Dust Masks
I. Uses
A. What you can use disposable masks for:
- Dusts principally from the grinding, crushing and the general processing of coal, iron ore, cotton, flour, and certain other solids.
- Mists from sprays that do not produce harmful vapors.
B. What you cannot use disposable masks for
- Fumes, gases, vapors, asbestos, sandblasting, or paint spray.
- Concentrations of contaminants which are unknown or are immediately dangerous to life.
- Concentrations of dusts and mists which exceed the maximum use concentration or 10 times the PEL, whichever is lower.
II. Restrictions
A. This respirator does not supply oxygen B. Leave the contaminated area immediately if dizziness or other distress occurs. C. If the respirator becomes damaged or breathing becomes difficult, leave the contaminated area and discard and replace the respirator. D. Do not alter or modify the respirator. E. Do not wear with beard or other facial hair or conditions that prevent direct contact between the face and the edge of the respirator.
III. Fitting Instructions
A. Hold respirator in hand, allowing headstraps to fall below hand.
B. Place respirator under chin with nosepiece up.
C. Stretch top strap to crown of head. Pull bottom strap over head, below ears, to around neck. Adjust respirator for comfortable fit.
D. When applicable, place fingertips from both hands at the top of the metal nosepiece and mold to the shape of nose by pushing inward while moving your fingertips down both sides of the nosepiece.Note: Pinching the nosepiece with one hand may cause a bad fit and result in less effective performance. Use two hands.
E. Each time you enter the contaminated area the seal of the mask should be fit checked.
Cover front of respirator by cupping both hands and inhale sharply.
A slight negative pressure should be felt inside respirator.
If leakage is detected at respirator edges, adjust straps by pulling back along the sides and/or reposition respirator. Repeat until sealed properly.
F. If you cannot achieve a proper fit do not enter the contaminated area and contact the Department of Environmental Health and Safety at 255-8200.