Why is low breathing resistance important when wearing respiratory protection?

Discover the importance of low breathing resistance in respiratory protection for enhanced comfort and effectiveness.

Selecting RPE with low breathing resistance helps to reduce fatigue and increase comfort levels. Respirators with exhalation valves and minimal inhalation resistance enable easier breathing, meaning wearers can work more comfortably without getting tired as quickly. Learn more about breathing resistance and selecting low resistance RPE below.

What is breathing resistance?

Breathing resistance refers to the resistance of a respirator to the flow of air during inhalation or exhalation. Products are tested to ensure resistance does not exceed a level specified in the relevant standard, making sure RPE is safe to use.

Inhalation resistance is the resistance of the respirator to the flow of air while the wearer is breathing in.
Exhalation resistance is the resistance of the respirator to the flow of air while the wearer is breathing out.

All RPE must meet the minimum requirements for safe use but respirators with lower breathing resistance provide higher comfort levels. The wearer can breathe with less effort which helps to prevent fatigue.

Masks with exhalation valves provide greater comfort to wearers, lowering CO2 levels and by reducing heat and moisture build-up. In situations with high work rates, where pulmonary stress can occur, more so in hot environments, exhalation valves are a necessity.

JSP Typhoon™ advanced valve technology

All exhalation valves make a difference in lowering breathing resistance and improving comfort, but some offer higher performance levels than others. The JSP Typhoon™ valve is designed to ensure air can escape easily through the valve, to provide extremely low breathing resistance for enhanced comfort during wear. Force®8 and Force®10 feature the Typhoon™ valve, offering superior low breathing resistance.

When the diaphragm opens, exhaled air that would normally be trapped under the upper section of the valve cover and obstruct further exhalation, can escape through the additional overflow vents, and assure unrivalled low breathing resistance. The diaphragm is made from silicone, ensuring it is not affected by moisture and can therefore be used with the same high performance under very low temperatures.

Low resistance filters

PressToCheck™ filters are designed for minimal inhalation resistance. The filter cartridge allows air to flow across the entire area of the pleated filter media to maximise performance. Have any more respiratory protection questions?