Respiratory protective devices are protective devices intended to protect against hazardous substances in the aeriform state such as particles, vapours and gases by means of the filtering mechanism. These devices, which partially or completely cover the face, are made of filtering material or consist of a reusable structure fitted with replaceable filters. Each class features specific filters.
The EN 136 standard specifies the minimum requirements for full-face masks for respiratory protective equipment. The full-face masks for equipment intended for underwater use do not fall under the scope and field of application of the standard. They are reusable devices consisting of a structure that covers the entire face with a transparent visor, they are fitted with exhalation valves and are more airtight than half-face masks. Replaceable filters intended to capture contaminants in the air are also inserted in these devices.
