David Martin Hershey on mon 31 jan 05
Hi All,
I have been using the 3M 7500 series respirator with pre-filters for about a
year now, and find it to be light-years ahead of the old Mine Safety black
rubber model I had been using for 20 odd years.
http://tinyurl.com/4vwoq
It is made of soft silicone like a skin divers mask, has a great suspension
system that doesn't pull your hair, and is easily adjustable. It doesn't
leave much of a mark on your face after wearing it for hours, and it doesn't
stink like old rubber inner-tubes!
In fact it is so good, that when I take it off, I am always momentarily
overwhelmed with the normal smells of the studio after breathing sterile air
for an hour or more.
That being said, there has been no mention that cartridge respirators
probably should not be worn by people with asthma or impaired respiratory
function, without consulting a qualified physician first.
The filters that I use with my respirator specifically state in the
micro-type
of the warning literature, that this cartridge should NOT be used by people
with impaired lung function.(See below the typical warning language re:
respirators in a State or company work safety manual.)
I would suggest that clay people with impaired lung function should probably
use a disposable protection device rated at N95 or N100 in the USA.
These devices, if worn properly, can provide protection from up to 95 or
99+ percent of harmful particles. This is at least as good or better than
a bearded person wearing a cartridge respirator.
The key is matching the device to your hazard, wearing them properly, and
disposing of them when they are dirty.
And of course, good studio practices and housekeeping!
I like the models from Wilson or 3M with a full foam rubber face seal,
exhalation valve, available in different sizes, found all over the web.
Typical types, scroll down: http://tinyurl.com/4lkfp
Best, DMH
Beautiful Hermosa Beach CA USA
where Spring has Sprung
Typical language:
Medical Certification
Respirator use puts stress on the pulmonary (breathing) and cardiovascular
(heart) body systems. Consequently, it is important for a physician to
determine if a potential respirator wearer's health could be impaired by
using a respirator. Frequently included in the medical exam is a lung
function test (spirometry). Other tests are done as determined by the
physician. The physician, in determining a worker's fitness to wear a
respirator, must take into account for the hazard, the proposed respirator,
and work environment stresses.
If vision correction is needed while wearing a respirator, restrictions may
be placed on the use of contact lenses because dust particles or chemical
vapors may be trapped by the lens. Special accommodation is needed to wear
eyeglasses with a full facepiece respirator.
On completion of the exam, the physician certifies in writing whether the
worker is eligible to wear a given respirator under the specified conditions
and lists any restrictions on respirator use.
Medical assessment
Some health problems may prevent you from using a respirator. If you, your
supervisor, or your employer has any doubt or concern about your ability to
use a respirator, you should be examined by a doctor knowledgeable in
occupational health.
The doctor will need information about:
.The type of work to be done
.The types and concentrations of contaminants present
.The work environment and work conditions, including potential extremes of
temperature and humidity
.The type of respirator to be used
.The duration of use
On the basis of this information, the doctor will advise the employer only
whether you can use a respirator. The doctor cannot disclose any of your
personal medical information without your informed consent.
Medical conditions that may prevent you from using a respirator include, but
are not limited to:
.Claustrophobia
.Problems with breathing during normal work activities
.A history of breathing problems such as asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, or
shortness of breath
.High blood pressure or heart disease
.Use of medications with side effects that might affect lung or heart
function or
cause drowsiness or lowered alertness
.Diabetes
.Seizure disorders
.Facial skin problems
.Physical factors that make it hard to put on or adjust the respirator, such
as arthritic or missing fingers or a limited range of motion in the upper
body
.Past problems with respirator use
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