Founded in 1930 in Bremerhaven, Comet Marine Distress Signals is now one of the most important manufacturers of signal devices in the military sector

What should you pay attention to when using gas masks?

When using a gas mask for the first time—these are also called NBC masks—it should be adjusted to the wearer’s head size and shape. Many gas masks come in a universal size that can be adjusted as needed. To do this, you simply need to tighten the straps of the gas mask. The gas mask must fit tightly: if air gaps form between the mask and the skin, gas can penetrate through them and cause severe damage. Before using the gas mask, it should be cleaned. Dirt can irritate the skin and lead to poor visibility. There are no other special points to note when using gas masks.

Which model is suitable for me?

Before buying, you should define the intended area of use. In the ASMC range, you can purchase gas masks with and without filters. The filter is responsible for removing harmful substances from contaminated air. The weight of the gas mask should be extremely low so that it can be used comfortably even for extended periods. When choosing a suitable gas mask, you should look for a large visor. This allows maximum freedom of movement and a clear view of your surroundings. The gas masks from ASMC all come from renowned brand manufacturers known for the high quality of their products. You can therefore rely on the gas masks to function optimally in an emergency. Some gas masks in the ASMC range are intended for decorative purposes only. You should bear this in mind when browsing the range.

Expert tip: Train with a mask, e.g. for mountain tours at higher altitudes

If you’re planning to tackle a mountain tour in the near future that involves major elevation changes and/or exceeds a certain critical altitude, you should prepare for it seriously. One option is to use a gas mask, for example while training on the treadmill or—depending on where you live—while jogging. This allows you to simulate the thinning air that occurs from a certain altitude upwards and, so to speak, prepare your body for it. Above all, this increases breathing resistance, which simply makes breathing more difficult. In addition, the carbon dioxide content also rises and thus more or less simulates the lack of fresh oxygen. Of course, you should think very carefully about both this training method and such a mountain tour itself and, ideally, consult a doctor before you start.

Questions: Gas masks

In which situations can gas masks be useful?

For example, when chemical warfare agents, tear gas or even large amounts of dust of any size and type are used, in order to prevent possible lasting damage to the respiratory tract, nose or eyes.

What variants are there?

Standard gas masks—or what the average user understands by them—are also called full-face masks. These come in numerous variants, including respirators with an attached drinking tube so that you can supply yourself with fluids without losing the protective function. Then there are the so-called particle-filtering half masks (fine dust masks) as well as quarter masks. Most modern masks are made of rubber or silicone and, as the name suggests, are primarily intended for respiratory protection. The special models that mainly filter particles are classified as dust masks and are used, for example, for painting or wood sawing work.

Typical fields of application

In addition to tactical operations in the military and private sectors, tank cleaning work should also be mentioned here. Of course, the primary use – deployment in rescue services (fire brigade, THW) – must not be overlooked either. Fire brigades usually use so‑called standard‑pressure masks.

What do the various type designations mean?

There are the classes FFP-1 to 3, with level 3 being the highest level and able to filter out the most substances (99%), whether liquid or gaseous. In most cases, this also includes viruses, bacteria, fungi and spores.

There are also various additional designations, which are usually listed in the title. These break down as follows:

S (solid): For aqueous aerosols and particles
SL: Aqueous and oily aerosols and particles
V: With exhalation valve to reduce breathing resistance

What is the best way to store gas masks when not in use?

There are special cases that are made for this purpose. To prevent anything from breaking or getting scratched during storage, this option should definitely be used.

What do you need to consider when it comes to gas mask filters?

So that the entire mask doesn’t always have to be replaced after use, there are usually so-called filters or cartridges available to buy separately. Incidentally, gas mask filters also have only a limited shelf life, up to which the manufacturer guarantees perfect functioning. The date is normally printed on the filters. Many use activated carbon, which, even when not in use, gradually becomes saturated over time. If you only want to use a mask as a party gag or for display purposes, you can simply remove the exhalation valve. This means the air is no longer drawn through a filter but inhaled directly from there. The only drawback: the mask’s visor unfortunately tends to fog up from the inside quite quickly.