Respirator

[huskeriowa]

Hi all,

Based on the posts on this forum, I purchased an air scribe from All Air Products last week because I am tired of destroying fossils with a hammer and chisel.

My question is about respirators. I have read a lot of posts recommending the purchase of specialty respirators to avoid Silicosis. I am in the Ready Mix industry and am familiar with this danger and it concerns me. The posts I have read that reference the need for special respirators are usually following questions about the use of micro sand blasters and rotary tools.

I have watched videos of people using air scribes and the process doesn't look like it kicks up small particles. I have also watched videos of people in a laboratory setting that are only using some sort of small fabric mask. If possible I would like to avoid using a cumbersome mask. While my main concern is safety, I would also like the comfort of a simple mask if that is adequate. Do I need to wear a mask with filters etc. or is a low tech mask sufficient? Thanks much!

Edited April 19, 2014 by huskeriowa

[jgcox]

If all you are doing is air scribing then a good sheetrock paper mask will suffice, But if air blasting or using baking soda and or Dolomite then you need a respirator that will filter down to about 40 micron. I found on at a local building supply in their safety equipment. Always be safe!!

[huskeriowa]

Thanks for replying! Yes I always want to be safe but I am glad that in this case, less is sufficient.