Dust Mask

Dust masks are not NIOSH* approved disposable filtering facepieces. They can be worn for comfort against non-toxic nuisance dust during activities like mowing, gardening, sweeping and dusting. These masks are not respirators and do not offer protection against hazardous dust, gases or vapours.

Dust masks can be mistaken for NIOSH-approved N-95 respirators. How can you tell the difference? First, look for a NIOSH label printed on the box and cover. Also, the word “respirator” on the box may indicate it’s a NIOSH-approved respirator.

Please note that if you use N-95 respirators for nuisance dust, we recommend you discontinue their use and switch to dust masks.

Respirator wearers must comply with all the MSU Respiratory Protection Program requirements, including medical certification, training and annual fit testing.

If you have questions or need a respirator, please call the Occupational Safety Team at 355-0153. We can perform a respiratory hazard assessment of work tasks to determine whether respiratory protection is needed.

*NIOSH- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services certifies respirators. A label or statement of certification should appear on the respirator or respirator packaging. It will tell you what the respirator is designed for and how much it will protect you.