Monday, February 16, 2009

All That You Need: The Air That You Breathe

By James Gilbert Pynn

Nothing grinds a day to halt quite like an airborne virus like Asian bird flu. Though the proliferation of respirators are consumed by the work force at large, especially those in such gritty fields as welding, plumbing, law enforcement, and fire prevention, almost everyone who has planned a weekend home project has need a respirator. Sawdust, turpentine, and sheet rock dust are some common DIY breathing hazards.

Even beyond the tools and toil set, some people have sensitive lungs and noses. People who suffer from asthma could well benefit from a handsome respirator strapped to half their faces. Say goodbye to smoke, pet dander, car fumes, and your mother-in-law's tuna casserole. A well-made, well-filtered respirator can keep the world away from your upper respiratory tract. As Yakov Smirnoff put it: "What a country."

In the world of respirator manufacturers, it seems like the 3M brand is enjoying the lion's share of the market. They offer both supplied air and power air systems. The supplied air side of things is essentially filtered air that we suck in through a filter. The power air respirators, on the other hand, utilize a pump of some sort that sucks in the air, filters it, and then shoots it to your face. One way or another, as The Hollies put it: "All that you need is the air that you breathe and to love you." Truer words were never uttered.

There is an assortment of related valve and belt assembles that can extend or prolong your fine respirator experience. It's advisable to have some selection of such baubles on hand so you can adjust your breathing needs given the circumstances. Taking chances with your lungs is a a game of blackjack against the house. Don't leave it to chance.

Don't leave your life in the hands of a poorly fabricated, rubber contraption from India. Quality is essential, especially in the face of a biohazard or chemical threat. There is a reason the Department of Homeland Security advises you have one respirator for each member of your family as part of your emergency kit. Though it may sound like overkill, 3M respirators are the way to go to keep you safe.

About the Author:

No comments: