If you’re considering a gas mask, you probably have a few questions. In this blog, I will be covering some of the frequently asked questions about gas masks. Hopefully, it will help you decide the best gas mask for you and the considerations that need to be made before buying one.
How long will a gas mask last?
Gas masks should last you a long time, especially if you take good care of your mask. For instance, your mask will deteriorate over time. However, there are things you can do to speed up this process. For example, you don’t want to store your mask in the sunlight or keep it sitting on a display mask. Again, if you take good care of your mask, yours should last up to 20 years for some brands.
How often do I need to change out my gas mask filter?
When you change out your gas mask filters/canisters will depend. Have you used them? If so, for how long? Have they been sitting unused? If so, for how long? Have they been exposed to any damage? In general, you should change out your filter(s) when it becomes difficult to breathe. Another great rule of thumb is to replace them after 40 hours (depending on the size/quality of the filter) or after you’ve used the filters for 30 days. If you wear the mask for 40 hours straight, you aren’t going to want to wait for day 30 before you change the filter out.
How do I clean my gas mask?
There are a few ways to go about cleaning your mask. This is really important if you’re ever issued a gas mask. Why? Because you’re using a mask that someone else definitely had their face in. While they’re supposed to be cleaned prior (I once got the chance to volunteer and help out with this), I wouldn’t trust it’s been done. So, do it yourself too.
You can use disinfectant wipes if you’re cleaning it between your own use, but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this right after it’s been issued. Ideally, you’ll want to use a cleaning solution to help get into the smaller crevices. Do this by dunking the mask in it and scrub it with a soft cloth until it is adequately cleaned.
Somethings you want to keep in mind when cleaning your gas mask: it’s better for your mask if you use a natural detergent (if you’d like); also, when you wash the mask, make sure the water/cleaning solution isn’t over 120ºF.
If you’re not getting a mask issued and you decide to buy new, there might be disinfectant wipes included. You can save those to use between personal wear or use them initially before you don the mask for the first time. Either way, I’d advise keeping a few in your bag at all times.
Can I wear a gas mask with a beard?
This is a question we hear a lot, and generally, the answer is no. Some masks claim to fit the bearded face better than others, but you still pose the risk of not getting a proper seal. If shaving your beard is a concern, consider a gas mask hood.
Can I wear my glasses with a gas mask?
Every gas mask is different. If you wear glasses, you’re going to need gas mask inserts. And just because your inserts fit one brand doesn’t mean they’ll fit in another. The reason you can’t wear your standard, everyday glasses is because they prevent a proper seal. Some will advise you that you can wear contacts. However, if you usually wear glasses and something were to happen, would you really want to worry about getting contacts into your eyes?
And let’s not forget that the reason you’re wearing a gas mask might be due to chemicals. I don’t think I’d want to worry about my contacts melting to my eyes, so I keep my inserts with my mask.
Are surplus gas masks safe?
Military surplus gas masks are typically a cheaper way of getting protection. However, if this is a route you’re considering, keep these things in mind.
- The filters coming with the gas mask are probably expired, and you’ll need to replace them
- Some gas mask contain asbestos (illegal to sell, but doesn’t mean it won’t happen)
- Maybe stay away from the Russian surplus gas mask; they are known to be filled with asbestos
Can a gas mask protect against fires?
Unless your gas mask comes with a specific filter to filter out smoke and carbon monoxide, the answer is no. And some gas masks aren’t meant to hold up to extreme temperatures. If this is the case, your gas mask could melt, in which case it won’t do you much good now, will it?
Do gas masks provide oxygen?
No, they only filter air unless you have an SCBA.
Are there gas masks made for children?
Somehow, a rumor got started that gas masks aren’t available for children. While this was true at one point in time, it is no longer the case. So, yes, there are gas masks made for children. However, they are not in as high demand as masks for adults; therefore, not many companies make them. Just as you should do for yourself, if you have children, get them a gas mask fit test, so you know what size mask they’ll need.
Is my gas mask guaranteed to protect me?
Assuming you’re using your gas mask correctly, you have the correct filters for the contamination you’re exposed to, and your filters aren’t expired, then your gas mask will protect contaminates from entering your nose, mouth, and eyes. However, some contaminants you’re trying not to breathe in can adversely affect your skin as well. If you have a gas mask on, but you’re not wearing protective equipment to cover your other exposed skin, you will likely introduce those same contaminants into your body through the skin. For optimal protection, you should also invest in personal protective equipment to cover your entire body.
How long will my filter last once I start using it?
How long your filter lasts will depend on a few things, but one sure thing is, it won’t last forever. We can’t answer this question specifically because multiple factors play into your gas mask filter’s life. First, what’s the capacity of your filter? You should be able to get this information directly from the manufacturer. However, the manufacturer won’t know the concentration of the air contaminants and conditions of your environment pre and post-contamination. These all play a part, but one sure way to know you need a new filter is when you start having difficulty breathing.
How do I know if my gas mask fits me properly?
The best way to know if your gas mask fits you properly is to get yourself a fit test. A gas mask fit test will tell you what size mask you need. Once you know this, you shop for that size. Now, to make sure it’s on your face correctly, for optimal protection, you need to make sure there’s a tight seal around your entire face. This seal should prevent any contaminants from leaking in.
One thing you need to keep in mind is that your gas mask isn’t guaranteed to fit for life. For instance, if you gain a lot of weight (particularly on your face), your mask may no longer fit. To be certain, if you have extreme fluctuations in weight, either gained or lost, you should have a fit test done.
Did we miss anything? Do you have further recommendations or advice? Please, comment below. We love hearing from our readers!
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