Which respirator classification is used for oil-based particles and aerosols?

• A. N
• B. P
• C. R and P
• D. HEPA

Answer: (C)

Oil-containing aerosols require respirators that resist or are-proof against oil. In the labeling system, N-series are not oil-resistant, so they aren’t suitable for oil-based aerosols. R-series are oil-resistant but have a limited service life, while P-series are oil-proof and suitable for prolonged use around oil aerosols. Because oil-based particles call for either oil resistance or oil proof, the classifications that fit best are both oil-resistant and oil-proof options. HEPA is a filter performance designation, not a respirator class for oil aerosols, so it isn’t the classification used here.