3M advanced three-panel design optimises comfort
August 1st 2011 Disposable respirators have become integral to many dusty working
environments where it is difficult to maintain Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE) or regular storage space is not available. They
have also proved invaluable for occasional use or short-term
jobs, where investment in reusable half mask
respirators may not be cost effective.
Diversified technology company, 3M,
consistently strives to offer products that
provide optimal comfort and performance to
customers, not least in the area of disposable respirator
design and manufacture.
A key range within 3M's extensive portfolio of disposable respirators is the
3M 9300 Series Foldable Disposable Respirators. Part of the Comfort Series, its
advanced three-panel design accommodates a wide range of face shapes and
sizes, allowing more flexibility for facial movement and a tight, comfortable seal
for protection. The design also aids communication, as the three panels move
with the wearer as they use their mouth to speak. These aspects of comfort and
communication are crucial in encouraging employees to wear respirators
consistently for long periods and allowing them to communicate well.
Further features of the 3M 9300 Series respirators include the positioning
of the valve and a robust central panel. This allows for valve efficiency and
maintains the shape of the design, resulting in a cooler environment for the
wearer, especially in hot, humid conditions. Its
low profile on the face meanwhile provides a
good field of vision and improves its
compatibility with other PPE, especially
safety or prescription eyewear.
The flat fold design also enables efficient storage
and increased portability, making it extremely
convenient for sites where there is no dedicated
storage space for PPE.
The product has impressed many followers already, including
Andrew Casson, paint shop supervisor at Flybe Aviation Services. He
commented: "I currently employ 21 aircraft painters and we operate a 24
hour service, seven days a week. I've managed the paint shop for the past 15
years and have likely tried most forms of Respiratory Protective Equipment
(RPE) on the market.
"For sanding over the recent years we have stuck with what I feel is the best
RPE on the market, which is the 3M 9300 Series. We routinely use
contractors so these fold-flat, individually packed respirators are ideal for
issue on a daily basis. Our permanent staff prefer this style too as they are easy
to use and dispose of when contaminated."
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