Safety Alert – P2 masks or respirators

There has been a surge in demand for P2 respirators for use against airborne pollutants during the recent extensive bushfires and more immediately against the transmission of COVID-19 (coronavirus).

This has resulted in an increase of non-compliant respirators entering the supply chain, which has been highlighted by several industry bodies including SafeWork NSW and WorkSafe New Zealand.

The Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists has published a Guide to Buying P2, or Equivalent, Respirators for use in the Australian & New Zealand Work Environment, June 2020-Version 1.0.

Which masks or respirators are compliant?

One of the challenges for businesses is ensuring you can identify compliance versus non-compliant products, particularly when it comes to purchasing respirators for your workers.

Australia and New Zealand share equivalent standards, classifying respirators as P1, P2 or P3 – respirators that are designed to give protection against “respirable biological and non-biological particles (particulate matter)”, in accordance with AS/NZS 1716:2012.

Each international standard has some subtle differences, so it’s important to understand the type of device you’re purchasing to ensure it meets the applicable Standard when making an informed purchase.

Source: A Guide to Buying P2, or Equivalent, Respirators for use in the Australian & New Zealand Work Environment, June 2020 – Version 1.0.

Download the Buying Guide for P2 Respirators.

 

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