In which situation is it required to use air-purifying respirators?

Air-purifying respirators are specifically designed to filter out harmful contaminants from the air, making them essential in situations where exposure to hazardous substances, such as fumigants, is likely to occur. In an emergency involving fumigants, these respirators provide a crucial layer of protection by reducing inhalation risks when immediate action is required to protect oneself from toxic vapors or gases.

While other scenarios may involve the use of respiratory protection, such as regular use or training, the need for air-purifying respirators is most critical in emergency situations. During these moments, the potential for exposure to high concentrations of dangerous substances necessitates the use of equipment that can effectively filter out those hazards to maintain safety.

In contrast, using air-purifying respirators for regular everyday tasks may not always be necessary if the environment is controlled and exposure is minimal. Additionally, relying on them as a backup when no other protective equipment is available is not ideal since they are most effective when used as the first line of defense in hazardous environments.