Respiratory protection in industry, construction and civil engineering
A comprehensive guide to safety and proper use of respiratory protection
Af: Puk Svensson | Published: 15/09-2025 | Læsetid: 3m 50s
It is not always visible if you don’t know what to look for. Hazards to your breathing and respiratory system pose a general risk to many workers across all industries. If we cannot breathe, nothing else really matters. For many years, there has been an increased focus on workers’ respiratory health when carrying out tasks in environments where the air is not clean.
Today, it is required by both employers and authorities to use respiratory protection in work situations where it is not possible to safeguard breathing in other ways. If you work with asbestos, PCB, epoxy, other toxic gases and vapors, or even biologically hazardous material, there are strict requirements from the authorities for proper protection against these substances during the workday. The law requires the use of certified respiratory protection. This applies everywhere – including tasks in confined spaces or when handling substances with low threshold limit values, where technical or organizational measures are not sufficient.
In work environments such as industry, construction, and civil engineering, employees are often exposed to harmful particles, vapors, gases, and other airborne contaminants. To protect health and ensure workplace safety, it is crucial to know how to use the correct respiratory protection for the job. This personal protective equipment can make all the difference for a healthy and sustainable working life. In many cases, it can even help save your life.
In our article, we take a closer look at respiratory protection and address questions regarding:
- Why respiratory protection is important
- Types and functions of respiratory protection
- Filters and their classification (P1, P2, P3)
- Gas filters and color codes
- CE marking and legal requirements
- User instructions and maintenance
- How Stennevad supports with expertise and products
Why is respiratory protection important?
Every year, thousands of people in Denmark are exposed to substances and particles that can cause serious lung diseases, allergies, and in the worst cases, cancer. The long-term effects of unfiltered inhalation of dust, smoke, fumes, and microorganisms can be fatal. For this reason, the Danish Working Environment Authority sets strict requirements for the use of personal protective equipment, including proper respiratory protection, where risks cannot be eliminated through ventilation or process changes.
Examples of work situations:
- Demolition and renovation (asbestos, lead, silica dust, and PCB)
- Welding and soldering (metal fumes, ozone)
- Painting and spray coating (organic solvents)
- Wastewater treatment and sewer work (biological particles and gases)
- Production and laboratory work (chemicals, aerosols, biohazards)
Types of respiratory protection
There are many factors to consider when you and your colleagues need to choose the right respiratory protection. Everything depends on the specific task, its duration, and the type of contamination. There are two main paths: filtering or supplied air solutions.
Filtering models rely on ambient air and must filter out harmful particles or gases. Supplied air models, on the other hand, provide clean air from an external source and can therefore be used in areas with low oxygen levels or extremely high concentrations of hazardous substances.
Overview of types of respiratory protection
- Filtering half masks (FFP) – may only be used for 3 hours per workday in Denmark
- Half masks and full-face masks with filters – may only be used for 3 hours per workday in Denmark
- PAPR (powered air-purifying respirators)
- Supplied-air respirators with hose and compressor
1. Filtering disposable half masks (FFP masks)
- Disposable masks that cover nose and mouth, classified as:
- FFP1: Low filtration, protects against non-toxic particles
- FFP2: Medium filtration, protects against harmful dust and aerosols
- FFP3: High filtration, protects against toxic substances, viruses, and bacteria
2. Reusable half masks and full-face masks
Reusable masks are designed for longer use and can be fitted with different types of filters, making them versatile and cost-effective in the long term.
- Half masks: Cover nose and mouth, typically used with two side-mounted filters. Applied where there is no risk of eye contact with contaminants.
- Full-face masks: Cover the entire face and also protect eyes and facial skin from aerosols and vapors. They have a wide visor for a broad field of view.
Masks can be combined with:
- Particle filters (P1, P2, P3)
- Gas and vapor filters (A, B, E, K, AX, etc.)
- Combination filters (e.g. A2P3)
Advantages:
- Replaceable components extend lifespan
- Higher sealing and protection compared to FFP masks
- Ergonomic design ensures comfort during extended use
It is crucial to select masks and filters that physically fit together and are approved for the specific purpose. At Stennevad, we offer both standard models and customized solutions adapted to particular industries and working conditions.
3. Powered air-purifying respirators (PAPR)
Battery-powered turbo units with motor that deliver filtered air to a hood or mask.
Advantages:
- Reduced breathing resistance
- Greater comfort for long-term use (can be used longer than 3 hours at a time)
4. Supplied-air systems
Supplied-air respirators are used in the most demanding environments where oxygen is low, or where there are unknown or extremely high concentrations of hazardous substances. Unlike filtering systems, supplied-air solutions are independent of ambient air quality.
Two main types:
- Compressed air line equipment (line-feed systems): Supplies air via hose directly from a compressor or cylinder. Ideal for fixed workstations and extended use.
- Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA): Typically used in rescue and emergency situations. Portable solution with compressed air cylinder.
Advantages:
- Highest level of safety
- Suitable for explosive or highly contaminated environments
- Effective in confined spaces and oxygen-deficient areas
Disadvantages:
- Limited mobility (when connected to a fixed air source)
- Requires maintenance and regular inspections
Typical use cases: Confined spaces, environments with high concentrations of toxins, and tasks where oxygen levels are low.
Filters and classification
Filters are primarily divided into particle filters and gas/vapor filters.
Particle filters
These protect against dust, smoke, and microorganisms:
- P1: Low filtration, protects against coarse particles
- P2: Medium filtration, protects against harmful dust and aerosols
- P3: High filtration, protects against toxic dust, bacteria, and viruses
Color code: White
Gas and vapor filters
Filters against specific gases and vapors:
- A (brown): Organic vapors
- B (grey): Inorganic gases
- E (yellow): Acid gases
- K (green): Ammonia and amines
- AX: Low-boiling organic compounds
The filters are available in three classes:
- Class 1: Low capacity
- Class 2: Medium capacity
- Class 3: High capacity
Many work assignments require combination filters, e.g. A2P3.
CE marking and legislation
All respiratory protection must be CE-marked to be used in the EU. The CE marking ensures:
- The product has been tested according to EU standards (EN149, EN143, EN136, EN12941, EN12942, etc.)
- The product is documented to be effective and safe
- A declaration of conformity from the manufacturer is available
The following EN standards apply to filters and respiratory equipment:
- EN 143: Particle filters (P1, P2, P3)
- EN 14387: Gas and combined filters (A, B, E, K, AX, etc.)
- EN 136: Full-face masks
- EN 140: Half masks
- EN 149: FFP masks (disposable masks)
- EN 12941: PAPR with headtop/hood
- EN 12942: PAPR with tight-fitting mask
The CE mark must be visible on the product together with:
- Identification of the manufacturer
- Production date and expiry date
- Number of the notified body that certified the equipment
Proper CE marking and documentation are not only a legal requirement for use in the EU, but also a guarantee of user safety.
Instructions for use and maintenance
Incorrect use of respiratory protection can be just as dangerous as no protection at all.
Fit and seal:
- Tight-fitting masks must sit closely to the face
- Facial hair, glasses, and face shape can affect effectiveness
- Fit testing is recommended to ensure the mask fits properly
Usage time:
- Disposable masks and reusable filter masks: maximum 3 hours
- Filters: replace according to manufacturer’s instructions or if breathing resistance changes
Maintenance:
- Clean reusable masks after use
- Store in clean, dry packaging
- Check for wear, damage, and expiry date
Stennevad as a safety partner
At Stennevad, we are specialists in respiratory protection. Based in Esbjerg and with more than 65 years of experience, we have developed a wide range of products and services:
- Guidance on selecting the right respiratory protection
- Fit testing with Quantifit2 – ensuring the mask fits optimally
- Free Safety Audit with a review of your workplace
- Training and instruction in correct use
👉 Read more about our respiratory protection solutions.