Comparison of respiratory protection during workload between different wearing methods of replaceable particulate respirators and powered air-purifying respirators

This study evaluated the difference in respiratory protection between replaceable particulate respirators (RPRs) and powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs), with different wearing methods during workload. Participants wore RPRs or PAPRs in the ways that workers wore them in actual workplaces. We measured the number of particles inside and outside the respiratory protective equipment (RPE) during workload for each wearing variation. The fit factor (FF) of RPRs in the workload state was significantly lower than that in the resting state, indicating inadequate respiratory protection. In contrast, the FF of PAPRs during workload was significantly lower than that at rest; however, respiratory protection was maintained. PAPR did not show a significant decrease in FF owing to the wearing variations during workload. In conclusion, PAPRs were found to be superior to RPRs in terms of respiratory protection. PAPRs are better than RPRs for workers who have to wear RPE inappropriately due to health problems.