It is important to know how to choose a 3M™ Respirator - and what to look for when you do. Breathability is important when choosing a disposable respirator. That is why 3M disposable respirators are engineered with proprietary Advanced Electrostatic Media (AEM). The air inside a respirator can get hot in certain applications, that is where an exhalation valve can help. For example, the 3M™ Cool Flow™ Valve Particulate 8511, an N95 Respirator, comes with the 3M™ Cool Flow Valve™ that opens as you breathe out. This helps release warm, exhaled air that could otherwise build-up in a non-valve respirator. Additionally, it helps direct exhaled air downward for easier breathing. Not all straps and headbands are created equal either. Be it material differences like rubber or elastic, or differences in adjustability, each have their pros and cons depending on your hairstyle and comfort preferences. Nose clips are a very important feature of disposable respirators since they can affect the seal and comfort on your nose and cheeks. If the nose clip isn’t comfortable, or doesn’t hold the shape well, you may not be able to get a proper seal around your nose. This could lead to the inhalation of particles through the gaps and potentially fog up safety eyewear.
The seal of the respirator over the nose area is critical, which is why some models of disposable respirators have nose foam to help provide cushion and comfort. If you are working on jobsites with nuisance odors, odors that do not exceed the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL), a disposable respirator with a carbon layer may be the option for you. If you are working with odors higher than the Permissible Exposure Limit, you should consider a reusable respirator with appropriate cartridges. Disposable respirators come in two main styles: the traditional cup style respirator and flat fold respirators. An example of a flat fold disposable respirator is the 3M™ Aura™ Particulate Respirator 9205+. It's 3-panel flat fold design makes it more convenient to transport and store since it won’t get crushed like a cup style respirator might. This design also accommodates facial movements to help you work and talk comfortably. Its curved, low-profile design conforms well to nose and eye contours, allowing more room for eyewear.
13 май 2024
