Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPRs)

PAPRs purify the air using a blower to force air through filter cartridges or canisters creating an air flow into the breathing zone of the wearer. The breathing zone can either be a tight-fitting facepiece or loose fitting hood or helmet. This process provides a higher level of assigned protection factor (APF) than N95 filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) or reusable elastomeric non-powered air-purifying half masks. These devices provide protection for healthcare workers during procedures that generate greater risk of aerosolized pathogens, which may cause acute respiratory infections. Learn more about PAPR use and decontamination by downloading this helpful resource.