Which of the following is an air-purifying type of respirator?

• A. Gas mask
• B. SCBA
• C. Airline respirator
• D. Abrasive blasting helmet

Answer: (A)

Air-purifying respirators remove contaminants from the air you breathe rather than supplying you with air. A gas mask fits this description because it uses filters or cartridges to remove particulates, gases, or vapors from the surrounding environment before you inhale. In contrast, a self-contained breathing apparatus carries its own breathing air in a cylinder, making it an air-supply type. An airline respirator uses air from an external source through a hose, also supplying air rather than filtering it. An abrasive blasting helmet typically provides its own air supply to the wearer. Therefore, the gas mask is the air-purifying option.