Everything pest managers need to know about powered air purifying respirators (PAPRs).
Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) are regarded as the gold standard in respiratory protection. A head piece worn by the user is connected to a battery-powered fan that filters contaminants from the air, offering a higher level of protection that traditional respirators. But with the influx of new respiratory protection brands in the Australian market, pest control professionals face increasing challenges in choosing the right respirator for the job. So what should pest managers be looking for in a PAPR?
Why compliance alone isn’t enough
In recent years, Australian pest managers have seen a surge in low-cost PAPR options. Although many carry AS/NZS 1716 approval for respiratory protection devices and comply with AS/NZS 1715 guidelines for selection, use, and maintenance, these standards represent a minimum baseline. Compliance ensures protection at the lowest occupational exposure limit, but in real-world conditions, this may not be sufficient. This means pest managers must look beyond compliance and evaluate the product’s actual performance, not only of the fan unit but also the head-top connected to the PAPR.
In environments where airborne contaminants pose a risk, PAPRs offer flexibility through two main head-top options: loose-fitting hoods or helmets; and tight-fitting full-face respirators. Each has distinct advantages and limitations that influence protection level and comfort.
Loose-fitting vs tight-fitting head-tops
Loose-fitting head-tops create a protective environment by maintaining positive pressure inside the hood or helmet and delivering a constant flow of filtered air from the PAPR fan unit. Here, airflow rate is crucial: the higher the airflow, the higher protection level can be achieved.
In tight spaces during strenuous work, such as in hot roof cavities or subfloors, breathing rate increases. A PAPR that under-delivers airflow can cause negative pressure and inward leakage of contaminants. In this situation, a loose-fitting hood is an ideal option. It’s also good for those with facial hair, as they do not require an airtight seal. However, the PAPR cannot guarantee to offer the highest protection level as some leakage may occur.
Conversely, a tight-fitting full-face respirator connected to a PAPR offers a much higher level of respiratory protection, but requires the wearer to be clean-shaven and fit-tested.
Selecting between loose-fitting and tight-fitting head-tops depends on the nature of the work, environmental conditions, and individual needs. Loose-fitting options prioritise comfort and accessibility, while tight-fitting respirators deliver maximum protection for high-risk tasks.
Setting the standard in respiratory protection
Approved to AS/NZS 1716, the SR500 PAPR from Sundström (pictured above) exceeds the minimum Standard requirements and sets a clear benchmark for performance. Its ergonomic design, lightweight build, and exceptional airflow capacity (175 L/min at normal rate and 240 L/min in boosted mode) significantly reduces breathing effort and heat buildup. Few PAPRs in Australia achieve this level of airflow, making the SR500 a standout choice for demanding environments.
The SR500’s compatibility with all approved Sundström head-tops and filters make it a versatile unit. For tasks demanding the highest level of respiratory protection, pairing the SR500 with the SR200 full-face mask provides a secure, tight-fitting solution that minimises inward leakage. The premium features of the SR500 include extended battery life, audible, visual, and vibrating alarms, and an optional backpack configuration.
Choosing the right filter is essential not only for the SR500 but for any respiratory equipment. The SR510 high-efficiency mechanical particle filter from Sundström is compatible with the SR100 half-mask, SR200 full-face mask, and both SR500 and SR700 PAPRs. It offers exceptional filtration while delivering cost-effectiveness over time.
Swedish engineering, global standards
Sundström products are designed and manufactured in Sweden. Every component reflects precision engineering, uses durable materials, and its modular system ensures seamless compatibility across the entire Sundström head-top range and filters. This allows pest managers to use different head-tops with their PAPR, allowing for use in a range of situations.
So while low-cost PAPRs may appear attractive, the potential for reduced durability and performance should be considered. Built to withstand harsh conditions, Sundström respirators offer exceptional durability and represent an investment in safety, reliability, and long-term value.
For decades, Safety Equipment Australia has been at the forefront of safeguarding Australian pest managers, supplying the market with Sundström respiratory products, which are available through the SEA website.
