The Definition of Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR)

Definition of Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR)

A powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) is a respirator that uses a battery-powered blower to draw air through filters or cartridges and deliver it to the wearer's hood, helmet or facepiece. Because the blower creates positive airflow, the wearer doesn't have to pull air through the filter, which reduces breathing effort and heat buildup. Like other air-purifying respirators, a PAPR cleans the surrounding air but doesn't supply oxygen, so it can't be used in oxygen-deficient or IDLH atmospheres.

PAPRs are widely used for welding, pharmaceutical manufacturing, lead and asbestos abatement, healthcare and infectious disease response, and any job where workers wear respiratory protection for long periods.

Key Facts About PAPRs

• OSHA's assigned protection factors in 29 CFR 1910.134 are 25 for loose-fitting hoods and helmets, 50 for tight-fitting half masks and 1,000 for tight-fitting full facepieces.
• Some hoods and helmets can receive an APF of 1,000 if the manufacturer has testing to support it.
• Loose-fitting PAPRs don't require fit testing and can be worn with beards.
• Tight-fitting PAPRs must be fit tested before use and at least annually.
• Airflow must be checked before each use, and batteries must be charged for the full shift.

Example of a PAPR in Use

A stainless steel welder exposed to hexavalent chromium fume switches from a half-mask respirator to a loose-fitting PAPR welding helmet. The PAPR gives a higher protection factor, keeps him cooler and works with his beard.

How to Use a PAPR Safely

1. Select a NIOSH-approved PAPR and filters suited to the contaminants and exposure levels.
2. Fit test tight-fitting facepieces and train all users.
3. Check battery charge and airflow with the manufacturer's flow indicator before each use.
4. Inspect hoses, hoods and seals for damage.
5. Clean, store and replace filters as directed in the respiratory protection program.

Related Terms

• Respiratory Protection
• Assigned Protection Factor (APF)
• Air-Purifying Respirator (APR)
• N95 Respirator
• Fit Testing

Frequently Asked Questions: PAPR

Does a PAPR need to be fit tested?

Only if it has a tight-fitting facepiece. Loose-fitting hoods and helmets are exempt from fit testing, although users still need medical clearance and training.

Can a PAPR be used in an oxygen-deficient atmosphere?

No. A PAPR filters ambient air and can't add oxygen. Oxygen-deficient or IDLH atmospheres require supplied-air respirators or SCBA.

Is a PAPR better than an N95?

By protection factor, yes. An N95 has an APF of 10, while PAPRs start at 25. PAPRs are also more comfortable for long shifts but cost more and need battery and filter maintenance.