Do I need an expensive respirator if I am using hand tools?

N

Natemiester

Joined
Jul 14, 2014
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I know that having a respirator around is a good idea, but I'm starting out working with only minimal power tools (drill and jig saw), and am wondering if I need to splurge on a respirator, or if I can just buy a disposable face mask. Almost all of the steel cutting I will be doing is by hand. Thanks.
 
I know you can drop $30 on a respirator from menards that covers mold and lead, it couldn't hurt to grab one of those.

I spend a full work day in one sometimes, it's not too bad.

Better safe than sorry!
 
What materials are you working with besides steel? Wood, you could probably get away with disposable masks.
Synthetic stuff on the other hand, make sure your respirator is quality. Most people just use a dust mask for steel grinding.
 
If you working with stuff that is bad....G10..Carbon Fiber..Mircata.
Yes.
A dust mask will not suffice.
Get a half face for around 20 bucks and then choose the filter for your
applications.
I usally get P100s. Covers everything
 
hell I was doing some hand filing with CPM154 and had a scratchy throat for 2 or 3 days, so I'd say yea...can't hurt
 
I have about 35 years in the autobody and paint industry and wear either a quality dust mask or respirator for quite a bit of my day. There are many types of both respirators and dust masks. I would suggest going to a welding supply store or an autobody paint store and tell them what it is you are doing and they can set you up with what you need for a minimal cost.
 
Natemiester said:
I know that having a respirator around is a good idea, but I'm starting out working with only minimal power tools (drill and jig saw), and am wondering if I need to splurge on a respirator, or if I can just buy a disposable face mask. Almost all of the steel cutting I will be doing is by hand. Thanks.
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Here is a better question for you? How much do you value your lungs? Cutting pieces of steel with a jigsaw might not produce enough small particles to stay airborne, but when it comes to wood, phenolics, and other stuff related to heating steel I'd say wear a mask. Years ago someone told me, you only get one set of lungs, they have to last you your entire life. Respirators are inexpensive, 3M makes half masks and filters for under $50. I'd pay well over that to protect my lungs.
 
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Yes, the cost of a decent respirator is nothing in the grand scheme of things. Even working it by hand, the grit and general grime will sneak up on you, and it's no fun.
 
Not an expensive one, but yes, you need one. I went with just a bandana once. That one time was all it took.
 
3M is the brand I use and they make many types. I would still suggest you go to a welding supply or paint supply store and tell them what you need it for. They most likely have a more simple version that would work for what you need. 3M part number 07192 is what I use for paint vapors and is a size medium. A large is #7179. They come in a resealable bag for storage when not in use and run in the $30-$40 range. It still may be a bit overkill for what you need.
 
gedlicks said:
3M is the brand I use and they make many types. I would still suggest you go to a welding supply or paint supply store and tell them what you need it for. They most likely have a more simple version that would work for what you need. 3M part number 07192 is what I use for paint vapors and is a size medium. A large is #7179. They come in a resealable bag for storage when not in use and run in the $30-$40 range. It still may be a bit overkill for what you need.
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Yes get something descent.;):thumbup:
[video=youtube;z0JPTgAtqzw]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0JPTgAtqzw[/video]
 
Natemiester said:
Thanks for the words of wisdom, I think I'll get a half-mask. What do you guys think of this one?
http://www.homedepot.com/p/3M-Tekk-...article-Respirator-Medium-6297PA1-A/202078789
or this one-
http://www.homedepot.com/p/3M-Tekk-...-65021HA1-C/202080143#certona_recommendations
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I think the top one is fine it's a P100 and covers basically everything. Personally I use this one http://www.homedepot.com/p/MSA-Safety-Works-Toxic-Dust-Respirator-817664/100143655 but either of the two you have I think will be fine.
 
Absolutely get a respirator! Drop a good $30 - $40 on a 3M half mask with replaceable cartridges and you should be fine for a good while. While you're at it get some ear protection, too much time around loud machinery is a definite way to loose your hearing later on in life. Don't skimp on the protective stuff.... You'll be much happier down the line :). Ooh and don't forget the safety glasses:thumbup:
 
Send 3M an email, they'll help you out.

It's the filter that does the job. 3M has good "one way" masks with good filters as well. So if you're on a budget those will do just as good as an expensive mask
 
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