During fires, a few things happen:

(1) Smoke particles are released. 
(2) Gases are released as things burn. 
(3) If you get caught in an oxygen-deprived area, carbon monoxide can form. 

A P3 filter will work to filter out smoke particles. However, it will not filter the gases that are released when things burn. For that, we recommend a multi-gas filter (like the NBC-77 SOF) that covers many types of gases, as it is unclear what gases you would be exposed to considering the variables. 

If you are looking for added protection from particles, gases, and carbon monoxide, we would suggest going with the VK-530 filter. Please note, however, that carbon monoxide is highly toxic, and smoke escape filters are only rated for 15 minutes of CO conversion (they convert CO into CO2, allowing you to breathe it out). Keep in mind, the other protective properties of the VK-530 filter will continue to function, as rated, even after the oxidizing agent is used up.

An SCBA system is absolutely your best bet for fires. However, due to the expense and learning curve on how to use it, they aren’t practical for non-professional users. Click here for the link to the VK-530's product page.

Yes, the ParticleMax P3 filter is capable of filtering out rust particles, dust particles, and even metal fumes.

Filters can be reused so long as they do not come in contact with tightly toxic substances, like CBRN agents. Traditionally, we advocated using a filter only once if it comes into contact with live viral agents. Considering global PPE shortages, the CDC now recommends re-using cased filters (filters that have an outer case that houses the filtration paper) by decontaminating all hard surfaces of your mask and filter and being careful not to come in contact with the filter paper as there is no way to decontaminate the inside of a filter. Please check with local authorities frequently as the situation is rapidly evolving. Our recommendation as of 12/08/2020 would be to decontaminate the filter and then quarantine it for 3 weeks as viruses cannot survive for extended periods without a host cell. With a few 6-packs of filters, you should be able to wear a fresh filter every day and cycle them out continuously to decrease the chance of coming in contact with live agents.

This filter is not meant to be fully submerged in water, and we do not have any data to show if it will be effective. However, the installed P3 filter does act as a hydrophobic barrier to heavy rain, decontamination showers, etc. This filter was specifically designed to prevent water from entering the lateral side (the first point of contact for air traveling into the filter).

Most manufacturers will ask you to purchase their filters for their PAPR machines, but in our experience, you can use any 40mm NATO threaded filter, for any PAPR threaded for the same. The only issue may be in flow rate, and a higher rate might lead the filter to have a shorter lifespan as it is filtering more air in a shorter period of time.

UPDATE: 10/26/2020 - Considering PPE shortages, please refer to the CDC website for the latest information regarding reusing PPE. Please keep in mind, you cannot decontaminate the inside of a filter, only the outer housing. If you make the decision to reuse filters, please follow best practices as dictated by local authorities.

This refers to the new GOST standard, which is the same as EN-148 (NATO 40mm). It will not fit a GP5 which is old GOST.

It is 110 x 55 mm in size, and weighs 100g.

She would have to replace it every day as it is not safe to re-use a filter.

Yes, it will fit 40mm NATO threaded masks.

Yes, it will, down to 0.2 microns.

40mm NATO is a thread designation, not protection destination. For protection against COVID-19, you would look for a 40mm P3 filter.

For safety reasons, we cannot recommend reusing any filter. This would go against all safety standards set out by regulatory agencies all over the world regarding disposable filters.

If you insist on re-using a filter against COVID-19, it would be best to refer to CDC's guidelines. As new information is constantly being released regarding this virus, it would be best to refer to their updates on how long you'll need to quarantine an exposed filter before you can re-use it.

No, it will not, as this is just a particle filter. We would suggest the DOTpro 320 or NBC-77 SOF for riot control agents.

As cerakote is a solid particle traveling in a liquid aerosol, yes, this filter would work to keep you safe.

That depends on if the filters were used with live agents. If they were, they are considered toxic waste and must be disposed of for safety. N95 masks are only reusable so long as they are used with simple particulates (not viral, biological, CBRN, etc).

We cannot say for sure, as even particle filters have glue in them which can begin to flake over time, leading to gaps in the particle filter. For the sake of safety, we only recommend using in-date filters.

The ParticleMax P3 will filter down to 0.2 microns and made from U16 ULPA filter paper. Viruses are smaller (0.004 to 0.1 microns), but the goal with virus filtration is to capture the particles that would host the virus. Aerosols particles are limited to 10 microns in size as coarse particles (over 10 μm) are liable to sedimentation and rapidly settle.

Yes they will.

For safety, yes, you would have to discard after each use. You cannot decontaminate the inside of a filter, so after one use, it becomes toxic waste. When you come back home from a supply run, you would have to fully decontaminate and learn proper doffing procedure (the industry term for removal of personal protective equipment). As part of decontamination, you would dispose of the filter in accordance with local laws.

No, it is not. However, this filter is compliant under European standards.

The CM-6M and CM-7M masks could be used with one or two filters simultaneously. The benefit of using two at the same time is lower breathing resistance and more extended periods between swapping filters, but that comes at the expense of making the system more cumbersome. For that reason, we suggest using one filter at a time for most applications. Also, for tactical applications (using rifles), you have the option of attaching the filter on the left or right side, for left and right-handed shooters. This allows you to get closer to the stock of your firearm, as there is no filter in the way.

Storing MIRA products in a car is not recommended considering the fluctuation of temperature and humidity. If you commute with MIRA Safety products, we would suggest to bring them into your workplace during the day to avoid these fluctuations.

This filter is only intended to work with particulates, not riot control agents.

Removing personal protective equipment is called "doffing". To properly decontaminate would require special training as it is a different study of its own. It is the user's responsibility to acquire all the necessary training. There are many resources available online, but we suggest taking an in-person class to maximize safety and proficiency.

Yes, they are compatible with all MIRA Safety gas masks.

Filter use time depends on atmospheric conditions, the concentration of particles, along with your breathing rate. You will know to swap the filter when it becomes harder to breathe. If this filter is used with viral particles, it can only be used once. If it is used with standard particles, it can be used and reused for an extended period of time (that period would be determined by the factors outlined).

This filter does not contain activated carbon, so as long as you keep it in ideal storage conditions, it will last 20 years even if it's opened.

That depends on a few factors, including atmospheric conditions, breathing rate, and particle concentration. For viral particles, this filter will last for as long as you can wear the mask. Keep in mind, filters are disposable one-time use products, and it's not safe to re-use a filter once it's come into contact with live agents.