Health and Safety Executive

Respiratory protective equipment (RPE) basics

Work activities may result in harmful substances contaminating the air in the form of dust, mist, gas or fume. For example:

  • cutting a material such as stone, concrete or wood
  • using a liquid containing volatile solvents
  • handling a dusty powder

Workers may also need to work in areas where oxygen levels are low, for example: confined spaces, such as a chamber or tank.

RPE is designed to protect the wearer from these hazards.


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Updated: 20.12.11