Dust mask

Understanding how the dust mask is rated actually denotes its efficiency, hence you need to understand how dust masks are rated. Usually, these masks are rated using the three letters- N, R, and P as per the effectiveness of the mask in removing the dust, oil, and airborne vapors.

• N - Not resistant to oils
• R - Somewhat resistant to oils
• P - Strongly resistant to oils

The letter is followed by a percentage that indicated the percentage of particles the mask is capable of filtering out.

• 95 - Removes 95% of all particles that are at least 0.3 microns in diameter
• 99 - Removes 99% of particles that are at least 0.3 microns in diameter
• 100 - Removes 99.97% of all particles that are 0.3 microns in diameter or larger. HE or HEPA quality filter.

Hence when the dust mask is rated as N95 it means the mask filters out 95% of airborne particles but it does not provide protection against airborne oil-based particles which are found in solvents and finishes.

Do a Face Fit Test for your dust mask:

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The last criteria to select the right gas mask is by testing its fit. As everyone has a different facial structure, the mask needs to fit you properly to avoid any leakages around the deal letting the dust in.

This is only possible to know after you do a proper face-fit test to see if the gas mask fits you right

Types of Dust mask:

Now let us classify the various types of dust mask available in the market;

1. Bargain Masks:

These are cheap masks available that claim to be dust mask but do not have any standard rating hence, in reality, they are not efficient and you may be better off without using them all together as these masks cannot protect you from airborne particles and they can only keep insects away.

2. Standard Disposable Mask:

These masks can be used for a short duration after which you will have to replace them with new ones. It can be used to protect yourself against dust particles in the atmosphere due to pollution or from the work environment such as sanding wood or demolition work. Make sure the mask is at least of the rating N95.

3. Disposable Mask with Exhalation Valve:

This mask is almost the same as the standard disposable mask but if you need to wear the mask for a number of hours, then buying one with an exhalation valve will be much more comfortable to wear as the valve will make breathing lot easier. the protection level will be the same, but the extra comfort comes with an extra cost and it is worth it if you need to wear it the entire day.

4. Reusable Dust mask with Replaceable Filters:

The reusable gas mask is much more comfortable than a disposable mask and mostly made of fabric. If you need to use the mask a lot, then you can buy the reusable version which makes it more nominal with added comfort and the rating is mostly N99.

5. Reusable Cartridge Filter Mask:

These masks are the most effective and versatile as the filters are replaceable and available for different hazards such as HEPA for dust or chemical filter for volatile organic compounds, If you work with solvents then you will need to get a Woodworking dust mask in which the activated charcoal cartridge filter can be replaced and the mask rating should be P100.

The Bottom Line:

You need to choose a mask based on the contamination present in the environment against which you need protection. If you need to protect yourself from a dusty environment, then go for an N95 mask, if you are looking for a mask that can be used to work with paints and adhesives then use a reusable cartridge mask with activated charcoal as a filter. But, remember if you have a beard, no mask will be as effective hence you will need to get rid of that beard for the mask to work as promised.

Do's and Don’ts with Dust mask:

• DO choose a mask that has a protection rating such as N95 or N100 printed on it.
• DO select a mask which has two straps that go around your head, above and below your ears
• DO select a size that fits you well and is snug over your nose till your chin to create an adequate seal.
• DO follow the manufacturer's instructions to adjust and fit the mask right.
• DO shape the metal part over the nose in such a way that it fits the curves properly.
• DO store and reuse as per the manufacturer's instructions.
• DON'T choose a dust mask that has only one strap or is a surgical mask that will not protect you against the dust.
• DON'T use wet towels held over mouth as a dust mask as it is not effective.
• DON'T use the mask with facial hair or beard as the mask will not seal tightly.
• DON'T use the mask continuously as you may find it difficult to breathe hence take breaks while using the mask.

In Conclusion:

When choosing a dust mask, it is important to remember that the filters can only filter out dust, fume, and mist. You should not consider using these dust masks in an oxygen-deficient atmosphere. Also, these masks cannot protect you from harmful gases and vapors hence do not mistake them to be something they are not as the name itself suggests, they simply are dust masks.