Respirator or Mask for working with MDF - Woodworking Talk

End Grain · 03-15-2008, 03:17 PM

No matter what I read on the subject of MDF or hear about from others, protection against MDF dust and the urea formaldehyde that the product itself contains and gives off is critical. Fair enough.

In my line of general repair work or woodworking, I normally use the 3M N95 face mask with exhaust valve and, on occasion, a face shield. However, no matter what store I go into, or catalog I read, or on-line site I browse through, there does NOT seem to be a respirator or mask specifically recommended for use with cutting or sanding MDF. None of the manufacturers I've looked at apparently want to address it.

I'd appreciate any insight or advice from the more experienced users of the product and who still possess very good pulmonary health.

Thanks.

mmwood_1 · 03-15-2008, 08:27 PM

I'm not exactly sure which mask that is, but if it has changeable filters, then the mask will work if it fits you well. The main thing is to put filters on for VOC filtration, as you would for spraying a finish. The dust filters will filter the dust, but NOT the VOC's. The VOC filters will get both. They are heavier and less comfortable, but when I researched this years ago, that was the conclusion, and it works well for me.

skymaster · 03-16-2008, 02:22 PM

There are self contained facemask,and respirator systems out there. motorized,fullfacemask etc. Look at rockler, lee valley Google. If I can find a link I will send one to ya

skymaster · 03-16-2008, 02:28 PM

There are self contained facemask,and respirator systems out there. motorized,fullfacemask etc. Look at rockler, lee valley Google. If I can find a link I will send one to ya http://www.amazon.com/Triton-PRA001-.../dp/B0000DEZO8

End Grain · 03-17-2008, 01:00 AM

Thanks for the replies, folks.

I spent some time Googling around and came up with a page about respirators from 3M that may be useful to you and others.

http://multimedia.mmm.com/mws/mediaw...WVVVfuDeA7777t-

Anyway, I just ordered their 6000 Series half-face respirator along with their 60925 Combo Cartridge/Filter which is called out in the chart for woodworking AND for MDF. Grainger has them.

cabinetman · 03-22-2008, 08:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mmwood_1

I'm not exactly sure which mask that is, but if it has changeable filters, then the mask will work if it fits you well. The main thing is to put filters on for VOC filtration, as you would for spraying a finish. The dust filters will filter the dust, but NOT the VOC's. The VOC filters will get both. They are heavier and less comfortable, but when I researched this years ago, that was the conclusion, and it works well for me.

VOC's or whatever the toxic airborne chemicals you are trying to protect yourself from can be somewhat controlled with the nose/mouth respirator with removable cartridges. But, just for FYI, any orifice, including the eyes, ears, etc., can be pathways. The skin itself presents itself as vulnerable.

So, I'm not suggesting a full body suit. What I've done is go to more friendly materials and substances. Plywood is safer than MDF, and lighter too (hey...remember hernia's). Waterbased polyurethane is less of a hazard than lacquer. A wipe on finish is less of a hazard than spraying. I'm just thinking outloud in print.