What Kind Of Masks Do Painters Wear

If you are painting a single room in your own home then you probably haven’t worn a mask. Many DIYers rarely see the need and most wouldn’t even think that a mask was important when painting. However, paint can give off some serious fumes and over exposure to these can cause health problems. 

We would always advise wearing a mask when painting, regardless of whether it’s a quick touch up in the living room or you’re painting for a living. But choosing the right type is important and you may be scratching your head wondering what kind of masks do painters use?

Professional painters often use a respiratory protection mask as this prevents fumes from being breathed in. These are commonly called spray painting masks but can be worn when using any type of paint. 

In this guide, we aim to bring you information on these masks as well as how to choose the right one. We’ll also be looking at the health benefits of using a painting mask and what potential toxins you’ll be avoiding. 

An Introduction To The Respiratory Protection Mask

A respiratory protection mask, often referred to as a spray painting mask is worn over the nose and mouth. The mask is held in place by a piece of elastic. These masks are usually vented, allowing you to breathe easily but preventing any toxic fumes from making their way in. 

Moreover, your spray painting mask will protect you from tiny particles from the paint which many people breathe in without even realising it. It’s super important to make your mask a part of your go-to equipment when painting. This is especially important when mixing but you should also make sure that your work area is very well ventilated and that you use correct techniques when spraying.

If you’re working with other types of paint, you’ll still need protection so be sure to keep your mask on at all times. 

Why Is Wearing A Mask Important? – Protecting Your Health

Paint fumes can be particularly strong and when you are exposed to them day in, day out, there’s a very real risk to your health. These fumes can cause both long term and short term health effects and the more you learn about these, the more you begin to understand the importance of using protection equipment such as a mask. 

For those that already have breathing difficulties such as asthma or COPD, these conditions can be irritated when exposed to paint fumes. But even for people with a clean bill of health, these fumes can cause short term problems such as dizziness, headaches, trouble breathing and watering eyes. Moreover, in serious cases, you may notice throat and lung irritation. 

But it doesn’t end there. When you are working with paint everyday, there is a very serious risk of long term health problems. We mentioned previously that existing lung conditions could be triggered through breathing in paint fumes and doing this regularly is almost certain to worsen your condition more permanently. 

What’s more, exposure to paint fumes comes with the risk of damage to liver and kidneys, immune system problems and even certain types of cancer. 

There are people who are more at risk of developing problems or complications when exposed to the toxins in paint fumes. Not only those with pre-existing lung conditions but also those who are pregnant, babies and young children and even your pets. 

For this reason, it is incredibly important to make sure that any newly painted room is well ventilated until the paint is completely dry. Where possible, it’s a good idea to avoid using the room until the paint is cured and in most cases, this can take up to three days. 

Related Article: Why Do Painters Hate Farrow And Ball

Choosing The Right Mask

There are three different types of respiratory protection masks and it’s worth considering which will meet your needs most adequately before buying. By selecting the right one, you are affording yourself the very best protection for your health. 

• The 3M mask is a great choice for people who don’t paint all that often. These are disposable half masks that offer protection against both fumes and particles. What’s more, they’re incredibly affordable. 
• A spray mask is not only great for painting but also jobs where you may be exposed to high dust levels. For this reason, they are a good choice for professionals or homeowners who are completing more intense decorative or restoration projects. They’re fitting with a breathing valve so you will be able to breathe freely and are disposable so are ultra hygienic too. 
• For projects with the most serious exposure, you may wish to consider purchasing a powered respirator. This type of mask not only protects you but also purifies the air taking out any potential toxins. They’re sometimes fitted with carbon cartridges so it’s important to replace these regularly. While this does come with additional costs, it’s a good choice for professionals who need protection every day. 

Conclusion

Painters need a lot of protective equipment such as overalls to stop their clothes getting dirty. However, this is a minor consideration and certainly won’t put the painter at any sort of risk if they didn’t wear one. But when it comes to health, wearing an appropriate mask while painting is essential. Not doing this can lead to short and long term health problems which could be devastating. 

There are different types of masks to choose from each designed for different purposes. So, before you buy, be sure to consider your needs so that you get the best protection.