Breathing Care

Almost all construction activities create some sort of breathing hazard (coffee breaks are pretty safe) and attention should be paid to these hazards as most exposure has a cumulative effect. Three categories cover most types of exposure: oxygen deficient, particulates, and gasses and vapors. Home repair folks encounter the last two regularly.

The first step in respiratory care should concentrate on avoiding hazards; those you can't avoid protect yourself against. Proper ventilation addresses the former, and masks (respirators) address the latter. When selecting a mask, make sure the mask matches the exposure. There is no such thing as a universal respirator. Caution: a poorly fitted mask is the same as no mask.

- Stephen Corwin

-- Anonymous, June 22, 2001