Word of caution

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Originally Posted by HARRYWALLY

Elipse Low-Profile Dust Respirator - Lee Valley Tools
Best $34 you could ever spend, and that's in Canadian dollars too. I just got this one and it's fantastic. Super light weight and easy to clean. I have 3 masks floating around the shop, and this is my go to when cutting and sanding.

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Just another safety precaution...Have a safe place for the mask when not in use. If it collects shop dust then the stuff is inside the mask.

~Richard

A large Zip lock bag near the buffer, zip it shut, when not in use and when the mask is in it. Put the mask in the bag the same way each time. I put the outside of the mask on the label side of the bag. When the mask get dirty on the outside replace it and the Zip lock bag.

If you use a paper mask, buy good ones, they are not that expensive and cheaper if you buy, by the box. If you are doing a dusty operation, (like rust removal), use a good sealing rubber mask.

Another important point that I didn't mention. For those of you that use a replaceable filter type mask, get "wet ones" or equivalent cleaning towels to assure that the gasket/ the part that meets your face is clean and clear of any dust. Let the mask dry before putting it on. I made the mistake "once," I wish, of putting on a dirty mask. My face took a week to heal.
~Richard

Great advice. It always blows my mind when I see pics or videos of guys grinding blades or making scales with no protection or paper painters dust masks (almost no protection) in a shop full of expensive tools. A good full face respirator is worth every penny. I worked in an aircraft composite shop for a bit and the fit test and issue of a respirator was mandatory.

This is definitely a neglected piece of gear. Should be WASHED frequently in a bucket of warm water with a drop of soap, dried and inspected, fresh filters as needed , and stored in a clean ziplock. Proper fit is of course very important, no leaks at the seals and valves that work properly. Also proper cartridges for dust or fume.

G10 is bad along with any synthetic material , sawdust is a known carcinogen, bone and ivory are horrible, sanded glues and finishes, exotic woods , EVERYTHING we sand in the shop should be kept out of the lungs.

This is what I use, not cheap but a good investment.
https://www.amazon.com/3M-7800S-M-Fu...words=3m+7800s

Thanks Harry, I ordered one today.

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Originally Posted by criswilson10

I work G10 with a full face mask, I keep it wet as much as I can, and I keep a fan on behind me to blow the stuff out my shop door.

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Great tip there Chris that I will put to use!

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Originally Posted by BeJay

Michael. Any chance you rubbed your eyes with dirty hands after you were done?

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Possibly BJ but I just can't remember. I try very hard to keep hands clear of the face before decon takes place. I also work with hazardous waste with my agency/job so I am or suppose to be fully in tune with OSHA and Federal DOT requirements when it comes to chemicals. But there is always a first time for sure.