3M Cartridges, Filters & Parts

In plain words. NIOSH approves respirators and filters under 42 CFR Part 84 and marks each one with a filter class: the letter is oil resistance (N not resistant to oil, R resistant for a shift, P oil proof) and the number is the filtration efficiency in the test (95, 99 or 100 percent). Cartridges for gases and vapours are colour-coded by the contaminant (organic vapour, acid gas, ammonia and so on) and fit only the facepiece series the manufacturer lists them for. Supplied-air and powered-air systems carry their own NIOSH approval as a complete assembly.

Technical. 42 CFR Part 84 filter classes N95, N99, N100, R95, R99, R100, P95, P99, P100; each approved product carries a TC-84A- (particulate), TC-23C- (gas/vapour), TC-21C- (PAPR), TC-19C- (supplied air) or TC-13F- (SCBA) approval number, printed by the manufacturer. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134 requires a written program, medical evaluation and fit testing (qualitative or quantitative) for tight-fitting respirators. Cartridge-to-facepiece fit is as published by each manufacturer; the manufacturer's approval label lists the exact assemblies approved together.

Ratings and specifications on this page are shown as published by the manufacturer or the named standard and describe performance in that standard's test. They are not a recommendation for any task. The employer's hazard assessment decides what protective equipment a job needs. Verify details against the manufacturer's current documentation before you buy.