Gerson 1730 N95 Particulate Respirator – Molded Cup, FDA Cleared, Made in USA (Box of 20)

The Gerson 1730 N95 Particulate Respirator is a NIOSH-approved, FDA-cleared molded cup disposable respirator manufactured in the United States. Gerson has produced this design — built on collapse-resistant double-shell construction with smooth latex-free polymer head straps — for over three decades, establishing it as a reliable choice in healthcare, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and general industry. Each box contains 20 respirators.

Construction and Materials

The 1730 uses a rigid double-shell molded cup design that resists collapse in humid or high-exertion environments. The outer shell provides structural integrity; the inner layer contacts the face. A soft foam nose cushion enhances the seal at the bridge of the nose. The contoured adjustable nose clip reduces fogging potential for spectacle wearers. Head straps are smooth latex-free polymer — they slide through hair without catching, and require no pre-stretching. Construction is staple-free throughout.

Compliance and Ratings

NIOSH approved and FDA cleared. Filtration efficiency ≥95% against non-oil-based airborne particles per 42 CFR Part 84. Fluid resistance rated at 160 mm Hg — higher than the 120 mm Hg threshold of most pouch-style surgical N95s. Meets CDC guidelines for TB exposure control. Compatible with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134 healthcare and industrial respiratory protection programs.

Performance

The molded cup geometry maintains a consistent seal across facial movements during a shift, which is an advantage over pouch-style masks that can shift on the face during talking or bending. The double-shell design protects the filter from compression in storage and during extended wear under a face shield or protective eyewear. In healthcare settings requiring all-shift wear with minimal adjustment, the 1730's structural rigidity translates to more consistent protection.

Strengths

• Collapse-resistant double-shell construction maintains fit throughout the workday
• Fluid resistant to 160 mm Hg — exceeds standard surgical N95 minimum
• Soft foam nose cushion reduces pressure marks during long shifts
• Latex-free polymer straps do not catch hair or cause latex reactions
• Made in USA — ISO 9001:2015 certified, Middleboro, MA

Limitations

• No exhalation valve — exhalation resistance is higher than valved models such as the 1740
• Molded cup profile adds bulk compared to foldable designs; less pocket-portable
• N-series rating only — not suitable for oil mist or aerosol environments

Recommended Use Cases

The 1730 is well suited for healthcare facilities, dental operatories, laboratory environments, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and light manufacturing where NIOSH N95 filtration is required in a durable, structure-maintaining format. The 160 mm Hg fluid resistance rating makes it appropriate for procedures where splash exposure is a risk.

Verdict

The Gerson 1730 is a dependable, domestically manufactured N95 respirator with a compliance-grade track record across healthcare and industrial markets. Workers who prefer the structural reliability of a molded cup over the flexibility of a pouch-style mask will find it a strong fit. For applications requiring an exhalation valve to reduce heat buildup, the Gerson 1740 adds a valve at comparable cost.

FAQ

Is the Gerson 1730 FDA cleared?

Yes. The 1730 carries FDA clearance as a surgical respirator in addition to NIOSH N95 approval, certifying both particle filtration and fluid resistance at 160 mm Hg.

What is the fluid resistance of the Gerson 1730?

The 1730 is rated to resist fluid penetration at 160 mm Hg — the highest level in the standard ASTM F1862 test. This exceeds the 120 mm Hg minimum required for most surgical N95 clearances.

How does the Gerson 1730 differ from the 3230?

The 1730 is a rigid molded cup respirator; the 3230 uses a foldable duckbill design. The 3230 offers significantly lower breathing resistance. The 1730 provides superior structural integrity and a 160 mm Hg fluid resistance rating versus 120 mm Hg for the 3230.

Does the Gerson 1730 come in a 2-pack option?

Yes, part number 081730B designates the retail 2-pack format. The standard 081730 SKU is a box of 20 for professional and industrial purchase.

How many 1730 respirators are in a case?

A standard case contains 12 boxes of 20 respirators each, totaling 240 units per case.