The following selection guidelines are intended for those who are currently using a Part 11 respirator that has been properly selected. In this context, a properly selected respirator means one that has been selected based on knowledge of the contaminant and its concentration in a particular work setting, the exposure limit of the contaminant, and the general principles of respirator selection.
Following these recommendations is the simplest approach to making the transition from Part 11 filters to Part 84 filters. However, this approach may yield filter recommendations that exceed those actually required in a particular work setting. For example, because both the 99% and 95% filters outperform the DM and DFM filter classes, there may be situations where the 99% or 95% filters are an appropriate substitute for a HEPA filter.
1. If you are currently using a DFM or DM filter:
In a work setting free of oil aerosols, the minimally protective filter would be an N95.
In a work setting that may contain or does contain oil aerosols, the minimally protective filter would be an R95 or P95.
2. If you are currently using a HEPA filter:
In a work setting free of oil aerosols, an N100 filter would be protective.
In a work setting that contains or may contain oil aerosols, an R100 or P100 filter would be protective.
Note: All nine classes of Part 84 filters are
appropriate for protection against TB
(see Chapter II, Section F).
3. If you are currently using a paint-lacquer-enamel combination cartridge:
In a work setting free of oil aerosols, a combination respirator consisting of an organic vapor cartridge and an N95 particulate filter with an optional prefilter (to prevent rapid clogging by paint aerosols) would be minimally protective.
In a work setting that may contain or does contain oil aerosols, a combination respirator consisting of an organic vapor cartridge and an R95 or P95 particulate filter with a prefilter (to prevent rapid clogging by paint aerosols) would be minimally protective.
A combination respirator consisting of an organic vapor cartridge and an N95 (non-oil aerosols) or an R95 or P95 particulate filter would be minimally protective.
As another example, a particular pesticide may have such low vapor pressure that only a particulate filter may be needed. Thus in certain situations, there may be no need for a combination particulate filter and organic vapor cartridge as recommended above.
Note: Particulate filters will not protect
against gases or vapors.