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One
Strap Dust Mask
(also called a Nuisance Mask)
This
is not a respirator and will not protect you from harmful
particles, fumes, or gases. Using this type of mask
as protection from inhaling harmful substances can result
in sickness or death. This mask is not recommended for
respiratory protection.
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Two-strap, NIOSH Approved Respirator
This
respirator is approved by NIOSH with an N95 rating.
This means that minimally, this mask will make the air
you breathe 95% better than if you did not wear the
mask. The two straps provide a better fit than a single
strap. The NIOSH approval is printed directly on the
mask. Cost: about $1.10
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Two-strap, NIOSH Approved Respirator with Exhale Valve
This
respirator is very similar to the two-strap, NIOSH approved
respirator. The difference is the addition of an exhale
valve that allows the air that you breathe out to escape
without letting unfiltered air in. This makes the mask
cooler and more comfortable to wear. This mask also
has a NIOSH approval rating printed directly on it.
Cost: about $1.85
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Half Mask Respirator
This
respirator provides better protection than the two-strap
masks. You should use a half mask respirator if you
are working around pesticides, ammonia (ie from livestock
confinement), or acid gases/organic vapors (ie disinfecting
livestock buildings). These are made as disposable masks
or reusable masks with replaceable cartridges and filters.
These masks must be fitted to your face and tested for
air leaks. Cost: about $15-20 for the respirator. Cartridge
cost is additional.
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Full-face
Respirator
This
respirator is as protective as the half mask, but also
protects your face and eyes. These are reusable with
replaceable cartridges and filters. These masks must
be custom fitted to your face. Cost: $50 and up.
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