3
Health and Safety
Executive
R3 UK Standard Assigned
Protection Factor 20
COSHH essentials:
Respiratory protective (APF 20)
equipment (RPE)
Contr
ol approach R Supplementary advice
This information will help
employers comply with the
Control of Substances
Hazardous to Health
Regulations 2002 (COSHH), as
amended, to control exposure to chemicals
and protect workers’ health.
It is also useful for trade union safety
representatives.
The sheet covers how to select and use
RPE with a UK APF of 20.
It is important to follow all the points, or
use equally effective measures.
RPE is not a substitute for engineering
controls. It is difficult to use, expensive in
the longer run, and always fails to danger.
If you are using the right controls, RPE is
not normally needed. However, some
processes always need RPE.
You should use RPE:
■ while you are planning to install engineering control;
■ clearing up a spillage;
■ maintenance;
■ emergencies;
■ cleaning, eg pressure washing;
■ a short term one-off procedure; and
■ whenever required for safe working.
Selection of RPE with an APF of 20 or more
✓ RPE is designed to help protect workers from dusts, fumes, vapours or
gases. This sheet describes respirators (including ‘dust masks’) that
filter contaminated air, and breathing apparatus (BA) that supplies clean
air. Fill in the selection table on page three and show it, with safety
data sheets, to your RPE supplier.
Types of RPE available are:
■ filtering half-mask, EN 149;
■ filtering half-mask without inhalation valves EN 1827;
■ half mask EN 140 and filter;
■ any of the above devices incorporating a high efficiency P3 particulate
filter;
■ full face mask EN136 and gas filter;
■ powered hood model TH2 EN 146 / EN 12941; and
■ power-assisted mask model TM2 EN 147/EN 12942.
Caution: These are not suitable for use in confined spaces.
Types of BA available are:
■ compressed airline BA LDM1 or LDM2 mask EN 12419;
■ compressed airline BA LDH2 hood/helmet/visor EN 1835; and
■ constant flow airline BA half-mask EN 139.
Planning and preparation
✓ Plan for and practice emergency procedures.
✓ Get up-to-date safety data sheets for all chemicals and products.
✓ Make sure you get initial fit testing done. Ask the supplier for help in fit
testing and arranging training, or contact BOHS - see ‘Further
information’.
