Respirator

From RISDpedia

A Respirator combined with the proper cartridges filters the air from toxins.

Note, that like most breathing protection, this can cause problems in people with breathing problems or Asthma, as it does slightly restrict the air flow. It is also not recommended sharing dust masks due to you breathing directly on them, doing so is a good way to spread germs.

A respirator's filters should be kept in a large zip-lock bag or other air-tight container when not in use ( no need to remove the filters when not in use). The filters are always working, and leaving them in open-air puts more wear on them. There is no set time for how long a set of filters will last, but properly stored when not in use, they should a good amount of time.

[edit] Filter Types

Respirators have the ability to connect to many different types of filters. Different chemicals need different filters. The most common type of filter is the

• Organic Vapor Cartridge.
  • Used mainly to protect against solvents, such as those in oil based paints. Others would include paint thinner, lacquer thinner, turpentine and fuel vapors. Also absorbs bad smells. Not for use with urethane paints that contain isocyanates.
• Dust
  • Dust filters just turn your respirator into a dust mask to prevent dust from entering your lungs. These cartridges do not need to be stored in a air tight container.

[edit] How do I know when the filter needs changed?

The best way to know if a chemical filter needs replaced is if you can smell chemicals through it. If you are wearing a respirator and you know it is fitting correctly, yet you can smell through it. Change it.

With dust filters, the filters clog and you will be working too hard to breath through. If this happens. CHANGE IT!