Respirator or Dust Mask - What is the Difference?
by Boris Dzhingarov on May 20, 2015
When embarking on any project whatsoever where you will be subjected to airborne particles, you may want to make sure to have the appropriate level of protection available in the form of a face mask. There are two main categories you should familiarize yourself with to find the level of protection you need. Do you know the difference between a respirator and a dust mask and could you choose the right one for your needs? Here is some information that might help you make the right decision. After all, your health depends on it!
Basic Level Dust Masks
Before you go any further, there is one thing you need to understand. A dust mask will not offer any level of protection against toxic airborne substances. They are merely to help filter the air you are breathing against things like dust that can cause you to sneeze and cough. They will never filter any vapors or gases and for sure they cannot guard against airborne particulates (dust) from such things as asbestos that may still be present in many homes as insulation from ages ago.
A Brief Explanation of a Respirator
If you need protection against dangerous gases, vapors and dust particles or even to guard against certain allergens, you will need to take proper precautions with a respirator. This is a special kind of mask that has been manufactured to filter even the tiniest microscopic particulates out of the air you are breathing. One of the leading products on the market is a 3M Respirator because it is designed and manufactured by a trusted name in the industry.
Don’t Let Cost Dissuade You
Dust masks and respirators vary in price based on the level of protection you need but cost should never dissuade you from purchasing the product you need to ensure your safety. The ultimate purpose of a mask is to keep those toxins from being inhaled and if they aren’t made to filter down to the smallest level of particle you may be exposed to, they are virtually useless.
Your Life Could Depend on It
You can find good quality products online at costs that are reasonable (usually due to lower overheads of online merchants) so why not get the protection you need? Without sounding over-dramatic, your life could very well depend on it. Look at all those cases of mesothelioma that have surfaced as a result of workers who weren’t properly protected? Now that you understand the difference, it is vital that you take the time to think about why you are going to be wearing one and how much protection you need.
Are you going to be working with toxic or hazardous materials? Perhaps you are simply going to be doing some much needed spring housecleaning and want to avoid breathing in all that dust you will be disturbed in the process. Choosing between a respirator and a dust mask is a serious business so make sure you get it right. As stated above, your life could depend on choosing the right protection based on the substances you are exposed to. There is no getting around that fact, so get it right.
Popular Articles
Three Places to Spend Money on the Exterior of Your Home
When you have the exterior of your home remodeled, you are investing, time, energy and convenience into the project and you want to make sure that...
94867 Views
Homemade Headboards-Make an Upholstered or Wooden Headboard
Homemade headboards can add a lot of personality to any bedroom. They can be coordinated with existing furniture and room decor or they can be the...
74270 Views
When to Use a Brush, Roller or Sponge Brush
Brushes are a good choice for painting trim and woodwork. They are also useful for cutting in the edges around the top and bottom edges and corners...
71738 Views
Creating a Cottage Kitchen with Bead Board
Kitchen decor can range from modern and bold to elegant and elaborate by using strategic kitchen pieces. One of the most popular decorating trends...
52716 Views
Gas Fireplace Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Follow these steps for diagnosing and troubleshooting Gas Fireplaces repairs. For the average DIYer, this may seem intimidating, depending on the...
30570 Views
Latest Articles
10 Concrete Patio Ideas on a Budget
A concrete patio can be a game-changer for your outdoor space. It is durable, versatile, and can be customized to fit your style. But what if you...
on Mar 25, 2025
Tips for Creating a Stunning Personalized Photo on Canvas
Order the unique beauty of a personalized photo on canvas and bring your memories to life. With a customized photo on canvas, you can transform...
on Mar 7, 2025
Best Areas to Buy Property in Singapore for Long-Term Growth
Singapore's real estate market remains one of the most stable and lucrative in the world. With limited land supply, strong governmental...
on Feb 18, 2025
Troubleshooting Excess Water in Your HVAC Secondary Condensate Drain Pan
When maintaining your air conditioning system, it is easy to overlook the condensate drain pan - until excess water starts pooling in places where...
on Jan 12, 2025
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): A Beginners Guide
By combining the advantages of stock market and real estate investing, Real Estate Investment Trusts, or REITs, offer an alluring investment...
on Dec 19, 2024
Featured Articles
What Type of Licensed Contractor Should You Hire?
on Feb 28, 2017
Hire Contractors / Estimates

Looking for a specialty project? There are many types of contractors available for your home improvement needs. Finding the right type of...
Sponsored Articles
Best Areas to Buy Property in Singapore for Long-Term Growth
on Feb 18, 2025
Real Estate / Finance

Singapore's real estate market remains one of the most stable and lucrative in the world. With limited land supply, strong governmental...
Actions
Top Categories
- Garden / Landscaping / Patio — 264
- Kitchen / Bathrooms — 240
- Real Estate / Finance — 203
- Appliance / Repair — 186
- Interior Design / Decor — 184
- HVAC / Air Conditioning — 148
- Cleaning / Maintenance — 144
- Improvements / Remodeling — 131
- Plumbing / Basements — 118
- Floors / Tile / Hardwood — 116
- Doors / Garages — 113
- Safety / Security — 113
Articles Archive
More DIY Articles
Simple Tips to Maintain Your Floors’ Beauty in a Busy Home
Floors are not just what you walk on. They are as unique to each room as the room itself. One would not choose the same floors for the bathroom,...
How to Protect Your Home from Carbon Monoxide
Colorless and odorless, carbon monoxide is a gas produced through the incomplete burning of organic substances, including fuels. An estimated 500...
3 Simple Ways to Give Your Living Room a Quick Makeover
If your living room needs more life, you don't need to roll up your sleeves, repaint, and install new carpet to achieve it. The answer to your...
6 Common Risks Associated with Drinking Water Out of the Tap
The human body relies on water to fuel and replenish overall health and wellness in individuals of all ages. Keeping a healthy and happy body...
Complications to Avoid with Your Home Heating and Cooling System
Your home should be a place of comfort all year long. Many homeowners ignore the HVAC system until something goes wrong. Repairs can be expensive;...