What is a main drawback of cartridge respirators?

Cartridge respirators are designed to filter out contaminants from the air, but one significant drawback is their potential for leakage around the face shield. This leakage can occur if the respirator is not fitted properly to the wearer’s face or if the facepiece does not create a proper seal. An ineffective seal can allow unfiltered air to enter the respirator, compromising the user's protection against harmful substances. Achieving a proper fit is crucial for the effectiveness of any respirator, and failure to do so directly relates to the risk of exposure to hazardous environments.

In contrast, while respirators may vary in weight or adjustability, and improper pressure can be an issue if the devices are poorly designed, these factors do not directly relate to their fundamental effectiveness in filtering air. The mask's ability to form a seal around the face is the most critical aspect that impacts user safety and effective respiratory protection.