1. South Africa
  2. Coronavirus
blue green gradient image

Helping the world respond to COVID-19

3M is addressing the COVID-19 pandemic from all angles and across all relevant stakeholders

During this global crisis, the safety of our employees and the public, including healthcare workers and first-responders, must be paramount. We are grateful for the work our people are doing to support the public health response and are taking actions to protect their well-being, including remote work when possible and robust safety protocols in our facilities.

Since January 3M has doubled production of N95/FFP2 respirators to 1.1 billion per year at its global manufacturing facilities, including in the U.S., Asia and Europe. 3M will double its capacity again to 2 billion per year within the next 12 months.

In this crisis 3M is experiencing an unprecedented surge in demand for N95/FFP2 respirators, and demand will outpace supply for the foreseeable future. As we urgently work to expand our own production, we are also working with governments and others to prioritize, triage and redirect supplies to serve the most critical needs and areas. 3M is also partnering with other companies on a range of innovative solutions to protect healthcare workers and first responders.

  • respirator icon
    Increasing output of N95/FFP2 respirators
    • Since the outbreak began, 3M has doubled global production of N95/FFP2 respirators.
    • Manufacturing lines are running 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
    • Taken actions to enable 3M to double N95/FFP2 respirator capacity once again, to 2 billion globally, within 12 months.
  • doctor and nurse icon
    Getting product to those who need it most
    • In South Africa, we are now addressing health professionals on the frontline of response.
    • Working with governments, distributors and others around the world to prioritize supplies for the most critical customer and public health needs.
  • combatting icon
    Combatting price-gouging, fraud and counterfeiting
    • 3M has not and will not increase prices for respirators in this crisis.
    • Working with law enforcement agencies around the world to pursue third parties that seek to take advantage of this crisis.
    • Customers with concerns about fraudulent activity can report their concerns at 3M’s website.
  • Protecting employees and maintaining business continuity
    Protecting employees and maintaining business continuity
    • Taken measures to protect 3M employees, and continue to monitor workplaces to ensure they have the support they need.
    • Sustaining operations around the world by working differently, partnering with local experts and governments, and collaborating globally.

orange red gradient

WARNING: Fraud and Counterfeit Activity

If you have concerns about potentially fraudulent activity, price gouging, or counterfeit 3M products, you can report your concerns here:

  • 3M recommends purchasing our products from a 3M authorised distributor or dealer only. This offers the greatest assurance that you will receive authentic 3M product.

    If you need help identifying 3M authorised distributors and dealers in your area, please contact 3M Help Centre.


Learn about critical 3M products and
access helpful resources

  • Proper selection and use are key to utilizing respirators to help reduce exposure to airborne contaminants. Find Technical Bulletins, How to Videos, Fit Testing Resources and more information to help you protect your employees and yourself.

  • Get information and application tips on 3M cleaning and disinfectant products for use by facility managers, building service contractors and all who clean public spaces.


Stay up to date with 3M's response to COVID-19