3 common mistakes when buying a protective mask

In this short article, I will discuss the three most common mistakes users make when purchasing a protective mask. Avoid these mistakes and don’t waste your money on the wrong product. Check out our tips below.

Will the mask alone protect me from dust and gas?

A common issue is buying a mask and filters that do not match the hazards. Many users choose a mask based solely on appearance or price, forgetting that every type of work requires a specific type of protection. Often we don’t even know what substances we work with — and that is the key to selecting the correct filters. In our store, you will of course find a wide selection of reusable protective masks and full-face masks with a visor.

Examples of incorrect mask selection:

• Dust masks that do not protect against paint fumes, gases, or chemicals.
• P3 filters used where a P1 is sufficient — they make breathing harder and discourage mask use.
• Leaky masks or lack of a fit test — air bypasses the filter and does not provide protection.

BalticBHP tips before choosing a mask and filters:

• Check the product’s safety data sheet (section 8) — you’ll find recommended protective equipment there.
• Check the manufacturer’s guide to protective filters.
• Perform a fit test: remove the filters, block the openings, and try to inhale — the mask should cling to your face.

Is buying a cheap protective mask worth it?

I often meet users who buy masks without analysing what additional accessories they need for proper use. People buy a cheap product without paying attention to the accessories and filters required for safe work. It’s like buying a car without wheels and tires — technically it works, but it won’t go anywhere. Remember that in our store you can easily complete your set of dust filters.

Popular tips when choosing filters for protective masks

• Sundström masks include a set of accessories (pre-filter, cover, bag). With 3M — you need to buy them separately.
• The 3M system has limited compatibility between dust and gas filters. Sundström filters can be freely combined.
• Filter cost — some systems require 1 filter, others 2. The price of a complete set may differ significantly.

Additional BalticBHP recommendations:

• Check what is included with the mask.
• Compare the prices of replacement parts.
• Calculate the full cost of use, not just the price of the mask.

Is it worth using pre-filters for masks?

Many users ignore the purchase of pre-filters, even though they extend the life of the main filters significantly. Pre-filters cost a fraction of the main filter and protect it from clogging and contamination, e.g., from paint or dust.

Examples:

• Spray painting — aerosols and dust quickly clog the gas filter.
• Cleaning dusty rooms — without a pre-filter, all dust goes directly into the P3 filter.

Balticworkwear tips:

• Always use pre-filters — they cost just a few zlotys and save the main filter.
• Remember: the main filter (P3/gas) costs 15-20 euro. A pre-filter — 1-1,5 euro.