RESPIRATORY PROTECTION
CHANGING WELDING HELMET FILTERS AND CONSUMABLES A GUIDE
No two welders are the same — but, every welder needs a welding helmet. And every welding helmet needs to be properly maintained to perform at its peak.
H
ere are the recommended change frequencies for PAPR filters and core spare parts for a 3M Speedglas welding helmet.It is worth noting that the recommendations provided here are based on a minimum of four hours’ usage per day.
PAPR Filters Pre-filter It is recommended that a pre-filter be changed once or twice a week, as this will have a direct knock-on effect on the other components of the Adflo system. Most notably, regular turnover of the pre-filter will lessen the workload of the particle filter, saving money and helping to extend the Adflo PAPR battery life. This in turn will ensure the wearer receives the best possible value for money in the long run.
Particle filter As soon as the indicator on the filter turns red, it is time to source a replacement. Alternatively, the wearer may need to swap out for a fresh filter when the battery operating time becomes too short, or when the low airflow alarm is triggered by a fully loaded filter. It is most likely that the wearer will need to change their particle filter monthly at the very least.
32 SAFETY SOLUTIONS - MAY 2022
Gas filter The rate at which a gas filter needs to be replaced will be dictated by regulations at the wearer’s workplace. Please note that smell and taste are not recommended as a measure of change.
Odour filter At the risk of stating the obvious, the minute an unpleasant odour can be detected is the minute that an odour filter needs changing. When it is time to change, it is also possible to purchase an odour filter replacement pad instead of a whole new filter, saving the wearer on costs.
Consumables Outer cover lens As the helmet’s first line of defence, it is inevitable that the outside cover lens will accumulate scratches and spatter during the course of its working life. As such, the wearer should look to change it out whenever the lens becomes deeply scratched or too dirty to clean with a soft cloth. This will most likely be necessary once or twice a week, though this does of course depend on the conditions under which welding is taking place.
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