Fossil prep and dust

[Jurassicz1]

So i prep with hand tools. Mostly chalk and limestone. But i am worried about the dust coming off the rocks. I spray the rocks with water so dust wont come up. But im not sure if that works. Do i need a mask?

[caterpillar]

Dust is never good for breathing. If you don't have a ventilation system, it is better to wear a mask

[Ludwigia]

Definitely. 3M makes good ones.

[Jurassicz1]

3 hours ago, Ludwigia said:

Definitely. 3M makes good ones.

i got this mask will it work? And should i have my Windows open when i prep? Will the dust go out the window? The mask is a kn95 but i dont see any dust coming off the rock when its wet

 

[Jurassicz1]

3 hours ago, caterpillar said:

Dust is never good for breathing. If you don't have a ventilation system, it is better to wear a mask

i got this mask will it work? And should i have my Windows open when i prep? Will the dust go out the window? The mask is a kn95 but i dont see any dust coming off the rock when its wet

[Ludwigia]

That mask looks ok. Opening the window would certainly help.

[Jurassicz1]

37 minutes ago, Ludwigia said:

That mask looks ok. Opening the window would certainly help.

Alright thanks for responding! 

[snolly50]

4 hours ago, Jurassicz said:

Do i need a mask?

Absolutely.

 

The mask you show will work very well. If the dust is fine (e.g. chalk) try a fan behind you facing the open window; or better yet, just prep outside when the weather permits.  

Edited March 22, 2021 by snolly50

[Fossilis Willis]

Your best bet is a half face type respirator, such as a 3m 7500 with p100 cartridges. Water can be an effective method for dust control, but the resulting slurry may make it difficult to see fine detail in your prep.

[Randyw]

I definitely recommend you wear a mask. Personally I prefer the 3m masks myself. Here’s me prepping equipment. You can see the mask I use in the upper left corner.