How Often Should I Replace My Respirator Filters/Cartridges?

What Type Of 3M Filters Are There?

• 3M Particulate Filters: Protect ONLY against particles including dust, mists, aerosols, smoke, mould, and bacteria.
• 3M Gas & Vapour Cartridge Filters: Protect ONLY against gases and vapours.
• 3M Combination Filters: Protect against BOTH particles and gases.

Why Do I Need To Replace My 3M Filters/Cartridges Regularly?

Particulate filters clog over time, making it harder to breathe and causing fatigue. Gas and vapour filters lose effectiveness when their sorbent material becomes saturated, allowing contaminants to pass through (called breakthrough).

When Do I Replace My 3M Particulate Filters?

Replace both particulate filters when breathing becomes difficult or the filter is visibly dirty or damaged. Usage varies per person, so replace filters according to your personal experience.

How Do 3M Particulate Filters Work?

3M particulate filters use electrostatically charged fibres to trap particles. As filters fill, their efficiency increases but breathing becomes harder.

The AS/NZS1716 standard classifies particulate filters as:

When Do I Replace 3M Gas And Vapour Cartridge Filters?

Replacement depends on factors like contaminant type, ventilation, temperature, and breathing rates.
Replace both cartridge filters when:

• The expiry date on the sealed packet has passed
• Filters have been opened for more than 6 months
• The user smells or tastes contaminants

How Do 3M Gas And Vapour Cartridges Work?

These cartridges use sorbent materials, usually specially treated carbon grains, to absorb gases and vapour molecules.
AS/NZS1716 classifies cartridges based on the contaminants they protect against: