What kind of masks do you guys use to protect yourselves from the welding fumes?

Just wondering. I heard stainless steel can be nasty on your health. What you guys say? Or is it just aluminum and brass that you use a filter mask?

 

I use this one at work. The only time I use it is if I'm welding brass, galvanized, or any other metal that causes metal fume fever. My job is primarily welding stainless and the only time I wear this is when welding 904L fluxcore because the fumes are so harsh on your lungs to the point where it hurts really bad if you inhale just a little bit. I'll do 317L all day with just a fan pointed at me though.

 

http://store.cyberweld.com/speedfresair.html

 

Ok they have an air extractor that is on the other side of the pieces I weld. It does a good job but I am worried about the gas from the torch going up the vent too. In effect ruining the welds. does a small draft bother it that bad?

 

not usually

 

Oh ok I will use it then I won't need to bother with a breathing mask then. The blower sucks enough air that you feel a light breeze from behind you so it will work good.

 

I run a little fan on my desk blowing air and fumes away from me. I also use as a back up the same 3m mask madmax posted although im sure my filters are a 2097?

 

Oh ok. I will see about that then. Every precaution I can. My COusin is a welder out near Calgary Alberta. He has a scare cause he might have lung cancer after welding for a number of years. He used a mask but I don't know what kind of welding he has done. Might as well be as safe as possible. No use asking for trouble.