Why should workers in the petrochemical sector wear face masks

maschera-protettiva-agenti-chimici

When working in environments where the exposure to airborne contaminants is continuous it is crucial to protect oneself by using personal protective equipment.

This is pertinent in particular to workers in the petrochemical sector who are to be trained on the use of devices that protect the respiratory system.

Damage caused by petrochemical agentsi

The need for personal protection stems from the fact that petrochemical agents cause very serious damage to the human body. In fact, when inhaled, these toxic substances can cause harm to cells and alter certain biological functions. They can cause the onset of cancer, diseases of the respiratory system and chronic allergies. Moreover, they can cause embryo malformations and even abortions in pregnant women

Current legislation provides for the use of various types of personal protective equipment. Respiratory protective devices designed to prevent inhalation of gases and other toxic agents may be either filtering or air supplying.

Filtering devices are composed of a face piece (i.e. dust masks, half masks, full face masks, helmet) and by filtering equipment which may be particle filters or gas and combined cartridges for protection against particles and gases.

As regards to air supplying devices, these are divided into airline respirators and self contained breathing apparatus. The self contained devices have built-in respirators and are suitable for jobs where freedom of movement is essential. The supplied airline respirators, on the other hand, allow for longer working shifts.

The high risk of explosion and fire in sectors such as the petrochemical industry should also be taken onto account.

Kasco srl produces different types of personal protection devices for the protection of workers in the petrochemical sector. Among these is an  ATEX certified respirator  for use in flammable or potentially explosive atmospheres .