Optimal selection of respiratory mask for protection against volatile organic compounds with a multivariate decision-making approach

Background: Exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can impact health, affecting organs and causing various symptoms. Using a multivariate decision-making approach, this study focuses on the optimal selection of respiratory masks for protection against VOCs. Methods: This research employed a multi-criteria decision-making approach to evaluate and select the optimal respiratory mask for protection against VOCs. The methodology will integrate two well- established techniques including the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and the technique for order of preference by similarity to the ideal solution (TOPSIS). The key criteria for selecting a respiratory mask against VOCs are price, efficiency of volatile compound elimination, ease of use, and fit with the face to ensure a tight seal and prevent leakage. Based on the combined results, the respiratory mask with the highest overall score was identified. Results: The highest weight (0.57) was assigned to price, followed by efficiency of VOCs elimination (0.23), ease of use (0.14), and fit with the face (0.04). Weights assigned to these criteria indicate their relative importance, with price being the most significant factor. The results highlight the prioritization of cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and user comfort in selecting the most suitable respiratory mask. The TOPSIS analysis, considering cost-effectiveness and other vital factors, identified respiratory mask number 3 as the optimal choice for workers based on the established criteria and expert opinions. Conclusion: This study evaluated optimal respiratory masks to protect workers from VOCs, emphasizing a systematic, criteria-balanced personal protective equipment (PPE) selection approach for occupational needs.