3M Pioneers advanced disposable respiratory protection technology

3M, the diversified technology company and leading manufacturer of disposable respirators in the UK, has launched an innovative new range packed with ground-breaking ideas, technologies and materials

3M Aura 9300+ Disposable Respirators, available from September 2011, are an evolution of 3M's 9300 Series. They are ideal for most industries where workers require protection against particulate hazards. The new range delivers many improvements whilst retaining the features that have helped make the 9300 Series hugely popular, including the 3M Cool Flow valve and convenient 3-Panel flat-fold design for easy storage.

The design incorporates a new, technicallyadvanced filter material that combines effective performance with low breathing resistance to allow the wearer to breathe more easily during the course of their working day.

Other new features include a sculpted nose panel which offers better conformity to the nose bridge and facial contours, giving a wider field of vision and improved compatibility with eyewear.

An innovative chin tab makes donning and adjustment easier to help achieve a secure and comfortable fit. Finally, embossing on the top panel reduces airflow through the top of the respirator, which helps to reduce the fogging of eyewear.

Anja Buchan of 3M's Safety Solutions Division explained: "At 3M we are committed to ensuring our products continually innovate to meet the demands of industry and the individual. Comfort and confidence in protection are top of our customers' respiratory protective equipment (RPE) needs and the 3M Aura 9300+ disposable respirators have been developed to include a range of new features to meet those needs.

"Little details such as a new chin tab and sculpted nose area make a big difference to the ease of fitting and compatibility with safety eyewear.

"Fogging of eyewear can impair vision and is a common complaint. The clever design of the embossed top panel reduces airflow up towards the eyes so the majority of air exits through other panels. Fogging is further reduced on the models fitted with the 3M Cool Flow valve - an integral valve which seals during inhalation and opens to allow exhaled air to escape." Trials of the 3M Aura 9300+ have proved a hit with customers across the UK. Steve Martin, Health & Safety Officer, Force India Formula One, Silverstone, commented: "3M gives me the confidence in my job because I know if I use something produced by 3M it will be well designed and of a high quality. If you buy something from 3M it will do the job." For more information on 3M Aura 9300+ disposable respirators visit www.3M.co.uk/Aura9300plus or for details on the range of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety solutions available from 3M, visit www.3M.co.uk/OHES 3M, Cool Flow and Aura are trademarks of 3M Company.