I guess personal experiences vary. I often work in dusty environments (archeological and paleontological digs, as well as generally dusty environments like deserts) and I find the N95 very effective - dust is on the outside of the mask and the interior is quite clean. One day of sustained use is enough for each mask as a general rule. For these disposable masks there are a couple of simple steps to take to insure a good seal around the face (facial hair is usually a no-no).

This is one of those things that is worth checking out on an individual basis since YMMV.

Thanks gang!

I've got a couple of N95 masks and will look into a more powerful silicone 1/2 mask with canister, since I'm working in the same neighbourhood as dangerous chemicals.

Great idea about the briefcase, Jerry! The less questions the better and that would be good camo in the office. I think I've seen one with detachable shoulder straps. I want to be able to carry it easily if neccessary.

Murphy was at it today and it really brought the importance of these kits home. After a walk to work from a grocery store about a half mile away, (new alternator didn't do it's job) I'll also be keeping a complete change of business casual clothes at the office, in addition to the change of clothes in my kit, along with full-on rain gear in my car/train kits. (I'm thinking surplus poncho, and I've already got rainpants in my kits) Thankfully it was a beautiful day today and great for a walk. (I'm doubly blessed because the car started no problem after the walk back to it at the end of the day, and I got home no problem.)

Keeping a few N95 masks, as well as "more powerful silicon mask" is a good option. If you are confronted with a dust situation, rather than a chemical situation, you can elect which device to use. In a small office, you could easily have enough N95 masks for everyone without incurring large cost ?

Although I’m in a large office, I have enough N95 masks for my immediate colleagues/work friends (half a box). I’m not sure if that’s a guilt thing or good prep ? (but I’m not specifically preping for more than myself)

I could definitely do that in this office Aussie. There are never more than 5 of us in - 3 or 4 office employees and a tech or two. Good idea!

I worked in one office that had an entire barrel full of emergency supplies. I saw with my very own eyes that those included a fairly decent supply of N95 masks. We also had fairly regular earthquake drills, in addition to the occasional real earthquake. It is just possible that this is not typical of the average office.

I always kept at least a spare shirt in my car, along with a sleeping bag, a few canned goods, water, etc. The practice paid off a few times. Supervisors tend to appreciate employees who are flexible and adaptable.

Don't forget a few straws, means to shorten one, a carving knife, and some BBQ sauce. You never know when you might have to start eating people.

A storm coming through and the lights going out might be enough to trigger the disappearance of the resident obnox. Forget leadership camps with confidence falls and all that nonsense. Nothing solidifies team spirit like collectively removing the dead wood ... and eating it.

LOL@Art! Bad day at the office Art?

Sounds more like a bad week. I am sure we have all had them. My sympathies.....

I required a proper smoke mask or hood for my office/ brief case kit as I would need to evacuate at least five levels of interior stairways. My research evaluated filtration ( I wanted CO protection), compact size, light weight, ease of use, shelf life and cost. The winner was the (5yr) Xcaper Smoke Mask. YMMV. Usual disclaimer, I have no connection with and do not benefit from the manufacturer/retailer.

As I understand it the XCaper does not protect the eyes.
What have you done for eye protection ?