Half masks

 

— device for respiratory protection; a more perfect and advanced type of respirator (see the relevant paragraph). Like a regular respirator, the half mask covers the mouth and nose. Its key difference is a rigid body (with soft inserts in places of fit to the face) and a more complex device. So, almost all such devices have replaceable filters, and these filters can be designed not only for mechanical pollution, but also for protection against gases and fumes. For the same half mask, a whole range of different filters is often produced, allowing you to customize protection for specific conditions and types of pollution; and there are usually two filter slots at once, which makes breathing easier and even allows you to change them one by one without removing the half mask and without being exposed to dangerous conditions. For exhalation, usually, a special valve is provided, directed forward or downward, which helps to avoid fogging glasses. In addition, half masks fit very tightly to the face, properly selected protection does not allow outside air to bypass the filters at all.

Among the disadvantages of such devices, in addition to the rather high price, it is worth noting that the mask must be selected according to size, and often also according to the shape of the face. It is also worth remembering that the half mask does not cover the eyes, and many types of pollution are dangerous for them. Therefore, for effective protection, it may be necessary to combine such a device with glasses.