How can you determine if a respirator is working properly?

The proper functioning of a respirator can be assessed through several indicators, but the key factor highlighted in this context is the effectiveness of the respirator in filtering out contaminants. If the air you exhale passes through the cartridges, it indicates a potential failure in the filtration system. In a properly functioning respirator, the valves allow exhaled air to escape while preventing unfiltered air from entering when inhaling. Therefore, if exhaled air is passing through the cartridges meant to filter inhaled air, the respirator is not functioning as intended, which raises concerns about the user's safety.

It's essential for users to regularly check their respirators for such issues, as breathing in contaminated air can lead to serious health risks. The other aspects, such as resistance when inhaling, detectability of chemical odors, and experiencing discomfort, do not provide a clear, reliable measure of the respirator's effectiveness. For instance, feeling no resistance may suggest an issue with the fit or seal rather than the filtering capability; similarly, a chemical smell alone cannot definitively indicate malfunction, as it could result from various factors, including leaks or inefficient cartridges. Thus, the correct answer effectively addresses the primary concern regarding the respirator's operational integrity.