[redgolum]

I am going to repost my reply to 2ndmarine about N95 masks.

Here is a sight to buy some of the N95 rated masks (we use them in hog barns back home)

http://www.gemplers.com/a/shop/list.asp?UID=200507292118338285991451&SKW=2S5RESPN

My father buys them by the gross. Gemplers has good prices.
Don't get them from the big sites that cater to pharma, the mark up is more.

N95 is a NIOSH test if I remember right, it means it filters 95% of the particulate matter. Most of the masks are of the two strap kind. This type of mask will not protect against any type of toxic fumes, but will filter out dust and such very well. I grew up wearing the things.

Some basic things to remember. Do not have any facial hair while wearing them. Also, make sure to test the fit before hand. As I posted earlier, there are some faces that just don't fit any size of mask. Realize that if the flu hits the outside of the mask will be very "hot" if you are around any suspected cases. When disposing of the mask, make sure you don't touch the outside or accidentally get anything on your face. That is pretty easy to do, but it takes a few times to figure out how.

If you are buying for the whole family get a few different sizes. Unfortunately, they don't work that well for young kids (faces are to small). This type of mask is a once use type of thing. Don't try to reuse them (if at all possible), as they get harder to breath through the longer they are worn.

If you are sweating alot, the mask will get we and be harder to breath through. This will cause some people to panic and/or get dizzy.

One last thing. If you get the type with the exhale valve, check the valve before going anyplace suspect. Sometimes the little rubber flapper will get stuck open.

[Judith Anne]

Thanks, red. 2ndreconmarine, post 9 has the info on N95 masks.

[steve86]

N95 is a NIOSH test if I remember right, it means it filters 95% of the particulate matter.

It actually has a filtration efficiency of 95% at 0.3 microns. With larger particles, it is virtually 100% effective, absent leakage.

From sales literature: The 3M 9210 N95 Particulate Respirator captures 95% of particles at .3 microns. This mask is effective at reducing your risk of contracting airborne viruses like the flu and SARS and meets NIOSH N95 requirements.

[bitt]

or for formal evening wear:

redgolum's link also has a choosing a mask and fitting a mask link...

http://www.gemplers.com/a/shop/list.asp?UID=200507292118338285991451&SKW=2S5RESPN

[2ndreconmarine]

Thank You!!!!!!!!!!!!!