When specifying RPE many know how to understand hazards, select protection levels and specify appropriate RPE. But what about its suitability? Increasingly specifiers are facing challenges caused by human, task and environmental factors. These can range from facial hair to the physicality and exertion required, the duration of the task to temperature or eventhe compatability with other PPE needed.

Many are moving to Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) as a solution to suitability factors not addressed by tight-fitting respiratory protection. This presentation takes a look at some of the benefits offered by PAPR systems and addresses some of the perceived barriers too.