English
During the process of stone polishing, a large amount of fine dust particles are generated, with silica being the main component. Long-term inhalation of these dust particles may lead to serious occupational diseases such as silicosis, making it crucial to choose effective protective masks. For stone polishing workers, how to scientifically select suitable protective masks is the primary task for protecting their own health.
1. Understanding hazards: characteristics of stone dust
The dust generated during stone polishing is primarily inorganic dust, with tiny particles (mostly respirable dust below PM2.5) that are easily inhaled and deposited in the lungs. Among them, crystalline silica dust is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization and can cause silicosis, chronic respiratory diseases, and even lung cancer. Therefore, ordinary gauze masks or activated carbon masks cannot provide effective protection, and professional particulate matter masks must be chosen.
II. Core criteria for choosing masks
Protection Level (Filtration Efficiency) According to national standards, particulate respirators are divided into KN and KP series, with the KN series applicable to non-oily particulate matter. Stone dust falls into the category of non-oily particles, thus KN-type masks should be selected. The commonly used KN95 masks can filter at least 95% of suspended particulate matter (standard test particles), making them a basic choice for stone polishing operations. If the dust concentration is extremely high, consider using higher protection level KN100 masks (filtration efficiency ≥99.97%).
Tight-fitting design: The fit of the mask to the face directly affects its protective effect. Recommendations:
Cup-shaped or pleated structure: It can better maintain its shape and avoid collapse due to speaking or movement.
Adjustable nose clip: ensures no gaps at the nose bridge to prevent dust leakage from above.
Soft sealing pad: Some masks add sponge pads at the edges to enhance fit and reduce pressure on the face.
Respiratory resistance and comfort High-protection level masks may have high respiratory resistance, making long-term wear tiring. It is recommended to choose models with breathing valves, which can exhaust hot and humid airflow, reducing the feeling of stuffiness, and are suitable for high-intensity physical labor. At the same time, lightweight design and wide headbands can reduce pressure on the ears and head.
Material and Durability: In the stone polishing environment, where dust levels are high, the outer layer of the mask should possess moisture resistance and electrostatic adsorption capabilities to prevent dust from adhering. The internal material should be skin-friendly and breathable to minimize the risk of skin allergies. If the working environment is humid or dusty, it is advisable to choose a mask made of non-woven composite material.
III. Precautions for special scenarios
High-intensity work: If grinding is to be carried out continuously for a long period of time, it is recommended to use a half-face mask or full-face mask with replaceable filter cotton, paired with high-efficiency filter cotton (such as KN95/P100 grade), and to replace it regularly.
Collaborative work risks: If chemicals (such as adhesives) are used simultaneously, it is necessary to assess whether organic vapor protection is required. In this case, a comprehensive protective mask should be selected.
Beard and facial features: Those with beards or facial scars may affect the fit, and they need to pass a fit test, or consider using a powered air purifying respirator (PAPR).
IV. Key points of use and maintenance
Correct wearing: Wear the mask according to the instructions and conduct an air tightness check (cover the mask with both hands and exhale forcefully to check for any leaks).
Timely replacement: When the mask is damaged, the respiratory resistance increases significantly, or it is contaminated by dust, it should be replaced immediately. Under normal circumstances, it is recommended that the use time of KN95 masks should not exceed 40 hours.
Cleaning and storage: Reusable masks should be rinsed with clean water or cleaned with a soft brush, dried, and stored in a sealed bag, avoiding direct sunlight.
V. Be wary of misunderstandings
Gauze masks are useless: they can only block large particles of dust and have almost no protective effect against micron-sized stone dust.
Activated carbon does not prevent dust: Activated carbon is mainly used for adsorbing odors and organic gases, and cannot enhance the filtration ability of particulate matter.
Wearing a mask does not equate to absolute safety: it requires coordination with other measures, such as local exhaust ventilation, wet work, and regular occupational health examinations.
Conclusion
The health protection of stone polishing workers brooks no negligence. Choosing a protective mask that meets standards, fits well, is comfortable, and durable is the first line of defense against dust invasion. Only by combining scientific protection with standardized operation can we truly achieve "polishing with peace of mind and breathing healthily".
