General information
- It is usually possible to alter the airflow into the hood.
- Reusable hoods can be made from a variety of materials.
- Filters may be located within the hood or in a backpack.
- These respirators may be worn continuously for more than 1 hour.
- Some types may have outlet valves, which must be in good condition.
- Hoods cover the whole area of the face and come in different shapes and sizes.
- They can be cleaned and reused many times, as recommended by the manufacturer.
- They are suitable for a high work rate (heavy manual work requiring a lot of exertion and energy).
- Hoods can be fitted with particle filters, gas filters, vapour filters or a combination of gas, vapour and particle filters.
- Fan-powered hoods, helmets and visors are all right for medium work rate (work involving sustained hand and arm movements).
- This type uses a motorised fan to pull air through filters. It does not depend on wearer's breathing. However, if the motor fails, the wearer must remove the facepiece before exiting to a safe place.
Do
- Fit restraining facilities as recommended.
- Select the right size hood for each wearer.
- Ensure that the respirator has a flow indicator.
- Change used filters at the manufacturer's recommended frequency.
- Always fit identical filters to all filter holders (up to 3 per respirator).
- Ensure that wearers check the RPE fits correctly every time, as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Ensure you have the right filter(s) for the substance – particle or gas or vapour, or the required combination.
- Always recharge or change the battery after the recommended period of use (e.g. 4 hours, or at the end of the day).
Don't
- Store in dirty areas between uses.
- Make DIY modifications to the RPE.
- Use AX filters with hoods, helmets or visors.
- Use filters other than those recommended by the manufacturer.
- Damage or deform the hood, helmet or visor when putting it away.
- Use in oxygen-deficient atmospheres, for example confined spaces.
- Use a damaged respirator – hood, helmet, visor, filters, straps, valves or hose.
- Get dirt inside the hood, helmet or visor, or use solvents to clean the hood, helmet or visor, straps or filters.