What is a Gas Mask?
A gas mask is an item of personal protective equipment used to protect the wearer from inhaling airborne pollutants and toxic gases. The mask forms a sealed cover over the nose and mouth, but may also cover the eyes and other vulnerable soft tissues of the face.
Where Can I Buy Gas Mask In South Africa?
Makro Cape Gate
Address: Cnr, Belami Ave, Kleinbron Park, Cape Town, 7560, South Africa
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 6 pm
Phone: +27 21 003 1400
Army Stores
Address: 60 Charlotte Maxeke St, Pretoria West, Pretoria, 0117, South Africa
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 5 pm
Phone: +27 12 327 3282
Worcester Gas & Sport
Address: 58 Church St, Worcester Central, Worcester, 6850, South Africa
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 5:30 pm
Phone: +27 23 342 2534
Pienaar Brothers (Pty) Ltd
Address: 22 Auckland St, Paarden Eiland, Cape Town, 7405, South Africa
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 4:30 pm
Phone: +27 21 511 8131
How long do gas masks work?
The gas mask only protects the user from digesting, inhaling, and contact through the eyes (many agents affect through eye contact).
Most combined gas mask filters will last around 8 hours in a biological or chemical situation. Filters against specific chemical agents can last up to 20 hours.
How long can you breathe in a gas mask?
Filter Classification
| Mask type | Application | Gas Concentration |
|---|---|---|
| NO (+P3) | Nitrogen oxides e.g NO, NO2, Nox | Maximum allowed time of use: 20min |
| Hg (+P3) | Mercury vapours | Maximum allowed time of use: 50 hrs |
| CO*C | Carbon monoxide | Local guidelines |
| Reactor P3 | Radioactive iodine | Local guidelines |
Do gas masks expire?
Cartridges, filters, and masks get old. Cartridges can have a limited life. If the filter cartridges that attach to the mask are outdated, have been open to the air, or are damaged, you are not protected.