Abstract:

Functional studies of a range of personal protective equipment approved for distribution in European and international markets, conducted at different workplaces, showed that almost half of the participating workers did not find it comfortable. The objective of the work was to evaluate the comfort of use and functionality of a half-mask containing a superabsorbent polymer (SAP) designed for respiratory protection under harsh working conditions. The modifications implemented following functional studies were subsequently verified. The results of functional studies confirmed the hypothesis that nonwovens with SAP offer improved comfort of use. Filtering half-masks of modified construction fit users’ faces much better, without causing skin irritation or chafing; the masks were also free of pungent or offensive odors, which contributed to good user experience. The results show the significance of functional studies involving workers in real-life workplaces.