3M combines the best of cartridge and filter technology to bring unrivalled respiratory protection and user comfort to multiple industry sectors.

Reflecting increased demands for robust yet comfortable respiratory protection, the diversified technology company 3M has developed a unique combination filter which takes the lightweight qualities of a filter, and encases it in the protective shell of a cartridge. Primarily designed for use in the extreme environmental conditions of the aluminium smelting industry, this combination filter is also ideally suited to protecting those working in mining, welding, asbestos inspections and sampling, agricultural operations, healthcare and grinding or sanding.

Introducing this new product to the Respiratory Protection Equipment (RPE) marketplace, Vikki Nash, Product Manager from 3M Occupational Health & Environmental Safety, says “3M has been a trusted name in respiratory protection for decades, and we constantly evaluate our products to encompass new technologies which take functionality and end user acceptance of RPE to new levels. The 6038 filter utilises some of 3M’s proven proprietary filter technology to make a unique carbon loaded web – contained in an outer plastic shell. Designed to be used in conjunction with all half and full-face masks from 3M, the reusable filter has a low breathing resistance and, with its hard case, is ideal for use in harsh environments.”

Minimal clogging AND low breathing resistance

Encased in a rectangular plastic housing which protects against splashes and sparks, and allows for easy decontamination, the inner filter media is pleated to increase surface area and thus potentially extend its service life. Additionally, the feature that has produced the most positive response during trials was the extremely low breathing resistance. With a pair of 6038 filters weighing in at just 86 grams, users were also impressed with how light their respiratory protection felt, a particularly important feature when working in high temperature and/or physical conditions. Unlike conventional particulate filters, the 6038 combination filter does not easily clog or cake, thanks to its unique channeled air inlet design that decreases the amount of particulates from entering the material. Another key benefit of this filter design is that checks on respirator fit can be performed quickly and easily by using a simple squeeze procedure.

According to HSE statistics, there are an estimated 1,700 new cases of occupational asthma per year1. Particularly at risk of occupational asthma are people working in motor vehicle repair, bakeries, engineering and woodworking. Vikki Nash elaborates “Employers have a duty to protect the health of employees including guarding them against respiratory diseases. By providing appropriate RPE as part of a full risk management programme, the respiratory risks associated with working with substances such as organic vapours, acid gases and particulates can be reduced. Because the product is so light and comfortable, it can help to reduce fatigue and enhance the wearer’s experience.”

The 6038 Combination Filter from 3M is EN143:2000 P3R compliant and also provides relief from nuisance levels of organic vapour, acid gas and ozone, as well as protection from Hydrogen Fluoride. Also available in this product range is the 6035 filter, which uses the same filter technology, but provides particulate protection only.

Email: rachael@mconieagency.com