3M Reusable Respiratory Protection
Respiratory
Protection Guide
Index
Why change cartridges and filters?
Which cartridge do I need?
Which filter do I need?
Replacement Spare Parts
Cleaning Reusable Respirators
Frequently Asked Questions
Help and Advice
Cartridge Change Record
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The purpose of the 3M Reusable Respiratory
Protection Guide is to help inform you about
the 3M Cartridges and Filters that you use
with your 3M Reusable Respirator.
™
•
Why you need to change cartridges and filters
•
Establishing a cartridge change schedule
•
What cartridges and filters are available for the different
hazards you might encounter
•
How to look after your reusable respirator
Your 3M Reusable Respirator
Everyone’s face is unique. To make sure your 3M Reusable Respirator
will work properly, a correct fit to your face is very important. A facial
fit-test should be carried out to check that there are no leaks between
the respirator and your face. If a seal is not obtained the respirator
will offer little or no protection, as contaminants can be breathed in.
This booklet is designed to be a guide only. For specific advice on
3M Respiratory Products (e.g. choosing a 3M Respirator, Fit-Testing, and
when to change your Cartridges or Filters) call the 3M TechAssist Helpline:
Australia 1800 024 464, New Zealand 0800 364 357.
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Why Change Your
Cartridges and Filters?
If you continue to use cartridges when the material has reached
their capacity, they are no longer able to protect you. Particulate
filters will keep removing contaminants but will become harder
and harder to breathe through, increasing discomfort.
Effects of dusts, fumes and mists
Dusts, fumes and mists can irritate your nose, throat and upper
respiratory system. Some particles, depending on their size and type,
can pass through to your lungs, where they can damage the lung
tissue and cause more serious health hazards.
Effects of gases and vapours
Gases and vapours can pass immediately to your lungs. From
there, they can be absorbed into your bloodstream, where they
can damage your brain and internal organs.
Shelf life of cartridges and filters
Provided they are stored unopened in the original packaging,
3M cartridges and filters will last five years from manufacture date.
Once removed from their packaging they should be replaced after six
months as recommended by Australian / New Zealand Standard
1715 (even though they have not been used).
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Before starting work ensure you have:
1.
Checked your cartridge/filter to ensure it can capture your specific
contaminant(s) (contact 3M TechAssist for assistance).
2.
Checked the expiry date on the packaging
3.
Inspected your respirator for any missing or damaged parts
4.
Completed a fit check and the respirator fits firmly to your face
If while working you start to taste or smell the contaminant inside your respirator,
leave the contaminated area. Your cartridges may be saturated and need
replacing. To minimise this occurring, set up a cartridge change schedule.
How long will cartridges and filters last in use?
The life of cartridges and filters depends on a number of factors including
the type, volatility and concentration of contaminants in the air, your
breathing rate, humidity, temperature and how you store your respirator.
Establish a cartridge change schedule
Establishing a cartridge change schedule requires knowledge of the
contaminant(s) and the levels to which you are exposed. You may be able to
measure your own levels using a personal sampling device. This will provide some
preliminary measurements which can be used to establish a change schedule.
Contact 3M TechAssist Helpline for further information and guidance
on personal sampling.
3M TechAssist Helpline - Australia 1800 024 464, New Zealand 0800 364 357.
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