How often should a respirator filter be changed?

Whether you’re using a disposable, half-face, full-face or powered air respirator, at some point you’ll need to change the filter….but when, and how often should it be changed? Here’s all the info you need to know…

Before we get into the nitty gritty, here’s a reminder of a few very important points when it comes to respiratory safety:

1. Welding, and other workshop processes produce fumes that can be really dangerous if breathed in – check out this blog if you need to know more.
2. Workplace Health & Safety Regulations require more than just wearing the right PPE – here’s what you need to know about air quality H&S regulations
3. Choosing the right PPE for the task is critical – it can only do what it’s designed to do. Here’s a quick guide to make sure your PPE is right for the jobs you’re doing.

So now that we’ve made sure you know all about the importance of air quality in the workshop, and you’re all geared up with the right equipment, let’s answer the question – when, and how often should respirator filters be changed?

Once in use, a respirator filter CAN last UP TO 6 months IF properly cared for (undamaged and stored in an air-tight container away from contaminants)

Any good respirator filter that is certified to AS/NZS 1716 standards will have a manufacturing date clearly stamped on the packaging. Filters can last up to 5 years from the date of manufacture, or 6 months once the packaging has been opened.

It is important to note that filters in use CAN last up to a MAXIMUM of 6 months. The actual USEFUL life of your filter will depend on :

• The quality of your filter
• The air quality in your workshop (how much work the filter is having to do)
• How often it is being used
• How well it is being maintained

While there are clear signals that will indicate when a filter needs to be changed, and a good PAPR unit will give you an alert when the filter needs changing, it is also best practice to keep a filter change schedule which includes:

• Manufacturing date
• Open date
• Scheduled change date (this should be based on the points in the paragraph above).

Once your filter is in use there’s a few signs which will alert you to when it needs changing….

IMPORTANT NOTE: In high and dangerous contaminated areas, filters must be changed frequently before you can smell or sense breathing in of any pollutants. It is better to have a measure of contamination, and schedule regular filter changes, than breath in contamination. If still in doubt always consult your supervisor, or occupational health professional.