Selecting the correct respirator cartridge is the difference between complete safety and dangerous exposure. For safety officers and PPE distributors, understanding the “language” of cartridges is essential for ensuring workplace compliance. At CoSafety, we produce a wide range of universal bayonet cartridges. In this guide, we will simplify the selection process by explaining hazard types, color codes, and replacement schedules.

Step 1: Identify the Hazard Type

Before selecting a cartridge, you must determine what is in the air. Respiratory hazards generally fall into two categories:

1. Particulates (Dust, Mists, Fumes): Requires a Particulate Filter (e.g., N95, P100, or FFP3). These use physical fibers to trap solid or liquid particles.
2. Gases and Vapors (Chemicals, Smells): Requires a Chemical Cartridge. These use activated carbon to chemically “adsorb” molecules from the air.

Note: Many environments require a Combination Cartridge that handles both particulates and gases.

Step 2: Decipher the Color Coding System

To make selection easier, international standards (NIOSH in the US and CE in Europe) use a universal color-coding system. Here is a breakdown of the most common CoSafety cartridge colors:

NIOSH (US Standard) Color Codes:

• Black: Organic Vapors (Solvents, degreasers, paint thinners).
• White: Acid Gases (Chlorine, hydrogen chloride, sulfur dioxide).
• Yellow: Organic Vapors + Acid Gases.
• Green: Ammonia or Methylamine.
• Purple/Magenta: P100 Particulates (99.97% filtration of all aerosols).

CE (EU Standard) Color Codes:

• Brown (A): Organic Vapors (boiling point > 65°C).
• Grey (B): Inorganic Gases.
• Yellow (E): Acid Gases.
• Green (K): Ammonia and derivatives.

Step 3: Check for Compatibility and Fit

A cartridge is only effective if it fits your mask perfectly.

• Universal Bayonet Connection: Most CoSafety masks and cartridges utilize a standard bayonet connection, ensuring they are compatible with other major industrial respirator brands.
• Dual vs. Single Cartridge: Half-face masks usually use dual cartridges to balance weight and lower breathing resistance, while some heavy-duty full-face masks may use a single, large canister.

Step 4: When Should You Change the Cartridge?

This is the most frequent question from procurement managers. There are three key “change indicators”:

1. Sense of Smell or Taste: If you can smell or taste the chemical inside the mask, the cartridge is “saturated” and must be replaced immediately.
2. Breathing Resistance: For particulate filters, if it becomes difficult to breathe, the filter is clogged with dust.
3. End-of-Service Life Indicator (ESLI): Some advanced cartridges have a visual change, but most rely on a pre-determined Change-out Schedule based on the concentration of the hazard.

The CoSafety Advantage: Reliability for Wholesale

As a factory-direct supplier, CoSafety ensures that every cartridge is tested under rigorous laboratory conditions.

• Premium Activated Carbon: We use high-iodine value coconut shell activated carbon for superior adsorption capacity.
• Strict QC: Every batch is tested for airflow resistance and filtration efficiency.
• Bulk Availability: We maintain a steady stock of P100 and ABEK1 cartridges to support our global distributors in the USA, EU, and Middle East.