Anti pollution face masks

[Devonian]

The N95 standard is a US designation and is not normally seen in the UK, the nearest European equivalent to an N95 mask is an FFP2 respirator, however even for works on construction sites in the UK, the higher FFP3 Respirators (equivalent to a US N99 Mask) is recommended and will filter 99% of particulates - so this is what I would recommend.

However the key issue with any mask/respirator is making sure you fit it correctly to your face, if you do not position the mask correctly on your face and adjust it, then the filtering effects will be completely lost as you will simply end up breathing in air through gaps between the seal of the mask and your face, as this is the area of least resistance.

You will also find that not all masks will fit the shape of your face and you may need to try a couple of different designs/makes before you find the one best for your face shape/size.

Also always try and get valved respirators as they help to expel the exhaled air much more easily, making breathing, especially strenuous breathing a lot easier.

Also if you have a beard, then these sorts of respirators are a waste of time as you will not achieve a seal between the mask and your face, in this case you are going to need a full face reuseable respirator - think of fire fighters mask without the oxygen tanks.

Finally, as NR suggested, goggles are also good to have, but again if you are wearing a respirator, have you checked to see if the goggles and mask are compatible?? You may find that when wearing your respirator your goggles end up sitting on the respirator which results in them being lifted off your face, in which case they are no more use than your standard glasses!!

So as with all of your kit, get it out, use it and check it works and provides you with the protection that you need.

For those in an urban environment, this is particularly true and also don't underestimate how much harder (and hotter) it will be to do things when wearing a respirator/goggles, running down the street carrying your GHB/BOB.