papr mask

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MedWoodWorx

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is a papr mask more efficient than an ordinary half or full face mask in filtering wood dust or just more comfortable to wear? cheers
 
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NO. I developed an allergy to CA fumes a long time ago, nothing short of chemical filters on a 1/2 face mask helped. If it is an allergy problem, paper masks probably will not help. At least it did not for me.
 
leehljp said:
NO. I developed an allergy to CA fumes a long time ago, nothing short of chemical filters on a 1/2 face mask helped. If it is an allergy problem, paper masks probably will not help. At least it did not for me.
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No i dont mean those. I am sorry i didnt make myself clear, i meant proper masks with replaceable cartridges/ filters etc.not simple paper masks.
 
A PAPR can have a lower APF as compared to a typical full face non powered respirator, unless you start working in supplied air. There is a chart out there from OSHA for the relative APF values.
 
Here is a quick screenshot from 3M

IMG_0833.png
 
I have a trend shield and use that for comfort, but it's not a respirator that you can be fit tested on.
 
fnfalguy said:
A PAPR can have a lower APF as compared to a typical full face non powered respirator, unless you start working in supplied air. There is a chart out there from OSHA for the relative APF values.
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Whats apf? Air flow? Sorry i dont understand
 
Assigned Protection Factor (APF) is a numerical value that measures how much a respirator reduces the concentration of harmful substances in the air. APF is used to select the right respirator for a given situation

Had to look it up myself. You want a cartridge for vapors like auto paint sprayers use.
 
montmill said:
Assigned Protection Factor (APF) is a numerical value that measures how much a respirator reduces the concentration of harmful substances in the air. APF is used to select the right respirator for a given situation

Had to look it up myself. You want a cartridge for vapors like auto paint sprayers use.
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So for wood dust etc? Is my guess correct, do papr masks make it easier to work for longer hours?
 
I use alot of the N95 paper masks like the first one in the photo. especially when working with dusts around a scrollsaw or lathe or even just being in the shop. Any mask is a step in the right direction but again it depends what you are trying to filter out. Dust or fumes require different masks. Allergies are another factor when choosing a mask. But at least wear something when in the shop. I have gone to the pink cartridge 3M masks now for turning acrylics because that is one thing that does get to me a little. Picture 2. I do have a trend older style and would need new battery for it but never liked it.
 
Not trying to pose as some authority; but will say that I spent 10 years as the safety monitor for my employer. During that time, I got very familiar with breathing safety matters.

ANY commonly available mask or respirator is designed to fit and 'seal' on a clean shaven (to quote the OSHA reps..."over no more growth than a 5 o'clock shadow") face. As I recall, there are certain full face/head PAPR devices that can be used over facial hair; BUT the sealing surfaces must be 'clean shaven'.
 
MedWoodWorx said:
So for wood dust etc? Is my guess correct, do papr masks make it easier to work for longer hours?
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The answer to this thread is "whatever you will reliably wear is best" We should all wear something.

That said, the better mask you wear the better off you'll be in the long term. I used to wear the N95 masks and they didn't do a good job for me as I could never get a good seal around my face and would still have dust on the inside of the mask and in my nose. Several years ago I went to the style that looks like the 3M half mask that is pictured in one of the posts and it is now the only thing I wear. It fits (me) really well and is very adjustable. It seals well enough around my face that I never have fog on my glasses. I don't have any issues with blowing my nose and seeing sanding dust anymore either. Mine has the pink disks to filter particulate and does a pretty good job on odors too because I don't ever notice the smells of glues when I use them.

I would never have guessed the first two masks in the chart would be the same for "the numbers" I'm going to have go look my particular one up and see if it matches that or not
 
these are the masks that i use: the draeger (xplore 3300) half mask is great for and easy to wear, the full face is great when working with ca,fumes etc. they both work with the same type of cartridge that filters fumes and dust. i use the jvs for lighter lathe work and not sanding. jvs is great and lightweight but i can tell that the fit is not as good as the others, thats why i use it mainly when woodworking outdoors. so my question is: is the papr an upgrade in terms of filtration or you pay the extra buck for comfort? cheers
 

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