 Dust masks are not "necessary" the same way most PPE is
necessary. They are an option, possibly required or recommended or preferred by your
work area or supervisor. Dust masks are only marginally to be regarded as PPE, and
where they are "required," it is often due to a lack of understanding of the
nature of their function. They can sometimes provide comfort against hot/cold air
and nuisance (non-toxic) dusts, fumes, or mists, and in this they "protect"
against discomfort. They are not respirators in the sense
that this word is typically used, and they ARE NOT to be used for protection against
airborne toxic particulate matter or for gases or vapors. If your work area or
supervisor allows or requires the use of dust masks, study the information presented here
and check the topic on the PPE training checklist in order to indicate that you have been
informed of these facts.
 It is sometimes necessary, or felt necessary by management, that
workers be provided with dust masks for use in areas where nuisance (non-hazardous) dusts
and other non-toxic airborne particulates are present, or to help buffer the effects of
breathing particularly warm or cold air. The respiratory protection afforded by dust
masks, if any exists, cannot be quantified (fit testing is impossible; that the filter
material may have excellent properties is irrelevant; the face-mask boundary is where
particulates will enter). They are never to be used as protection from illness or
injury.
 Most
masks fit as pictured here; an elastic band above the ears and one below. Read the
manufacturer's instructions.
 Read
the When and What sections above; they cover many of the limitations. Also be
advised that the filter material will eventually become loaded with particulates and
passage of filtered air will become impossible (meaning that ALL of the subsequent air you
breath will be air pulled in from the imperfect seal between your face and the filter.
 Some masks
may be washed and re-used. Most are disposable or have disposable filters.
Read the manufacturer's instructions. |