It can be hard to avoid grinding metal without the proper preparation, but these face masks will help you grind your metal without worry. They’re all made with an air filter and iron-filtered glass so you won’t get any dust in your lungs when you wear them, plus they also have earmuffs so you don’t have to worry about noise damage. These masks are more comfortable than others you may have worn in the past, too, and they don’t mess up your hair if you wear your hair up while grinding metal.
Will breathing in metal dust and particles from grinding affect my lungs?
Indeed, it will! Just browse a few online forums – there are countless accounts of individuals who neglected to wear protective gear while performing a’small’ task and afterwards developed a sore throat and breathing troubles.
Depending on the material being worked on, grinding and deburring might generate extremely hazardous metal, composite, rubber, or fiberglass dust. These dusts can cause a variety of health problems, most of which involve the lungs. Pneumoconiosis, often known as “dusty lung,” is one of the most prevalent disorders that causes scar tissue to form in the lining of the lungs, leading to serious, persistent lung issues and maybe even cancer.
But wait! The lungs are not the only organ that need protection. Some particles can dissolve into the bloodstream and migrate to different organs throughout the body. This can cause severe problems with the liver, kidneys, and brain.
Should I wear a mask while cutting metal?
There’s no easy answer to that question. If you are working with your face very close to the grinder, the sparks could bounce off the workpiece and come at you. If you’re working inside or in a confined environment like inside of a tank, then you should wear N95 dust masks respirator of some sort. You need to be aware of the material that you’re working on.
What mask should I wear when grinding metal?
A face mask is a must if you’re grinding metal, as grinding causes silica to be released into your lungs. Silica can lead to lung disease, so it’s important to wear a high-quality mask when working with sanding grit or other fine particles. When wearing a mask, remember that quality matters more than cost: Some masks won’t keep out silica. A poor-quality face mask may end up costing you thousands of dollars in extra medical expenses down the road—not a good deal! Look for an NIOSH certification on any face masks you buy; these are certified to keep out fine particles like those that result from using power tools and grinders.
NIOSH Approved Benehal MS6115L N95 Cup Mask
NIOSH Approved Benehal 6815S N95 Mask
NIOSH Approved Benehal 6175L N95 Mask
Conclusion
Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles) to protect against flying particles. Gloves, aprons, metatarsal safety boots, hearing protection, and respiratory protection may be required, depending on the work. Ensure the floor around the work area is clean.