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Straight answers to the questions people ask most when choosing a powered air headtop with a safety helmet.
A headtop is the part worn on the head that receives the filtered air from a powered air unit. It is connected to a blower on the belt by a breathing tube, and supplies a continuous flow of filtered air to the wearer's face. This combination is called a powered air purifying respirator.A headtop with a built-in safety helmet gives head protection and respiratory protection together, and often a face visor as well.
It suits work with dust and particles combined with head and face hazards, such as grinding, sanding, cutting, fettling and heavy fabrication. The visor protects the face from flying particles, and the shell protects against knocks, depending on its rating.Not every headtop is suitable for welding. Welding needs protection against the arc, which calls for a proper welding filter, and a headtop without one must not be used for it. Check the data plate, markings and manual for your own headtop to see exactly what it is approved for.
Think about the hazards: dust, grinding particles, impact, sparks, noise and the need for head protection. Then check the helmet and visor ratings, how the headtop connects to the blower, and whether it is approved with your air unit.Also consider comfort, weight, adjustability and whether you need to wear other equipment such as ear defenders. Our team can help you with choosing.
No. Headtops are approved for use with particular blower units, filters and breathing tubes, and the protection rating only applies to approved combinations. The connectors may also differ between generations.Check the maker's compatibility list for your blower. Do not mix parts that are not approved together.
The helmet shell protects against falling objects and knocks to the head, within its rated limits. It may also give protection against other hazards depending on its rating, such as heat or electrical contact.Check the markings on the shell and the maker's instructions to see exactly what it covers. Replace the helmet after a significant impact, even if no damage is visible, and at the end of its stated service life.
With the right filters fitted and the blower running, it protects against particles in the air, up to the protection factor the maker gives for the approved combination. It does not protect against gases or vapours unless you are using suitable gas filters.The filter you need depends on the hazard, so check your risk assessment and the maker's guidance.