North 5500 Series Half Face Respirator

Your North respirator is designed to minimize the breathing of airborne contaminants. But it must be worn correctly to protect you. Before you use your North respirator, you should become familiar with it in uncontaminated air, learn how to inspect and put it on, and what to do during an emergency. This information should be covered as part of a complete Respirator Training Program.

Your North respirator must be:
     Properly fitted to your face during a routine (usually annual) fit test
     Kept clean and in good working condition
     Worn correctly every time

INSPECTION: Inspect the respirator before each use. If any parts are missing or damaged replace those parts or the entire mask.

1. Check the facepiece to make sure it is in good condition, without any holes or tears. Check the cartridge connectors to make sure they are not cracked and are fully inserted into the mask.
2. Check all the valves to be sure they are present and in good condition. They should be lying flat, without any distortion, tears or holes.
3. Check the headstraps to be sure they have not lost their elasticity. Make sure the straps are not twisted.

ASSEMBLY OF FILTERS AND CARTRIDGES: If replaceable particulate filters are not used go to step 3.

1. For prefilters only: Insert the filter into the filter cover following the directions on the filter so it is facing the correct direction.
2. Snap filter cover with filter onto the cartridge or N750015 filter holder if a cartridge is not being used.
3. Thread the cartridges or filter assemblies onto the cartridge connectors in the facepiece.

PUTTING ON YOUR RESPIRATOR:  If you are wearing eyewear or a hardhat, remove these items before putting on your respirator. Put this safety gear back on after you have put on your North respirator.

1. Adjust the respirator head straps and clips to their full outward position
2. With one hand holding the respirator, place your chin inside the chin cup and the top of the respirator over your nose.
3. With your other hand, position the plastic straps so they are centered on your head. Remove any slack in the upper straps by pulling the two end tabs back and toward your ears. DO NOT TIGHTEN AT THIS TIME.
4. Fasten the bottom elastic straps behind your neck and under your hair. Remove any slack in the bottom straps by pulling the end tabs in the back towards the front. DO NOT TIGHTEN AT THIS TIME.
5. Tighten the upper head straps in small, equal increments to ensure the top half of the respirator is tightened evenly and centered on your face.
6. Tighten the lower head straps by pulling evenly on the end straps in the back of the respirator until the entire respirator is snug, comfortable and centered on your face.
7. Gently pull the respirator away from your face and maneuver it to assure it is centered, comfortable and snug. Plastic loops on the top straps slide back to hold down any loose strap material

USER SEAL CHECK:  A positive and/or negative pressure User Seal Check assures you the respirator is seated correctly and in good working order. Before performing Seal Checks exhale vigorously.

1. Positive Pressure Seal Check: Place the palm of your hand over the exhalation valve so it is completely sealed and exhale gently. If you have a good seal the facepiece will bulge out slightly.
2. Negative Pressure Seal Check: Place the palm of each hand over the two cartridges or filters so they are completely sealed and inhale. Hold your breath for 5 seconds. If you have a good seal the facepiece will collapse.
3. If any air leaks are detected during either check, reposition the facepiece and/or readjust the head straps. Repeat the seal check(s) until a seal is obtained.

CLEANING AND STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS AFTER EVERY USE:

Before Cleaning

1. Check the sealing area and headstraps straps.
2. Remove the air-purifying elements from the cartridge connectors.
3. Remove breathing tubes if used.
4. Check the headstraps and clips for wear.
5. Check all elastomer and rubber parts for pliability and signs of deterioration.
6. For full facepieces, check the lens and lens clamps.
7. Replace any parts that are damaged or missing.

Cleaning & Sanitizing

1. Remove all valves and gaskets, nose cup etc. for a thorough cleaning.
2. Do not immerse Speaker Diaphragm in water
3. Use a cleaner/sanitizer such as Microban QGC (US-MBQGCL-01).
4. Wash the facepiece in the cleaning solution.
5. Rinse thoroughly and air dry.

Before Storing

1. Final inspection of all parts to assure nothing is missing and all parts are in good condition.
2. Replace any parts that are damaged or missing.

Storing

1. Place the facepiece in a sealed bag.
2. Store in a clean area away from contaminants.
3. Do not expose to extreme heat or moisture