Know About P2 Respirators
Are P2 and N95 Masks the Same?
Yes. A P2 rating is widely considered to be desirable and safe, but what does it actually mean? P2 relates to respiratory protective device rating in Australia and New Zealand (AUS/NZ 1716:2012). This standard is known as N95 in the USA (NIOSH-42CFR84), and means that the respirator (or face mask) is rated to protect the wearer from at least 95% of airborne particles. The masks are commonly used to reduce exposure to bushfire smoke, silica, asbestos, coal, lead dust, and disease.
Is a Valved P2 Respirator Safe?
Yes, P2 masks with exhalation valves allow the wearer to exhale more easily whilst preventing moisture build up. These types of respirators are suited to longer periods of wear and demanding work conditions. It is important to note that valved P2 respirators are not recommended for medical use – if the wearer is infected there is a greater likelihood that disease can be spread to others via the exhalation valve.
How often should I change my P2 Respirator?
There is no clear answer as to when or how often you should change your P2 respirator. A good rule of thumb is to replace your P2 mask when breathing becomes difficult, or if you notice a change in smell or taste through the filter. This will be dependent on the wearer, usage, and conditions of the environment. Note that the efficiency of the filter deteriorates in the presence of oil or oil mists. One of our biggest markets is mining and Stratex P2 respirators have been developed with this purpose in mind. They are designed to provide comfort over long time periods, and feature a pre-shaped nose cushion, contoured facial seal and dual straps for a secure fit in demanding conditions.
Cup & Flat Fold P2 Mask Differences
Aside from the visual differences, there is very little difference in performance between cup and flat fold P2 respirators. Storage footprint will be lower with a flat fold, making them ideal for tucking inside a helmet or glovebox. Ultimately it boils down to your own personal preference. Some people prefer cup respirators because of the added space between the mask and the wearer’s face.
Stratex offers a range of protective head and face wear solutions, for more information contact us on 1300 991 180 or email [email protected].
- Disposable P2V Carbon Respirator – Cup (10 Pack)
The Stratex P2v Disposable Masks provide excellent respiratory protection against nuisance-level organic vapors, in addition to P2 rating. It has an active carbon pre-filter and an exhalation valve for extra airflow and comfort. The P2 mask conforms to Australian AS/NZS 1716:2012 P2 Standards Mark. Licence no. SMKH20566.
The P2 masks have very low breathing resistance with high filtration efficiency. They are comfortable for long periods of time with a pre-shaped nose cushion and contoured facial seal for a secure fit. Facial tests should be conducted prior to use and the fit of the respirator may be effected by beard growth, some hairstyles and other facial features. They are very low maintenance and can be disposed of as general waste.
P2v Disposable Masks protects against mechanically and thermally generated particles such as: silica, asbestos, metal fume, coal, lead dust
Available in cupped or flat fold. Box contains 10 masks.
Warning: Respirators should only be worn where the employer has determined they are appropriate for the workplace hazards and the wearer has been trained in the product use. The efficiency of the filter deteriorates in the presence of oil or oil mists. Operational temperature range for use is 0 to +50⁰C.
- Disposable P2V Carbon Respirator – Flat Fold (10 Pack)
The Stratex P2v Disposable Masks provide excellent respiratory protection against nuisance-level organic vapors, in addition to P2 rating. It has an active carbon pre-filter and an exhalation valve for extra airflow and comfort. The P2 mask conforms to Australian AS/NZS 1716:2012 P2 Standards Mark. Licence no. SMKH20566.
The P2 masks have very low breathing resistance with high filtration efficiency. They are comfortable for long periods of time with a pre-shaped nose cushion and contoured facial seal for a secure fit. Facial tests should be conducted prior to use and the fit of the respirator may be effected by beard growth, some hairstyles and other facial features. They are very low maintenance and can be disposed of as general waste.
P2v Disposable Masks protects against mechanically and thermally generated particles such as: silica, asbestos, metal fume, coal, lead dust
Available in cupped or flat fold. Box contains 10 masks.
Warning: Respirators should only be worn where the employer has determined they are appropriate for the workplace hazards and the wearer has been trained in the product use. The efficiency of the filter deteriorates in the presence of oil or oil mists. Operational temperature range for use is 0 to +50⁰C.
- Disposable P2V Carbon Respirator – Tri-Fold (10 Pack)
The Stratex P2v Disposable Masks provide excellent respiratory protection against nuisance-level organic vapors, in addition to P2 rating. It has an active carbon pre-filter and an exhalation valve for extra airflow and comfort. The P2 mask conforms to Australian AS/NZS 1716:2012 P2 Standards Mark. Licence no. SMKH20566.
The P2 masks have very low breathing resistance with high filtration efficiency. They are comfortable for long periods of time with a pre-shaped nose cushion and contoured facial seal for a secure fit. Facial tests should be conducted prior to use and the fit of the respirator may be effected by beard growth, some hairstyles and other facial features. They are very low maintenance and can be disposed of as general waste.
P2v Disposable Masks protects against mechanically and thermally generated particles such as: silica, asbestos, metal fume, coal, lead dust
Available in cupped or flat fold. Box contains 10 masks.
Warning: Respirators should only be worn where the employer has determined they are appropriate for the workplace hazards and the wearer has been trained in the product use. The efficiency of the filter deteriorates in the presence of oil or oil mists. Operational temperature range for use is 0 to +50⁰C.