What is the OSHA protection factor assigned to a PAPR?

The correct assignment of a protection factor to a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR) is 1,000. This means that, under ideal conditions, a PAPR can reduce the concentration of airborne contaminants by a factor of 1,000, providing significant protection to the wearer. This high level of protection is due in part to the continuous airflow provided by the powered system, which not only filters out hazardous particles but also helps to keep the user cool and comfortable.

Other numbers, such as 10, 50, and 10,000, represent lower protection factors or are not assigned to PAPRs. For example, a protection factor of 10 or 50 generally applies to less complex respirators, like some filtering facepieces or half masks, which do not offer the same level of filtration efficiency. The number 10,000 is typically not used as it exceeds the standard limits applied to respiratory protective devices. Thus, the 1,000 protection factor assigned to PAPRs highlights their effectiveness in providing protection in environments where airborne asbestos fibers are a concern.