Respirator

[ElBichoMalo]

I have some simple (one would think) questions about fiberglass and respirators. I use my respirator when using polyester resin, but that's about it. I have been using a dust mask for sanding/grinding cured glass. Lately I have been using the respirator for all just because it is more comfortable.

So, question is, how do you really know what you need the respirator for? The filters I have are for "organic vapors"...but what exactly does that mean? Any and all organic vapors? I find that hard to believe. And what products have vapors that are defined as organic? I have searched online, and nothing seems specific?? Even MSDS sheets don't really seem specific??

Also, what is the real service life of the filters? The package/3M website don't even say. Is it safe as long as you can't smell through it?

One of you experts care to educate me? I'm sure I'm already dead, but maybe you can save someone else...

[BigLew]

I am NOT an expert, or even reasonably knowledgable \enough on the subject, but my understanding is that vapors emminating from compounds of an ORGANIC Chemical compound (Methane, tolulene? etc.)are what are referred to as VOC's or Volatile Organic Compounds. All such materials are to be lableled as such on their label.

With regard to the service life of a cartridge, I understand it is very short-hours. I have heard that one way to extend the life is to store them in a ziploc type bag between use. the total service life is maintained to the total exposed to VOC time or open air.

The other thing you mentioned is sanding and grinding or particulate hazard. In this case you would need to know the minimum possible size of the particles likely to be exposed to and be sure you have a filtering mask capable of RELIABLY trapping that size particle. The 3M dust masks never fair well in the few tests I have seen. The full face respirators do the best job and most of the good ones use a battery powered fan with filter to force filtered air into and through a gas mask type mask.

I am particularly bothered by sawdust and am considering getting one of these units. The non-powered ones go for between $40 and $100 while some of the battery ones will go to $300-$400 for the best. From there you go up to units that are the facemask with attached hose connected to an electric blower/pump and they can approach a grand or more.

Good luck.

[mnwnvc]

Try this OSHA site. http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/resp..._schedule.html

A friend had a crew spraying foam and I think they were changing every day.