Respro® Masks FAQ

#1 How to fit a Respro® Mask

Watch the tutorial

#2 These bendy nose things, how far should I bend them?

The malleable nose clip deforms easily so that a good fit can be formed around the bridge of the nose. Continuous or exaggerated deformation will eventually cause failure in the metal – it will snap. Once a good fit has been found, it is best to maintain the shape, rather than folding it flat when storing it or when not in use.

#3 Do the filters need replacing, if so, how often?

Yes the filters do need replacing.

1. The effective working life of the City™ filter depends on a number of factors, such as; the breathing rate of the user; ambient levels of pollution; the length of time the filter is actively working; hygiene levels. Taking these factors into account we recommend that the filter should be replaced every month or every 69 hours, whichever is sooner.

2. Replacement of the Sportsta™ filter should be carried out every month or when the filter becomes noticeably discoloured.

#4 What particle size does the Techno™ mask filter out?

The Techno™ filter has sub-micron filtration capability. What this means is that it is able to trap particles less than one micron in size which is more than capable of the removal of 2.5 micron particulate material (PM).
Typically particulate pollution in the cities appears to be in the 2.5 micron size range and above. Particles smaller than this are known as respirable dusts, which can lodge deep within the lungs and air sacs. This is the more dangerous type of particle pollution as chemicals from vehicle exhaust gases combustion known to be toxic, are carried by means of the respirable particles. Hence the need for a Hepa-type submicron particle filter.

The DACC Activated charcoal layer within the Techno™ filter has excellent adsorption properties when it comes to SO2 and NO2 uptakes. With this capability and its capability of filtering VOC’s it is the best filter available in our range for dealing with the broad spectrum of pollutants commonly found in major cities across the globe.

#5 Do I need to replace the valves?

The valves should not need replacing on a regular basis assuming that they are maintained properly. On a monthly basis, it is advisable to flush the valves through with warm water to remove any tissue salt build up from condensed water vapour from your breath evaporating on the valves working surfaces, the diaphragm can be removed in the cleaning process and reassembled once all the components have dried. On the Powa valve, it is essential that you locate the two pins, nearest the hinge, properly into the body of the valve, before snapping the rear clip shut. To check that it is in working order, place the valve base on your lips and blow through the valve and then inhale. Air should flow freely outward but be restricted when inhaling.

#6 I feel my breathing is restricted, is this normal?

I think that from the start that you have to understand that any mask will have some level of restriction especially at fast breathing rates for example; when cycling fast.

All of our masks are compatible with aerobic exercise. If you body starts working in an anaerobic capacity then no mask is compatible and you will feel like you need to stop or slow down.,

The best masks will use exhalation valves that ‘dump’ heat, water vapours and Co2; the quicker the better. The removal of these components are the key to comfort. You need to get them out of the mask. The Powa and Powa Elite valve is key at elevated breathing rates.

#7 Can the mask be washed?

It is recommended that you wash the neoprene shell of the mask every month under normal use. To do this it is necessary to remove the filter and the valve first. Although spare valves and filters are available from your retailer, please be careful not to misplace any of the components during maintenance.

#8 Are the filters interchangeable?

The filters in City™, Sportsta™, Techno™, Cinqro™ and Respro® Allergy™ masks are interchangeable provided they are the same size. i.e. large City™filter will fit in a large Cinqro™ mask.

#9 I need the protection of the City™ mask, but would like the added comfort of the Sportsta™, is this possible?

Yes! The filters and valves used in both the City™ and the Sportsta™ masks are totally interchangeable.

#10 What filter do I need?

You will need to determine what type of environment you will be using the mask in, a city environment or a countryside environment. Typically, if you are commuting every day with heavy or slow moving traffic, you should use the City™ filter. Although chemical pollutants can be found in the countryside; crop sprays, fertilisers etc., particulates are more likely to pose a potential problem, thus a Sportsta™ filter is likely to be the better option.

#11 How do the Sportsta™ and City™ filters differ?

Each filters type has a primary use in a specific environment.

1. The City filter uses Dynamic Activated Charcoal Cloth (DACC) a 95% pure charcoal weave, originally developed by the U.K. Ministry of Defence for use in the protection against chemical and bacteria warfare situations. We use DACC to effectively filter out Primary pollutants associated with vehicle exhaust emissions. The DACC is laminated with medical grade non woven polypropylene material which filters particulates from the air and helps prevent them from entering the respiratory system.

The City™ filter offers protection against: – Hydrocarbons. e.g. Benzene; Pyrene;1,3 Butadiene. – Acid gases. e.g. Nitrogen dioxide; Sulphur dioxide. – Photo-chemical pollutants. e.g. Low level Ozone – Particulates. e.g. Black smoke; Pollen; Lead oxide. For a more comprehensive list of all the chemicals that have tested with DACC, please go to the Industrial section of the website.

2. The Sportsta™ filter uses electrostatically charged fibres to attract airborne particulates down to 0.3 microns in size. 1 Micron = 1/1000mm. Unlike most particle filters which rely on mechanical retention, which inherently results in high inhalation resistance or very large cumbersome filters, the Sportsta™ filter offers extremely low inhalation resistance, by like comparison. The Sportsta™ filter offers protection against: – Pollen dust; Building dust; Clay dust; Grain dust; Soya dust; Carbon dust; House dust; Cigarette smoke. – PM10’s. e.g. Diesel smoke. – Lead & Tar.

#12 Why is the Cinqro™ mask more expensive that the other masks?

The Cinqro™ package incorporates a complete mask fitted with a Hepa-Type particle filter for filtering submicron particles like diesel smoke. A spare DACC chemical/particle filter is also supplied as part of the package allowing filter interchangeability.

For improved air flow and comfortability, two Powa Elite™ valves are included with the Cinqro™ mask. They improve air flow characteristics when breathing out at elevated breathing patterns. This equates to less back pressure, less dampness in the filter, improved filtration, lower inhalation resistance all of which result in improved comfort and performance.

A graphics rebuild for the look of the mask fits it squarely in the sports arena rather than the ‘scare the hell out of everyone’ arena.

Cinqro™ = mask + 2 filters + Powa Elite™ valves + graphics = value for money

#13 What filters do I need for the X-treme™ masks?

Essentially the filters in the X-treme™ function in the same way as the City™ and Sportsta™ filters do. The X-treme™ mask for sports utilises the particulate filtration ability of the Sportsta™ and the X-treme™ mask for urban use, uses activated carbon as its filtration medium.

#14 How long does the Bandit™ last before it needs replacing?

Under normal conditions the Bandit™ will provide the user with approximately six months protection. The Bandit incorporates D.A.C.C. which is specially coated so that it can be washed. It should be washed on a regular basis to maintain optimum performance. Immerse in a pan of boiling water (this releases the petroleum compounds pounds which are attracted to the D.A.C.C.) and leave to cool. Then wash in warm water using a non-automatic washing powder, rinse and leave to dry.

#15 Which Respro® Mask should I buy for urban use?

For cycling/walking in the urban/city environment, we recommend the Techno™ mask where pollution is high and full of diesel particulates. The Techno™ filter in the Techno™ mask is the Sports filter and the City™ filter combined giving the user both sub-micron particle filtration with gas and vapour filtration.

The Techno™ filter has sub-micron filtration capability. What this means is that it is able to trap particles less than one micron in size which is more than capable of the removal of 2.5 micron Particulate Material (PM2.5).
Typically particulate pollution in the cities appears to be in the 2.5 micron size range and above. Particles smaller than this are known as respirable dusts, which can lodge deep within the lungs and air sacs. This is the more dangerous type of particle pollution as chemicals from vehicle exhaust emissions are carried to the blood barrier by means of respirable particulates. Hence the need for a Hepa-Type™ sub micron particle filter.

The DACC™ activated charcoal layer within the Techno™ filter has excellent adsorption properties when it comes to SO2 and NO2 uptakes. With this capability and its capability of filtering VOC’s it is the best filter available in our range for dealing with the broad spectrum of pollutants commonly found in major cities across the globe.

#16 How do I stop my glasses from misting up?

When using a mask with glasses, it is best to fit the mask first to get the correct fit with no seal leakage, then place the glasses in front of the nose clip on the mask. It is really dependent on the seal of the mask. Having adjustable nose pads facilitates a better fit than plastic moulded rims. A good seal around the nose and cheekbone will mean no leakage in that region which equals no misting. This is how/why glasses get misted up on the inside of the lens. In our experience most glasses wearers manage to figure a way of fitting glasses with a mask without them getting misted up.

#17 What’s the difference between N95 and P1 mask standards?

Basically we place this disclaimer on the product to ensure that people do not start using them in workplace environments. The mask has been tested to EN149 FFP1 status which is the equivalent of N95.

N99/ 97/95 is a certification process for disposable respirators for dust for use in Industrial applications. The testing process is carried out by Niosh Accredited testing houses which provide certificates of approval.

We have masks that have equivalent European ratings, The EV range are rated P1 (N95) P2 (N97) P3 (N99).

Our Neoprene products are primarily used in non-industrial sectors; motorcycle, cycle markets. However we feel that it is important for our products to conform to industrial standards as a measure of effectiveness when marketing to the general public.

EN149 is a homologated European standard applicable for the use of facemasks in the workplace for the filtration of dusts and water soluble aqueous mists. The test protocol used is primarily based on the masks ability to filter a given percentage of particulate material by means of seal and filter media.

Our Sportsta™ and Techno™, Allergy™ and FB-1™ masks are manufactured within the technical specification for EN149FFP1 for solid and liquid aerosols (ie mists).

#18 What is Air Pollution?

Air pollution is made up of two distinct categories:

1. Gases and Vapours

2. Particulates

Most types of pollution can be put into one or other category.

Gases & Vapours:

Nitrogen oxides

Sulphur Dioxide

Carbon Monoxide

Low level Ozone

Hydrocarbon Chemicals

These all require an activated carbon filter media to adsorb these pollutants.

(Techno™, City™, Bandit™, Cinqro™, Xtreme™ urban)

Particulates:

Asbestos dust from brake linings

Pollen

Road dust

Black smoke from diesel emissions

Any other material which is solid in nature

These all require a submicron Hepa-Type filter media to trap these pollutants.

(Techno™, Sportsta™, Cinqro™, Respro® Allergy Mask, Xtreme™ Sports)

Particulate Types:

Inhaleable and Respirable.

Inhaleable particulates: are the particles big enough to be trapped within the nasal hairs and the mucous membranes at the back of the throat. (Larger in size than 2.5 microns)

Respirable particulates: are the particles that pass beyond the nasal hairs and the mucous membranes of the throat and pass into the lung sacs and subsequent blood barrier.

These particulates can carry carcinogenic chemicals used in petrol (benzene, pyrene, etc) to the blood barrier. (Smaller in size than 2.5 microns)

#19 What % of your mask (Sportsta™) protects against PM 2.5

The filter material in the Sportsta™ mask is subject to testing which gives 99% filtration of particulates smaller than PM2.5 (2.5 microns); in fact almost ten times smaller, 0.3 microns. An important point with respect to masks is how well they fit. If they fit poorly then the air will just pass through the gap where it doesn’t fit, that’s why we have three sizes.

As a general rule of thumb, mask sizing is as follows:

5′ Heavy Build – 5’6′ Average Build = Medium

5’6″ Heavy Build – 6′ Average Build = Large

6′ Heavy Build – 6’+ Average Build = X-Large

For us to confirm your size please send the following information to customerservices@respro.com

MASK user:

Height:

Weight:

Neck size:

Hat size:

Height:

(most people know their height)

Weight:

(most people know their weight)

Neck Size:

Using piece of cotton or string, measure the circumference around the neck.  Use a ruler to determine the length of string. This is the neck circumference. Easier still check your shirt size.

Head size (AKA Hat Size):

Using piece of cotton or string, measure the circumference around the head.  Use a ruler to determine the length of string. This is the head or hat size circumference.

#21 Can I wash the filter?

The filter material may be washed, but ordinarily we recommend ‘hand washing’. Machine washing can be somewhat vigorous which can abrade the material by being washed with other garments. Some washing powders also contain fragrance additives which the filter will certainly pick up.

The best procedure now would be to follow our washing guide and hopefully your filter will still be useable.

WASHING INSTRUCTIONS:

To ensure good hygiene/care measures we suggest that you place the filter and valves in a pan of freshly boiled water (remove pan from heat source before putting filter in) and let it cool down. Remove the filter unit from the water and allow to stand dry.
This procedure will remove facial oils that may build up over a period of continuous use and will also remove some of the particulates and organic vapour that will be present within the Charcoal structure of the filter or tissue salt build in the valves.

If the mask cover requires washing this should be done by carefully removing the filter assembly and then washing the outer casing in warm soapy water and then left to dry naturally (not forced by means of heaters and driers).

#22 How do the Sportsta™ and City™ mask differ?

Aside from the differences in filtration (explained below), the Sportsta™ mask offers the wearer increased comfort over the City™ mask for the following two reasons:

1. The Powa valves incorporated in the Sportsta™ have a larger bore size than the Standard valves allowing heat, water vapour and Carbon dioxide to be exhaled more efficiently through the valve system and not through the filter material. The larger bore size also allows a sports person to compete at peak physical exertion without experiencing breathing resistance when exhaling.

2. The sides of the Sportsta™ mask have mesh side panels to assist ventilation of the face, keeping the user cool.

#23 How can I ensure the mask is clean after using it for a while?

The  mask and filter should be treated like an undergarment and regularly cleaned.

To ensure good hygiene measures we suggest that you place the filter and valves sub-assembly in a pan of freshly boiled water (remove pan from heat source before putting filter and valves in) and let it cool down.

Remove filter and valve unit and allow to stand until dry.

This process will remove facial oils that may build up over a period of continuous use and ensure that it is hygienically clean. The procedure will also remove some of the particulates and organic vapour that have been filtered within the filter or tissue salt build-up from exhalation through the valves.

If the mask cover requires washing this should be done by carefully removing the filter and valve assembly and then washing the outer casing in warm soapy water and then left to dry naturally (not forced by means of heaters and driers).

#24 What size mask do I need?

With the exception of the Bandit™, the Allergy™ mask (small available) and the FB-1 mask (XL available), there are two sizes available, medium and large. Generally, medium will be suitable for the average size women and large for the average size man. If in doubt, email us the following dimensions and we should be able to guide you to the correct size.

As a rule of thumb mask sizing is as follows;

5′ Small Build – 5’3′ Slight Build = Small
5′ Heavy Build – 5’6′ Average Build = Medium
5’6″ Heavy Build – 6′ Average Build = Large
6′ Heavy Build – 6’+ Average Build = X-Large

A sizing chart is available here

To confirm your size or for us to advise you, please send us the following details:

Height:
Weight:
Neck size:
Hat size:

Height:
(most people know their height)
Weight:
(most people know their weight)
Neck Size:
Using piece of cotton or string, measure the circumference around the neck. Use a ruler to determine the length of string. This is the neck circumference.
Head size (AKA Hat Size):
Using piece of cotton or string, measure the circumference around the head. Use a ruler to determine the length of string. This is the head or hat size circumference.

#25 What differences are there with the new CiNQRO™ mask?

The CiNQRO™ mask focuses on the ‘urban trainer’, the ‘home runner’ or the multi-sport end user where breathing rates are typically higher than your average commuter.  Improved comfortability are key to this level of personal endeavor.

For improved air flow and comfortability the two Powa Elite valves on the CiNQRO™ mask allow faster air flow characteristics when breathing out at elevated breathing patterns, ie when you are giving it the beans from A2B which equates to less back pressure, less dampness in the filter, improved filtration, lower inhalation resistance all of which result in improved comfort and performance.

The CiNQRO™ package incorporates a complete mask fitted with a Hepa-Type particle filter for filtering submicron particles like diesel smoke, pollen, brake lining dust and any aqueous water vapour particles that  can carry various chemicals in the air. A spare DACC chemical/particle filter is also supplied as part of the package allowing filter interchangeability making the CiNQRO™ mask suitable for use in a wider variety of environments from inner cities to the countryside.

A graphics rebuild for the look of the mask fits it squarely in the sports arena rather than the ‘scare the hell out of everyone’ arena.

#26 Are children’s masks available?

Our concern in providing masks for children is that the size variation in children is so wide, that a ‘child’s’ mask will not fit the range of sizes that children come in.

A 3-year-old will not require the same mask sizes as a 7 to 10-year-old. We do not recommend the use of face masks for children younger than 11 years, but to seek alternative ‘common sense’ precautions i.e. hood on push chairs, keep away from large congested or dense traffic environments; if you cannot, then place something in front of their faces more like a guard to prevent air/ wind/ polluted air from direct contact.  Children’s breathing rates are considerably lower that that of a walking adult so they should not be in too much danger. Generally common sense practice where at all possible should be considered. If a child has a particular respiratory issue then medical advice should be considered first and foremost.

The small Respro® Allergy™ Mask is the smallest size available and useable by very small adults and older children above the age of 10 years.

#27 How do I know the correct size mask I require?

Respro® Masks products come in more than one size to ensure a good fit which is the most important aspect to a mask as it must seal to filter.

As a rule of thumb mask sizing is as follows;

5′ Small Build – 5’3′ Slight Build = Small
5′ Heavy Build – 5’6′ Average Build = Medium
5’6″ Heavy Build – 6′ Average Build = Large
6′ Heavy Build – 6’+ Average Build = X-Large

A sizing chart is available here

To confirm your size or for us to advise you, please send us the following details:

Height:
Weight:
Neck size:
Hat size:

Height:
(most people know their height)
Weight:
(most people know their weight)
Neck Size:
Using piece of cotton or string, measure the circumference around the neck. Use a ruler to determine the length of string. This is the neck circumference.
Head size (AKA Hat Size):
Using piece of cotton or string, measure the circumference around the head. Use a ruler to determine the length of string. This is the head or hat size circumference.

#28 Are there any countries where a mask is not allowed to be worn, if so will a doctors letter be sufficient to assuage any authority.

It is currently not clear which countries if any, have made it illegal to wear a mask. If you require the use of a respiratory mask for health reasons, then it would be advisable to carry a letter from a medical practitioner clarifying your need to have the means to protect health.

#29 Can I wear a Respro® mask on a flight?

There is no current restriction on wearing a mask in flight. The Allergy mask Combo is the product we would suggest for aviation fuel fumes, Aircraft disinsection (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aircraft_disinsection) using insecticides and the filtration of airborne viral matter.

#30 Can A Respro® Mask protect against Coronavirus?

For information on the Coronavirus, which mask to use and tips on mask hygiene, please read the following article on our blog: https://respromasks.com/coronavirus-a-new-virus-from-china/