Whether it's city smog, industrial dust or a polluted workplace, the importance of clean air is undeniable. Respiratory protection is not just a technical term, it is a pillar of our health. Among the various forms of respiratory protection devices, those with particulate filters offer outstanding effectiveness. But what exactly is a particulate filter? How does it work and why is it so important for respiratory protection? We have gathered the most important facts!

A particulate filter is an individual filter that is placed inside a breathing apparatus or mask to filter out harmful particles in the air. This ensures that only clean air, free of contaminants, reaches our lungs. The protection here extends not only to dust and other visible particles but also to microscopic particles that are invisible to the eye.

While the market for respiratory protection offers many different types for various purposes, the primary consideration for particulate filters is to select the type that is appropriate for the conditions of use and the level of protection required. This can be vitally important as it can ensure maximum protection under the circumstances.

Structure of particulate filter

A particulate filter is a product that allows clean air to be breathed in even the most polluted environments. These inserts are simple in design, but there is no mistaking their effectiveness. They are designed to filter out as many harmful particles as possible, either physically or chemically. In physical filtration, particles simply cannot penetrate the dense structure of the filter, whereas, in chemical filtration, certain molecules are trapped.

Filter media can vary, some concentrating on particles, others on vapours and gases. These tiny structures work so efficiently that even the smallest particles, invisible to the eye, are not hidden from view.

Which substances are considered dangerous?

The air in workplaces and living spaces often contains solid and liquid particles that are harmful to the body and pose serious health risks. These harmful substances can be dust, mists, vapours or even gases that are produced during our daily activities.

Whether it's industrial processing, home cleaning or gardening, there is always a risk of hazardous substances being released into the air when using different materials and products. In some cases, such as mining or asbestos removal, there are extremely high concentrations of toxic particles, which can cause immediate and long-term health problems. It is therefore crucial to reduce the inhalation of these harmful substances by applying appropriate protective measures.

How to choose which particulate filter you need?

In occupational health and safety, the choice of the right product directly affects the health and safety of workers. Let's start with the basics: the classification of particulate filters. Their filtration levels - accompanied by precise markings - provide a basic guide to the environments and hazards they protect against.

And standards and certifications are like a pledge of safety. They are the certification that a product meets the highest occupational safety and health standards. Understanding this is crucial because it guarantees that the particle filter insert you choose will protect you from harmful particles.

You need to know what hazards are lurking in the workplace and what pollutants are likely to be present in the environment. The primary objective is to ensure that the particulate filter is perfectly adapted to the conditions of use. Choosing the right marked product can lead to the highest level of safety.

For example, for dust and aerosols, choose a product marked FFP1 for low concentrations, FFP2 for medium concentrations and FFP3 for high concentrations. For gas filters, there are also three levels: level 1 (0.1 ft% maximum allowable concentration of the pollutant), level 2 (0.5 ft% maximum allowable concentration of the pollutant) and level 3 (1.0 ft% maximum allowable concentration of the pollutant). In addition, the colour codes can be used to guide you by application. For example, a brown (Type A) filter protects against organic gases and vapours boiling above 65°C, a grey (Type B) filter protects against inorganic gases and vapours, except CO, a yellow (Type E) filter protects against sulphur dioxide and other acid gases and vapours, and a green (Type K) filter protects against ammonia and organic amine derivatives.

In terms of standards, there is a wide range: full face masks (EN 136), half masks and quarter masks (EN 140), gas and combined filters (EN 141, EN 14387), open system pressure air devices with full face masks (EN 137), half masks with valves (EN 405) and so on.

When dealing with respiratory protection, think about Flanker! Browse our online catalogue and find the best protective equipment for your conditions!

In the modern world, where particles hazardous to health are everywhere, respiratory protection has become of paramount importance. In industrial environments, but also our daily lives, we may need the protection provided by face masks. 3M masks have become an essential player in the personal protective equipment market, offering solutions to the challenges of head and face protection.

The 3M story started as a small company that later grew into a global innovation giant. From the very beginning, the company has worked to find solutions to the needs of different industries and everyday users, thereby contributing to making the world a better place. With their expertise in respiratory protection, 3M face masks now offer a wide range of protection against harmful particles.

The background to the market entry of 3M masks is closely linked to the growing demand for respiratory protection, not only in industrial applications but also in the challenges of everyday life. 3M has developed innovative technologies and materials to ensure that their masks not only provide adequate protection but are also comfortable and durable.

3M mask types

In many cases, respiratory protection is not just an option, but a necessity. The deterioration of air quality, hazardous substances in industrial workplaces, or even the challenges of global epidemics make the use of appropriate protective equipment essential. Let's investigate the 3M mask types!

Disposable masks

Easy to recognise and even easier to use. Disposable 3M masks are the ideal choice for those who need a basic level of protection for their daily routine. Whether you need protection against fine particles, dust, or particulate matter, these masks provide comfortable wear and effective filtration. It's no coincidence that many people choose them for home use or light industrial work.

Reusable and semi-face masks

Sustainability is not just a trendy phrase, it's a matter of life. 3M's response to this challenge is to develop reusable and semi-mask masks where the keyword is long-term protection. Their special feature is that the filter inserts are replaceable, making these masks suitable for prolonged, intensive use. Whether they are used to meet the occupational safety challenges of construction or painting, reusable masks guarantee both reliable protection and economy.

Full face masks

When maximum protection is required, for example when working with hazardous chemicals in an industrial environment, full-face masks come into play. These masks can protect not only the respiratory system but also the face and eyes from harmful substances. By using special filter inserts, they can cope with hazards ranging from tiny particles to various gases. In addition, their special features, such as dehumidification or even airflow, ensure comfort for wearers even during long working days.

3M's wide range of masks ensures that everyone can find the right protection for their needs. Whether it's the small hazards of everyday life or the specific challenges of industry, 3M's innovative technology and reliable quality control ensure the safety and comfort of users.

3M masks in the Flanker range

When protection is not just an option, but an essential part of everyday life, 3M masks are the solution. At the Flanker online catalogue, we take special care to offer our customers only the best, which is why we carry a wide range of 3M masks. From air pollution to industrial hazards, you'll find the right protection for every situation.

Our range includes everything from single-use masks to reusable and semi-rare versions, to full-face masks. With comfort and safety being a priority for all our products, you can be sure that everyone will find the ideal choice for them in the Flanker range.

Our company is committed to helping our customers feel safe and comfortable in any environment with a wide range of 3M masks.

Visit the Flanker online catalogue and find the 3M mask that best suits you!

3M is a US-based multinational conglomerate that has been at the forefront of progress, innovation, and quality for more than a century, delivering products that have revolutionised the way we work across many industries and made our lives easier around the world. But what makes this brand so special? How has a small American company grown to become a dominant player in the global market, and in which industries in particular? We find out!

The 3M story is full of twists, turns, developments, and, of course, success. The brand's activities cover almost innumerable fields, from healthcare to electronics, office supplies, and many others we can imagine.

With factories in more than 29 countries, it offers more than 55,000 products, all of them with innovative solutions or technologies. But 3M is not only known for its wide range of products. The way they combine business with people-focused is a unique phenomenon in the industry.

The 3M story

3M, formally known as Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company, has not only pioneered the world of materials and products but has also shaped the development of countless industries, whether it's healthcare, energy, or electronics.

Founded in 1902, 3M started as a small-town company that embodied the American dream. The founding professionals had a bold idea: to conquer the market by producing quality abrasives. But from the very first steps, they realized that their ambitious plan would not be a smooth one.

Despite the initial challenges, the founders - Henry S. Bryan, Herman W. Cable, John Dwan, William A. McGonagle, and Dr. J. Danley Budd - did not give up. Although the first products failed to meet market expectations, the team did not let setbacks dampen their enthusiasm. They firmly believed that the key to successful manufacturing was innovation and development, which could open new opportunities not only for the company but for the industry.

Perseverance and continuous research and development have resulted in revolutionary products that have set 3M on the path to becoming a globally recognised corporate giant. The first breakthrough came with waterproof sandpaper, which revolutionised surface treatment technologies in both the automotive and furniture industries. This was followed by self-adhesive paper tape, now known worldwide as cellux (Scotch tape). These products have not only demonstrated their capacity to innovate but have also shown 3M's ability to adapt to market needs and offer new solutions.

Outgrowing the initial challenges, 3M has grown into a company that provides innovative solutions in a wide range of fields, from healthcare to security, from electronics to automotive. The founders' original vision of creating real value through continuous improvement has become the company's guiding principle.

What sectors does 3M provide solutions for?

3M is at home in a wide range of sectors, as technology and needs change, they develop and shape their products to ensure that they always deliver real value to as many people as possible. What solutions do they offer?

Industrial solutions for everyday life

3M offers a wide range of industrial solutions, from abrasives to electronics. Here too, 3M is committed to safety and energy efficiency, ensuring that its products contribute to efficient working.

Homes, offices - 3M is everywhere

In consumer products, 3M's diversity is truly tangible. From post-it note pads for homes and offices to healthcare products, the company's products are an indispensable part of our everyday lives.

Flanker is an official distributor of the 3M brand

When it comes to the huge range of 3M products, one name always comes to the fore: Flanker, an official distributor of the brand. But what makes Flanker so special and what types of products can be found in the webshop's range?

The Flanker web catalogue is a treasure trove for those looking for the best. Here, everyone can find the perfect product for their needs, be it industrial solutions, office equipment, or even products for home use. But what exactly is part of the range?

First, there are industrial solutions such as abrasives and tapes, which are the preferred tools of professional users. Secondly, we should not forget healthcare products. Flanker offers revolutionary products such as medical devices and protective equipment that help protect our health and keep us safe in our daily lives. And thirdly, the office and home are not left unsupplied. The office supplies category is a repository of practical and creative solutions.

In Flanker's range, you can find the right solution for every specific need and requirement, as the collaboration between 3M and Flanker creates a palette that is ahead of everything in the market for quality and innovative products. If you are looking for products that will truly make everyday life easier and more qualitative, then Flanker's online webcatalogue is the place to browse.

A safety cap is an essential piece of safety equipment. It protects against hazards such as blows, falling objects and other mechanical impacts that can lead to serious injuries. Nowadays, wearing a safety hat is not only an option in some sectors but is also required by health and safety regulations. Let's see what you need to know about it!

The types of safety caps vary widely, depending on the working conditions in which they are used. Some are hard hats with a rigid structure, which are recommended for the construction and mining industries. Other types, such as baseball cap-shaped hard hats, offer less hazardous environments but still provide extra protection for workers in warehouses or light industry, for example.

The regulations governing safety hats vary from country to country, but there are agreed international standards that manufacturers must follow to ensure the reliability of their products. These standards specify, among other things, the type of impact protection that caps used in different industries must have. Employers and workers have a shared responsibility to know and comply with these regulations, thereby helping to prevent accidents at work.

In the following sections, we will give you a detailed picture of the process of selecting and using a safety cap. Let's look at the most important things to know!

The safety cap: what types are there?

A safety cap, or as many people call it, a head protector or safety helmet, is one of the most important protectors of human life in some workplaces. There are several types in terms of materials and structure.

Materials used

The shell of most caps is made of plastic. They are lightweight, yet highly resistant to impacts and impacts. It is a popular choice as this material provides sufficient flexibility and durability to allow the helmet to perform its protective function.

The protection of some special caps is enhanced by metals such as aluminium or steel. These are used in working environments where there is a risk of high temperatures or sparks.

Many helmets are made from composite materials that balance lightness and durability. Carbon fibres, for example, optimise protection in extreme conditions.

Helmet structure

The internal frame is what distributes the force of impacts, reducing the risk of head injuries. This element ensures that the helmet strap and helmet harness effectively protect the user.

Internal stiffeners as well as external protective grids can be used to provide greater protection. These elements contribute greatly to maintaining the structural integrity of the safety helmet.

Often, the size of the safety cap can be adjusted to accommodate different head sizes. The adjustability is an important addition to ensure comfort and proper tightness.

Breathable systems, such as vents, help to protect against overheating, thus increasing the comfort of the wearer. The replaceable inner padding not only provides comfort but also allows for hygienic use, as it can be easily cleaned or replaced when needed.

In addition to functionality, modern safety hats are increasingly designed with a focus on appearance. There are many different colour and shape variations so that users can choose a protective device that suits their style, even with a company logo.

Applications for safety caps

The safety cap provides protection and a sense of security. It is used in many industries, let's look at the most important ones!

Construction

In the dust and noise of the construction industry, the potential for danger is always hanging over the heads of masons, carpenters, and other professionals. Here, a safety hat is not just an accessory, but an essential piece of work equipment to protect you from injuries caused by falling objects.

Forestry

Forest workers such as loggers are exposed to extra hazards, so a safety hat is key. Not only does it protect branches falling on the head, but it also plays an important role in protecting against noise pollution.

Manufacturing

Factories can present many different risks. From oily, slippery floors to sharp-edged sheet metal. Here, a safety hat is like an ever-vigilant guardian angel.

Flanker offers a range of equipment to ensure individual protection. Look at our range of personal protective equipment!