Reddit reviews 3M 8511 Respirator, N95, Cool Flow Valve (10-Pack)

I think a standard N95 or P100 respirator would be more useful, along with a pair of splash goggles or swimming goggles if you want basic eye protection. There are also portable fire / escape masks that are one-time use: the "Firemask" and the "Breath of Life" come to mind. If I lived somewhere prone to wildfires or earthquakes, I would keep a N95 mask in the car, and possibly a full-face P100 respirator at home in case you need to evacuate amid smoke and smog.

Mil-surp gas masks are big and clunky, they are old, their filters are harder to find and potentially dangerous (asbestos, chromium, etc), and putting them on requires some practice. Would you be willing to carry the full mask + filter everywhere, so that it is readily available? Meanwhile, a N95 mask is cheap, it fits in a pocket, and it deploys in seconds.

If you needed NBC protection, you would need a lot more than just a gas mask...

Thank you for your thorough reply. We have been wearing these https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002YKBV2/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
But we've recently ordered respirators for final part, wish we would have earlier.
Sounds like we made a big mistake--we used a shop vac at the end of the project to pick up some minor spillage spots. What we vacuumed was still very wet though.

Can you just get air testing done for asbestos?? Everywhere I am looking I just see where they sample specific materials (like we had done with the ceilings) but not overall air quality. Is there a different kind of professional I should be looking into contacting?

I've researched these before. These are good masks. You can also get them in hardware stores in the paint isles. Make sure to get ones with the cool-flow valve, as the ones without them can get humid/moist from your breath after a while.

These will be great for your asthma regardless of the smoke, too. These filter particles in the air, but not gases, like the carbon monoxide. They are recommended for filtering particulates from wildfire, too. They're N95 masks, which filter 95% of particulates from the air, and they're cheaper than N100 (99.97%) or P100 (same, but also filter oil particles/tiny "droplets") as well.

I use them when I'm going to be exposed to a lot of dust, such as if I'm cleaning an area that's very dusty, or even for mowing the lawn when there's lots of pollen out.

If you're that worried, get a pair of plastic gloves, one of these, and a plastic trash bag.

Walk over with the trash bag already open, scoop in the moldy bag, and then shut tightly. Toss out in trash. Bravo, you've dealt with your moldy bag.

Now if you're worried mold being on the floor, do the following: wearing the same protective gear, scrub the mold from the floor/ wood/carpet with a mixture of 1 qt. water and 1/2 cup bleach to kill the mold. Use a soft brush and work until signs of the mold disappear. Wipe off, but DO NOT RINSE these surfaces. Leave in direct sunlight to dry.

That's odd. I won't comment on the family situation, so I'll stick to some medical items:

1. Do you have an air purifier? Put it in your room. If you don't have one, go find a HEPA purifier: https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_nr_n_1?fst=as%3Aoff&rh=n%3A510192%2Ck%3Aair+purifier&keywords=air+purifier&ie=UTF8&qid=1479692287&rnid=2941120011
   
   
2. You're likely already taking an antihistamine, right? Make a quick call to your doctor and ask if it's fine to double up on it for the holidays knowing you'll be around known triggers.
   
   
3. Get a 3M N95 mask to prevent issues when you're not in your room: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002YKBV2/
   
   
4. Carry an Epipen or something similar. Use this to have the copay waived: https://www.epipen.com/copay-offer/
   
   
5. Take benadryl to help too. You might need it at night to get a restful night of sleep.
   
   
6. When you talk to your doctor, ask if there is anything else you should do to be well prepared.
   
   Generally speaking, to the extent that you can find activities for you and even the family to do outside of the home, the better for your condition. Do you have your own transportation? If it's really bad, and I only say this from a medical perspective, go back to school, and find a way to not have to live at home if the situation is going to continue.
   
   My hope, for you, is that the dogs are small and won't create too much of a problem. Sorry you're stuck in a hard situation.

Also from SLC, incidentally. I made a post last year about wearing a mask when we have bad air days. TL;DR: Get something rated for at least N95 (like the 3M 8511, a pack of two is only like $8 at Lowes) and wear it when it's Orange or worse on AIRNow.gov.

Tangentially I got a Prius just a month ago and I swear other drivers are more aggressive now. Previously I had a PT Cruiser (silver with purple flames, you may have seen it) and tried to eke every last MPG I could out of that thing so I haven't changed my driving habits at all, but I'm getting a lot more aggressive passes, tailgating, and one guy even drove next to me just to stare me down and give me the finger for a solid 30 seconds. It's like I'm in some bizzaro world.

https://www.amazon.com/3M-8511PB1-Particulate-Respirator-10-Pack/dp/B0002YKBV2

Any of them like this, they have a valve that opens when you exhale and reseals during inhalation.

Bring along a pack of those respirator masks. Your hardware store (Lowes or Home Depot) should have some.

Anything with an N95 rating will work, these ones are nice https://www.amazon.com/3M-8511PB1-Particulate-Respirator-10-Pack/dp/B0002YKBV2

Not an electrician.

For general attic puttering, if you are moderately dust sensitive, a simple dust mask should do like this one.

3M 8511 Respirator, N95, Cool Flow Valve (10-Pack)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_PklnDbF1K3TNG

If you have serious respiratory issues maybe something like this which I use for problematic dust generating hobby stuff or (with the appropriate filters) high fume stuff.

3M Half Facepiece Reusable Respirator 6300/07026(AAD), Respiratory Protection, Large (Pack of 1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007JZ1MK6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ymlnDb29YSW61

Frankly if the simple dust mask isn’t enough, you might consider letting someone else do the attic stuff.

a post I made last year:

I have tried

• Respro Sportsta
  
• 3M 8511 Particulate N95 Respirator
  
• 3M 8233 Particulate N100 Respirator
  
• 3M 6391 P100 Reusable Respirator Gas Mask
  
  
  The Respro is okay. Certainly the only stylish one i tried. One common feature of the masks is a moldable metal nose piece, that allows you to shape the mask to your face. The one on the respro is both the most durable, and the worst. Its stiffness makes it tough to form and reform. That said, the seal it forms seems to be fine, but getting a really good fit is hard, because it lacks a strap that goes over the ear. I'm sure you can get this style of mask in n99 or whatever.
  
  The 3M n95 is the cheapest (by far), and the lightest. The fit is good, and the seal is adequate, although the seal is the worst of the four. The filter is more stiff like paper.
  
  The 3M n100 is probably my favorite so far. The filter is more flexible like cotton. I generally don't worry about crushing it in my bag, except for the metal nose piece. The fit and seal are both excellent.
  
  The 3M p100 is certainly the most hardcore. It's cost is the highest, but the replacement filters are cheap enough. I haven't used it much, but it's the one that the bicycle collective sells, which I consider to be a good marker.
  
  
  Also I recently reached out to the American Lung Association about masks. Here is the last, most detailed response.
  
  > USEPA sets a PM 2.5 annual air quality standard at 15ug/m3
  This is a rolling 12 month average. There is also a 24 hour limit of 35ug/m3
  These numbers are established for air quality in the air shed and not necessarily in the breathing zone – which is the most item relevant to your question.
  These numbers are not extractable to breathing zone concentrations.
  A healthy person should not have a need for any respirators, the respirator is recommended for those with impaired systems.
  In addition, lung cancer is complex and there are other factors, which include air quality (type of pollutant), genetic disposition, and duration of exposure.
  
  
  > Saying all this, it’s hard to make a recommendation on when to use the N95 disposable respirator to prevent lung cancer (knowing that the three factors above play a large role in the equation and outcome). If in doubt, or if you feel there is a need, wear the respirator (with proper fit) when there are air quality concern days).

If you like to bike, buy a respirator. These are popular.

I had a sore throat anytime I was outside for more than 10 minutes yesterday.

I'm wearing N95 masks now when outside, and keeping my windows closed.

https://www.amazon.ca/3M-Sanding-Fiberglass-Vented-Respirators/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_469_bs_tr_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=SJJSGYR85PZFYJ5J0FXV

I like these, they have little one-way valves and they're still cheap. It's just bits of grain it's not like it's asbestos

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002YKBV2

I like the 8511 style, because the vent makes them more comfortable.

I buy these each time I go over there. Three will last you a week. Wear it at night too...

Amazon can get it to you in 2 days:)
here is everything I got for my family.


http://www.amazon.com/Blue-Shoe-Covers-Disposable--Anti-Skid/dp/B000EP7J4G/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1412163658&sr=8-2&keywords=medical+booties

http://www.amazon.com/DuPont-TY122S-Disposable-Elastic-Coverall/dp/B0008F4HP6/ref=sr_1_2?rps=1&ie=UTF8&qid=1412163614&sr=8-2&keywords=tyvek+suit

http://www.amazon.com/Dynarex-Nitrile-Glove-non-latex-Powder/dp/B000OFMIYM/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1412163625&sr=8-11&keywords=nitrile+gloves

http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DPG82-11C-Concealer-Anti-Fog-Safety/dp/B000RKQ1NI/ref=pd_sim_indust_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=196P2KSAG0DZF9ZJPSS7

http://www.amazon.com/3M-8511-Particulate-Respirator-10-Pack/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=pd_sim_indust_7?ie=UTF8&refRID=196P2KSAG0DZF9ZJPSS7

Please go buy a niosh N-95 mask to protect your lungs. You can get them online, or at Ace Hardware, Hibbert Lumber, or Kelly Moore Paint in Davis.

Keep your windows, doors, and vents closed to prevent smoke from getting in your living areas.

Refrain from using the heat or AC in your vehicles, keep the windows closed, and keep the air on recycle.

Encourage your friends, classmates, and instructors to wear masks for their own safety.

If you buy a ten pack, consider handing out extras to those without. You can use one mask for quite a while, so you'll have plenty left over.

Sincerely, a concerned alum living in Santa Rosa, where classes have been cancelled.

You can always order them online if you're concerned about your health. It's not a bad idea to have a few extras hanging around for scenarios like wildfires or earthquakes. They're not even expensive. The ones I bought are currently $13.28 for a 10 pack on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002YKBV2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This is going into the territory of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). The items I'm going to list are for some of the most vulnerable areas of your body. Without protection, injury to these parts of the body can have a debilitating effect on getting out relatively unscathed.

• Dust Mask: As tasty_tomato said, this is important. There are small particulates in the air that can mess up your lungs in a big way. Something like this mask is great because the valve allows for air to leave, but not enter, leaving less moisture on the inside and less fogging on the next item I'm recommending.
  
  
• Goggles: These are important to keep debris and particulates out of your eyes. You need to be able to see to know what's around you and what's dangerous or unstable. Protect your eyes! Buy a pair of surplus combat goggles and you'll be squared away.
  
  
• Gloves: Get some actual work gloves, not the kind that keep you warm. Leather work gloves are good, Mechanix and other similar tactical gloves can work as well. Protect the hands from cuts and scrapes because you'll need to manipulate objects and damaged or injured hands can't do that.
  
  
• Boots: Either hiking boots or combat boots. Something that will keep good traction with the ground and protect your feet. You'll need something with a thick sole to mitigate punctures, and I'd recommend something with a high ankle to keep it immobilized from twisting your ankle.
  
  
• Earplugs: Disasters are loud. This isn't the most important item, but it can be really helpful and is easy to pack, so why not? Save your hearing and be more at ease.

These are also a good option: https://smile.amazon.com/3M-8511PB1-Particulate-Respirator-10-Pack/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1504624575&sr=8-6&keywords=3m+p95

Lookin' good!

A couple of things I'd say -

• Look for a better headlamp. You'll use it every year (and whenever you go camping), so get a nice one. Spending a little money here is ok.
  
  
• Get some industrial quality particulate filters. These look kinda lame, but they will save you from weeks of feeling like a 3-pack a day smoker post-burn. Get a cool dust mask cover to put over it if you'd like or a bandana.
  
  
• Chap stick!
  
  

My personal friendly letter to your husband:

https://www.amazon.com/Premier-Paint-Roller-69730-Plastic/dp/B000KKKXCU/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1487637049&sr=8-2&keywords=drop+cloth

https://www.amazon.com/HomeRight-C800766-Finish-Fine-Sprayer/dp/B003VKFDEO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1487637070&sr=8-1&keywords=paint+sprayer

https://www.amazon.com/ScotchBlue-Painters-Multi-Use-1-41-Inch-60-Yard/dp/B00004Z4DI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1487637095&sr=8-1&keywords=painter%27s+tapehttps://www.amazon.com/3M-8511PB1-Particulate-Respirator-10-Pack/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1487637121&sr=8-5&keywords=painter%27s+mask

https://www.amazon.com/Presa-Premium-Paint-Brushes-Piece/dp/B011ARI5IU/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1487637193&sr=1-1&keywords=paintbrushes

https://www.amazon.com/285143-Rust-Oleum-Ultra-Interior-Chalked/dp/B010FEBFOA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1487637303&sr=8-1&keywords=interior+paint

Or, you know. YELLOW PAGES for actual painters where she IS.

Edit:formatting.

I use this one because it's small, comfortable, and works well:

https://www.amazon.com/GVS-SPR457-Elipse-Respirator-Medium/dp/B013SIIBFQ

I know if I had a big bulky one, I'd be less inclined to actually wear it.

I also really like these disposable respirators because they're comfortable to wear for a long time, and I can toss them if I'm doing something really messy (and this is a good price, too):

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002YKBV2/?coliid=I187PZ7J0QY9YD

Get some good safety glasses while you're at it:

https://www.amazon.com/3M-Virtua-Protective-Eyewear-11873-00000-20/dp/B00AEY4PKS

Check this out!

Exactly! From the beginning of this I have said that it NEVER hurts to be ready for the worst. Where I live we get a lot of earth quakes and I am sure within my life we'll get a nasty one. Our building codes are VERY strict and I don't fear that my place will tip over, but the power grid in the US is VERY old and in need of repair badly.

We lost power out here two years ago over about 2 days and people were freaked out. What happens when something really bad happens and it's a week or two weeks with no power, no gas, the food starts dwindling and people are running around like crazy trying to get food to eat.

I'll have my MRE's not the best food in the world, but damn I won't starve to death. I think about prepping hardly ever and I need to get my self re situated and make sure I have everything back together again. I even made a list here for people who were new to prepping. My list is far from a complete list of things one would like to have, but it has the essentials.

My personal Kit:

Item| Cost | Unit
:--|:--|:--
Water | $1.00 | 1 Gallon / person / day
DYI Meals Ready to Eat | $3.50 | Per Unit
Life Straw | $19.99 | 1
50 FT of Utility Rope | $11.49 | 1
Multitool - Leatherman | $27.00 | 1
Flashlight - Crank LED | $9.99 | 1
Potable Water Treatment Tablets | $5.99 | 1
Magnesium Fire Starter | $4.33 | 1
Trash Bag | $0.50 | 2
Vitamins | $15.27 | 1
Total | $99.56 |
_ | |
Added for EVD | |
Latex Gloves | $9.34 | 1
Option A| |
Reperator | $28.90 | 1
Replacement Filter | $8.90 | 1
Option B| |
N95 Mask| $14.79 | 10
| |
Total A| $47.14 |
Total B| $24.13 |
| |
Grand Total A| $146.70 |
Grand Total B| $123.69 |

The fact of the matter is that the subreddit for the most part seems to be under the illusion that if you don't live in West Africa you are 100% safe, which is a dangerous thought to have.

As /u/snorgsniffer said yesterday

>When confronted with dire circumstances beyond their control, humans predictably engage in one of the following behaviors:

> Denial
> Delusion
> Distraction
> Dismissal
> * Drugs / Drink (altered state of consciousness)

>All of those things result in still another "D"... delay
It's clear that both the victims and potential responders are engaging in "D behaviors" at this time.

>My point? It is almost impossible to change someone's mind using logical argument when their conclusion is an irrational, emotional one. They just burrow deeper into their chosen coping behavior when forced to look even more closely at the thing which frightened them so badly in the first place.

>Though not directly news related, I think understanding the psychological underpinnings of the outbreak is important when interpreting the nuts & bolts side of it. This sub seems to me like a good place to see it discussed. There are some really bright people here.

A lot of people are giving voice to their coping mechanisms of denial to make themselves feel better. I don't think their attitude will change until the numbers reach upwards of 50,000 and the people start fleeing and spreading this crap all over the globe.

Don't they make cheap dust masks for that? Anyone who truly wants something done will move heaven and earth to do it.
I am not trying to sound mean or anything, but there is a way around everything and from what you say it doesn't seem like hes putting any effort forward on his end to make his environment better. Actions are the true meaning behind intent.

One good thing to do is get a decent quality dust mask like this one and wear it while you give the place a thorough dusting, scrub-down, vacuum, and then air it out, before moving your stuff in. Use wet wipes to dust instead of a duster, since they trap dust instead of just flinging it into the air. Make sure you get the blinds, the windowsills and windows, the tops of doors and doorways, all vents, and the baseboards. Take breaks when you need to.

Then, as you move, do the same thing to your stuff. Dust your furniture with wet wipes, since moving it kicks up a lot of dust no matter how thoroughly you regularly clean. It may be a good idea to also use either nasal filters or wear a mask for a day or two until all the moving dust settles. Doing this should help a lot.

Yup, I used these 3M masks on my trip to India. Not terribly expensive (I'd use one for a whole week) and 2-day prime shipping =)

I recommend a particulate respirator if anyone is going to be in the thick of it. I wore one in Yosemite one year when it was really smokey during my visit, and it's like breathing in clean air even when it's smokey. Hike on.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002YKBV2/ (Not sure if that Amazon link is still pointing to the one I purchased awhile back since that one says sanding, but these are ones I used: http://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/company-us/all-3m-products/~/3M-Particulate-Respirator-8511-N95-80-EA-Case?N=5002385+3294780243&rt=rud)

As someone who just insulated an 1100sq ft attic I agree with alot of u/danpaquette's points.

I spent many months researching products, insulation methods and costs, and overall cost/benefit ratios.

I waited until summer when insulation typically goes on sale then bought all I would need plus an extra roll. btw- I didn't have any extra when I was done. Over purchase. If you've got a home depot card you can return unused rolls/batts/bales up to a year later. I think I spent ~$800 on the insulation.

Then I purchased a box of tyvek bunny suits. I cannot stress enough to get these. You will be Rolling in the insulation and your clothes will be impregnated with the stuff otherwise. Get them much bigger than you think you'll need too. Use masking tape (NOT DUCT) to tape the suit to your nitrile gloves, then put on another pair of gloves. The top glove layer will get destroyed and you can just replace then without worrying about containment issues. Tape the suit to the booties and wrap the tape around to shrink wrap the booties to your boot. Your foot will slip in them otherwise. I also added a layer of tape to the toe and ball of the foot since I wore through those almost immediately. I put the dust mask on, then the hood to prevent the mask from getting pulled off my face. To keep the hood in place I used a couple of flat clips so it clipped to my bandana or the hood wouldn't move with me. I looked idiotic but for the entire month I spent in the attic I never got a case of the insulation itches. Considering I did this in July, that was money well spent.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00821J4JC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KORMFH4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002YKBV2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I had blown insulation and luckily the house was build with integrated HVAC venting so I didn't have to worry about that. I also advise Against removing the current insulation. Unless you had a very long term infestation in the attic with very loaded nesting sites, I would just dispose of any bodies and clean up the major stuff. This is similar to asbestos in that minimum disturbance and containment are the best routes to take more often than not. However do not go into the attic during this project without at least the dust mask on.

I knew I would have to do some air sealing, but there was a limited benefit I would get in the attic other than remediating any more obvious and major gaps. I have an older house that will never be airtight.

As I was installing each rafter baffle, I made sure the gap between the roof deck and the top of the wall wasn't closed with insulation or debris, then would stuff the baffle as tightly as I could get it to maximize the baffle's effectiveness, then stapled it in place. Repeat many many times. It's tedious which is why it's so expensive however as a DIY, you can do things that will maximize your efforts with a minimum of extra expenditure that a company would have to charge for.

After the baffles went in, I went through and spray foamed all exterior gaps in siding. Be VERY careful with spray foaming junction boxes!! Many of them need airflow and can overheat and cause fires if covered in spray foam. One of my upgrades was to install a chandelier in the entryway which required a cross-joist brace for the heavy duty box. I purchased half a dozen 1 inch thick pink hard foam boards and built an insulated box around the new fixture using spray foam as glue. This made that little airspace under the foam box part of the air conditioned envelope of the house. Bonus- since I removed all the blown insulation from inside that little box, if I ever have to work on the junction box from inside the house, I won't be eating blown insulation. I also corrected a bathroom fan that was just venting directly into the attic *shudders* by properly routing the vent pipe through the roof. At the same time I did the same thing for the kitchen stovehood. Both now vent outside. The bathroom fan motor also got an insulated pink box. Both are labeled as to what's under the foam.

This introduced a new problem. I now have vents going from air conditioned space into an unconditioned space. So I picked up a handful of pipe wrap kits (basically long thin rolls of fiberglass insulation), some HVAC aluminum tape, and wrapped every pipe from the top of the ceiling drywall to the underside of the roof decking, tacking it in place with the aluminum tape every so often. I then took a large marker and wrote on the plastic overlay what each pipe was so it was readable from the attic access.

I have a gas furnace and water heater and the regs state there must be a 2inch insulation clearance around a single walled exhaust pipe. However using chimney rated spray foam is allowable for direct contact to the exhaust pipe. So I picked up a length of 8 in diameter venting to build a "dam" around the exhaust pipe then used the high temp spray foam to fill the bottom couple of inches effectively gluing the new "double walled" venting in place. Then I pushed the old blown insulation back up against the new barrier.

Finally I made sure the attic was sealed from bugs since once they got in, they just died there. It was a buggy graveyard including a handful of live wasp nests. Once the screening was repaired and gaps sealed I was ready to roll out my insulation. I rolled across the rafters to take maximum advantage of the previous insulation as I didn't want to compress it any further. I bought a painters extension handle and screwed on a deck broom head wrapped in multiple bags as a pusher to get into the tighter locations and that worked very well.

Depending on if you plan to access this space again you may do better with blown insulation so you can cover your HVAC just take extra care to make sure the airflow from your soffits isn't blocked. It looks like those batts are pushed directly against the roof deck. You may need to install two baffles to extend the length up the roofdeck to prevent them from getting insulation in them.

If you will need to get up here again then you may prefer rolled insulation so you can move it when needed without compromising the integrity of the insulation job.

I guarantee once you've done the job you probably won't want to set foot in it again, however you also will probably do a much better and far more thorough job than any hired company.

Good luck with your project!

I usually go with 3M N95 masks every year. Checked out Vogmasks — they're pretty cool — but I don't like how the bands go around the ears, so sticking with 3M.

Edit: Link

If you're really worried you can get 3M N-95 respirators here or if you're worried about image you can get the dirt bike masks here.

Some dickhead last year made fun of me for wearing my N-95s saying I looked a prude dumbass. Saw him on the third night dribbling mud boogers in the dust cloud on the way out lol.

I'm going to be in Delhi for a layover mostly. Was thinking of this 3M mask (I'm US based). Not sure if that'll work.

The vogmasks look real nice though. Thanks for the reco.

The ones with no vents will get damp and uncomfortable after a while even if you're not doing strenuous activity.

https://www.amazon.com/3M-8511PB1-Particulate-Respirator-10-Pack/dp/B0002YKBV2

Consider this one if you're going to buy some n95 masks, and be reminded that they are disposable.

The first thing I would suggest is buying a good mask. I got this from Amazon and it did the job: 3M 8511PB1-A-PS Particulate N95 Respirator with Valve, 10-Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_5CB56wy2a2Vb8 . The thing I regret taking to Nepal were my white/biege or light color clothes. I'd suggest you take darker colored clothes as they would get dirty pretty quickly. You can get a light summer jacket but it might be hot in summer to wear that. Hot wipes, soft tissues and hand sanitizer as someone has already mentioned. Good sunscreen. Maybe lots of socks! And make sure you don't take expensive shoes to Nepal. The roads are dusty so take comfy ones... Enjoy Nepal. Its beautiful and very welcoming!

A wet handkerchief won't do anything except give you a false sense of security. To filter out the (very small) particles from wildfire smoke you need a mask that's N95 rated or better.

You can buy fancier ones, but something like this is relatively inexpensive and available at most hardware stores:

https://www.amazon.ca/3M-Sanding-Fiberglass-Vented-Respirators/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=3m+cool+flow&qid=1559327792&s=gateway&sr=8-1

Those hospital-style disposable health masks aren't going to do you a lot of good. Those are primarily designed to stop water droplets that can carry bacteria and viruses. PM 2.5 will go through them. I'd recommend something like this: https://www.amazon.com/3M-8511PB1-Particulate-Respirator-10-Pack/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=n95+mask&qid=1557873953&s=gateway&sr=8-3

​

This could also be a good option: https://www.amazon.com/Filters-Military-Carbon-Activated-Respirator/dp/B07DS4J5QV/ref=sr_1_20_sspa?keywords=n95+mask&qid=1557874033&s=gateway&sr=8-20-spons&psc=1 It comes with a few disposable filters, and you can pick more up cheaply.

[Half Face] (https://www.amazon.com/3M-07193-Cartridge-Respirator-Assembly/dp/B00079FOK0/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1494775649&sr=8-3&keywords=3m+respirator) and will take same filters. If you are just doing for viral / infectious stuff you can even use [disposable masks] (https://www.amazon.com/3M-8511PB1-Particulate-Respirator-10-Pack/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1494775746&sr=8-2&keywords=n95+3m). I like the full face ones just to keep crap out of my eye in the shop when spray painting, using fiber glass etc. If you are doing it for chemical exposure go full mask (pepper spray, etc). The half face is pretty good, but most chemical irritants will burn your eyes, and many infectious agents will go through the mucous membranes in your eyes. If you can not afford it half is better than nothing....

Get yourself a pack of these. Like someone else said it may be covered in mites or mold, the places might not give you masks and you don't want to breathe that stuff.

I use these: http://www.amazon.com/3M-8511-Particulate-Sanding-Respirator/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1394728194&sr=8-2&keywords=dust+mask

They come in a 10-pack, and I usually only use 1 or 2 each burn, so basically that 10 pack will last you years. Also, they are folded up very small so it's easy to keep them in a belt, bag, or pocket.

Yeah. Sending care packages will be extremely expensive. UPS and FedEx will be insanely expensive. USPS Priority Mail, while expensive, is more reasonable. You'll definitely want go Priority Mail for tracking when mailing to China, otherwise things sometimes disappear. If there's an SF Express location (Chinese logistics company) in your hometown, that's another alternative as well and pricing will be somewhere between Priority Mail and UPS/FedEx.

Instead of shipping care packages, you should find an airline that gives two free checked bags if you haven't booked a flight yet. If you already have and its an airline like United, it'll still be more economical to pay for the extra baggage fee than to ship a care package.

As for cell phone carrier, it'll be way cheaper to go with a Chinese phone plan. If you're bringing a US phone over (i.e. unlocked iPhone), then it'll probably be compatible with China Unicom. China Mobile is completely on their own network and you would need to buy a new phone in China. If you plan on using your phone for Internet, realize that most western sites will be blocked and you'll need to invest in a VPN for your phone, which have to potential to be blocked from time to time. Rumors are always floating around for when there will be a permanent ban on VPNs. However, internet on foreign phone carriers aren't blocked, so you may want to consider getting Google Fi with a Pixel phone in the US as an alternative before you go.

I read some of the other comments...
I think you should definitely bring neosporin, vitamins, protein powder, sunscreen, mosquito repellent.

Oh yeah. you might want to consider bringing some 3M N95 masks for those days when it's polluted outside.

https://www.amazon.com/3M-8511PB1-Particulate-Respirator-10-Pack/dp/B0002YKBV2/

Like right now, the air is unhealthy outside.

http://aqicn.org/city/hangzhou/

You still have time to order them on Amazon and get them delivered by Thursday. I just ordered these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002YKBV2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

These are great for your basic tasks. I put one on when I blow all the dust out of the garage or saw some wood. Cheap, you get a few a uses out of each one, and basically keeps stuff out of your mouth, nose, and lungs.

But geez, /u/kivalo recommended that mask for 13 bucks, and 11 for the filters? If you really can't buy both, I'd be inclined to get that instead. I cut wood in my base and don't have a great vacuum system, so the stuff gets everywhere. I almost always use a respirator unless I'm only doing like 2 cuts.

They're your lungs, and for such low prices, I see no reason to take risks. Don't let anyone shame you for wearing a respirator when they think it's not that big of a deal. If you can filter out basically everything bad for the price of 20 bucks, there's no reason not to take that option.

We got a few masks from the fire station a couple of days ago, and then ordered some more on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002YKBV2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1.

Regarding the air filter masks, i went with this, after reading the reviews from this and this.

The first reviews led me to the importance of N95 and other certifications. The second from its Amazon product page tells me that people who have used it are generally satisfied with it. You can also see that it is much cheaper in the US.

Hope this helps and i'm open to other recommendations. What are you guys buying/considering?

Same here. $5 cheaper than Lowe's and home depot too! 3M 8511PB1-A-PS Particulate N95 Respirator with Valve, 10-Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_rbXRzbKNQ2V6C

I've been riding with one of these: https://www.amazon.com/3M-8511PB1-Particulate-Respirator-10-Pack/dp/B0002YKBV2?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_2

You can't just buy full face respirators to use on the job. Its against OSHA code to use anything other than the paper masks without having it professionally fitted. A poorly fitted respirator is almost as useless as not having one on at all (or at least that's what the safety talkI have to sit through has taught me). Fitting of a respirator involves teaching you to breathe properly through it, as well as checking for leaks around the seal. It's a pretty big fine if you get caught using even the simple N95 particle masks. I worked in pharmacy manufacturing drugs in a clean room, so I can't comment on hospital protocols or dealing with infectious diseases, we were more worried about us making our customers sick.

I looked into it a bit further and there's even a decision handed down on in 2004 about protection of medical personnel against Monkeypox, Smallpox, SARS and Tuberculosis stating that they are not immune to the OSHA regulations. You can see the decision here.

Yikes, if your boots get that much dust, I hope you wear a dust mask! I guess you should really wear an N95 dust hazard mask. Your lungs will thank you.

I'm not sure that you wholly understand or respect allergies.

Allergy attacks end. Allergic reactions DAMAGE your body and can have long-term consequences. They can impact your sleep, your airways, your immune system. You can straight up "catch" asthma.

Cat urine doesn't hurt your girlfriend, but her body's reaction to it does. Allergies are a chronic health condition. Do you know that most of the symptoms that make you feel like shit when you're sick are caused by your immune system, not the pathogen it's fighting off? That's your body waging war, and there are casualties in war. That's pretty much what your body is doing every time it has an allergic reaction.

Would you have your girlfriend take litter duty if it gave her a common cold every time?

I do scoop my litter because it's my cat (though my boyfriend has graciously offered that I can ask him to do it if I don't feel well), and asthmatics are recommended against doing so. However I chose a litter that plays nice with asthma because its dust is less irritating and hurtful to airways.

No litter destroys feline urine. It holds it. That is literally (litter-ally) its purpose. All used litter is going to be a health concern for any person with feline allergies.

A respirator mask would ACTUALLY protect your girlfriend's health if you guys insist on keeping her on scooping duty.

World's Best Cat Litter is 99% dust free. There's no such thing as 100% dust free litter. Anyone who claims otherwise is either misinformed or trying to sell you something.

ETA: pun

Best:

1. Seeing Porter and Madeon. We were at the stage for Grouplove and when people started clearing, I wanted to make my way to the front. Group didn't want to get too close since they wanted space to dance. I wanted to be with my group of friends, but I also wanted to be as close as I could. I ultimately decided to go to the front by myself. Although I wish I could have shared the experience with my friends, I was pretty determined. It was my first and last chance to see them, and I had a good shot of getting to the front. I got to the front (left stage though) and had a blast. Don't regret it at all cause I ran back to the spot they were at after Porter and Madeon and met up with them again. Good times were had.
   
2. My group I went with. We've gone since 2015 but it was a lot smaller this year. I think I liked that better.
   
3. Protective mouth gear. My gear consisted of ear-loop surgical masks, 3M masks, and a bandana.
   
   

• I used the ear-loop masks during the day time, when it was hotter and I wanted something light to ventilate. Day 1 I stuck with the ear-loop mask the entire day. Days 2 and 3 I switched to the 3M mask when the sun set and it was cooler. Day 3 I used the 3M mask and put a bandana over it when I needed it.
  
  Bonus cheat best:
  
  

1. NOT GETTING PICKPOCKETED. I was at mainstage. I was tired. I was resting my head on a friend's shoulder. My phone was in my pocket. But I had my hand on my phone. Some chick (and two friends) walked by and one of them definitely tried to put her hand in my pocket. Now that I try that motion, it would have been a very fast pickpocket. This was definitely a pickpocket attempt because the only part of my body that was impacted/affected/moved was my hand...that happened to be gripping my phone over my shorts. I've gone to a fair share of raves and festivals and people have bumped into my countless times. It's never been so direct and targeted that it was literally only my hand that was affected. No upper torso or upper arm at all, just the hand. The pocket was definitely the target. I just happened to be gripping my phone while resting. Glad I did so. I immediately snapped out of my rest and caught a glimpse of the girl. Kinda short and there were at least 3 of them. Walked away fast, didn't even look back at me.
   
   Worst:
   
   
2. Somehow tightening my wristband too hard mid-set day 1. I kept it loose on purpose to take it off easily. Dunno what happened, but I look at my wrist at night day 1 and it's skin tight. Not to the point where it was cutting off circulation, but it would bother me days 2 and 3. Paid $40 for a replacement. Sucks.
   
   
3. Being super exhausted day 2.
   
   
4. Sahara tent.

TBH, my husband and I just go with these N95 Respirators with Valve. We look like dorks, but we're not trying to impress anyone anyway and we feel great after the fest.

Maybe wearing a respirator will get rid of the smell.

https://www.amazon.com/3M-8511PB1-Particulate-Respirator-10-Pack/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=disposable+respirator&qid=1562090534&s=gateway&sr=8-3

It's not hard to make caps. You'll need the following:

• [milligram scale](https://www.amazon.com/American-Weigh-GeminiPRO-GPR-20-* Milligram/dp/B003STEJD4/)
  
• scoop
  
• weigh boats
  
• Cap-m-quik
  
• caps
  
• nitrile gloves
  
• dust mask
  
• newspaper
  
  
  I haven't capped DNP before, but apparently it's quite a fine powder that stains surfaces yellow. So you don't want to cap it without gloves and mask. You'll want to do it somewhere without a breeze and put down newspaper.
  
  
  Here's a thread on how to do it:
  
  https://thinksteroids.com/community/threads/how-to-work-with-raw-dnp.134275888/#post-641168

https://www.amazon.com/3M-8511-Particulate-Respirator-10-Pack/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1473432959&sr=8-6&keywords=masks+dust

Bought these for my eyes :
http://www.amazon.com/ELIMINATOR-GOGGLES-MOTORCYCLE-EYEWEAR-Specially/dp/B0028QVNGO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1396581582&sr=8-2&keywords=dust+goggle

These for the mouth and nose :
http://www.amazon.com/3M-8511-Particulate-Sanding-Respirator/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1396581603&sr=8-1&keywords=n95+mask

OP I got these based on a recommendation here

https://www.amazon.in/dp/B0002YKBV2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_Ec6eqFid2dYjC

They're expensive but very good. It is a bit difficult to breathe through them but they work really well

Wear n95 masks. They're not expensive. $13 for 10 masks on Amazon.

>all healthcare staff entering the room should use respiratory protection consistent with airborne infection control precautions (use of an N95 respirator or a respirator with similar effectiveness in preventing airborne transmission).

It sounds like you are using an abrasive chop saw, they are effective but messy tools. As others have indicated they produce fine metal dust which can be irritating. What I would be most worried about is the dust from the abrasive wheel itself though. Repeated or long term exposure to fine silicon oxide particles can cause silicosis. One twenty minute cutting session a week does not pose a great deal of risk in my mind, but it is still worth wearing a mask. I recommend these they are a disposable item but they can be warn more than once. Make sure to store them in a clean place with the cup facing down so dust will not settle in the mask.

The odor you are smelling is likely the binder from the abrasive wheel, these are fumes not particles so a basic mask will not protect you from them. I have never found any information to suggest that these fumes are dangerous so I don't worry about them. But for a long time we were told lead isn't dangerous either. If you are concerned a mask such as the one mb1980 suggested will protect you from both fumes and particles. I find them to be awkward, uncomfortable and expensive but they are your best protection.