A breath of fresh air

A new reusable combination filter has been launched by technology company, 3M. The 6038 is described by the company as a unique, lightweight, carbon-loaded, web, which is encased in a protective plastic cartridge.

The robust yet comfortable filter is suitable for aluminum smelting, as well as protecting those working in mining, welding, asbestos inspections and sampling, agricultural operations, health care and grinding or sanding, 3M says. Featuring extremely low breathing resistance, the filter can be used with all 3M’s half and full-face masks. The company claims its 6038 combination filter does not easily clog or cake, owing to its channelled air inlet design, which decreases the number of particulates entering the material.

Checks on respirator fit can be performed quickly and easily by using a simple squeeze procedure.

The filter is EN143:2000 P3R-compliant, says 3M, and also provides relief from nuisance levels of organic vapour, acid gas, and ozone, as well as protection from hydrogen fluoride.

http://solutions.3m.com/wps/portal/3M/en_GB/OccSafety/Home/Products/Respiratory_Protection/Reusable_Respirators/

Approaches to managing the risks associated Musculoskeletal disorders

In this episode of the Safety & Health Podcast, we hear from Matt Birtles, Principal Ergonomics Consultant at HSE’s Science and Research Centre, about the different approaches to managing the risks associated with Musculoskeletal disorders.

Matt, an ergonomics and human factors expert, shares his thoughts on why MSDs are important, the various prevalent rates across the UK, what you can do within your own organisation and the Risk Management process surrounding MSD’s.