What is the protection factor for a half mask respirator?

The protection factor for a half mask respirator is actually 10, which means that the respirator can provide a level of protection that reduces the concentration of airborne contaminants within the mask to one-tenth of the concentration outside the mask. This level of protection is appropriate for many applications where the exposure to hazardous airborne substances is present but not at extremely high levels.

Half masks are designed to cover the nose and mouth, and while they can provide adequate protection in many situations, they do not offer the same level of protection as full-face respirators, which typically have higher protection factors. Understanding the level of protection a specific type of respirator can offer is crucial for selecting the appropriate respiratory protection for different environments and levels of exposure.