Full Face Masks

About Full Face Masks

Full face masks provide comprehensive respiratory protection for tradespeople and professionals working in hazardous environments where airborne particles, gases, vapours, or other contaminants pose a health risk. Unlike half masks, these respirators cover the entire face from forehead to chin, protecting not only the respiratory system but also the eyes and facial skin from exposure to dangerous substances. This makes them essential equipment for demanding applications such as spray painting, chemical handling, asbestos removal, and working with toxic dusts.

Modern full face masks combine advanced filtration technology with ergonomic design to deliver both safety and comfort during extended wear. Available with various filter types including P3 particulate filters, A2P3 combination filters for gases and particles, and powered air purifying systems, these respirators can be configured to meet specific workplace hazards. Leading brands like DeWalt, Moldex, and Portwest offer models that comply with UK and European safety standards, ensuring protection that meets HSE requirements and COSHH regulations.

Our range includes everything from lightweight half mask respirators for less demanding tasks through to premium powered air purifying respirators (PAPR) that provide the highest level of protection with reduced breathing resistance. Whether you're a professional decorator, industrial cleaner, or construction worker dealing with hazardous materials, choosing the correct respiratory protection is not just about compliance—it's about safeguarding your long-term health.

Jargon Buster

• P3 Filter: The highest grade of particulate filter available, removing at least 99.95% of airborne particles including fine dusts, fibres, and water-based mists. Essential for asbestos work and other high-risk environments.
• A2P3 Filter: A combination filter providing protection against both organic gases and vapours (A2 classification) and particles (P3 classification). Ideal for spray painting and solvent-based applications.
• PAPR (Powered Air Purifying Respirator): A motorised system that actively draws air through filters and supplies it to the face mask, reducing breathing resistance and providing enhanced protection with positive pressure.
• Assigned Protection Factor (APF): A numerical rating indicating the level of protection a respirator provides. Full face masks typically offer APF 20-40, while powered systems can achieve APF 40 or higher.
• COSHH: Control of Substances Hazardous to Health—UK regulations requiring employers to prevent or control exposure to hazardous substances, including proper respiratory protection.
• SNR (Single Number Rating): When ear defenders are integrated with respiratory systems, this indicates the overall noise reduction level in decibels.

Who Uses Full Face Masks?

• Painters and Decorators: Protection from paint sprays, solvents, and VOCs during spraying applications
• Asbestos Removal Specialists: Essential PPE for licensed asbestos work requiring P3 filtration
• Welders and Fabricators: Protection from welding fumes and metal particles, often with integrated welding shields
• Chemical Handlers: Workers dealing with hazardous chemicals, pesticides, and industrial cleaning agents
• Construction Workers: Site operatives working with silica dust, cement dust, and other construction hazards
• Manufacturing Personnel: Factory workers exposed to industrial dusts, fibres, and production fumes
• Automotive Refinishers: Bodyshop professionals applying primers, paints, and lacquers
• Pharmaceutical Workers: Those handling active pharmaceutical ingredients and fine powders
• Agricultural Workers: Applying pesticides, handling grain dusts, and working in confined spaces

How to Choose the Right Full Face Masks

Identify Your Hazards: Start by conducting a COSHH assessment or reviewing your workplace risk assessment. Different contaminants require different filter types—particulate filters (P1, P2, P3) for dusts and fibres, gas filters (A, B, E, K) for vapours and gases, or combination filters for mixed exposures. For most professional applications involving fine dusts or spray work, P3 or A2P3 filters are recommended.

Consider Protection Level Required: Standard full face masks offer excellent protection for most applications, whilst powered air purifying respirators provide the highest level of protection with reduced breathing effort. PAPRs are particularly beneficial for extended wear periods or physically demanding work where breathing resistance could cause fatigue.

Fit and Comfort: A proper seal is critical for effective protection. Full face masks must fit correctly across your face to prevent contaminated air bypassing the filters. Look for models with adjustable harnesses, soft face seals, and lightweight construction for comfort during long shifts. If you wear glasses, choose models with internal spectacle frames or consider PAPR systems that accommodate eyewear without compromising the seal.

Field of Vision: Opt for masks with wide, distortion-free visors that provide good peripheral vision and prevent condensation. Anti-fog coatings or systems are valuable for maintaining clear visibility in varying temperature conditions or during physical work.

Filter Availability and Compatibility: Ensure replacement filters are readily available and that you understand the filter change schedule. Brands like DeWalt, Moldex, and Trend offer comprehensive filter ranges with clear compatibility charts. Check whether filters are bayonet-fit or screw-thread connection and whether they're supplied individually or in sets.

Standards Compliance: Verify that masks meet BS EN standards and are CE marked. For professional use, equipment must comply with relevant UK regulations and be suitable for the specific substances you're working with according to HSE guidance.

Popular Accessories

• Replacement Filters: P3 particulate filters, A2P3 combination filters, and ABEK multi-gas filters for various applications
• Pre-filters: Extend main filter life by capturing larger particles before they reach the primary filtration
• Face Seals and Gaskets: Replacement seals to maintain proper fit and comfort
• Cleaning Wipes: Specialised wipes for cleaning visors and face seal areas
• Anti-fog Solutions: Sprays and wipes to prevent visor condensation
• Carry Cases: Protective storage for masks when not in use
• Clip-on Ear Defenders: Integrated hearing protection for noisy environments
• Hard Hats with PAPR Integration: Combined head and respiratory protection systems
• Battery Packs: Replacement or additional batteries for powered systems
• Welding Shields: Attachments for welding applications with integrated respiratory protection

Safety Information

Face Fit Testing: UK regulations require face fit testing for tight-fitting respirators in many workplace situations. This ensures your chosen mask creates an effective seal with your facial features. Employers must arrange testing, and users should be clean-shaven where the mask seals to the face, as facial hair prevents proper sealing.

Filter Selection and Replacement: Using incorrect filters or failing to change them appropriately can result in dangerous exposure to contaminants. Always match filter types to the specific hazards present. Replace filters according to manufacturer guidance, breakthrough indication, or when breathing becomes difficult. Never remove filters in contaminated areas.

Storage and Maintenance: Store masks in clean, dry conditions away from direct sunlight and contaminants. Regularly inspect face seals, straps, and valves for damage or deterioration. Clean visors with appropriate solutions to avoid scratching or damaging lens materials. Damaged components must be replaced immediately—never use compromised respiratory protection.

Medical Considerations: Wearing respiratory protection increases breathing effort and can be physically demanding. Workers with respiratory conditions, heart problems, or claustrophobia should seek medical advice before use. If you experience dizziness, breathing difficulty, or other symptoms whilst wearing a respirator, leave the contaminated area immediately and seek fresh air.

Training Requirements: All users must receive adequate training on correct fitting, use, limitations, and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment. Keep manufacturer instructions accessible and ensure all team members understand when and how to use their equipment correctly according to HSE guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a full face mask and a half mask respirator?

A full face mask covers the entire face including eyes and provides a higher level of protection (typically APF 20-40) compared to half masks (APF 10-20). Full face masks protect against eye irritation and facial contamination whilst preventing fogging of separate safety glasses. They're required for higher-risk environments and when working with substances that can damage eyes or skin.

How long do P3 filters last?

Filter life depends on concentration of contaminants, duration of use, and breathing rate. P3 particulate filters should be replaced when breathing becomes difficult, when visibly contaminated, or according to manufacturer recommendations (often after a set number of hours). For combination filters with gas/vapour elements, replace when you detect odour or taste breakthrough, even if breathing resistance hasn't increased.

Can I wear glasses with a full face mask?

Standard glasses usually prevent a proper seal with full face masks. Many manufacturers offer internal spectacle frame kits that hold corrective lenses inside the mask without breaking the face seal. Alternatively, powered air purifying respirators with loose-fitting hoods or visors can accommodate regular glasses without compromising protection.

Are powered air purifying respirators worth the extra cost?

PAPRs offer significant advantages including reduced breathing resistance, higher protection factors, compatibility with facial hair, and greater comfort during extended use. They're particularly valuable for physically demanding work, hot environments, or full-shift wear. The investment is justified for regular users or demanding applications, whilst standard masks suit occasional or less intensive use.

Do I need face fit testing for my full face mask?

UK HSE guidance requires face fit testing for tight-fitting respirators including full face masks when used for workplace protection. Testing must be conducted by a competent person using approved methods and should be repeated annually or when there are significant changes to facial features. This is a legal requirement in many industries to ensure adequate protection.