it is imperative to follow all the advice and recommendations of specialists.

Thus, today there is a wide variety of types of personal protective equipment. For in order for a protective agent to effectively protect the human body from harmful components present in the atmospheric air, it is very important to pay attention to the type of device. In doing so, pay attention not only to the very nature of the pollutants, but also to their concentration. Remember that your health or even life may ultimately depend on the choice of a gas mask.

For an overview of the best gas masks, see below.