What is the Assigned Protection Factor (APF) for a full face air purifying respirator?

The Assigned Protection Factor (APF) for a full face air purifying respirator is set at 50. This number indicates the level of protection that a respirator is expected to provide to the wearer when working in environments where hazardous airborne contaminants are present.

A full face air purifying respirator covers the entire face, including the eyes, and enhances the protective seal, which is critical for ensuring that the user does not inhale harmful substances. The APF of 50 means that, under ideal conditions, the respirator can protect the wearer from having more than 1/50th of the airborne concentration of a contaminant enter the facepiece.

This level of protection is crucial in industrial and construction settings where exposure to asbestos and other hazardous materials can occur, allowing workers to maintain a safer environment while performing their tasks. Understanding the APF helps ensure that appropriate respiratory protection is selected based on the specific hazards present in the workplace.