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Details the intended use of the respirator for protection against airborne particulates like coal, silica, and metal dust.
Specifies environments and conditions where the respirator should not be used, such as for gases or high concentrations.
Provides critical steps and requirements for proper respirator use, emphasizing adherence to safety protocols and training.
Outlines restrictions on respirator use, including oxygen levels, concentration limits, and user suitability.
Specifies optimal conditions for storing respirators to maintain efficacy and defines shelf life based on storage.
Defines conditions under which the respirator must be replaced due to damage, soiling, or difficulty breathing.
Details the step-by-step process for correctly fitting the respirator to ensure a proper seal.
Provides guidance on how to safely remove the respirator after use.
Lists the specific configuration under which the respirator is approved by NIOSH, including protection level.
Provides contact details for obtaining more information, technical assistance, and details on other 3M products.
Details the intended use of the respirator for protection against airborne particulates like coal, silica, and metal dust.
Specifies environments and conditions where the respirator should not be used, such as for gases or high concentrations.
Provides critical steps and requirements for proper respirator use, emphasizing adherence to safety protocols and training.
Outlines restrictions on respirator use, including oxygen levels, concentration limits, and user suitability.
Specifies optimal conditions for storing respirators to maintain efficacy and defines shelf life based on storage.
Defines conditions under which the respirator must be replaced due to damage, soiling, or difficulty breathing.
Details the step-by-step process for correctly fitting the respirator to ensure a proper seal.
Provides guidance on how to safely remove the respirator after use.
Lists the specific configuration under which the respirator is approved by NIOSH, including protection level.
Provides contact details for obtaining more information, technical assistance, and details on other 3M products.
The 3M 8233 Particulate Respirator N100 is a personal protective device designed to help reduce the wearer's exposure to certain airborne particulates. This respirator is intended for occupational use by adults who have been properly trained in its use and limitations. It is crucial to understand that misuse of this respirator can lead to sickness or death, emphasizing the importance of adhering to all instructions and limitations.
The primary function of the 3M 8233 Particulate Respirator N100 is to filter out specific airborne particulates from the air inhaled by the wearer. It is effective against various non-oil based particles, including those found in coal, silica, iron ore, metal, wood, and biological materials, as well as certain liquid particles from sprays that do not emit oil aerosols or vapors. The respirator is designed to help protect the lungs against these contaminants. It is important to note that this respirator does not supply oxygen and should not be used in atmospheres containing less than 19.5% oxygen or in environments immediately dangerous to life or health. It also does not prevent entry of contaminants through other routes such as the skin, which would necessitate additional personal protective equipment (PPE).
The 3M 8233 Particulate Respirator N100 comes with specific usage instructions to ensure its effectiveness and the wearer's safety. Before any occupational use, a written respiratory protection program must be implemented, meeting all local government requirements. In the United States, this includes compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134, which mandates medical evaluation, training, and fit testing.
The fitting process is critical and must be followed each time the respirator is worn. If the elastic straps are not already threaded, the top strap should be threaded through the top buckle and the bottom strap through the bottom buckle. The bottom strap is placed around the head, just below the ears, ensuring it is untwisted. The top strap is then pulled over the head, resting above the ears at the top back of the head, also untwisted. Strap tension can be adjusted by pulling the straps to tighten them or pushing out on the back of the buckle to loosen them, even while the respirator is on the head.
A key step in fitting involves molding the metal nosepiece. The wearer should place fingertips from both hands at the top of the nosepiece and use both hands to push inward, shaping the nose area to the contour of their nose while moving fingertips down both sides. It is crucial to use two hands for this step, as pinching the nosepiece with one hand can lead to an improper fit and reduced respirator performance.
Before entering any contaminated area, a user seal check must be performed. This involves placing both hands completely over the respirator and inhaling sharply. A negative pressure should be felt inside the respirator. If any leakage is detected, the position of the respirator and strap tension should be readjusted. If a proper seal cannot be achieved, the wearer must not enter the contaminated area and should consult their supervisor.
The respirator is not suitable for use with beards or other facial hair, or any other conditions that prevent a good seal between the face and the sealing surface of the respirator. Individuals with compromised respiratory systems, such as those with asthma or emphysema, should consult a physician and complete a medical evaluation before using this respirator. The product is not designed to be used by children.
Removal of the respirator involves decreasing the strap tension by pushing out on the back of the buckle. The wearer should cup the respirator in one hand to maintain its position on the face, then pull the bottom strap over the head. While still holding the respirator in position, the top strap is pulled over the head, and the respirator is removed.
Proper maintenance and inspection are essential for ensuring the continued effectiveness of the 3M 8233 Particulate Respirator N100. Before each use, the respirator must be inspected to ensure it is in good operating condition. This inspection should cover all parts, including the two headbands, noseclip, and, if applicable, the nosefoam, valve, and faceseal.
Specific checks include:
Any damaged or missing parts necessitate immediate disposal of the respirator. If the respirator becomes damaged, soiled, or if breathing becomes difficult, the wearer must leave the contaminated area immediately and replace the respirator.
Storage conditions also play a role in maintaining the respirator's integrity. Respirators should be stored in their original packaging, away from contaminated areas, dust, sunlight, extreme temperatures, excessive moisture, and damaging chemicals. When stored under specified temperature and humidity conditions, the product can be used until the "use by" date indicated on the packaging. The storage temperature range is -20°C (-4°F) to +30°C (+86°F), and the maximum relative humidity for storage is less than 80% RH.
The respirator should be disposed of in accordance with applicable regulations after use. It is important to remember that altering, abusing, or misusing the respirator is prohibited. The product contains no components made from natural rubber latex.
General| NIOSH Approval Rating | N100 |
|---|---|
| Fluid Resistance | Not fluid resistant |
| Protection Level | 99.97% filtration efficiency |
| Use | Respiratory protection against airborne particles |
| Type | Particulate Respirator |
| Strap Type | Elastic straps |
| Nose Clip | Adjustable nose clip |
| Exhalation Valve | No |
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