Powered air-purifying respirator features NIOSH-approved HE filter

Kimberly-Clark Professional offers the new Jackson Safety brand R60 Airmax powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR). It features a NIOSH-approved HE filter that locks into place for particulate contaminants.

According to the manufacturer, the PAPR can help provide protection in accordance with new OSHA guidelines on hexavalent chromium fumes that may be produced when welding on stainless steel.

The respirator comes with adjustable headgear and a welding helmet featuring the company’s W40 series variable autodarkening filter. The filter automatically detects weld arcs and switches to weld shade, which can be adjusted to shade 9-13 with a light shade of 4. The variable filter is suitable for GMAW, GTAW, and SMAW.

A flame-retardant face seal around the welding helmet protects welders from sparks, and the helmet’s shape helps to prevent embers from sitting on the shell. The unit's breathing hose is flame-retardant and extends about 35 in. for maximum flexibility.

Powered by a lightweight, eight-hour lithium-ion battery, the compact blower unit has a wide, adjustable waist belt. An audible alarm gives the user a signal when a new filter or battery charge is needed. An airflow indicator also is included for checking the unit’s airflow before use.