Smoke Hoods are protective head coverings which, as a minimum, have a filter system that prevents wearers from breathing in unwanted smoke gases and particulates generated in a fire. They may also incorporate a small oxygen generator by which their useful endurance as a protective device is increased.
Depending on the model, the hoods filter carbon monoxide, smoke particles, acid gases such as hydrogen cyanide and other toxins. Although experts do not generally argue against the hood's ability to reduce intake of smoke with highly toxic gases that can prove fatal, other potential problems are cited.
Smoke Guards & HoodsSmoke guards are simple and affordable solutions to smoking fireplaces . Smoke guards are used to reduce the size of the fireplace opening which allows the fireplace to contain back drafts and control the flow of heat that is produced by the fireplace.
Protective Breathing Equipment (PBE)
The many types of respirators available include (1) particulate respirators, which filter out airborne particles; (2) “gas masks,” which filter out chemicals and gases; (3) airline respirators, which use compressed air from a remote source; and (4) self-contained breathing apparatus, which include their own air supply.
Respirator Selection Air-purifying vs.Atmosphere-supplying Respirators
- Particulate Respirators. Capture particles in the air, such as dusts, mists, and fumes.
- Combination Respirators. Are normally used in atmospheres that contain hazards of both particulates and gases.
- Gas & Vapor Respirators.
Occupational Safety and Health Standards
Guide to Respirators
| Substance | Type of Respirator | Rating (if applicable) |
|---|
| Mold | Particulate filter | N95 or higher |
| Organic vapor | Chemical cartridge | |
| Paint | Particulate filter | R95 or higher |
| Pesticides, Sprays | Particulate filter | R95 or higher |
Two basic types of respirators are: • air-purifying; and • supplied-air respirators. Air-purifying respirators remove airborne contaminants such as particles, toxic vapors, and/or gases.
An N95 respirator is a respiratory protective device designed to achieve a very close facial fit and very efficient filtration of airborne particles. Note that the edges of the respirator are designed to form a seal around the nose and mouth.
Several OSHA regulations require the use of respirators, including OSHA's Respiratory Protection standard, 29 CFR 1910.134. Respirators are used to protect employees from harmful dusts, smokes, mists, and other materials or hazardous atmospheres.
IDLH or Immediately dangerous to life or health means an atmospheric concentration of any toxic, corrosive or asphyxiant substance that poses an immediate threat to life or would cause irreversible or delayed adverse health effects or would interfere with an individual's ability to escape from a dangerous atmosphere.
OSHA specifically states that the requirements for Grade D breathing air according to Reference 2 are an oxygen content (v/v) of 19.5-23.5%, a hydrocarbon (condensed) content of 5 milligrams per cubic meter of air or less, a carbon monoxide (CO) content of 10 parts per million (ppm) or less, a carbon dioxide content of
