Type N95 and P2 respirators are effective against particulate aerosols that are free of _______.

N95 and P2 respirators are specifically designed to filter out particulate aerosols, but they have limitations concerning the presence of oil. These respirators are effective in protecting against non-oil-based aerosols, making them suitable for environments where the airborne contaminants are solid particles or liquid particles that do not contain oil.

The presence of oil can compromise the filtration efficiency of these respirators because they are not tested for effectiveness against oil-based particulates. In environments where oil aerosols are present, different types of respirators, such as R- or P-rated respirators, would be required to provide adequate protection. Therefore, understanding this limitation highlights the importance of selecting the correct type of respiratory protection based on the specific contaminants present in a work environment.

This context is crucial for anyone responsible for implementing health and safety measures, as choosing the right respiratory protection can significantly impact worker safety.