Do woodworkers need to wear respirators? 

▼EXPAND THIS SECTION FOR MORE RESOURCES RELATED TO THIS VIDEO▼ *Tools used in this video:* Trend Stealth respirator (original): amzn.to/3vyuKfS Trend Stealth Lite mask: amzn.to/3C6cmNQ *Links promised in this video:* -Longer tutorial about masks: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-0RMJ4T5BDHY.html -More videos on our website: stumpynubs.com/ -Subscribe to our e-Magazine: stumpynubs.com/browse-and-subscribe/ -Check out our project plans: stumpynubs.com/product-category/plans/ -Instagram: instagram.com/stumpynubs/ -Twitter: twitter.com/StumpyNubs -Facebook: facebook.com/Stumpy-Nubs-Woodworking-Journal-305639859477973/ ★THIS VIDEO WAS MADE POSSIBLE BY★ Trend amzn.to/3FIN3T3 *Please help support us by using the link above for a quick look around!* (If you use one of these affiliate links, we may receive a small commission) ★SOME OF MY FAVORITE CHEAP TOOLS★ -123 Blocks: lddy.no/vpij -Mechanical Pencils: amzn.to/2PA7bwK -Lumber pencil: amzn.to/2QtwZjv -Pocket Measuring Tape: amzn.to/2kNTlI9 -Irwin Drill Bit Gauge: amzn.to/2AwTkQg -Nut/Bolt/Screw Gauge: amzn.to/2CuvxSK -Self-Centering Punch: amzn.to/2QvbcrC -Self-Centering Bits: amzn.to/2xs71UW -Angle Cube: lddy.no/10nam -Steel Ruler: lddy.no/10mv7 -Utility knife: amzn.to/3nfhIiv -Center-Finding Ruler: lddy.no/10nak -Bit & Blade Cleaner: amzn.to/2TfvEOI -Digital depth gauge: amzn.to/3mwRf2x -Wood Glue: amzn.to/3mqek6M -Spade Bits: amzn.to/3j8XPtD ★SOME OF MY FAVORITE HAND TOOLS★ -Digital Caliper: amzn.to/384H1Or -Marking Gauge: lddy.no/10muz -Marking knife: lddy.no/10mv0 -Narex Chisels: lddy.no/sqm3 -Stanley Sweetheart Chisels: amzn.to/3y5HDOc -Mini Pull Saw: amzn.to/2UEHBz6 -Gent Saw: lddy.no/ss2x -Coping saw: amzn.to/2W7ZiUS -Shinwa Rulers: lddy.no/zl13 ★SOME OF MY FAVORITE POWER TOOLS★ -Miter Saw: amzn.to/3gqIlQ8 -Jointer: amzn.to/3yc3gfZ -Planer: amzn.to/3mn6BGF -Router: amzn.to/3grD22S -Sander: amzn.to/3DdvD0Y -Cordless drill: amzn.to/3D9ZiIm -Brad nailer: amzn.to/3gsRkjH -Mini Compressor: amzn.to/3mvrmQr -Bladerunner: amzn.to/2Wl0TtJ -Jig Saw: amzn.to/3zetTBY -Scroll Saw: amzn.to/3gq9qDc -Multi-Tool: amzn.to/3muZuMi ★SOME OF MY FAVORITE OTHER TOOLS★ -Drill Bits: amzn.to/3B8Ckzh -Forstner Bits: amzn.to/3kk3wEI -Shop Vacuum: amzn.to/2Wkqnbl -Machine Setup Blocks: amzn.to/3gq7kDh -Counter-Sink Bit: amzn.to/37ZukUo -Featherboard: amzn.to/3DeqHsq -ISOtunes Hearing Protection (Save $10): bit.ly/3BHYdH7 (If you use one of the affiliate links above, we may receive a small commission)

I am a man in my early 70's and have lung scarring from asbestos, as 50 years ago asbestos was in everything especially car brake shoes and clutches and I worked in garages, using air lines to blow out asbestos dust from car parts. You only get one set of lungs so take care of them. Wearing a suitable mask is less painful than wheezing, coughing and being short of breath as you get older.

First off, I used to be the shop safety coordinator at a chemical facility that had all sorts of airborne hazards, and everything you said in your video agrees with my safety training. Well done. Just two notes about activated charcoal chemical filters: 1) They wear out as they get used, so change the cartridges when you get break-through smells and store them in an air-tight bag when not in use so the charcoal doesn't get used up adsorbing random stuff out of the air. 2) They are not a magic force-field against all chemicals. They are very effective against some things (e.g. xylene, mineral spirits) and almost completely useless against other things (acetone, ethanol). The manufacturer will have a chart of effectiveness for each of their filters. Fortunately, acetone and ethanol are not very toxic. The critical items are those that charcoal works poorly against but are quite toxic. For most woodworkers the most common item on that list is methylene chloride and its cousins that are common ingredients in solvent-based paint strippers. Bottom line: strip paint with gobs of ventilation, preferably outdoors. Lastly, to answer the title question: yes, a dust booger can kill you if dipped in liquid nitrogen and fired out of a rail gun. Please exercize extreme caution around frozen boogers and rail-guns.

I ordered a respirator mask in March 2020 after watching your video. I have enjoyed using it since it arrived in February 2021.

This and noise is why I LOVE hand tools!

Thanks James

Thanks James, appreciate your affinity to a safe workshop.

I just ordered the Stealth mask and 3 sets of replacement filters. Thanks for the information! I only just discovered your channel the other day when the algorithm pushed it at me. I have subscribed, and I can see I'm going to enjoy going back through your archive! You're the real deal!

You know, James, whenever I need something related to woodworking I ALWAYS check you out. You are a reliable source of information, both because of the information but mostly because you always include the “why”. You don’t prescribe, but you advise. Thank you for making my woodworking experience better and safer!

I picked up aTrend Stealth after seeing it in another of your vids a few months back. I LOVE IT wish I found it sooner! SOO much more comfortable than the 3m cartridge mask I had and it does NOT fog my glasses! TY!

I've been using the Trend mask for about a year now... and love it. Not only does it protect against dust particles, you can say "You merely adopted the dark. I was born in it!" when you put it on. Doesn't get much better than that, really.

I got the Trend mask after watching your video in '19. I wear it almost everyday. Thank you.

I was a total newbie at woodworking and watch your videos all the time. When I went to woodcraft the guy there said you wear the trend so I immediately bought it and have enjoyed it since.

I have that black and red Trend mask. Love it.

Just received a Powercap Active through the post. Game changer for woodwork.

Your information on masks is a breath of fresh air.

Yes, wood dust will damage your lungs full stop. A couple years ago I was making a project with Luan plywood in my windowless unventilated basement shop. I used a router to trim the edges and did not wear any kind of dust mask and spent the next 2 weeks coughing up blood like some depression era tuberculosis patient. I now wear a 3M face mask anytime I'm using power tools even when outside. I never want to have that experience repeated ever. Work smart, work safe!

Another great video! Thanks. I am 62, have been carpenter for 50 years this coming summer. Began in middle school working for my dad during summer. Began building furniture when I was late 20s. I began wearing lung protection 15+ years ago, but have still developed asthma. We did not know these things years ago. Now there is no excuse for not being diligent with our health.

During the 80s and 90s I was the Production and design Mgr for a one of the largest sauna factories in the US. Most of the sauna were made from cedar and redwood., which is impervious to rot and moisture. When I retired we were cutting 52,000 board feet a month. When I was interviewed I made one of my conditions for taking the job that they install a dust collection system for the entire shop area. They agreed and we had a dual cyclone system installed. Until it was finished we supplied all workers with 3m replaceable filter masks that could stop everything down to 5 microns. Not surprisingly the production of the factory almost doubled after the installation was completed. The morale picked up as the workers realized the management cared about them, they also had more energy!

I got a particle detector that measures particle counts in the

Thanks

Once again, sage advice from a knowledgeable source. Clear and concise education. Trend mask time!

I bought one of those black Trend masks when you put out that video. I've worn it so much I sometimes forget that I have it on from time to time. Really like that thing. Thanks

Finally!! Thank you for talking about the difference between a dust mask and a charcoal filter. I have scarring on my lunges from formaldehyde and every time i see a RU-vid on finishes and masks I ask them to talk about the need for a charcoal filter for the volatiles but every time I get a defensive answer , my mask is a p2 (n95) or a p3 (I'm in Australia and our clarifications are different ) this is the first video I've seen that has pointed out the difference. Hopefully people will take on board save their lunges. Cheers mate

I bought a Stealth mask about 6 months ago and it is great!!!

Thanks for giving so much info on what each mask can do and how some can fail because of fit issues. I'm sure there are a lot of times that the mask I was using did not do what I thought it would.

Switched to the Stealth mask about 6 months ago. Absolutely true it's light and it's effective. Should probably hand one on each of my dusty tools.

I have been using the Stealth for a couple of years and find that it seals very well and is comfortable compared to the larger respirators. Thanks for another well thought out video.

I love your take on safety topics. The perfect balance for the "I know mah rights" folks and the common sense real-world folks.

Thank you for the most enlightening video on face masks I have every seen. I now understand where the dust hazards are in my work shop and how to deal with them. Your presentation was excellent and informative. Keep up the great work. I am ordering a Trend respirator today.

As a healthcare professional and an aspiring woodworker well done.

I'm a Woodworker not a doctor Jim! Love it! You are awesome sir!

personally a huge fan of that 3m mask, i wear them at work and the quick release catch on the front is fantastic, i work in the construction industry so smashing walls apart and all the dust stays out PLUS due to being in the uk, a quick flip of the catch once i step out the room and i can enjoy my tea ;)

Thank you for the mask recommendations! Received mine a couple days ago and had an opportunity to use them in my small shop. Very comfortable! Much appreciated.

This channel is really soothing for me. Thank you, Mr Nubs!

Thanks for explaining that info on N95 masks. As a rep for a coatings company I had to wear a respirator when spraying and every year we have to do a fit test to comply with regulations.

best woodworking channel on youtube.

I use the Trend stealth mask. I like the fit, and I can wear for long periods of time, in fact most of the time after I put it on I sometimes keep wearing it to do other cutting tasks around the shop. Even if it's not a time consuming job. It's also good for running my scroll saw. Stay safe!

We just brought on a very promising young apprentice. Currently doing a million + remodel 😲…..amazing job! My first instinct was to send him a link to you so he can learn from in my opinion, THE BEST! Thank you, Stumpy for all you do! There is stiff competition out there, but you remain my favorite!

If you have any facial hair, the options are really limited when it comes to dust and chemicals. If you don't get a hard seal against your skin, the air will come in all around the edges (like you said on the surgical masks). So those of us with a beard either need to lose the hair, or wear a full face shield. Back in 2020, I wanted to get a positive pressure shield/helmet (boy are those expensive) and they were all immediately sold out. Still a bit crazy. Semi-related: viewers should also know that any mask with a valve is great for THIS use, not for wearing to the supermarket. The valves negate the use there.

I bought the trend after your last vid, it's amazing.. I have a beatf and although I don't get a perfect fit, I still have the positive suction, it's wild. Great gear

Thanks for sharing James.

I purchased the Stealth mask from Stealth directly, just looks like a green version of the Trend. I really enjoy it and I find that I sometimes forget it is on during long sanding sessions. Working in a 10x12’ shed I have already turned a set of filters dark brown from Wenge dust. I cannot imagine what that dust could do in my lungs. I highly recommend the Stealth/Trend mask.

I have a JSP Powercap for woodturning. Love it. Love it. Love it. It fits over my beard. It’s only for particulate and projectile safety though. Not for fumes.

Thank you Stumpy. Lots of facts and meaningful discussion.

Just got into woodworking and your videos have been great! I am a Respiratory Therapist so lung protection is key for me. But I have to say, this is one of the best explained videos on mask usage I’ve seen in my 17 year career.

Thank you for this safety vid.

Thank you for all this information. It’s good to get correct details so that we can make an educated decision. It’s our health and we need to take action to protect ourselves. 👍

Amazing! I've been putting off doing needed work in the attic (pulling copper to replace aluminium wiring)... you know, old house, dirty, dusty OLD STYLE fiberglass insulation! My RZ Mask just wasn't sufficient... Your video and link motivated me to pick up the "Trend Stealth." Perfect! I could not praise it more! It did a perfect job of protecting my lungs from the cr__ err, "stuff" impregnating the air. Thanks so much!

There are so so many sources of information out there, however only a few are accurate and trustworthy. You are definitely the one I go to first. Bottom line… THANK YOU FOR ALL THAT YOU DO!! I’m also impressed with many of the quality comments posted by your viewers. It’s very nice having a great community to go to for advice. So… Thank you to all those who contribute.

I use the Trend stealth mask you had recommended. Love it

I've been wearing the Stealth since this summer by my glasses definitely fog up. Worth it for the protection though. Thanks for the reminder and update.

Yes, especially with exotic hardwoods.

I am very new to woodworking, just completing my first bookcase for my daughter and expanding my tool collection by one miter saw in doing so. while there are many things I need to acquire if I continue this path, your confidence and explanation brought by your experience as a woodworker and teacher has me putting one of those stealth masks and a pair of goggles in the cart and purchased it just minutes ago to better protect myself over the coming years. my lungs thank you in advance and so do I and my family as well.

Simple and straight forward video. Nice.

Thanks, James, for another clear review of a vitally important safety topic! As an occupational physician, I have battled for years with humans’ tendency to choose the “easy”way out and not protect their lungs. Agree with all your points, although I could not have explained them so succinctly. Generally, people don’t realize that users need to be fitted for an N95 mask (a challenge test measure by a tech when wearing the respirator) to ensure that model actually seals on your face, or the “95%” part is out the window. Following your previous advice, I use the Trend Stealth in my shop: love its small form factor, light wt, and easy breathing; couple of my woodworking buddies have switched to it after trying mine (after cleaning for any airborne viruses, of course!). Kudos on the great teaching; you’re my go to for serious shop info!

Great video Stumpy. I retired after 35 years as a cabinetmaker. I wore an N95 mask an average of 6 hours a day. Often, just on account of the fine dust particles in the air. My lungs are still in great shape!

That is fantastic!! Thank you so much for explaining the differences!

Good info, well presented and concise. Probably the most relevant health advice many have recieved in a couple of years.

GOOD IDEA AND SAFE.

I was looking for a good mask to wear in my shop (I used to be really bad and never wore one). I ended up buying the Stealth mask based on one of your other videos (and a bit of research and reviews of other's experiences). I love the mask. I wear glasses and I don't have to worry about them fogging up. It is lightweight and low profile, so I don't have something big and bulky on my face getting into my field of vision while I set up and cut my workpieces. I have to say thank you for that recommendation.

A lot of very useful information here as always, love how you go straight into the why and make it clear through simple and common observations why what youre saying makes sense I stumbled across the stealth months ago and it looked like a quality respirator and had good reviews but I didnt buy it because I already have one of those bulky half masks. Now that you mention it I realize I basically never wear that thing unless I really have to, so I went ahead and bought that slimmer one you mentioned here. Theyre cheap enough to definitely be worth having the option to grab something more convenient than the big mask and more effective than the thin ones

I purchased the trend because of it’s ability to keep the fogging down. It works well for that so far.

Thank you for this considered review. Something important to stress is that studies show there is increased risk of lung cancer among workers with substantial cumulative exposure to wood dust. So, like asbestos , each exposure adds to your risk. Even the little ones.

Thanks Stumpy, you may have prevented many of us amateur woodworkers from (perhaps minor) lung fibrosis. I made the mistake of not wearing a mask during many cuts of Maple, and for a week was coughing hard, especially during showers (humidity seems to trigger the lungs to try to get stuff out). That's when I became convinced I needed to use a mask except if working outside on a windy day. 🙏

Thanks! once more for this topic. I find myself also too often working without mask. Now I ordered one of theses stealth masks, and I'm looking forward to use it while sanding.

Great video, thanks a lot! For all those out there on a budget that make do with disposable masks: be aware that "surgical" as well as N95 disposable masks have varying quality. Shady companies are happy to print whatever it takes on their product, regardless if they have actually passed any tests. Stick to known reliable sources, even though prices may be higher. It is for your own good.

Great advice... the trouble of putting on some kind of protection is worth saving on health bills later in life. I have been using a Miller LPR100 for years now, which is designed to filter out welding fumes and 99.97% of all airborne particulates. The Miller looks much like the Trend masks. It has likely saved me from many sinus infections which appear to happen if I look at a pile of sawdust the wrong way.

Bought the Trend. Thanks. Love it.

Excellent video. Thank you. I found my black Trend mask to be comfortable for hours. It's worth remembering that wood dust, because it's from a living thing is far more dangerous than metal dust for example.

Bought both sizes of the Trend Stealth in case one didn't fit. Ended up the larger one fits me perfectly and my daughter can use the smaller one. The stealth is so much more comfortable than my old mask I actually find myself using it even for 1 off cuts, etc.

Excellent video, James! Great information! Thank you for your work!

Great discussion James, thanks for sharing it.

I caught this video a couple weeks ago and, as you suggested, just watched your 2019 mask video. I had wondered about the smaller "rubber" mask you show. For me, well worth checking out the brand you suggested. Thanks for your unbiased reviews.

I’m lucky enough to have a Versaflo PAPR (respirator with positive air flow and a HEPA filter). Not cheap but this is the best money I’ve spent in my shop. Worth a mention IMO. Thanks Stumpy.

I watched this video when it first appeared. I had to come back just to comment. I bought the trend stealth, based on Stumpy's comment that a mask that is comfortable and easy to put on and off will be used more. I will attest to the fact that is correct. I used to never bother with the mask if I was only going to be cutting for 5 minutes or so. Now I put it on for a single cut. I really like the hook attachment on the lower strap.

Thanks Stubby!

4:00 yeah, got one on. U got me !

Great video, your information is concise and accurate. As some have mentioned, if you get breakthrough odors using an activated charcoal canister, it is definitely time to change your mask. It is worth pointing out that with some toxic chemicals that by the time you notice breakthrough odor, you have potentially already had overexposure to the chemical. It is worth the time to do a little bit of studying and even making phone calls to a manufacturer regarding exposure limits of specific chemicals. Most manufacturers will have charts online or with the cartridges that tell you the time exposure the chemical exposure cartridges will protect you for a specific chemical. As most woodworkers know, we use mixtures of chemicals. Simply check the list of chemicals and select the one that has the fastest breakthrough time and use that for your baseline cartridge changeout time for using that chemical product. The offensiveness of the odor or the ‘“more smelly” a chemical IS NOT a measure of its toxicity. It is also worth mentioning that companies publish safety data sheets (SDS) that will normally suggest appropriate PPE for usage of their product. Keep a copy around the shop prior to using the product. This can be critical if you are using a product for the first time and you have a significant reaction to the product. Taking that SDS with you to the emergency room or other medical treatment facility could mean quicker treatment, more targeted treatment, and possibly the difference between life and death. A couple other mentions, while there are pressurized hoods available that supply forced air to a hose attached to the over the head hood, these are only suitable with pressurized air systems suited for breathing air, don’t use your shop compressor, never!! I would suggest always storing a respirator in a sealed container. It keeps it clean, and guess what, the fine dust particles settle inside that mask. Those will be the first particles you breath in when you put on your mask. Make a habit of cleaning your respirator regularly and keep a schedule on the wall where your mask is stored so you know when it was last cleaned, when the cartridges were changed, and the number of hours it has been used. Thanks again for keeping us all thinking about the thing we all enjoy, making wood dust.

Thanks for the reminder, James. Just ordered the Stealth since it's only $20 right now. I've used the 3M/P100 quick release version for several years but it's not something I can wear for an extended time. (love the quick release tho). Hopefully the Trend will encourage more use.

Used the stealth mask for about 3 years but the cost of replacement cartridge got wild during the pandemic. Works really well and can be worn for a comparatively long time.

Based on your recommendations before, I bought both the Trend and the 3m Quick Release, and am very happy with both...although I am NOT happy about the crazy high pricing for spare Trend cartridges!! The proof that the Trend is comfortable is seen when I leave My shop and go in the house for a few minutes for something and don't bother to remove it!!

Excellent info as always! Thanks for posting!

Very nicely explained

just excellent video, perfect explanation

I really screwed up my lungs while doing a kitchen remodeling by sanding drywall mud without using a mask. Five years later I still have diminished lung capacity. This video has a very good explanation of the types of masks we should be using when doing anything where exposure to fine particles can happen.

very informative as always. Loving the safety videos lately. in fact, looked back on some of the dumb things ive done in the past(from not knowing any better) and will be changing a couple of habits. Thanks

Thanks again for your reserch and expertise. I'm a better safer woodworker because of your channel!

Absolutely required! Even common cedar is among the most toxic wood available.....especially when sanding.

I too find myself rarely using my half face respirator because of how uncomfortable it is. I ordered a stealth after watching your previous video and love it. It's very comfortable and seals well, because of that i actually use it. I further plan on using it while mowing on dry, windy days.

I use a 3m cartridge mask when I spray a finish. If you spray on Cabots Australian Gold or Cabots Timber Oil, be sure to use a dual cartridge for vapors and particulates. The vapors will cause sinus and blood pressure problems.

This subject is so,so important. Dust is killing me. Thanks

Excellent explanation! Thank you for all the information!!

Hi James, another good and informative video. Back in 2015 I was diagnosed with a rare chronic neurological condition called Myasthenia gravis. Its onset was sudden and my wife thought I had developed Motor Neurons Disease ,the symptoms were similar. It is a condition which is extremely difficult to isolate till you end up in the emergency room. Basically the brain sends its movement message to the muscle and between the nerve and muscle is a gel, for the want of a simpler description. The condition blocks the nerve transmission to the muscle. I worked in the Aviation industry, and after I was diagnosed a close work colleague was diagnosed too. At the time there were only 650 or so confirmed cases in the country (Ireland) and as many as twice that visiting their doctors trying to find out what is making them sick. To cut to the chase my buddy and I were particularly safety conscious having been involved in the workplace safety training program. We both worked around heavy chemicals and wore our masks and safety glasses when appropriate. We both agreed that chemical exposure was the cause of our condition. At that time there were over 3000 carcinogenic substances in use, from paints ,adhesives and solvents. What were the chances of two people out of approximately 900 people contracting such a rare condition within the company. We both have the same neurological consultant, and he found it interesting that we worked together, its not contagious or hereditary. The condition has stabilised six years on and a cocktail of medication. But trying to explain to the young guys to wear masks, a waste of breath. I cant see it, Wont hurt me attitude. This was despite the fact the company brought in 3M to fit everybody for the correct size mask and disposable n95 masks were readily available. The thing is guys, Wear the mask. Your only on the planet once. After watching the video I located a Trend Stealth for my wood working to keep the dust from my lungs. Its a ten star mask. Its probably the most comfortable mask I've worn, relatively inexpensive and according to Trend, the filters are rated to last 28; eight hour days. so if you only wear it for an hour at a time its win win and cheaper than a lung transplant. Again, especially to you younger guys wear a mask. Thanks again James for a great video.

Thank you very much for the information supplied! My major thing was the high prices of masks and protection gear overall. The Stealth is very affordable and I will order one shortly. Can't wait to use it! Have a nice weekend sir!

The title alone deserves a comment! Best title ever?

You surely deserve the title "Woodworking Doctor"... Thanks for the info!

Brilliant video and very well presented. Cheers, mate.

Thanks, Jim. Very useful information.

Thank you for all of the excellent videos and well researched information. Great title! Bottom line is: if you get dust boogers while woodworking then you are significantly increasing your risk of future lung disease; if you don’t get dust boogers because you have dust collector and shop vac, etc you could still be at high risk because those dust management systems are unlikely to capture the small dangerous particles. A simple niosh respirator like you recommend is your best (least expensive, least annoying, and most effective) insurance. Thanks again. Great channel.