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756 Respiratory Protection
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Atmosphere-Supplying Respirators

Supplied-Air Respirator (SAR)

The SAR is a type of respiratory protection device that provides breathable air from an external source to the wearer.

Donning a Supplied Air Respirator

It is designed to protect the wearer from harmful contaminants in the surrounding environment, such as toxic gases, vapors, or particles.

Key Features
  • Compressed air is delivered from a stationary source (located away from contaminated area) to a half or full facepiece mask via a hose.
  • Worn when negative-pressure and powered air-purifying respirators do not provide adequate protection.
Advantages
  • Provides high level respiratory protection.
  • Provides positive pressure to mask so almost all leakage is outward.
  • Less bulky and can be used for longer periods than self-contained breathing apparatus.
  • May be easier for hospital personnel to use.
  • Provides both respiratory and eye protection.
Disadvantages
  • Length of air hose may limit mobility.
  • Air hose may be a trip hazard.
  • Clean source of breathing air is required.
  • Fit testing is required.
  • Immediately operable emergency escape respirator, escape hood, or escape mask is required.
  • Communication can be difficult.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

2-6. Which type of respirator is not bulky and provides a positive-pressure air supply for a long periods?