Final answer:
The statement that masks or respirators will not protect you from all hazards is true. They cannot filter out all contaminants, and infectious agents, allergens, and toxic substances can all enter the respiratory system, causing a variety of health issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that a mask or respirator will not protect you from all hazards is True. Masks and respirators are designed to filter out certain particles and pathogens from the air but are not foolproof against all types of contaminants. There are three different types of things that can enter the respiratory system and cause illness or injury:
- Infectious Agents: These include bacteria, viruses, and fungi. For example, pneumonia can be caused by fungi, which can lead to lung inflammation and difficulty breathing.
- Allergens: Substances like pollen, pet dander, or dust mites can trigger allergic reactions, leading to airway inflammation and conditions like asthma, where airways periodically narrow and fill with mucus.
- Toxic Substances: Inhaled carcinogens, such as those found in cigarette smoke or air pollution, can cause chronic respiratory illnesses and decrease the number of alveoli, reducing the lungs' capacity to exchange gases effectively.
The Negative Effects of Each:
- Infectious agents can cause diseases such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and COVID-19.
- Allergens can lead to chronic conditions like allergic rhinitis and asthma.
- Toxic substances are associated with long-term effects like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer.