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Do I have to shave my beard to use a respirator?
Resource Center Topics
Coronavirus Information
Ebola Information
Hearing Protection
Respiratory Protection
Asbestos Safety
Choosing the Right Size Mask
Respirator Filter Ratings
How to test your Respirator
PAPR Selection
PAPR Filter Selection
Choosing the Right Size Mask
Respirator Filter Ratings
How to test your Respirator
PAPR Selection
PAPR Filter Selection
Avian Bird Flu Information
Rules and Regulations
ANSI/ISEA 107-2004 - High Visibility Safety Apparel
ANSI Z358.1 -2004 - Emergency Face / Eye Wash / Shower Requirements
ANSI Z358.1 -2004 - Emergency Face / Eye Wash / Shower Requirements
Personal Protection
Hearing Protection Selection Guide
OSHA Head Protection (Hard Hat) Guidelines
Hard Hat Types
How to wear a Hard Hat
Cut Resistant Glove Selection and Levels
OSHA Head Protection (Hard Hat) Guidelines
Hard Hat Types
How to wear a Hard Hat
Cut Resistant Glove Selection and Levels
Chemical Safety
General Workplace Safety
Construction Industry
PPE for the Construction Industry
OSHA Head Protection (Hard Hat) Guidelines
Hard Hat Classification
OSHA Head Protection (Hard Hat) Guidelines
Hard Hat Classification
Healthcare/Laboratory
Electrical Safety
Can I have a beard and use a respirator?
Yes - Kind of- Is the respirator a hood type mask?
- Does the respirator not require a face seal?
- Does your beard fit inside the seal area?
You can have a beard and get effective respirator filtration when using a SAPR or PAPR system with a hood type enclosure that does not depend on a face type seal.
The problem with beards, stubble and respirators
Most face mask type respirators require a seal between the mask and your face. If your beard or stubble prevent this seal from being complete, you will have difficulty getting an effective fit with your respirator. Fit testing can help determine if your stubble or beard is an issue.
