Any suggestions, advice, experiences with mask(s) to purchase for my teenage son to use when he is going to work on my car? I want to have a mask(s)ready and available immediately when he begins. Thank you - I appreciate all the replies I receive! Someone mentioned a "cartridge" type of mask.. :confused:

Cartridge mask are available at any industrial supply store. There are two types (both relatively inexpensive): a bite type and a facial type.

The bite type is the least effective but they are universal. No fitting is required. They fit into your mouth like a snorkle and air you breath through your mouth is filtered and air you breath through your nose is unfiltered.

The mask type is suppose to require special fitting for leak detection. It covers both the mouth and the nose. You must also be clean shaven.

The most important part is the cartridge as they are designed for different purposes. Some cartridges filter fine particles (like asbestos) and are very good for dusty areas (like sanding indoors) but do nothing to protect against fumes.

There are cartridges for painting, chlorine, etc. The cartridges are disposable and are not meant to last long (some call these 'escape respirators' so the cartridges are only designed to be used once. They are cheap so buy lots.
Your son may not have an objection to using a cartridge respirator (even though he'll have to remove it to have his beer) because it will make him look like a true professional.

If you know anyone in an industrial plant, these cartridge respirators are handed out and there are many around. Even the cartridges are handed out because of safety rules.

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Originally Posted by bhayne

If you know anyone in an industrial plant, these cartridge respirators are handed out and there are many around. Even the cartridges are handed out because of safety rules.

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Thanks for the suggestions and explanations. Well, I do not know anyone in industrial plants...