Quote:
Originally Posted by mrybas
I'm going to to be working with alot of chemicals, paints, epoxys, strippers (no not that kind) and such during the refit of a new boat. I have never used anything more than a dust mask, can anyone suggest an apparatus that offers more protection?
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1. Ventilate. Flammable liquids can get to the explosion point quicker than you think, and with things buttoned up in the winter it is a real hazard. I read of someone blowing up their boat and being seriously injured not long ago. Acetone was being used to remove carpet adhesive.
2. Watch your product choice. Epoxy is relatively safe in terms of fumes, polyester resin is not in a closed space. I know of 3 fatalities in one tank at a neighboring industrial facility. When it "kicks" there is a lot of styrene generated. The same with strippers; some generate fewer fumes than others. The same with solvents; use small amounts and ventilate.
3. Masks.The only respirators worth using are fitted with disposable cartridges. Sailnet has a nice selection for reasonable prices (
Shop.Sailnet.com - sailing resources, shopping, sail, blogs) and so do many web sites. Not the particle filter. The full face respirators take cartiges on each check that are not shown. Be sure you can get replacement cartridges. Use "organic" cartridges, add mist filters on top of them if you are spraying. Replace them when breathing becomes more difficult or you can smell the paint. Personally, I really like the full face models because they keep ALL of the dust and fumes out of my eyes. However, fitting glasses with them can be tricky.
3a. Don't EVERY wear contacts when you need a respirator. Very bad.
4. Fit. Before you use it you need to make sure it does not leak. Something like strong perfumed sprayed around the mask while you move your head around and talk will give you a good idea. Not every brand fits every face. Thin faces take small masks, even if you area big person. (OSHA requires a specific fit test procedure).
Google "respirator selection."
http://multimedia.3m.com/mws/mediawe...6EVs6E666666--. This is from 3M, but OSHA and everyone else offers guidance too.
Always ventilate. Lack of O2 can get you too.