Guides

Respirator Filter Types Explained: NIOSH certifies nine particulate filter classes under 42 CFR Part 84. They follow a two-axis system: letter = oil resistance (N = not resistant, R = resistant up to 8 hours, P = oil proof) and number = filtration efficiency (95 = 95%, 99 = 99%, 100 = 99.97%).

3M P95 vs P100: Both P95 and P100 are oil-resistant particulate filters under NIOSH's classification. P95 captures at least 95% of airborne particles. P100 captures at least 99.97% and is color-coded magenta. For many general industrial applications, P95 is sufficient.