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%).

Respirator Cartridge Color Chart: NIOSH standardizes respirator cartridge colors under 42 CFR Part 84. Black = organic vapor. Magenta = P100 particulate. White = acid gas. Yellow = OV + acid gas. Green = ammonia. Olive = multi-gas. Brown = formaldehyde specialty. Blue = carbon monoxide.

How to Choose a Respirator Cartridge: Choosing the right respirator cartridge comes down to three steps: identify the hazard type (particulate, vapor, gas, or combination), match the NIOSH-approved cartridge class to that hazard, and confirm the cartridge fits your specific facepiece brand.