Control Your DUST !!!
SEEMS SIMPLE.... but you better have it on properly or don't bother at all. OSHA classifies wood dust as TOXIC at high particulate levels. Dull blades, sanding discs etc produce the most fine wood dust. African and some S. american woods actually have silicate (dirt) within the wood. Which makes dust so fine it looks like smoke.
Have it fit right ! Use a REAL dust mask when woodworking. Not the paper type, those do not properly conform to you r face to seal it properly. If you have one spot on your face that isn't sealed, the only air coming through that hole is what you're breathing, concentrated dust. Thats what i mean by it not being useful if improperly fitted.
Theres no such thing as "being tough" and breathing stuff in without a mask, thats just insane.
SPEND TIME AND DO IT RIGHT !
Look at the filters that are MADE TO WORK WITH WOOD. Painting masks will fill with fine dust and not do a good job. Youll need the round, PINK colored dust filters that are primarily made for wood dust.
Im writing this in hopes that people will take the time to read it, its that hidden aspect of work shop safety that is sorely overlooked.
Spend money to do it right...and youll be much happier with confidence that your dust mask is working the way it should..
