Some jobs require a half- or full-face respirator to mediate against dust, vapors or deadly fumes.
Manufacturing settings can often expose workers to inhaled metals, mostly in foundries, or chemicals, even in settings that seem benign. One of the most famous is 'popcorn lung' (brochiolitis obliterans), seen in plant workers who are exposed to vaporized flavoring chemicals.
Construction workers often have to beware of asbestos used as insulation around pipes and floor tiles, especially when demolishing old buildings, according to WebMD.
Spray painters in auto body shops, firefighters, and even farmers (repeatedly exposed to mold-contaminated grain or hay) all must wear respirators to avoid lung problems.
Still, not everyone can wear a half- or full-face respirator while working, according to PKSafety.
One common situation is facial hair that can prohibit a tight seal. Big beards or even heavy sideburns can sometimes prevent proper fit since they can interfere with valve function. Even heavy stubble can sometimes do this. Although some bearded men can pass fit tests, men who work around lethal gases or viral and infectious risks might not want to take such a chance.
Contact lenses are usually not a problem with respiratory equipment, but glasses can get in the way, preventing proper sealing.
Some medical conditions can worsen by wearing a face mask.
The most common condition is asthma. Stamina and anaerobic capacity are required for wearing a respirator.
Weaker breathers may have difficulty pulling air through the filters and cartridges required by respirators. This can be true for people with heart conditions, too. In the worst case scenario here, weak breathers may suddenly pull off the mask to breathe, while still in an environment that requires protection.
Before taking on an operation that requires protective equipment, workers should have a baseline medical exam to see if they can endure the increased heart rate.
Increased heat is something not often taken into consideration but can be a serious problem for some. People with skin conditions such as eczema can have flare-ups from heat generated within the mask.
Finally, heat, increased heart rate and a face mask can all combine to induce a feeling of suffocation or claustrophobia which can result in panic attacks.
