Page 31 - Top Cover Issue 18

ADVERTORIAL SUMMER 2023 TOP COVER 31

EVERY BREATH YOU TAKE

Protecting against the threat from airborne particulates

Tactical operators are exposed to The development team are end-users.
a myriad of airborne particulates It was developed through years of
during complex operations and testing on live ranges, air pollution
high-volume training. laboratories and by engaging the
Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Ranges medical community to understand
expose firearms officers to high levels the causes of respiratory illness. It is
of particulate matter emitted from specifically designed for the unique
firearms – especially lead and copper. situations where gas masks are
The predominance of shorter barrelled encumbering and are not a mission fit.
carbines in armed policing exacerbates Ergonomically designed for firearms
this since any unburnt particulate operators (probably the smallest form
matter is closer to the face of the firer. factor of any tactical respirator) and
Other scenarios that expose weighing just 150g (including filter
operators to airborne particulate and strap), the TR2 is a one-size fits
threats include Breaching and most solution with 93.7% of users
Explosive Force Entry (EFE), drug passing fit factor testing (NIOSH
interdictions, and operating in known bivariate face panel).
and unknown toxic environments such
as derelict infrastructure, industrial ‘Flex to fit’ seal
complexes and production facilities. The mask itself is made from
Callouts to support operations medical-grade silicon and
during structural fires or industrial polycarbonate, and its ‘flex to fit’
accidents also risk contaminated universal seal has been designed to
particulate exposure. fit the largest range of face sizes and
shapes – it can even provide a facial
Studied and understood seal on most wearers with facial hair.
Long-term exposure to these The filtration works on 97% of solid
particulates is only now starting to be particles down to 0.75µm (85 LPM,
fully studied and understood. Multiple CMD 75nm +/- 20nm, GSD 1.86).
reports have been published since Filters can be replaced. Two strap sizes
2012 based on experiences from Iraq, are available to accommodate small
Afghanistan and from firing ranges. to large head sizes, and a helmet strap
Health risks include lead poisoning, option allows fitting to the ARC rail of
kidney failure, silicosis, neurotoxicity, ballistic helmets.
lung cancer, anaemia, nerve damage, An optional Milspec dynamic mic/
COPD and asbestosis. cable rated to IP67 can be attached
Protection against such risks for first on either side of the mask and allows
responders requires CE certification fitting to comms using a standard
under EN 140:1998 and EN 143:2021. Nexus 2-pin connector – it is
Until recently, tactical masks certified compatible with ear protection systems
to these standards have not been and PTT radios.
available. This has all changed now that For more details on the Ventus
the Ventus Respiratory TR2 Tactical Respiratory TR2, please contact the
Respirator and its particulate filters authorised UK distributor for LE and
have received full CE certification. First Responders call Thomas Jacks
The TR2 has been developed by a Ltd on 01789 264100, or email info@
team that is veteran-run and owned. thomasjacks.co.uk.

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