ventilation

[snowey]

how important is it to use proper ventilation when using glue? I live in a very small apartment, and the only way to ventilate the room is to open the window and use an exhaust fan. But, the problem is, it's COLD!!! out (supposed to go down to freezing this weekend) and I'm just getting over the flu.
Can I just get by with wearing one of those disposable dust masks from Home Depot, or somethhing?

[Anonymous]

Snowey:

Does the word "VITAL" bring anything to mind? The solvents used in most glues do nasty things like KILL BRAIN CELLS.

Now that you have changed your shorts, I'll continue. If you are using tube glue or essentially closed applicators you don't have anything to worry about, provided you have a normally vented envoironment. If you are spraying solvent thinned paints its another matter. You then need a spray booth with a vent fan and fume collector.

If you think it necessary to work in a closed environment you might want a respirator, NOT A SURGICAL FACE MASK. They are relatively expensive but safety is cheap.

IF IN DOUBT GET SAFETY GEAR.

Randy

[snowey]

thanx for you quick response-and I mean quick! Just 1 hour!!!-but I'll be using Testors plastic cement, so from your response I should be fine.
I solved the painting problem long ago, by switching to acrylic paints.

[dknelson]

The face masks such as you can buy at a drug store are good for keeping particulate matter, such as saw dust, out of your mouth but have no effect on fumes from solvents.
There are things you can do to minimize (but not eliminate) the risks. A small fan should at least keep fumes moving away from you. Get up regularly and stand near a slightly open window for fresh air. Minimize the time you just sit there with the glue.
You might want to investigate the kind of respirator Tony Koester is wearing in his article on tools in the Feb MR. I think Sears has them, as would most home improvement stores/
Dave Nelson

[ndbprr]

What you need is an organic vapors mask with replacable cartridges. they will only absorb so much and then don't function as intended. yearly changeout is probably adequate.

[IRONROOSTER]

Also, keep in mind that the fumes are still in your apartment. So when you are finished you might want to air it out a little bit. Personally, I would get some wood kits for those nights when it is too cold to open a window. Save the plastic for nicer weather.
Enjoy
Paul