What is the primary purpose of a gas mask in mine rescue?

The primary purpose of a gas mask in mine rescue is to protect individuals from inhaling toxic gases. In underground mining environments, there is a significant risk of exposure to hazardous gases such as carbon monoxide, methane, and other harmful substances that can be present during emergencies or accidents. A gas mask is specifically designed to filter or purify the air, allowing the wearer to breathe safely in conditions where the atmosphere is compromised.

While enhancing vision, filtering out dust particles, and assisting in hearing may be important aspects of safety gear in various contexts, they are not the primary functions of a gas mask in the context of mine rescue. The critical function remains focusing on respiratory protection, which directly addresses the life-threatening risks posed by toxic inhalants in a mine environment.