N95 Respirator Safety Instructions - 2011 TX Wildfires

From the Bastrop Cty. Website:

WHO SHOULD NOT WEAR RESPIRATORS?

• People with heart or lung disease should consult with their doctor before using a
respirator.

• N-95 masks are not designed for children, who are in a critical period of
development when toxic exposures can have profound effects. Children should not
be in the area with ash and damaged structures until cleanup is completed.

• People with facial hair in the area where there respirator touches the face (unless they shave those areas)

USING THE RESPIRATOR (FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED WITH THE
MASK)

• Choose a size that will fit over your nose and under your chin. It should seal tightly to
your face.

• Place the respirator over your nose and under your chin, with one strap below the ears and one strap above. If you are wearing a hat, it should go over the straps.

• Pinch the metal nose clip tightly over the top of your nose.

• Discard the respirator when: (1) it becomes more difficult to breathe through it or (2) if the inside becomes dirty. Use a fresh respirator each day.

COMPLICATIONS AND HAZARDS

• It takes more effort to breathe through a respirator. It can also increase the risk of heat stress. If you are working outside while wearing a respirator, take frequent breaks, especially if you are working in the heat or doing heavy work.

• If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseated, tell someone, go to a less smoky area, remove your respirator, and get medical attention.

GENERAL POINTS

• Respirators may help reduce exposure to airborne contaminants, but they do not
eliminate the risk of exposure, symptoms and sickness.

• Anyone with asbestos, lead, or mold in their house and might be exposed to these toxic substance and/or other hazardous materials should consult a professional.

• N-95 respirators or other particulate respirators are not designed or certified for use against hazardous levels of gases and vapors, such as carbon monoxide, or for areas with low oxygen levels.

• Masks have been obtained from different manufacturers. Please follow instructions provided with mask.