Is P3 OK?

[matt]

Hi,

I'm about to purchase some dust masks and noticed that some P3 masks have "ultra soft neoprene" inside. This, I suspect, would form a better seal against my short beard.

However... I don't really understand what all the P's mean... I take it P1 is basic and seem to recall that P2 was the norm for woodworking. Therefore (assuming I've got that correct), is a P3 OK for woodworking too? I'm guessing it should be but don't want to get caught out by some wierd reverse technology...

Cheers

Matt

 

[orangetlh]

Hi matt, the P ratings just show how much the masks filter out. P1 are generally for clearing garden rubbish, things like that. P2 are for finer dust like wood dust or house dust and P3 is the rating for aerosols and the finest of dust. I have never used a P3 but i guess they would be a lot harder to breath through. I dont know for sure though but i expect someone wil soon let you know.

Tom

 

[RogerS]

Matt

A quick Google search yielded this site http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/wis14.pdf

Roger

 

[matt]

Cheers, Roger. A useful link. I guess I'm going to have to shave!