Filter cartridge holder with fit-check device

A respirator comprising a mask body and at least one cartridge holder that is fluidically connected to the mask body and comprising a disposable filter cartridge that is installed in the cartridge holder;

• the cartridge holder including:
• a fit-check device comprising a sealing platen that is operatively connected to an actuator of the cartridge holder by which a user of the respirator can manually actuate the sealing platen back and forth between:
• a first, unsealed position in which a gap is present between a surface of the sealing platen and a major surface of the disposable filter cartridge so that airflow is permitted through the disposable filter cartridge;
• and,
• a second, sealed position in which a rear surface of at least a portion of an air-impermeable area of the sealing platen directly contacts at least a perimeter of a first air-permeable area of a major front surface of the disposable filter cartridge;
• or, in which a front surface of at least a portion of an air-impermeable area of the sealing platen directly contacts at least a perimeter of a second air-permeable area of a major rear surface of the disposable filter cartridge,
• so as to seal the first air-permeable area of the major front surface of the disposable filter cartridge or to seal the second air-permeable area of the major rear surface of the disposable filter cartridge, to prevent airflow through the disposable filter cartridge;
• wherein the disposable filter cartridge is front-rear symmetric and front-rear reversible.