What is an organic vapour?

Lots of safety respirator filters state they protect against 'organic vapours' but that doesn't help decision making if you're not sure what an organic vapour is! So here's a brief explanation so you know what you're protecting against...

Keeping it simple, an organic vapour is the vapour given off an organic solvent as it's evaporating.

Organic solvents are common in construction and manufacturing workshops. They are carbon-based substances that can dissolve or disperse one or more other substances (they contain carbon in their molecular structure.)

Organic solvents are commonly found in a wide range of products including: adhesives, cleaning products, metal cleaners, lacquers, paint, resins, rust removers, surface preparation products, and fuels.

'For every person who dies in New Zealand of a work-related accident, 10 people die from a work-related disease. Organic solvents are a major cause of these diseases.' - Worksafe NZ

One of the most common ways of being overexposed to organic solvents is through inhaling the vapours which form as the solvents evaporate. When vapours are inhaled, they are absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs.

Short term effects include:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Eyes, nose, throat and skin irritation
• Disorientation
• Feeling drunk/high
• Drowsiness

Long term effects include:

• Mood changes
• Memory problems
• Concentration difficulties
• Tiredness
• Weakness.

When using a full or half face respirator, you'll need to attach ABEK filters. These will protect against organic vapours (A) and inorganic vapours (B) acid gases (E) and ammonia (K). It is also recommended to use P2 Pre-Filters with the ABEK filters for added protection against dust and mists generated mechanically or thermally.