Which mask do you use?

[Dcnlarry]

Hello All: We all understand the need for a mask even if we use a dust collection system, so which mask do you use? Any ideas and thoughts welcome. Cheers, Larry

[susieq]

Hi Larry,
Many on here, including myself, like the "Dust Beegone" mask. It's pricey in the beginning, but you won't have to buy another one for many years. It's a lightweight material that allows you to breath without fogging up your safety glasses. It filters out everything down to (it's either 3 or 5 microns, I can't remember) Anything smaller than that, is going to pass on through your system and not hurt you.

The masks come in several sizes, have velcro straps and if, like me, you need a little more room in the nose area, Paula will customize a mask for you at no extra charge. I think the masks are about $40. I haven't bought one in a few years. When they need washed, you just swish them around in a little warm water with light detergent, rinse them, then twirl them around vigorously by their straps, to get rid of any moisture, and you're good to go again.

The key to getting a mask, in my opinion, is to get one that is comfortable so that you will use it. It it is a pain to use or uncomfortable to wear, you will not use it....... DustBeeGone TM Nuissance Dust Mask

[Bruce Bird]

Hi Larry
The dust mask I use comes from Lee Valley.I have a beard so I needed something that fits tight but was comfortable.The back straps I changed so that the felcro I added could make the mask fit tight when I bend over to carve.
Bruce

[Dcnlarry]

Thanks Susieq and Bruce for your quick responses. Good places for me to pursue, just seems there are so many to choose from. I like to go with the experience of those in the "know" and of course that would be people like you here on this great forum. Thanks again and safe carving. Larry

[Mottles]

I have the duel filter mask...covers my nose when I'm using my power tools and woodburning. Also use a electric dust filter that has two computer fans.
Kathy

[Tom Ellis]

Larry, I posted a thread about using an old hair dryer, connected to one of the dual filter masks like Kathy is talking about. If you don't get a tight fit, as with a beard, the dryer helps with a positive air flow, and you can control the air so it can be warm if you like. You just need to cover the air intake to keep the dust out. I use mine all the time.

You can search the threads under dust mask, and there is a picture with the thread.

Good luck, Tom

[Dcnlarry]

Hello Kathy and Tom: Thanks for the tip on the dual filter mask, I will look into these types for sure. Larry

[Eddy-Smiles]

I use an AO Safety type of mask with replaceable canisters and filters as I also keep it around the house for when I mow and weed eat the lawn and spray any chemicals. My mask was issued to me when I worked for the Government for confined spaces and entry into asbestos and containminated spaces. I couldn't see throwing it away so I dual purposed it when I retired. Now that I've got some breathing problems it really comes in handy. I change out the filters about once a year whether they need it or not.

[Dcnlarry]

Hello Eddy-Smiles, yea if I had maintained my hindsight, maybe I would have kept mine after retiring from the Utility Industry. Good point, I may have to call in a favor or two from some old friends still working. Thanks for the idea. Larry

[llc1952]

After having to be hospitalized for walking pneumonia with sawdust in my lungs, I
purchased a different type of face mask. It's called "Totobobo" and is the most lightweight, effective mask I've ever used. I just can't work with those bulky big masks. Maybe because I'm such a newbie at carving? Anyway, you can look at these masks at TOTOBOBO mask, most advanced respiratory protection for cyclist, artist and children and judge for yourself. It does not fog my glasses and can adjust to fit any type of face. Think I paid $24 for it. It sure does the job tho.