Breathing safely

The product gives respirator wearers a clear warning of when they need to change their filters and prevent hazardous exposure. 

To combat the problem of some users who change their filters only when they can detect contaminant odour, taste, or irritation inside the respirator, 3M’s new innovation has used the company’s End of Service Life Indicator (ESLI) technology. The ESLI is inside the filter next to the activated carbon. As organic vapours travel through the filter, they are also adsorbed into the ESLI.

As this happens, the indicator changes colour. Dependant on the viewing angle, the user will either see a red bar on a green background, or vice-versa. Once the bar reaches the end-of-service line, the filter will need replacing. 

The ESLI can be used as either a primary or secondary method of determining a filter change out schedule, depending upon the specific hazard and exposure level. It also enables health and safety managers to audit filter status in real-time for each individual user.

Jennifer Raymond, senior marketing executive at 3M, said: "Our revolutionary product will help to improve the safety of workers using respirators in appropriate environments. 

"The innovative technology behind the Organic Gas and Vapour End of Service Life Indicator Filters enables wearers to know when they need to replace their filter, without waiting until the breakthrough point.”

The products are compatible with all 3M Half and Full-Face Masks, so they can be used in a wide variety of applications and industries.