The filter is effective for concentrations up to 10 times the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) with half facepieces or 50 times PEL with quantitatively fit tested full facepieces. This filter helps protect against a wide range of oil and non-oil-based particulate contaminants. Nuisance level refers to concentrations not exceeding OSHA PEL or other applicable government exposure limits, whichever is lower. The 2097 is commonly used for welding, brazing, torch cutting, metal pouring, and soldering. Inventory needs and training requirements for safety equipment are reduced because this filter works for many different applications. This filter is commonly used in the following industries: agriculture, construction, general manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and primary metals. The filter works with a wide range of facepieces, including 3M Half and Full Facepieces 6000, 7000, and FF-400 Series. If used with 3M Adapter 502, the filter may also be used with 3M Respirator 5000 Series or 3M Cartridge 6000 Series. The filter is NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) approved for environments containing certain oil and non-oil-based particles. The filter has been assigned the color code Magenta in the NIOSH system. Breathing hazardous particles can pose a risk to your health. NIOSH, a Federal government regulatory agency, has tested and approved the 3M Particulate Filter 2097 to help reduce exposure to certain particles.