The Best Respirators for Asbestos to Keep You Safe

We all know Asbestos is a deadly hazard that has been recorded in many infection cases around the world. For years, dangerous diseases related to the respiratory system are caused by this element. And we find out that the link between those announcement cases is there were no proper safety tools for workers. That is why these days, people are paying extra attention to themselves and their employees when it comes to health protection.

Among various face masks in the market, it can be tricky to find the right type. Not all pieces can handle such dangers. The 8 items that we show here are by gathering information, our own experiences or getting advice from friends in the working industry. Hopefully, through this article, you can find the best respirator for asbestos to keep you safe.

Best Respirator for Asbestos Reviews

1. GVS SPR457 Elipse P100 Mask Respirator

The first product that crosses my mind when thinking about avoiding direct exposure to asbestos, is the GVS SPR457 Elipse P100 Mask.

This piece’s amazing design is one of its best features. This item is customized to fit our faces’ curves nicely, to the point there is no space left for hazards to get in. It is tight and secure enough to shield users from the tiny particles of asbestos coming from the working objects.

I love this model because it is so comfortable. It is not exaggerating to say that after wearing it a while, we will not feel much of its presence. Its lightness surprised me when I tried the mask on for the first time.

The fact that this one is a p100 asbestos face shield and does an excellent job of blocking those matters out of our lungs greater than 99,97%. With the high efficiency of the filtration system, this respirator seems to be more breathable than I think. That is why it is ideal for a long day of work.

The important information about its quality is its NIOSH approved standard. Like various qualified faceguards in the market, the product can offer good protection for wearers in dangerous surroundings.

The HEPA filters applied to the model makes it a great asbestos respirator. This technology plays an important role in boosting this shield’s purifying capability. It can help get rid of super-small particles.

This model reveals a good option for those who are currently suffering from lung issues. The manufacturer does not include latex or silicone in the process of creating the guard. Plus, the thermoplastic material is a great choice to make a soft and comfortable safety tool.

2. 3M(TM) Half Facepiece Respirator

Exposure to Asbestos hazard is extremely dangerous, so that is why we need such an excellent face mask like the 3M(TM) Half Facepiece Respirator.

This model looks pretty nice since it is customized mainly for female workers. The light pink shade of the facepiece and the cartridges give the whole mask a stylish and cute vibe. Plus, the sizing chart is smaller than the usual respirators on the market, so ladies should definitely check it out.

It is an ideal 3m asbestos respirator because it offers excellent protection against small particles coming from the construction site. The item acts as a shield when workers need to deal with their tasks in a dusty environment. Those high-quality 3M filters block nearly all particulates from getting into our nose.

There is no surprise that this model is really comfortable to wear. Some customers are fine with using them for a long period due to the softness of their material. Superior Thermoplastic Elastomer does its job well when chosen as the main ingredient to create this respirator.

This model is perfect for various kinds of tasks. Art students, factory workers, constructors, and especially building workers can confidently carry their duties with this good protector. If you are among those ones, the piece is a nice choice for sure.

Last but not least, the company sells this one in multiple packs of 2 or 4 pieces. It is good news for people who want to buy those masks at a good price to share with others. I consider it a good investment in a safety mask for asbestos.

3. PD-101 Full Face Organic Vapor Respirator

The next one I want to mention on this list is an N95 asbestos piece – the PD-101 Full Face Organic Vapor Respirator.

Superior visibility is what you will get from this suit. I am fascinated by the clear vision it offers while I am handling difficult tasks in hash conditions. Even when the weather is extremely hot and humid, no sign of fog will appear to cloud your eye view. This is the most satisfying feature of the product.

I figure out purchasing this model is actually a wise move since I do not have to buy a pair of goggles. This piece is a combination of both eyes, skin, and lung protection tools. And instead of buying those separately, we have all of them in one product. The remarkable thing is its visor high-quality and resilient as good glasses.

Another good point is this item is compatible with other devices such as earmuffs. If you want full protection while carrying dangerous duties, the suit is definitely an amazing option.

I suppose it is a great asbestos full face mask available in the market at the moment. Both solid and liquid hazards, also toxic scents will be prevented from coming into our respiratory system. Due to the tight seal, we are always kept safe while wearing the guard.

If you are struggling with asthma and other lung issue symptoms, you can try this piece for better breathing. There is no toxic odor or material used to create the item. Most of the dangers to our allergy will be kept outside the mask. We are not sick because of our outdoor duties anymore.

Thanks to this well-fitted faceguard, we can share the respirator with our partner. It holds onto our head well with the firm and adjustable head straps. I feel that at this price, it is a valuable item to purchase.

Respirator Mask Zelbuck Half Facepiece (Outdated)

The next valuable pack for the asbestos respirator mask is the Zelbuck Half Facepiece. This one is popular among various workers due to its good comfort and convenience.

This product is also labeled “NIOSH approval” and apparently a proof for its quality so users can feel confident while wearing it to perform.

The special thing about this model’s purification structure is its duality. Which means there will be two walls of the filters helping to get rid of the air hazards. We are safe from nearly 97 percent of toxic fumes, pollen, tiny particles, and especially asbestos. Such incredible efficiency makes this item a good mask for asbestos.

I was glad to see the full package when it was delivered to me. There is a pair of protective glasses in it, and the piece is excellent at providing a clear vision and shielding my eyes. Other extra filters for customers to change when necessary are in the set, too. Obviously, this is a good deal we can get with high-quality tools from Zelbulk.

On top of the buying list, it is important that customers feel great about the mask. Luckily, this item offers us a comfortable user experience. Factors such as the soft material and well-designed headbands make this shield a pleasant product. Numerous workers are happy to bring this protector to work hours on end.

People purchase this guard not just for its asbestos respirator filter. They can make use of it for various applications. Either you are a welder, painter or cleaner, and so on, you can choose this product to keep yourself safe always.

3M Safety 142-6291 6000 Series Half Facepiece Respirator (Outdated)

Another comfortable product from the 3M brand that they have on sale is the 6000 Series Half Facepiece Respirator. This is a reusable shield that we should try for our jobs.

Unlike disposable pieces, customers can make use of it for a long time. It provides great protection against all air hazards in our surroundings. This reasonable price item is a good choice for daily use at work.

Similar to other safety models from 3M, this shield’s efficiency is certified by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health. Specifically, that is the approval for its filtration system and low air resistance capability. Thanks to it, customers can purchase the tool without any doubt.

What I also like about this product is its convenience. The manufacturer decides to send a resealable bag along with the item so we can store them whenever your tasks are completed. It is sensible for them to offer such a service. That is another plus point that makes this shield more attractive to people.

If you have not used any respirator before, do not worry because it is an easy-to-assemble-and-use face shield. The detailed instruction will tell you how to change the cartridges and filters quickly.

This mask’s superior softness is incredible. Most people, especially female workers, will fall for the piece due to its nice style and good feel against their skin. I am amazed by how comfortable and breathable the model is when I wear them to a long day of work.

Also, if you have health problems relating to allergies, you can confidently use this product. It keeps unwanted scents out of the air we take in, therefore offering us a fresh and safe breathing environment. Performing outside is no longer a hardship for allergic or asthma people.

3M 62023HA1-C Professional Multi-Purpose Respirator (Outdated)

Another high-ranked guard for workers’ lungs and face is the 3M 62023HA1-C Professional Respirator.

I have to say it is a good value product. You will get the most bang of your buck by investing in a high-quality pack of safety equipment. Just like many other 3M products, this item is qualified by the NIOSH approval. It works effectively to remove nearly 99.97 percent of particles, fumes, pollen, and especially asbestos airborne.

An excellent benefit we have when wearing this mask is its compatibility with other safety devices. Users can add a pair of glasses and earplugs, along with this item to their protective set. A special breathing valve activates better airflow; by that, the goggles will not be fogging too much.

Another thing I love about this product is its flexibility. It is really a lifesaver since we can fit other types of filters we need into the mask. Depending on our protecting requirement, we pick the right cartridge and filters. This feature makes the piece a longer-lasting faceguard.

This shield is simply amazing, and it provides fresh air for users in an environment full of hazards. People wear them for different duties since it has such a wide range of applications. If you work as a painter, welder or a construction worker or so on, this one is an ideal partner.

The mask gives us a snug feel and comfortable fit. Due to a great cup shape that embraces our face contour, we will be satisfied with the user experience it offers. There is no toxic odor that can find its way to get into our nose through this shield.

Breath Buddy Respirator Mask (Outdated)

The next high-quality protector for you to check out is the Breath Buddy Respirator Mask. It is another P100 item that offers an excellent protecting ability.

This mask can handle many types of solid and liquid hazards. It blocks them from getting into our respiratory system with excellent filters, which meet important safety standards. We can rely on this piece to work where there is lots of asbestos floating around.

Another great feature of this item is its amazing breathability. As you know, masks with high efficiency like this one often have higher air resistance, will result in increased user fatigue. But the manufacturer has successfully managed to create a valve system with well-fitting straps for this shield to become breathable.

You do not have to worry about being sweaty underneath the cover due to a fantastic cool air valve system it has. It is the perfect companion for people who perform outside on hot summer days.

Also, the benefit you get from purchasing this set is an extra pair of goggles and particle filters. At this price, the package is a good deal that we should not miss out on if we need decent eye protection. You can always use another pair of glasses if necessary since this mask will not limit your visibility.

We can bring the guard to protect us while we perform different kinds of duty. It can be cleaning, woodworking, constructing, or painting and so on. The item’s incredible purifying ability makes it one of the most versatile products I have owned.

Safety Works 817664 Toxic Dust Respirator (Outdated)

Last but not least, another highly asbestos rated mask loved by various workers is the Safety Works 817664 Toxic Dust Respirator.

We can easily notice that this product is designed with a low-profile appearance. If you are a fan of such an item, you can go for this one..

The device meets NIOSH’s standard, a certification that shows the efficiency and quality of a safety tool. It is the reason why numerous customers trust and use the piece for a long time throughout their careers.

The shield is customized with a light pair of asbestos respirator cartridges. With its excellent ability to block dangerous particles, the user can feel secure while wearing the mask to perform difficult tasks.

The headbands are tough enough so this guard will stay on well. Any worker will know how dangerous it is if our protective device is not in the right place. Plus, it can also be adjusted until the item fits perfectly on our faces. No worries should bother the wearer about the firmness of the product.

If your duties require safety goggles, you can wear them with this mask. The shape of this respirator does not intrude on our vision while we put on the glasses. Luckily, it will not fog up the visor so much during working time.

This is a good product to keep your lungs safe from various types of hazards in the air. It is also sold at a reasonable price compared to many other pieces in the market.

What to Look for When Buying Respirator for Asbestos

We all agree that Asbestos is an extremely dangerous substance that exists in various working objects, materials, and environments. Being careful while working is not enough; we still need proper protection from a high-quality face shield in advance. Picking the best suitable protector is important, so we have identified essential factors as below.

Efficiency – One essential feature we must think about is the mask’s efficiency and protecting ability. Not all respirators can remove asbestos out of the air. All workers should choose the one that has the P series on it. That is the sign of a face shield that blocks tiny oil-based particulates, and other solid and liquid hazards.

Along with asbestos, there will be numerous attacks from all kinds of dangers in the working environment. Therefore, the chosen item must be able to handle toxic fumes, vapor, dust, and other dirt. In case the workplace is heavily polluted, a p100 faceguard is needed. Those items are in charge of nearly 99.97 percent of those pollutants.

For high-quality cartridges and filters, 3M products are among the most famous brands providing those parts on the market. Based on your working requirements, a suitable piece should be picked to form a superior filtration system for workers. Owning a tough and resilient facepiece will benefit us in long-term projects.

Material – You should also pay attention to the mask’s materials. If you need the piece for a long period of work, the one made of superior silicone is what you are looking for. That substance is soft enough to offer users good comfort for hours on ends, and several-month programs.

Some other respirators are created using thermoplastic fabric. Those pieces can also provide great softness for your face shield. Various customers choose this type of item because they are pretty popular in the market.

Standard – There will be several standards that we can see on respirators with high quality. We can check if those masks meet those certifications or not. The most popular among them is the approval of the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health.

When we see a product that has the “NIOSH” label, that means its quality is guaranteed. The mask is excellent enough to handle the hazards in our working environments.

If your favorite model does not meet that certain standard, you need to make sure that it is passed necessary tests. Those can be durability or performance tests, and its parts such as filters, cartridges or straps should be inspected as well.

Comfort and breathability – Excellent comfort is always what you need for your daily task performance. There is no reason that users should compromise this feature when they need to carry on working for a long period. If you feel unpleasant in your masks, because of the tight straps or bad odor, it will be very dangerous.

Good user experience can come from many factors. It is better to pick a lightweight protector rather than the heavy one. There are numerous available products made from light parts, and those ones are perfect for difficult and long-term duties.

We should never settle for a guard that fails at offering good breathability. If you try on a respirator and find yourself suffocated in it, never pick that one. Workers have to breathe easily and smoothly while wearing masks. So they can perform their missions at ease.

Design – Here are several things about the respirator that you need to take into serious consideration. There are numerous pieces on the market with all kinds of shapes, sizes, and structures. You might find it confusing while looking at them.

While dealing with hazards like asbestos, an ordinary dust mask with ear straps is a big no. It can not filter out the pollutants out of the air for our lungs. Those items are just for dust proofing.

If you want to wear disposable face masks for daily use or urgent situations, remember to pick the one that has twin-strap. That way, the piece will stay on well during your task performances. The important thing is that the model must be equipped with filters that can handle asbestos, such as the one that is labeled as P1 or P2.

The most commonly used model is the half piece design. People who have the job of dealing with asbestos are usually the ones who work at the construction site. There is not much danger that can harm their face skin directly, so they opt for the half face coverage.

If necessary, you can purchase a pair of safety goggles to shield your eyes from flying objects at the worksite. I notice that some brands sell their masks along with glasses to make a set. You can look for those convenient packages to save your budget.

Your item should be compatible with other protective tools. The valve system on your respirator needs to be good enough to release the heat built up inside. Due to the feature, glasses will not be fogged up easily while we perform the duties. Plus, if earmuffs or helmets are essential for your job, find a mask that is not too big or intrusive.

There are also full-face shields available for users to pick. When you want to guard your eyes, lungs, and face skin against all the air hazards outside, this model is a perfect choice. It can cover us from head to chin, so our tasks are completed with superior safety with this piece.

About the cartridge on the respirator, you can see them in different colors. Each one is responsible for different types of protection. The black piece can block organic vapor from getting into our nose, whereas, the white filters out acid gases and the yellow does what the black and the while do. What users usually choose for asbestos airborne is the pink one, it blocks ammonia gas.

If you want a long-lasting piece of protector, the cartridges and filters should be replaceable. The mask should be designed to fit different types of filtration. Its form and structure need to match the common standard on the market.

Size and fit – Choosing a suitable size is as vital as other factors. If your mask is too loose or too tight, it will hinder your work efficiency. Some users find their faces and ears reddened at the end of the day due to too much pressure. It will be painful and unpleasant when the piece does not fit.

You should be thorough while picking the best model when you have distinctive facial features like a long beard or big nose and prominent cheeks. If you can not try it on directly, ask the seller for advice or read the review on the product. It is best to make sure it will fit and cause you no discomfort.

Some people will like to have a respirator that is easy to put on and take off. The headbands and ear straps will determine that feature. If you have difficulty wearing an item, it is bad if you still want to have such a product.

Personal requirements – If you like the simple design that draws little attention from other people, a low-profile piece covered in black or gray will be a great choice. But if you are in need of something stylish and outstanding, check out the pink or orange items above. But this criteria is not as vital as your mask’s quality.

People with allergic issues or lung problems should put extra effort into seeking a safe item. There should be no latex or silicone as the materials and no weird smell. Finding for yourself a tight piece without any leaks in case toxic hazards get in and make the allergies worse.

It also depends on how much you are exposed to the pollutants. Does it happen daily or at a frequent rate? That is what you consider carefully to make your respirator investment. Some pieces are more durable than others. So if the exposure is constant and intense, go for the tough and high-quality one.

Price is another personal matter. It would be best if you made a chart listing several pieces that match your protecting requirement. By that, you can easily compare which one is sold at a lower price. For professional work, it does not mean that an expensive piece will be more suitable. The filtration system is more important.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this for?

Those respirators are specially customized to shield users against many hazards, among them is asbestos. There will be features, filters, and cartridges of the mask that are able to handle such dangerous particles. If you work in an environment where the substance exists, do not forget to wear a proper face shield.

Construction workers are the ones who need this protector the most. We should know that asbestos is merged and mixed in all kinds of building materials. Those tiny matters are everywhere in the air they breathe. That is why those employees have to choose a proper way for face protection.

Those workers are more likely to be harmed by the airborne asbestos than any other type of occupation. Direct exposure will leave them permanent lung issues, or even worse, lung cancer. So remember to wear the respirator to work for your own safety, if you are among those people.

If you work as a roofer or a plumber, this piece of safety tool is essential, too. You should shield your nose and mouth from breathing in the dangerous particulate while changing the roof or fixing the pipes.

Other people who do drywall hanging or flooring should buy the device. There is asbestos blending in those working objects. It will be too dangerous to be exposed directly.

The mask is necessary when you are a painter, especially a spray painter. Those cleaners out there should have a faceguard that has features like those mentioned ones. If you are at home, fixing electrical appliances, gardening, flipping mattresses, and so on, it is best that you have your mask on.

Even when you are on the road or at those factories, asbestos is in such surroundings. You can protect your lungs by owning a good piece. The substance is very dangerous to the respiratory system. Remember that prevention is better than cure, keep yourself safe always.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a respirator for asbestos?

Working directly with asbestos is extremely risky. It is the type of hazard that leaves you with various diseases relating to lungs such as asbestosis, allergies, asthma or even lung cancer. So wearing a piece of protector will reduce the chance of us getting such serious illness to the minimum.

Every year, numerous workers are diagnosed with lung issues because they are not equipped with proper faceguard. Companies and factories will be seriously affected by such incidents, not just the employees. So a good protector is able to keep the work efficiency high and the business productive.

We will be more aware of our health while using a respirator for asbestos. While wearing the item, we know that we are exposed to dangerous substances that can harm us horribly. That will raise our awareness to use the shield better under various circumstances.

There will be many disadvantages, even dangers, if we do not choose our item wisely. The wrong filter cartridge will do more harm than good. It is unable to offer the protection we need for the job, which results in serious health damages in the long term for customers.

Investment in respirators can take a lot of money if workers pick the expensive one with unnecessary features. Sometimes we need to study carefully to find the combo that matches our needs at a reasonable price.

What kind of mask protects against asbestos?

Masks that protest against asbestos are the ones with P1 or P2 filter cartridges. They are able to block those airborne out of users’ respiratory systems. Usually, people choose the piece that is categorized as a P100 face shield. These items can handle around 99.97 percent of air hazards in solid and liquid form.

The half-face respirator is ideal for this application. If you want a full-face design, you need to look more closely. Due to its higher air resistance feature, the P100 that only covers our nose and mouth will be a little more breathable.

Can a n95 mask be used for asbestos?

No, it can not. An N95 mask is unable to shield users from hazards like asbestos. More specifically, the N95 item is not in charge of oil-based particles, gas, chemical vapors, gasoline and so on. You should not choose this type for your work against the asbestos matter.

Do n95 masks protect against mold?

Yes, it does. If you need a respirator that keeps you safe in a working environment containing mold, this one is a good choice. This product can handle dust and mold excellently. So you do not need to worry while wearing them for such duties.

What are the most popular asbestos respirator brands?

There are numerous brands with different models available. That is why it will be confusing for users who try to choose their best piece among those ones. Each brand will release the updated version for their old item or bring a new product to the market every year. So you can take a look at many good and developed options.

Among the most famous and trustworthy labels is 3M Safety, this name must be familiar to many customers. Other sources that we should check out their high-quality asbestos protectors are Breathe Buddy, Zelbulk, Moldex, Safety Works and so on.

How to use it?

The first thing you do when you purchase the item is to check its functions. There should be a complete process for users to inspect the respirator and its filters. If there is no defect or leaks, it is fine to start using it. If your piece is a full-face item, remember to check the clarity of its front window. There should be no scratch or blurry spot on both sides of the visor.

When you are about to do your work, put the mask on your face. Make sure that the filters and cartridges are pressed firmly in their right places. The nose clip must embrace the bridge of our nose nicely and put enough pressure to ensure a good seal. Fasten your product’s headbands, ear straps or neckband if there is one.

If you feel any discomfort, try to adjust the piece a little bit. You need to tighten the shield so that there is no leak for pollutants to get in. Leave it there for several minutes to get used to the guard. If you feel comfortable enough, you are ready to work.

Keep in mind that you should not take off the item during work if there are too many hazards around. Users can sometimes check the bands to make sure it is not falling off. Be careful when you carry your duties always.

Where to buy?

There are local stores that sell all kinds of protective devices for each body part such as hard hats, helmets, gloves, boots and so on. Users can find the respirator masks there. If your favorite brand has an official store where you live, that would be perfect for picking one among those available.

If that is not the case for you, going online shopping is another good idea. There are various products in all shapes, sizes, and styles for you to choose from. Just remember to pick the trusted website that offers good-quality products and great service.

What is the warranty policy?

The warranty policy is different for each company. You can have such information for your product when you buy it at the store or online. If there is any confusion, contacting a customer service is one available option.

Normally, most brands only accept their customers’ requests to exchange or return an item when the defect is the manufacturer’s fault. If your requirement is verified, make sure you bring back to them a clean piece.

How to care and clean?

You should read the instructions very carefully since the details to care for your specific piece are in there. Usually, people go for warm water, soft cloth, and mild detergent to clean the mask. However, not all items can be washed that way since some are less durable than others.

If you are confused, contact the seller or go to the official website of your brand’s product. Customers can ask them how to clean the respirator in the right way. After the washing process is completed, do not forget to dry them gently. Then you store the item in a suitable place for preservation.

The maintenance process is among the factors that keep your product longer-lasting. If you find any sign of broken part or defect, replace it if possible. Often, the cartridges and filters are changeable. Or else, you should throw the damaged piece away.

Conclusion

All workers must be well-prepared with high-quality protectors for their lungs while performing in a harsh environment. We all know the horrible effects that asbestos can have on our health after frequent exposure to it.

So if you are among the people working with mentioned hazards daily, find for yourself the best respirator for asbestos in the market. Be careful while working and take good care of your faceguard. That way, you will always be kept safe.

Daniel Rocha

Our PPE expert, Daniel Rocha, has been working in the industry for 23 years. He provides guidance to our content editor and writers so they may provide well-informed suggestions and tips for machinery and equipment.