Abstract: A respirator 10 that has a mask body 12 that has a plurality of panels 16, 18, 20 that can fold in towards each other and that can unfold into open in-use configuration. At least one of the panels has a tab 22 that assists in opening the mask body 12 from its folded configuration into its open in-use configuration. The use of the tab 22 on the panel(s) of the multi-paneled mask body 12 allows for easier donning and doffing and reduces the opportunity for contaminants to get into the mask interior when the mask is being opened by the user.

Abstract: A pouch is provided for the blower unit of a powered air-purifying respirator system, to isolate the blower unit from hazardous material such as potentially-explosive dust or gas. The pouch has an opening at one end through which the blower unit can be inserted into the pouch, and is shaped at the other end to receive the blower unit. It also has air inlet openings positioned to register with air inlets of the blower and permit the connection of the filter cartridges thereto, and an air outlet opening positioned to register with the air outlet of the blower unit and permit the connection thereto of a breathing tube of the respirator system. When the blower unit is inside the pouch, seals at the pouch openings inhibit or prevent particulate or gaseous material from entering the pouch through the openings.

Abstract: A pouch is provided for the blower unit of a powered air-purifying respirator system, to isolate the blower unit from hazardous material such as potentially-explosive dust or gas. The pouch has an opening at one end through which the blower unit can be inserted into the pouch, and is shaped at the other end to receive the blower unit. It also has air inlet openings positioned to register with air inlets of the blower and permit the connection of the filter cartridges thereto, and an air outlet opening positioned to register with the air outlet of the blower unit and permit the connection thereto of a breathing tube of the respirator system. When the blower unit is inside the pouch, sealing means at the pouch openings inhibit or prevent particulate or gaseous material from entering the pouch through the openings.

Abstract: A disposable protective garment 1 has bands 8 of elastomeric material at the wrists and/or ankles and/or around the hood 5. Each band 8 is joined to the garment by a welded or adhesively-bonded seam and extends from the garment to encircle closely the adjacent part of the body of the wearer. Each band 8 is joined in a stretched condition to the garment 1 and is then allowed to relax, thereby forming gathers 9 in the garment 1.