[jartzh]

I only power carve outside. And I wear a dust mask only when fine sanding. I use local logs (no exotics) and no spalting wood. I would think I am doing a good job but I notice that my clothes are covered with dust. So I gather my lungs are also. Is there a real risk I am taking by breathing in the dust?
If so would a fan directly on me help. Its really too hot a lot of the time to have a dust mask on for the entire project.

[xsailer]

If you are more than an occaisional woodworker you need to use some form of protection other than the wind whether it's hot or not. Even in Kansas the wind won't do the job. You are playing a game with you health if you aren't protected. Even if your're not having trouble now you may when you're older.
My opinion.

[GeorgiaCarver]

Fine dust is considered a serious health risk. It causes symptoms and illness much like asbestos. A good quality respirator that covers the nose and mouth that works for fine dust is a must.

Just my two cents.

[Eddy Smiles]

If you remember when the dangers of asbestos first became known, folks were also warned about secondary exposure at home. Men would have asbestos dust all over their clothes and when they brought them home to be washed their families were in turn exposed.

I would imagine that to er' on the side of caution that you'd want to make sure that you brush or vaccum your clothes off real good before going into the house. Other wise you'll just bring in what you meant to leave outside. I'm in the same boat as you are and the only place that I have to power carve is out front under the overhang of the house where we have places a bench. After using my Dremel I am very careful to bruch my clothes off before entering my home. And I also wear an OSHA aprroved face mask. The ones that have a breather....i.e...
http://www.coopersafety.com/3M-8271-...87&W=250&H=250

Respirators Features:
Lightweight constuction

• Adjustable noseclip
• Lightweight Construction
• Two-strap design

l for grinding, sanding, sweeping, bagging and other dusty operations that involve heat and humidity.