Which substance can be used to clean facepieces?

The use of a soap and water solution for cleaning facepieces is effective because it helps to remove contaminants, dirt, and grime without causing damage to the materials that facepieces are made of. A mild soap combined with water is gentle enough to sanitize the facepiece while ensuring that the integrity of the components, such as the rubber seals and lenses, is preserved.

This method is widely recommended in both training and operational settings, as it is safe and accessible. It's crucial that facepieces are regularly cleaned to ensure the effectiveness of the seal and to maintain respiratory protection compliance.

Other substances, like bleach or isopropyl alcohol, while they may have disinfectant properties, can be too harsh for the materials used in respirators, potentially leading to degradation or damage over time. Similarly, using water alone may not effectively eliminate all biological contaminants or residues, making soap and water the most appropriate choice for routine cleaning.