Dust masks

[RandyJ <beetle@xxxxxxxxx>]

* Follow-up to message from: Clive Murray-White
* Original date (y/m/d) was: 03 May 2003
* Original subject was: Dust masks

The best dust mask I have seen, and the one worn by most
carvers I know, is the "disposable" 3M P100 Particulate
Respirator, sometimes sold as a "Bodyman" mask because it is
used in auto repair. It is best because

1. it is cheap, about $20, often sold at that price with an
extra pair of filters;

2. it gives the highest protection--P100 (same as N100),
which is significantly better than the P95 found on
prefilters for most organic respirators. This is the same
filter worn by cleanup workers at the WTC and haz mat
workers during the anthrax scare. It is rated for asbestos,
which is what you want.

3. It is very lightweight and of a very low profile, because
it doesn't have the extra weight of organic cartridges, so
it doesn't tug on your face and require you to tighten the
straps as much and doesn't interfere with a full face
shield;

4. with dual cartridges, you will breathe easily;

5. it lasts a long, long time-- just shake the dust off the
outer surface of the cartridge. In time the elastic may lose
its stretch--just cut it short and tie on new elastic;

6. the cartridges, which are partially infiltrated with
charcoal, also provide a surprising ability to filter
organic vapors, e.g., paint.

Buy it at auto body paint stores or safety supply houses.
Size M fits almost everyone.