Most half mask and full face respirators, along with some disposable respirators, feature an exhalation valve on the facepiece. An exhalation valve is comprised of a casing and diaphragm, which opens and closes as the wearer breathes. This allows air to be exhaled through the valve for reduced breathing resistance whilst preventing contaminated air being inhaled.

Exhalation valves can provide benefits when used in the correct settings; offering greater comfort, with lower CO2 levels and reduced heat and moisture build-up. This helps wearers to retain energy and in turn improves morale. In situations with high work rates, where pulmonary stress can occur, and in hot environments, exhalation valves can be vital for safe use of RPE. Exhalation valves should not be used in situations that require exhaled air to be filtered.

How do exhalation valves work?

Inhalation: Air is inhaled through the filters. The diaphragm in the exhalation valve is closed to prevent inhalation through the valve.

Exhalation: When the wearer exhales, the diaphragm opens to allow air to pass through. This reduces the amount of air flowing back through the filter media, directing the warm and moist exhaled air out through the valve.

Exhalation valve benefits

Reduced CO2

All JSP respirators are tested for CO2 content to ensure it remains below a safe level of 1% volume. Exhalation valves work more efficiently, reducing CO2 even further to help prevent feelings of drowsiness or fatigue.

Reduced Heat

Exhalation valves aid in reducing heat build-up within the mask for more comfortable wear. This is especially important in warm environments and climates, and at high work rates, when a mask can feel claustrophobic.

Reduced Moisture

The moisture in exhaled air can clog the filter media, reducing the filtration ability of the mask. An exhalation valve directs the air out of the mask to avoid a build-up in the filter material, increasing performance and filter life. Watch Guide to Exhalation Valves on the JSP YouTube channel.

JSP Typhoon™ valve

Advanced valve technology

All exhalation valves make a difference in lowering breathing resistance and improving comfort, but some offer higher performance than others. The JSP Typhoon™ valve is designed to ensure air can easily escape through the valve, to provide extremely low breathing resistance for enhanced comfort during wear.

Air that would normally be trapped in the upper section of the valve cover, preventing further exhalation, is able to escape through specially designed overflow vents to provide extremely low breathing resistance performance. The diaphragm is made from silicone, ensuring the valve is unaffected by moisture and delivers the same high performance at low temperatures.