What respirator do I need for grinding metal?

Most of us have heard about the dangers of welding, and the effect welding fumes can have on your lungs. But what about the effects of metal dusts and particles from grinding? Is a dust mask or respirator required for adequate protection? Let’s find out…

It sure will! Just read some of the forums online – lots of people talking about how they didn’t wear protection while doing a ‘small’ job, and then found themselves with a sore throat and breathing difficulties after.

Depending on what you’re working on, grinding and deburring can produce airborne metal, composite, rubber or fiberglass dust that is really dangerous to breathe in. These dusts can cause a range of health effects, mostly to do with the lungs. One of the most common conditions is known as pneumoconiosis or “dusty lung” which causes scar tissue build up in the lining of the lungs leading to serious, chronic lung problems – possibly even cancer.

But wait! Lungs aren”t the only organs you need to protect. Some particles can dissolve into the bloodstream and travel through the body to other organs – scary huh! This can cause serious issues in the liver, kidneys and even the brain.

A dust mask will provide some protection from grinding dust, but since these masks do not provide a tight face seal, they can not fully protect against finer particles or chemicals in the workshop.

If you’re grinding is more than once in a blue moon, or you’re grinding anything that may contain dangerous chemicals, it’s recommended you invest in at least a half or full face respirator with the correct filters fitted.

At a minimum it is recommended you use a fitted half-face respirator with P2 particulate filters fitted. For a negative pressure mask to be effective:

• The correct filters must be correctly fitted to the mask, and in good condition.
• The wearer must be clean shaven to achieve a proper face seal.
• The mask must be fitted to the wearer’s face – see information on respirator fit testing.
• Each time the respirator is put on, the wearer should conduct a respirator fit check.