AllTradesJournal

Respirators

3 articles

Worker wearing a NIOSH-approved N95 respirator in an industrial environment, emphasizing safety and protection.
Safety

Respirator Types: Understanding Effectiveness and N95 Superiority

The Department of State explicitly warns travelers against purchasing cloth facial coverings from sidewalk vendors, instead advising NIOSH-approved reusable respirators .

Ben Foster·July 30, 2026
Close-up of a worker carefully inspecting a respirator, emphasizing the importance of proper PPE maintenance and inspection for workplace safety.
Safety

PPE Maintenance: Extending Lifespan, Challenging Replacement Myths

In a surprising study, 98% of respirators stored for up to 15 years across 10 facilities still met performance standards.

Ben Foster·May 30, 2026
A tradesperson in a respirator on a construction site, highlighting the critical need for proper safety equipment and adherence to regulations.
Safety

Tradespeople Safety: The Gaps in Protection

OSHA requires respirators to be fit tested at least annually, yet this critical safety measure was relaxed during 2020 due to the pandemic, as reported by Labmanager .

Ben Foster·April 15, 2026