Understanding the risk is the first line of defense. Even in remote locations, far from industrial chimneys, the air can contain microparticles and substances hazardous to the lungs. Natural filtering mechanisms in the body can handle a certain amount, but when the volume of these elements increases, and exposure is frequent, the body's defense mechanisms may fail. Identifying the seriousness of the hazard involves analyzing the type and concentration of particles in the air, as well as the duration of exposure in risky workplaces.

Before selecting suitable respiratory protection, it's crucial to minimize the risk of inhaling harmful substances. Various strategies include continuous air extraction near the source of hazardous substances, regular and thorough cleaning of work areas (avoiding compressed air), inspection and cleaning of ventilation systems, and continuous monitoring of air quality. Additionally, relying on employees' feedback is essential—if they detect foul odors, experience nausea, dizziness, or sudden fatigue, they should vacate the premises immediately.

Choosing the right respiratory protection is paramount. Filtering half-masks, such as respirators, come in three categories based on their filter concentration capacity. It's crucial to match the protection level to the environment. Disposable respirators are suitable for short durations, while reusable ones are ideal for shift operations. Filter classes (FFP1, FFP2, and FFP3) provide insights into the level of protection against dust, aerosols, and other contaminants.

While fine solid particles pose a significant threat to the respiratory tract, certain workplaces, like those in the chemical, automotive, shipbuilding, or painting industries, introduce an additional danger—gases and chemical vapors. In such environments, relying solely on respirators may fall short, necessitating the use of half-masks and masks equipped with replaceable gas filters or combined filters that capture both solid particles and gases. Half-masks offer protection for the mouth and nose, while full-face masks provide comprehensive coverage, safeguarding the entire face, including the eyes.

Gas and combination filters, akin to respirators, are categorized into three classes. Class 1 is suitable for workplaces where harmful substances' concentration is less than 0.1%. For concentrations up to 0.5%, class 2 is recommended, applicable to masks and ventilator systems. In environments where harmful substances exceed 1% of the air volume, class 3, involving systems with a fan or extraction device, provides the necessary protection.

Identification of the types of gases a mask protects against is facilitated by the colour marking and letters on the mask. For instance, a yellow "E" signifies protection against sulfur oxides, hydrogen chloride, and other acid gases. Meanwhile, a red "Hg" indicates the mask's effectiveness in capturing mercury vapors, and a green "K" signifies protection against ammonia and its organic derivatives. Understanding these distinctions ensures workers are equipped with the right respiratory protection for specific workplace hazards.