North America Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Air-purifying, Supplied Air), By End-use (Oil & Gas, Fire services), By Country, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2030

Market Size & Trends

The North America respiratory protective equipment (RPE) market size was valued at USD 4.58 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.1% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is attributed to stringent occupational safety regulations enforced by organizations such as OSHA are compelling industries to adopt robust safety measures. In addition, the increasing awareness of respiratory health, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, has heightened demand for RPE across various sectors, including healthcare and manufacturing. Furthermore, the expansion of industries such as oil and gas, combined with advancements in RPE technology, further contributes to the market's growth in the region.

Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) refers to devices designed to protect the wearer from inhaling harmful substances, including airborne particles, gases, and vapors. The healthcare sector in North America is experiencing a significant increase in the demand for RPE, primarily due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This global health crisis highlighted the critical need for protective measures to ensure the safety of healthcare workers, who face heightened risks of exposure to infectious diseases.

The importance of using effective personal protective equipment, such as N95 masks, has become evident as these devices provide superior protection compared to standard surgical masks. In addition, various healthcare personnel, including doctors, nurses, and support staff, utilize RPE to minimize exposure to airborne pathogens and other hazardous substances in medical environments. Furthermore, the pharmaceutical industry employs RPE to protect workers from volatile solvents and active ingredients that can pose health risks.

Moreover, the implementation of strict regulatory policies further drives the growth of the RPE market. Organizations such as OSHA mandate that employers establish comprehensive respiratory safety programs when workers are exposed to hazardous conditions. These regulations require proper respirator selection, employee training, and adherence to safety protocols. As a result, there is an increasing emphasis on educating staff about respiratory health and ensuring that appropriate protective measures are in place in various workplaces across North America.

Product Insights

Air purifying respirators (APRs) led the market and accounted for the largest revenue share of 66.7% in 2024. This growth is attributed to increasing awareness of workplace safety and stringent regulatory requirements. Industries such as healthcare and manufacturing are adopting APRs to protect workers from airborne contaminants, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, technological advancements in APR design enhance comfort and effectiveness, further encouraging their use across various sectors. Moreover, the rising incidence of respiratory illnesses also contributes to the heightened demand for these protective devices.

Supplied air respirators (SAR) are expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.0% over the forecast period, driven by the need for enhanced respiratory protection in hazardous environments. In addition, industries such as oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, and construction require SARs to ensure worker safety in oxygen-deficient or toxic atmospheres. Implementing strict occupational health regulations by organizations such as OSHA mandates the use of SARs in high-risk settings, driving their adoption. Furthermore, advancements in SAR technology improve user comfort and operational efficiency, reinforcing their importance in safeguarding workers' health.

End Use Insights

The oil and gas sector dominated the market and accounted for the largest revenue share of 18.3% in 2024, owing to stringent safety regulations and the need for enhanced worker protection in hazardous environments. In addition, the industry faces significant risks due to exposure to toxic gases, vapors, and oxygen-deficient atmospheres, necessitating the use of effective respiratory protection. Furthermore, regulatory bodies' increasing focus on health and safety standards compels companies to invest in advanced RPE solutions to ensure compliance and safeguard their workforce.

The mining industry end use segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.7% from 2025 to 2030, primarily driven by the inherent health risks associated with mining operations. Miners are often exposed to harmful dust particles and toxic gases, which can lead to severe respiratory issues. In addition, the adoption of stringent safety regulations mandates the use of appropriate RPE to protect workers from these hazards. Furthermore, advancements in RPE technology, such as powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs), enhance protection and comfort for miners, driving their increased utilization in this sector.

Country Insights

The respiratory protective equipment (RPE) market in the U.S. dominated the North American market and accounted for the largest revenue share of 81.0% in 2024. This growth is attributed to stringent regulatory frameworks established by organizations such as OSHA and CDC. These regulations mandate using RPE in various industries, particularly in healthcare and construction, to protect workers from airborne hazards. Furthermore, the increased awareness of respiratory health, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to a surge in demand for effective protective gear. Innovations in RPE technology further enhance user comfort and safety, driving market expansion.

Canada Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) Market Trends

Canada respiratory protective equipment (RPE) market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.0% over the forecast period, owing to the booming oil and gas sector, which necessitates robust safety measures due to exposure to hazardous substances. In addition, the Canadian government’s commitment to occupational health and safety standards reinforces the requirement for RPE across industries. Furthermore, rising public awareness regarding workplace safety and respiratory health has prompted organizations to invest in advanced protective equipment. Moreover, integrating new technologies into RPE products also supports their adoption in various sectors, contributing to overall market growth.

Key North America Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) Company Insights

Key companies in the North America respiratory protective equipment (RPE) industry include Protection, Bullard, Gentex Corporation, and others. These companies adopt several strategies, such as focusing on innovation, expanding product portfolios, and enhancing compliance with regulatory standards to gain a competitive advantage. in addition, the companies also pursue strategic partnerships and increase customer education to promote effective usage and safety awareness.

• 3M manufactures various types of respirators, including disposable and reusable models, powered air-purifying respirators, and supplied air systems. The company operates in multiple segments, catering to healthcare, construction, and manufacturing industries. Their products are designed to protect workers from airborne contaminants, ensuring safety and compliance with regulatory standards across diverse work environments.

• Honeywell International Inc. manufactures a variety of respirators, including half-mask and full-face respirators, powered air-purifying respirators, and escape masks. Honeywell operates in several segments, serving industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and healthcare. Their advanced RPE solutions are engineered to provide optimal protection against hazardous substances while enhancing comfort and usability for workers in demanding environments.

Recent Developments

• In July 2024, Ansell Limited announced the successful acquisition of Kimberly-Clark's Personal Protective Equipment (KCPPE) business, enhancing its position in the respiratory protective equipment market. This strategic move expands Ansell’s product offerings, including the Kimtech and KleenGuard brands catering to laboratory and industrial environments. The acquisition also introduced new services such as The RightCycle Program for sustainable PPE disposal and APEX for cleanroom management.

• In February 2024, Avon Protection announced the launch of its new EXOSKIN-S1 CBRN protective suit, enhancing its portfolio of respiratory protective equipment. This suit was designed to provide advanced protection for personnel operating in chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) environments. Avon Protection aimed to control the design and performance of all components in its protective systems, ensuring safety and effectiveness in complex threat scenarios.

North America Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) Market Report Scope

North America Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at regional and country levels and analyzes the latest industry trends in each sub-segment from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the North America respiratory protective equipment (RPE) market report based on product, end use, and country.

• Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Air Purifying Respirators (APR)

    • Unpowered

    • Powered (PAPR)

    • Escape respirators

  • Supplied Air Respirators (SAR)

    • SCBA

    • Full face mask

    • Airline respirators

• End Use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Oil & Gas

  • Fire services

  • Petrochemical/chemical

  • Industrial

  • Pharmaceuticals

  • Construction

  • Healthcare

  • Mining

  • Others

• Country Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S

    • Canada

    • Mexico