Half-mask respirators prevent the spread of silicosis among SA miners
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The risk of TB infection is dramatically increased for those suffering from silicosis – a form of occupational lung disease caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust. It is marked by inflammation and scarring in the form of nodular lesions in the upper lobes of the lungs.
Silicosis is characterised by shortness of breath, coughing and fever, and is widespread in South African mining communities. In an effort to overcome this occupational hazard, MSA Africa contributed 300 half-mask respirators, which are more effective than traditional dust masks, to platinum-mining end users.
MSA Africa respiratory and fire helmets product manager Suraksha Mohun explains that a reliable face mask can mean the difference between life and death for those exposed to fumes, mists and hazardous gases daily. “As a result, the drive by MSA Africa to promote its Advantage range of half-mask respirators started in 2012.”
The Advantage is an effective and innovative range that features reusable cartridges. “Currently, a large number of mines use dust masks that only last for an eight-hour shift, and which present the opportunity for contaminants to sneak in. The MSA Advantage half mask is cost-effective as its cartridges can be replaced, and which can last anything from a week to a month-and-a-half,” Mohun adds.
The Advantage range provides numerous benefits. It comes in different sizes, ensuring an almost perfect fit to keep out harmful contaminants. “In order to ensure a guaranteed face seal, the half mask conforms to one’s unique facial characteristics,” Mohun continues.
It provides flexibility in usage, and has a filter programme to protect against harmful particles or gases. Due to the highly humid conditions underground, the Advantage range of masks features moisture holes to release any water.
The Advantage half mask can be used in other industries, including: painting, welding, sanding and grinding, search and rescue, public events, industrial applications and asbestos reduction. It can also be used by those working in the chemical, government, utilities, water treatment, petroleum (oil and gas) and construction industries.
Mohun concludes that MSA Africa places a high priority on safety education in industrial applications. “We want to empower industry to know there are options available that will protect people and help ease their jobs.”
Ends
Notes to the editor
To download hi-res images for this release, please visit http://media.ngage.co.za and click the MSA Africa link to view the company’s press office.
About MSA
MSA been the world's leading manufacturer of high-quality safety products since 1914. MSA products may be simple to use and maintain, but they’re also highly-sophisticated devices and protective gear - the result of countless R&D hours, relentless testing, and an unwavering commitment to quality that saves lives and protects thousands of men and women each and every day. Many of MSA's most popular products integrate multiple combinations of electronics, mechanical systems, and advanced materials to ensure that users around the world remain protected in even the most hazardous of situations. MSA's dedication to safety has been the key to its impressive year-over-year growth. In eight of the past ten years, MSA has achieved record growth numbers, with annual revenues of more than US$1 billion.
MSA Africa Contact Details
Suraksha Mohun
Respiratory and Fire Helmets Product Manager
Tel: 011 610 2719
Cell: 082 905 8819
Email: suraksha [dot] mohun [at] msasafety [dot] com
Web: www.msasafety.com
Media Contact
Renay Tandy
NGAGE Public Relations
Phone: (011) 867 7763
Fax: 086 512 3352
Cell: 082 562 5088
Email: renay [at] ngage [dot] co [dot] za
Web: www.ngage.co.za
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