RESPIRATORY HEALTH


Other questions also affect whether a particular mask is suitable for the individual wearer. Do they have deep cuts, wrinkles, moles, or warts, or struggle with a tight fit for medical reasons? Does the wearer have facial hair, or stubble? A wearer being clean shaven is essential to mask fit. This has always – and increasingly so in recent years as beards have become more popular again – meant that specifying suitable RPE for these wearers has been a problem. For these groups a mask is often not an option, so a different approach is needed.


In these scenarios, a power air purifying respirator (PAPR) would be a more appropriate solution. When fitted using a loose-fitting headpiece which covers the entire head, it negates the need for a tight fit and a face seal, allowing a wider proportion of workers to remain safe in the workplace. Therefore, many


x.com/TomorrowsHS


employers specifying RPE for a diverse workforce are turning to PAPR as a solution.


www.draeger.com/en_uk/Safety/PPE/Respiratory-Protective-Equipment www.draeger.com/en_uk 33


In conclusion, designing and manufacturing PPE to meet the needs of today's diverse workforce is essential for ensuring the safety and wellbeing of workers in the UK. Key to this is manufacturers’ recognition of the diverse needs of different individuals and leveraging new technologies and materials, so that designers can create equipment that is functional, comfortable and suitable for the needs of as many individuals as possible. This inclusivity will keep people safe in the workplace; both from the hazards present today and from those which may be experienced in the future.


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