How to choose a protective mask?

Choosing a protective mask suitable for the working conditions is a really hard task. And you ask us about it very often, because masks and reusable half mask respirators require certain knowledge from the user. You may not know, but in the history of our store, we have been dealing very hard with personal protective equipment for a long time. Protective masks, filters, coveralls. Today we will share with you our experience, but without the standards and scientifically winding pasta on the ears. Just practice, so let's do it!

The mask is just a base

Unfortunately, at the beginning, we must lead you out of the misconception that the mask has any protective tasks, that the mask will protect you. Unfortunately not. The choice of the mask itself will only affect your comfort of use and work comfort. Of course, many parameters determine that a given mask is better or worse suited for a given job, e.g. due to larger filtering surfaces or breathing resistance. Remember, however, that it is the selection of the right filters that will be crucial for your safety.

Protective mask made of TPE or silicone?

Of course, we will not discuss here how the various materials for the production of masks are constructed. We will tell you briefly what, in our experience, are the differences between these materials, popular in the production of masks. This makes it easier for you to choose what your reusable protective mask is to be made of. TPE is a material very similar to rubber, it is hard, not very plastic, it adapts to the shape of the surface harder, reacts poorly to cleaning with alcoholic agents and likes to become hard and give off a greasy liquid when used intensively. It can cause allergic reactions, which is why this type of reusable protective masks will not work for everyone. The silicone used in the production of masks is usually soft, malleable, antiallergic and very resistant. It is perfect for cleaning and washing. A protective mask made of this material may be more comfortable. The reusable, profiled silicone mask will better fit your face, making it easier for you to work in it for a long time.

What to look for when choosing a mask?

First of all, think about what you will be using your mask for. If you plan to perform work with high dustiness, be sure to choose models that allow the installation of pre-filters to the mask - you will save a lot of money on buying main filters, because thanks to the pre-filters they will last longer. Also consider whether you will be using the mask frequently, once in a while, or only occasionally. If you intend to use it every day, you must choose the model with the lowest breathing resistance and the best comfort, such as the Sundstrom Sr 100 or Sr 900. If you intend to use the mask once a month, make sure that the mask and filters are easy to store so that you can always keep it underneath. hand. Also pay attention to how the filters are attached, e.g. the 3M brand uses a bayonet mounting system, and in Sundstrom masks you place the filter in a rubber gasket. When buying reusable masks, it is important to be able to easily buy the necessary filters and absorbers, because, as we have already mentioned, only a dust mask with a filter can be a protective measure.

Respiratory resistance in the mask

Filtering in protective masks works because of the strength of your lungs. If you often work in a protective mask, pay attention to the breathing resistance in a given model (necessarily with the filters you will use). Remember that if you use a mask with a dust filter with a high filtering class, eg with a P3 filter, breathing resistance will be slightly higher (additionally, after some time the filter will start to "clog" and the resistance will be even greater). Even a reusable FFP3 mask can wear out quickly if you use it in harsh environments.

Do not be guided by the purchase price of the mask

It's like buying a car, if you buy a cheap car with a high cost of ownership, you will spend more than buying a more expensive model with a low cost of ownership. It is the same with masks. A reusable mask with a filter creates an inseparable whole, it is not enough just to buy the base itself. Pay attention to the cost of replacement filters and how many pieces you need to buy to create the right set for you. Also check if the manufacturer uses systems for easy filter connection (in our opinion, the Sundstrom brand is doing very well here). Also note what accessories you'll find in the mask box. Here, for example, we compare the purchase of a 3M mask and a Sundstrom mask. With 3M, you only get the mask. In the Sundstorm box you will receive a mask, pre-filter, filter cover, mask cover. Although the 3M mask is cheaper, the cost of the equivalent parts that you get at Sundstrom is: about PLN 20 for the filter cover, about PLN 10 for a set of preliminary filters, at 3M you buy two pieces of each filter to create a set. Remember that it is not the mask, but the filters that determine the proper protection of your lungs. We will not write about standards here. However, we will give you specific examples and our recommendations on what filters to use. For this reason, cheap protective masks will not provide you with an adequate level of protection during work.

How to choose a mask to work?

Mask when painting in finishing works

As a rule, manufacturers of water-based paints do not require the use of protective masks in well-ventilated rooms when applied with a roller. However, we recommend the use of protective masks with a class A1 filter in every case of painting. If you paint with solvent-based paints, you should use an A2 dust filter. For spray application, we recommend the addition of a pre-dust filter to protect the main filter from clogging or clogging.

Laying mineral wool

Laying mineral wool usually does not require a high-class protective filter. It is enough if you equip yourself with a protective mask of FFP1 class or a mask with a P1 or P2 filter.

PUR foam spraying

Working with PUR foam is an extremely dangerous job for our lungs. One of the compounds that make up Pur foam is Isocyanate - a highly poisonous and carcinogenic substance. You should seek professional advice before working with PUR foam. Remember, you cannot use masks with filters in closed rooms. You should use an insulated system with fresh air blowing from outside. Even the FFP3 reusable mask is not enough to protect you.

What mask to choose for sanding walls?

Protection against gypsum and concrete dust requires protection level P2. However, remember to use pre-filters to prevent the main filter from clogging quickly. We also recommend the use of a system with a belt-mounted filter - thanks to this, most of the dust generated during grinding will not get to the filter surface. By using reusable protective masks with pre-filter, you not only take better care of your health, but also save money!

Do you use a reusable mask for other jobs? Write to us and we will extend the article with new mask applications and we will advise you on the appropriate protection class for filters and absorbers!