The construction business is known for being hazardous. One of the many dangers to those working in this sector is the inhalation of toxic airborne particles, with silica dust being a particular problem. Some of these particles can cause long-term debilitating health problems, even life-threatening conditions including lung cancer, kidney disease, or silicosis. Respirators for construction workers limit the risk by filtering out the particles. Enabling people to work without the fear of damaging their health.
The construction industry is one of the largest sectors in the UK economy. In 2019 it employed around 3.1 million people. That equates to 9% of the total British workforce (gov.uk). Because of the scale of the risk involved, it is no surprise that providing adequate PPE, especially respiratory protection, is something that is taken very seriously in the industry.
Choosing the Best Respirators for Construction Workers
Respiratory face masks, as with all other PPE, are certified in accordance with safety standards and to specific applications and functions. There are many respirators on the market which makes choosing the right one difficult. Therefore, to make things easier we have chosen what we think are the best overall masks in this category. These will provide excellent protection to a wide variety of construction workers, from carpenter joiners to construction labourers.
2530V Disposable Respirator
The 2530V is the respirator most suited to construction environments. This disposable respirator has a soft inner seal and offers outstanding levels of protection and fit. Designed with industry workers in mind, it offers suitable protection against a broad range of particulate hazards.
Other features:
- Lightweight, cup-shaped respirator
- Low profile exhalation valve to reduce heat and moisture build-up
- Four-point head strap adjustment
- Preformed nose bridge with additional non-ferrous nose clip for a secure fit
- Conforms to EN 149:2001+A1:2009
- FFP3 NR
- Protects from non-toxic dust and oil/water-based particulate
Alpha Solway IX-3
Lightweight and comfortable, the Alpha Solway IX FFP2 and FFP3 respirators are horizontal, fold-flat, certified face masks, designed to offer an excellent fit for those working in construction. These masks are the perfect choice if you are searching for an extremely high performing respirator. Available either valved or unvalved, whichever you choose, specialised technology will help reduce the build-up of heat and moisture.
Other features:
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- Flexible nose bridge
- Electrostatic filter media
- Conforms to EN 149:2001+A1:2009
- FFP3 NR
- Tapered shape for enhanced fit
- Premium straps ensure stability on the face
- Latex and silicone-free
Face Fit Testing
Once you’ve chosen the right mask then the next important stage is to make sure it fits properly. A face fit test will help you achieve the best possible protection from your PPE and face mask. Getting the right fit will ensure a protective seal is formed when wearing your respirator.
The Alpha Solway face fit testing kit offers the ultimate performance from your respiratory protection. This easy-to-use kit not only enables the wearer to be Fit Tested correctly, it is also economical and cost-effective by providing in-house testing. It works on all face shapes and sizes and although a legal requirement, its simplicity makes it convenient to use.
The kit contains everything you need to be able to undertake a thorough test and includes the following equipment:
- 1 x Hood
- 12 x 2.5ml Bitter Sensitivity Solutions
- 12 x 2.5ml Bitter Test Solutions
- 2 x Nebulisers
- Instructions
- Supplied in a Cardboard Case
If you would like to know more, view our full respiratory range or please get in touch for more advice.
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