Should a respirator cover both your nose and mouth at the same time?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only nose
• D. Only mouth

Answer: (A)

A respirator must cover both your nose and mouth at the same time to create a proper seal and ensure all air you breathe goes through the respirator’s filter. If only the mouth or only the nose is covered, air can leak around the edges, bypassing the filter and reducing protection. In a mining setting, where you’re exposed to dust and other contaminants, a full nose-and-mouth coverage ensures that every inhaled breath is filtered. This is why you should place the respirator so it seals around the entire face, and perform the appropriate fit checks and adjustments before use.