It makes sense to wear a face mask to protect yourself from hazardous chemicals when performing this activity, or any other chemical-related task you might find yourself performing around the house. There are a variety of styles and brands on the market, but they all work similarly well. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your respirator:
1) Securely fasten your head straps as tight as possible by shift pulling them against one another and turning them until it's comfortably tight
2) Adjust both eye pieces so that they're level with each other in front of your eyes
3) Squeeze the air filter pouch along either side before fitting it over your nose and mouth
A face mask is a very
helpful way to filter out the harmful smoke you may be breathing while torching. Since the air we breathe in contains dangerous microscopic particles, a face mask is an essential safety precaution for your lungs and respiratory system.
What kind of face mask should you get? It depends on what type of work atmosphere you’re in – I would recommend selecting one that filters fine particulates from the air. Choose one that blocks organic vapors or asbestos if applicable and filters particles including dust, paint chips, fibres, asbestos fibres (in dusty environments), lead content (only in environment where there are lead-based products), mercury vapor, and fumes from materials such as burning plastics.
Face masks come in a variety of forms. Medical-grade, surgeon's mask for instance is made of strong, dense fabric to protect against the inhalation of particles. There are many types and styles available for purchase ranging from disposable medical masks to more expensive N95 respirators.
The goal is to make sure that there is sufficient airflow so it will not fog up or become wet with saliva or droplets from a sneeze and thus removing protection against airborne pathogens. When possible, choose an over-the-head wrap style that seals snugly at the edges around your chin and at your nose-- these offer more protection than traditional airline/flight
masks.