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FAQs

FAQs
Air Purification
Q1 I need help understanding all the different types of filters and classifications…what can I do?
A1 Scott’s Pro2000 filter brochure contains very useful information…please follow the link here.
Q3 How long does a filter last in service?
A3 Once removed from their packaging Scott filters have a maximum service life of six months. If you are asking how long it will last against your contaminant then that is not possible to predict accurately as usage conditions vary enormously.
The duration of use depends upon many factors including:
  • the load – the type and concentration of contaminant
  • the wearers breathing rhythm, lung capacity and work rate
  • filter capacity e.g. filter class
  • Humidity of the air
  • Temperature of the atmosphere

The presence of odour, taste or irritation inside a mask or hood indicates that a gas filter is exhausted and needs to be replaced. Particle filters must be replaced at the latest when breathing becomes burdensome. Combined filters should be replaced when either of the above points is reached.

The user should reduce the time taken to reach this point by half and set this as the change-out time for future use in similar conditions, e.g. first filter is exhausted after four weeks – change every two weeks in future.

Filters used against detrimental gases that do not display any significant indications (odour, taste, irritation) require special regulations for the duration of use and correct usage.

For filters of the Hg-P3 type, the maximum duration of use is 50hrs.

Against radioactive substances, micro-organisms and enzymes, particle filters are recommended on a single use basis.
Q4 How long can I store a filter for?
A4 A filter in its original packaging expires when the date (month/year) on the filter label is reached (3, 5 or 10 years according to type). Foil wrapped filters have a shelf life of 10 years. On your filter you should find the expiry date below the Lot Nr. (which also contains the year of manufacture - you should observe the 3/5/10yr difference between the years).

Once the outer plastic or foil bag has been opened the filter must be replaced at the latest after 6 months.
Q5 How should I dispose of my filters?
A5 Used filters are ‘special waste’ and should be disposed of in accordance with the contaminant(s) they have been exposed to. Unused filters are normally general waste, but some conditions may apply. See the instructions that come with your filter.
Q6 It is possible to wear a face mask with facial hair?
A6 Generally not. A good face seal will only be obtained if the skin in the region of the seal is smooth and without hair. Facial hair tends to lift the mask off the face and permit inward leakage of contaminated air. Stubble from even a short period without shaving may adversely affect the seal.
Q7 Is it possible to wear prescription spectacles with a facemask?
A7 Spectacles with side arms are incompatible with full-face masks. Side arms interfere with the face seal and can cause serious leakage. Scott facemasks allow fixing of special frames inside the visor.
Q8 Do you need a fit test for a hood?
A8 According to HSE guidelines, loose fitting hoods do not require any form of fit testing.