3M has partnered with nonprofit humanitarian organization Direct Relief to launch a global respiratory protection initiative.

The collaboration aims to increase preparedness ahead of the 2024 hurricane and wildfire season. As part of the joint initiative, 3M has pledged to meet Direct Relief’s entire forecasted annual need for N95 filtering facepiece respirators with a donation of 5 million units. The personal protective equipment (PPE) will be incorporated into Direct Relief’s humanitarian response efforts, mitigating particulate smoke exposure during wildfires and offering protection for clean-up activities following floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes. 3M’s PPE will be featured prominently within Direct Relief’s strategic emergency stockpile, which will be pre-stocked and strategically positioned to expedite relief operations.

“3M is proud to continue our partnership with Direct Relief to expand access to critical PPE for natural disaster preparedness,” said Chris Goralski, president of 3M’s safety and industrial division. “Access to N95 respirators can make a real difference in the health and safety of first responders and others providing care and support during crises. We will work together with Direct Relief to ensure these essential supplies reach the communities that need them most.”

About 3M
With global sales of US$32.7 billion, 3M is a leading producer of thousands of products ranging from chemicals, filtration systems, and safety and protection equipment to office, graphics, and health care equipment. For more information, visit 3M.com.