3M Particulate Respirator 8576 P95 User Manual

1. Introduction and General Safety

The 3M Particulate Respirator 8576 P95 is designed to provide respiratory protection against certain oil and non-oil based particles, and nuisance levels of acid gases. This product is intended for industrial and occupational use only and is not for consumer sale or use.

WARNING:

• These respirators help protect against certain airborne contaminants. Before use, the wearer must read and understand the User Instructions provided as part of the product packaging.
• A written respiratory protection program must be implemented meeting all the requirements of OSHA 1910.132 and 1910.134, and all other applicable health and safety standards.
• This includes training, fit testing, and medical evaluation.
• Misuse of personal protective equipment may result in injury, sickness, or death.
• For correct product selection and use, individuals should consult their on-site safety professional or industrial hygienist.

2. Product Overview

The 3M Particulate Respirator 8576 P95 is a NIOSH-approved respirator offering at least 95% filtration efficiency against both oil and non-oil based particles. It features a carbon filter material for relief against nuisance levels of acid gases.

Image 2.1: A pack of ten 3M Particulate Respirator 8576 P95 masks, highlighting the P95 rating and NIOSH approval.

Key features include:

• NIOSH P95 Approval: Provides 95% filtration efficiency against certain oil and non-oil based particles.
• 3M Cool Flow Exhalation Valve: Designed to reduce heat and humidity buildup inside the respirator, enhancing comfort during extended wear.
• M-Noseclip: Adjustable to help achieve a secure seal and reduce eyewear fogging.
• Carbon Filter: Offers relief from nuisance levels of acid gases.
• Soft Inner Material and Braided Headbands: Contribute to wearer comfort and secure fit.

Image 2.2: Diagram showing the internal workings of the 3M Cool Flow Valve, which releases exhaled air.

Recommended applications include grinding, sanding, sweeping, bagging, and other dusty/oily operations, as well as environments with nuisance levels of acid gases such as sulfur dioxide, hydrogen fluoride, and/or chlorine.

3. Setup: Fitting Instructions

Proper fit is crucial for the respirator to provide its intended protection. Follow these steps to ensure a secure seal:

1. Positioning: Hold the respirator in your hand with the nosepiece at your fingertips, allowing the headbands to hang freely below your hand.
2. Placement: Place the respirator over your nose and mouth.
3. Headbands: Pull the top headband over your head and position it high on the crown of your head. Pull the bottom headband over your head and position it around your neck, below your ears.
4. Noseclip Adjustment: Use both hands to mold the M-noseclip to the shape of your nose. Pinching with one hand may result in a less effective seal.
5. Seal Check: Perform a user seal check according to the instructions on the product packaging. If you detect any leakage, readjust the respirator and repeat the seal check.

Image 3.1: Visual guide demonstrating the four key steps for correctly fitting the 3M Particulate Respirator.

4. Operating Instructions

Once properly fitted, the respirator functions by filtering airborne particles and providing relief from nuisance levels of acid gases as you breathe. The Cool Flow Valve opens during exhalation to release warm, moist air, and closes during inhalation to maintain filtration.

• Wear the respirator for the duration required by your task or until breathing becomes difficult.
• Do not remove the respirator in contaminated areas.
• If the respirator becomes damaged, soiled, or breathing becomes difficult, leave the contaminated area immediately and replace the respirator.

5. Maintenance and Storage

The 3M Particulate Respirator 8576 P95 is a disposable respirator. It is not designed to be cleaned or reused. Discard the respirator after each use, or if it becomes damaged, soiled, or breathing becomes difficult.

Store unused respirators in their original packaging in a clean, dry environment, away from contaminants, extreme temperatures, and direct sunlight.

6. Troubleshooting

If you experience any issues with your 3M Particulate Respirator 8576 P95, consider the following:

• Poor Seal: If you feel air leaking around the edges of the respirator during a seal check, readjust the headbands and reshape the M-noseclip. Ensure the respirator is positioned correctly on your face.
• Discomfort: If the respirator feels uncomfortable, ensure the headbands are not too tight or twisted. The soft inner material and cup shape are designed for comfort, but individual fit may vary.
• Breathing Difficulty: If breathing becomes difficult, this indicates the filter media may be clogged. Immediately leave the contaminated area and replace the respirator with a new one.
• Eyewear Fogging: Ensure the M-noseclip is properly molded to your nose to create a tight seal, which helps direct exhaled air away from eyewear.

7. Specifications

8. Support

For additional product information or technical assistance, please contact 3M PSD Technical Service:

• Phone (USA): 1-800-243-4630
• Website: Visit www.3M.com

Please have your product model number (8576) available when contacting support.