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This article is about a concept, not a mask. This article has been written about something that is not a specific model of mask, but a concept relating to CBRN warfare or the engineering behind gas masks. |
The subject of filter safety can be a controversial topic between collectors, and is often the subject of extended debate. This article is intended to provide a general overview.
Notice[]
Please could you NOT ask any more questions on the topic of filter safety here. This page's comments section is beginning to get cluttered up. Please go to This page instead. Thank you
EditorUK (talk) 23:02, July 7, 2013 (UTC)
The dangers[]
Suffocation[]
Failure to remove caps from filter intakes will render the user unable to breathe in a mask. This represents a risk more to inexperienced or incapacitated users than collectors.
Hazardous substances[]
Asbestos[]
Older filters often contain asbestos, it is now known that prolonged inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause serious and fatal illnesses including lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis (a type of pneumoconiosis). From the 1970s onwards, its dangers became well publicised, and its use declined sharply, being ultimately outright banned in many countries. No modern filters are known to contain asbestos.
Chromium[]
Modern filters may still contain chromium, used as a catalyst. While less dangerous than asbestos, extended exposure can increase the likelihood that the user will contract cancer.
Lead[]
No filters are known to contain lead, but the paint on older filters, and more recent filters from countries with less strict standards, may contain lead. This does not pose a risk for general use of the filter, but extensive chipping, or deliberate stripping of the paint could allow the paint to be inhaled or ingested.
Inadequate protection[]
Older filters may not protect you from Biological, Chemical, or Nuclear attacks. While the masks themselves have no real expiration date, provided that their seals and valves are not compromised, the filters lose effectiveness with time.