Nowadays, farming relies on the use of pesticides and herbicides that increase the crop yield. The use of herbicides also stirs up dust, pollen, and other airborne substances that can affect your lungs and airways.
In fact, a CDC study finds that a weed-killing chemical, glyphosate, is linked to cancer in more than 80% of urine samples drawn from children and adults.
That’s why you need to find the right protective face mask to balance comfort, breathability, and effective filtration to ensure that you are protected during those long hours spent in your garden or farm.
The number of protective face mask choices can be overwhelming. Now, how do you know which one to use for your summer weed killer safely? And how do you know you are properly wearing the mask? This blog will provide the necessary information that you need to keep in mind for summer weedkiller safety.
Why Do You Need a Protective Face Mask for Summer Weedkiller Safety?
Weedkillers or insecticides/pesticides are used to control the population of pests that damage crops in the garden. While they can control the damage, they can also be harmful to your health if not used with precautions.
Inhaling herbicides can damage your respiratory tract and may be transported into your bloodstream within moments. Regular exposure can trigger consequences, including allergic reactions, nose and throat irritation, asthma attacks, and respiratory infections. Over time, it can lead to chronic respiratory conditions, inflammation in your lungs, neurological damage, and even death.
A quality protective face mask can protect your lungs and respiratory health from pesticides and other garden hazards like dust, pollen, mould spores, and soil particles. It will create a barrier that filters out harmful particles while allowing you to breathe comfortably throughout your gardening activity.
Types of Protective Masks to Ensure Safety Against Summer Weedkillers
Respirators and other face masks are often used in gardening and agriculture. To choose the right one to use, you need to understand the types of mask available. Here are some best protective masks options (including powered air purifying respirator) that will keep harmful particles at bay and let you breathe easily throughout your gardening tasks.
1. N95 Respirators
N95-powered respirator is a popular choice among gardeners when spraying insecticides. It can filter out 95% of airborne particles, including small particles such as mould and dust. They are quite comfortable to wear due to their lightweight design. Plus, it also provides a tight seal around your nose and mouth.
Here are the N95 respirators that you can buy:
| Name | Link to Buy |
|---|---|
| 3M 8810 FFP2 Dust/Mist Respirator - 20 Box | Link |
| 3M Aura 9320+ FFP2 Dust/Mist Respirator - 20 Box | Link |
| Moldex 2405 Valved FFP2 Dust Respirator (Pack 20 Masks) | Link |
2. Half face Mask Respirators
Half face masks cover your nose and mouth with replaceable cartridges to filter out particles. It provides a higher level of protection than normal reusable masks. Moreover, they are more comfortable to wear for longer periods.
Here are the top half-face mask respirators that you can buy:
| Name | Link to Buy |
|---|---|
| Moldex- Reusable Half Mask Respirator Protection Moldex 7000 | Link |
| Sundstrom SR100 Half Mask & P3 Filter | Link |
| Elipse P3 Protective Respiratory Mask(SPR501) | Link |
3. Full-Face Mask Respirators
Full face powered air respirators offer complete protection from airborne particles, including weedkillers. These masks will cover your face, giving you a tight seal around your nose and mouth. Full Face Respirators are bulkier than half-face masks, but they provide the highest level of protection when spraying insecticides.
Here are the top full-face mask respirators that you can buy:
| Name | Link to Buy |
|---|---|
| 3M 6000 Full Face Mask | Link |
| Moldex Full Face Respirator- 9000 Series | Link |
| 3M Promask Full Facepiece Respirator FM3/FF-300 | Link |
How to Fit Test the Protective Face Mask for Summer Weedkillers?
To get a respirator that protects you, it has to fit you properly. Nothing should interfere with the seal between the surface of the air-fed respirator mask and your face, including your facial hair, be it stubble or beard. Also, the respirator should be put on correctly to fit well. You can have a pre-evaluation to make sure that you have a proper fit that does not endanger your health.
Protective Masks Direct provides face fit testing kits and services as well. Each face fit test requires maximum 20 minutes, and our experts will perform this test onsite anywhere across the UK.
How to Choose the Right Protective Face Mask?
No two protective face masks are designed equally. Here are some tips to keep in mind while selecting the protective face mask for you,
- Prioritise NIOSH certification (N95 or more) for better filtration of fine particles.
- Look out for adjustable nose bridges and secure straps to prevent leakage of air around the edges.
- Seek out the mask with exhalation valves, lightweight materials, and moisture-wicking features to prevent heat buildup during extended gardening in high temperatures.
- Choose comfortable materials and breathing valves to enhance well-being during long gardening sessions.
- Consider masks with replacement filters to fit your budget
- Opt for a mask that balances particle filtration and breathability so that you can wear it with assurance.
How Long Do These Mask Filters Typically Last?
A mask filter’s life span varies by brand and your gardening conditions. Most table filters can extend up to two to four weeks with regular use. Disposable masks are for single-use, while the masks the replaceable filters can protect for upto 30 days per filter. You can replace filters when you notice any significant breathing resistance or if the mask becomes dirty or damaged.
Wrapping Up
Spraying the weed killer can be a challenging task. It requests not just the proper equipment but also the right safety gear. One such essential piece of gear is the right mask, which will ensure your safety and get the job done well. So, how can you choose the best mask for summer weed killers? At Protective Mask Direct, whether you’re spraying weedkiller, treating invasive plants, or maintaining your fields, we offer quality protective face masks that will provide premium protection for your respiratory health.
