Guides

The complete guide to international respirator standards: how NIOSH 42 CFR 84, EN 149, CSA Z94.4, AS/NZS 1716, NOM-116-STPS, and the UK's HSE rules compare, which classes are equivalent across borders, and what to buy in each market. Includes the master N95/FFP2/P2/KN95 equivalence table, protection factors, and buying guidance.

We rank the best PAPR hoods and headtops for 2026 — 3M Versaflo suspension hoods, economy multi-packs, the Drager X-plore 8500 and a healthcare PAPR kit — by fit, filtration and value.

Our 2026 ranking of the best PAPR welding helmet picks: Speedglas G5-01, Miller PAPR II, Lincoln FGS, Optrel e3000X and RPB Z-Link+ compared on airflow, lens and fit.

Our 2026 ranking of the best PAPR respirator systems: powered air-purifying respirators compared by headtop type, APF, HE/gas filtration, and battery for heavy industry, welding, and bearded workers.