Versaflo M-Series Headtops FAQs
Straight answers to the questions people ask most when choosing a powered air headtop with a safety helmet.
What is a powered air headtop?
A headtop is the part worn on the head that receives the filtered air from a powered air unit. It is connected to a blower on the belt by a breathing tube, and supplies a continuous flow of filtered air to the wearer's face. This combination is called a powered air purifying respirator.
A headtop with a built-in safety helmet gives head protection and respiratory protection together, and often a face visor as well.
What jobs is a visor and helmet headtop used for?
It suits work with dust and particles combined with head and face hazards, such as grinding, sanding, cutting, fettling and heavy fabrication. The visor protects the face from flying particles, and the shell protects against knocks, depending on its rating.
Not every headtop is suitable for welding. Welding needs protection against the arc, which calls for a proper welding filter, and a headtop without one must not be used for it. Check the data plate, markings and manual for your own headtop to see exactly what it is approved for.
How do I choose the right headtop for the job?
Think about the hazards: dust, grinding particles, impact, sparks, noise and the need for head protection. Then check the helmet and visor ratings, how the headtop connects to the blower, and whether it is approved with your air unit.
Also consider comfort, weight, adjustability and whether you need to wear other equipment such as ear defenders. Our team can help you with choosing.
Will it work with any powered air unit?
No. Headtops are approved for use with particular blower units, filters and breathing tubes, and the protection rating only applies to approved combinations. The connectors may also differ between generations.
Check the maker's compatibility list for your blower. Do not mix parts that are not approved together.