Mask protects first responders. (Tech Talk).

North Safety Products, of Cranston, R. I., has introduced a new gas mask and canister to protect first responders against chemical and biological agents and radioactive dust.

The mask--intended for use by fire fighters, police officers and other emergency response teams--meets the requirements for U.S. and NATO military masks, said John B. Vincent, the company's respiratory product manager.

The lightweight design of the mask and its oral-nasal cup reduces lens fogging, Vincent said. A scratch-resistant, hard-coated polycarbonate lens provides a 200-degree field of vision and meets ANSI standards for impact and penetration resistance, he said.