3M 8210Plus N95 Disposable Respirator

Short answer: The 3M 8210Plus is the comfort-upgraded version of the standard 8210 — same NIOSH N95 protection rating, same Advanced Electrostat filtration media, but with a softer inner shell material that significantly reduces skin irritation during extended wear. If your workers are in the respirator for more than an hour at a time, the 8210Plus is the right version to specify over the standard 8210.

8210 vs 8210Plus — Key Difference

Approved Applications

• Woodworking dust and sawdust
• General construction dust (non-silica-regulated environments)
• Grinding and sanding of non-lead metals
• Nuisance dust in warehousing or manufacturing
• Emergency preparedness and wildfire smoke

When the 8210Plus Is Not Enough

• OSHA-regulated silica, lead, or asbestos: Requires P100 protection — use a half-mask respirator with 2091 P100 filters
• Oil mist or aerosols: N95 is not approved for oil — use R95 (8246) or P100
• Vapor or gas hazards: Disposable respirators do not protect against gases — use cartridge-based respirators

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the 8210Plus have a valve?

No. Neither the 8210 nor the 8210Plus has an exhalation valve. If you want a valved N95 for easier breathing in hot environments, see the 3M 8511 (N95 with Cool Flow valve).

Is the 8210Plus OSHA compliant for silica?

No. OSHA's silica standard (29 CFR 1926.1153 for construction, 1910.1053 for general industry) requires a minimum of N95 protection — which the 8210Plus meets — but OSHA also requires a written respiratory protection program, fit testing, and medical evaluation. The respirator rating alone is not compliance. Additionally, high silica-exposure tasks typically specify P100 for added protection margin.

Can the 8210Plus be fit tested?

Yes — qualitative or quantitative fit testing applies to the 8210Plus. Because it's a cup-style disposable, users must be fit tested on this specific model. Fit test results are not transferable from other respirator models.

How many come in a box?

The 3M 8210Plus is sold in boxes of 20 respirators.

What's the shelf life?

3M specifies a 10-year shelf life for the 8210Plus from the date of manufacture when stored properly (dry, cool conditions, away from UV). Check the date code on the package before placing into service.