Respirators when detailing

[rjk512]

Just curious, what does everyone use in terms of respirators, gloves and other PPE when detailing?I do detailing (mainly marine) on the side and noticed a some pretty harsh ingredients in the compound I was using, so I'm looking into what I can do to protect myself from it. I was wondering what the norm is. I never would have thought a respirator was necessary for detailing, but it really makes a lot of sense.As of now, we use disposable gloves and glasses, but I think that respirators are a necessity, especially when cutting and creating a lot of dust and what not. I'm looking at a few 3M ones, does anyone have suggestions as far as both the respirators and the filters go?

[hkirch74]

It is a good idea to use a respirator. I was using the 3M Perfect it polishes on a vehicle and inhaled the dust created by these 2 products and it made me very ILL, Like a bad cold and I was down for 2 days as I was told my lungs had been inflamed with this dust and I should have worn a respirator but for some reason I just didn't that day.

Yes protection is a must these days with the chemicals were all using.

[hkirch74]

I have had the same thing happen to me while using the 3M Perfect-it series products. Wash told my lungs had been inflamed and it felt like a really bad case of bronchitis in which I was down for 2 days and felt terible. After that I have always used a mask it was one of those days where I was in a hurry and well didn't use one. I really don't think the manufactures state what really these products can do in the way of harm other than the labels the government has them putting on them now. . . .Back when I started there were no warning labels and well a very unregulated business and products that were sold. . . . . . . . . .

[Rsurfer]

Aluminum Oxide in your lungs will kill you.

[Lt1xL82]

What type of respirator would be considered appropriate? Are there any that are are small, comfortable and light weight that would do a good job?

[GSKR]

I haven't used a respirator in the last 23 years of detailing .Its just one of those things I can't do,it's like wearing heavey steel toe boots everyday not comfortable.How ever I do wear gloves for interior cleaning especially the steering wheel.

[asianstyles]

Apologize for resurrecting an old thread, but didn't want to create a completely new thread.

I am looking to play it safe when using various auto detailing chemicals. Do you guys know if this respirator will offer decent protection?

3M? Chemical Odor Valved Respirator

[PaulMys]

Apologize for resurrecting an old thread, but didn't want to create a completely new thread.

I am looking to play it safe when using various auto detailing chemicals. Do you guys know if this respirator will offer decent protection?

###3M? Chemical Odor Valved Respirator

Those are good masks. Makes it easier for me to punch a hole for my cigarette. Lmao

But seriously, 3M masks are great. Been using them for over 15 years. Also, they have a charcoal version which, while more expensive, is more vapor prohibitive.

[aztec1987]

I do not use respirator just feel like I am shorter on breath when I wear one and humid. I use black gloves for detailing the exterior in order to avoid putting oil in the paint and leave finger prints on the paint job.

[choijw2]

I say it doesn't hurt to wear one especially if you work in not so well ventilated area.

I bought myself 3M respirator for painter (not sure if this is appropriate for detailers) and try to wear it every time I use harsh chemicals such as Iron X,
spray type coating like McKee's and etc.