My sister works in a tall building. I realize there are a lot of chemicals involved in a fire, but I am primarily concerned with the smoke inhalation. Due to $$, I am looking for a paper mask. Recommeded here is the N95.

But, which N95? 3M makes a number of these (8000,8210,8212, 8214,8511,8514,9511). Wow, how am I supposed to know?

The search didn't provide much concrete direction. 3M's website isn't all that helpful, either, as there isn't much comparison between one and the next. From what I gather, I believe I need an 'N', not an 'R' or a 'P'.

Please help,
Xavier (Phoenix, AZ)

]Xavier01[

I use the 3M N95 8210 & R95 8247 with activated carbon for work , it is a face mask for dust particles and organic vapour and is not for smoke inhalation filter.

Evac-U8 is the product that you're looking for.

HTH.

The EVACU8 has an advantage over most other masks in that it has a high heat resistant hood that fits over your entire head, thus it will fit folks with beards, different facial features, big & small with a tight seal, the other masks may require a fitting to determine which one is best for an individual, this will take time etc., then you still have the potential for the rubberlike mask to deform due to storage issues, the paper masks getting dirty perhaps etc.

The EVACU8 is basically a selfcontained unit that is neatly packaged in a high visibility container a bit larger than a regualr soda can.

The mask is accessed via pulling off the red plastic top and putting on the hood (directions printed on the outside of the container). There is a retroreflective patch on the bottom of the continer that also glows in the dark.

[side note, since mine is generally carried with me, I added several more tape strips from the lid to the body of the container to preclude the unit from being opened accidentily, which would break the seal on the filter. Later on, I also used a small label maker and made a couple of warning labels on white tape with black lettering that warn against opening it unnecessarily.}

According to the company literature, if the unit is used in an actual documented lifethreatening escape, they will replace it. My guess is that it is both a public relations move, and it would allow them to be able to analyze units from a real world exposure.

Good for about 10-15 minutes according to the testing results, this obviously would vary on other factors such as the individual using it, more physical exertion by the user versus less would differ in the total amount of air being filtered.

I've seen online prices in the $60-65 USD range, B&M stores generally are in the $75 range from what I've seen locally. YMMV

HTH,
Comanche7

I want the Evaq-U8's, but simply cannot afford them right now. Christmas and all, you know. So which of the N95 masks would be the best choice after an Evaq-U8?

These masks block particulates but do nothing about fumes, vapors, gases etc. Smoke does damage through particulates, gasses, lack of O2, and heat. The amount of damage done in these cases by particulates is minimal compared to that done by gasses and lack of O2. Save your pennies until you can get an Evac-u8 if is all you want is to prepare for smoke. OTOH, if you might be using this during structural collapse as well then you will be dealing with a much higher level of particulates and in such situation you will want something better than your shirt and the n95 masks will help there. But they will be mostly useless against the dangers of smoke.

]Craig[

I concur, save up for the Evac-U8. The N95 is for dust particle and organic vapour only.

We carry the cheap paper N-95 masks as found in Home Depot. I seal them in a small plastic wrap. Can't remember how many times we have used them in the desert when the wind was blowing (with swimming goggles). Very uncomfortable without some protection. Also sometimes in urban settings when near construction areas. Then there are fires. Woods fires produce an amazing amount of particulate matter. If you are downwind from a large fire, it can become very difficult to breath without some sort of particle filter. Much better than a bandanna.

For their size and weight, being able to breath in dusty, dirty areas makes them worthwhile. Of course, they will not provide O2, but for the most part particles are the problem, not loss of O2. Put one in your kit. The first time you can't breath because of junk in the air, put it on. You will see the value. Cheap and effective.

After September 11 my father ( Has sold safety equipment for 30 years) and I were talking aboutthe new laws protecting the manufacturers from any falt. As the conversation went on we got talking about some of the new toys on the market. ( yes toys, they dont do anything but cost a lot and provide peace of mind) Drager safety's PARAT C
when used properly would be a great choice. ( This would NOT be a TOY ) The key to any escape would be to know the escape route, and put the hood on correctly. <img src="images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" /> This year in chicago the Cook County somthing building went up in flames, and around 5 people died. The fire department told them to proceed back up the stairs and use a different stair well because a door was locked (dont be surprised it was not a violation of a fire code <img src="images/graemlins/ooo.gif" alt="" />) One person followed the directions and is still alive. Now to end this rambelinga the MSA rep told us the story of how a lady caolled wanting a gas mask for her parakeit if theat is how you spell it: her response was isn't she a part of the canarie family.click:

just a bit i left out 29 CFR 1910.156 is the OHas standard for fire.
[color:"red"] Warning [/color]
Air-Purifying Respirators do not supply oxygen. Do not use in atmospheres containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen. Failure to comply with this warning can result in serious personal injury or death.