Gas mask
Gas mask
A Gas mask (/ɡæs mɑːsk/) is a mask used to protect the user from inhaling airborne pollutants and toxic gases. The mask forms a sealed cover over the nose and mouth, but may also cover the eyes and other vulnerable soft tissues of the face.
Etymology
The term "Gas mask" is derived from the fact that it is used to protect the user from harmful gases. The word "gas" is derived from the Greek word "chaos", referring to the chaos caused by toxic gases in the air. The word "mask" is derived from the French word "masque", which means a covering for the face.
Usage
Gas masks are used in a variety of contexts where harmful gases may be present. This includes military operations, firefighting, industrial processes, and in response to biological, chemical, nuclear, and radiological threats.
Types
There are several types of gas masks, including air-purifying respirators, which filter out chemicals and gases from the air, and atmosphere-supplying respirators, which provide the user with an independent supply of breathable air.
Related terms
- Respirator: A device designed to protect the wearer from inhaling harmful dusts, fumes, vapors, or gases.
- NBC suit: A type of military personal protective equipment designed to provide protection against direct contact with and contamination by radioactive, biological, and chemical substances.
- Chemical warfare: A type of warfare that uses the toxic properties of chemical substances to kill, injure, or incapacitate an enemy.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Gas mask
- Wikipedia's article - Gas mask
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