Dust Masks - Some comments

[bobgroh]

I have just purchased (for my own health) dust masks for use in the shop. My purchase was precipitated by a very comprehensive review on dust masks and respirators in Fine Woodworking (Nov/Dec 2008 issue pgs 40 to 44). I would certainly recommend that anyone who is not using a dust mask or respirator of some sort should seriously consider doing something right now - sooner rather than later!

I have been feeling more and more uneasy about the sawdust and woodworking 'crud' that I have been breathing in over the years and the problem has gotten worse over the years. I have purchased and used dust masks at various times and have always hated them - one reason is that my breath would fog up my glasses. The article in Fine Woodworking nailed that problem right off the bat (e.g. any suitable mask must have a vent) and basically was just the trigger to get me to do something!

They tested a good number of masks and came up with a good shopping list of desirable attributes for good masks as well as a list of suitable choices. For my own use, I choose the Willson Saf-t-fit N95 mask and purchased a box of 10 from ProfessionalEquipment.com for a little under $35 (postage included). The masks have arrived, fit well, are very comfortable and my glasses don't fog up! Cheap insurance.

If you don't use a dust mask or respirator, I heartily recommend you read the article. And then get a mask!

Bob Groh, Kansas City, Missouri

[grouser]

With you a 100% my friend. I triggered an Asthma attack after working with spaulted Alder,,and I don't (did'nt) have asthma untill then. Now it's an ongoing problem. You send out good advice,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

[curiousgeorge]

With you a 100% my friend. I triggered an Asthma attack after working with spaulted Alder,,and I don't (did'nt) have asthma untill then. Now it's an ongoing problem. You send out good advice,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Most people don't realize that what causes the spaulting in wood is a type of mold. Mold spores can trigger all kinds of allergies and lung problems.
All wood dust is an allergen to some degree. Some more than others, so I agree that dust masks are called for in the shop along with dust collection and air filtration. I use all three in my shop.

[grouser]

MSA used to have "Dustfoe 66" that we used in the woods and they worked great. Bottom exhaust for fog free and small in size easy to wear. Of course when you find something you really like it gets discontinuied!!!!

[Ed in Tampa]

Another thing to consider is where the wood is coming from and in respect to ply where it is being made.
There are some exotic woods I stay away from because of the way my body reacts to them. Now I find I'm having to be careful with ply and some of the other woods because we don't even begin to know what the wood has been exposed to.
I have almost limited my wood to strictly american woods from sawmills I know. Ply I'm sticking with American or European made products.

I once got a splinter from Cocobola that gave me more problems than the wood was worth. I don't think it was the wood but unsantitary conditions the wood was exposed to before I got it. I sure don't want to be breathing any of that junk.
Ed

[easterngray]

Good advice. I have recently started a new job in a boat building shop. We do alot of sanding; respirators, or dust masks are a must. Also keep in mind that many finishes, paints and epoxys have solvents that are toxic and repeated exposures can lead to real health problems. Why risk it? Wear a mask! Cheers, Alec

[grouser]

You bring up another point,,,particle masks are NOT gonna protect you from FUMES from toxic stains, etc,,,,,they will keep the MIST outta your lungs but NOT THE GASSES. You need a resperator with charcoal type cartriges for that