Face mask for Apibioxal

[Newbeeneil]

I have been producing COSHH assessments for a teaching apiary and have been getting Safety Data Sheets for each product. When I was looking for the SDS for Apibioxal I was sent this.
Item 4.5 indicates a FFP2 mask is all that is required whilst using the product.

 

[Wilco]

Interesting.

 

[blackcloud]

I find the veil keeps some of it out

 

[polymath]

I find the veil keeps some of it out

Please Please Yes use a FFP2 mask, all Oxalic Acid fumes are VERY dangerous if inhaled, your veil keeps 0% out.

You can use full or half mask, but you must use one. The filters last some time if you keep them in a ziplock bag so they do not dry up, mine up five years old now. But YES it must be FFP2 to remove the gas.

 

[Boston Bees]

I would always use something a LOT stronger than an FFP2

For first time OAV'ers like me, this is a good low-cost mask, with top-grade protection, to try out the concept:

3M 4279+ Maintenance Free Half Mask, FFABEK1P3 R D Filters : Amazon.co.uk: DIY & Tools

 

[Gilberdyke John]

Please Please Yes use a FFP2 mask, all Oxalic Acid fumes are VERY dangerous if inhaled, your veil keeps 0% out.

You can use full or half mask, but you must use one. The filters last some time if you keep them in a ziplock bag so they do not dry up, mine up five years old now. But YES it must be FFP2 to remove the gas.

Immediately the vapour leaves the heat it condenses back to a solid. The drifting cloud you can see is powder not gas.

 

[StephenT]

I would always use something a LOT stronger than an FFP2

For first time OAV'ers like me, this is a good low-cost mask, with top-grade protection, to try out the concept:

3M 4279+ Maintenance Free Half Mask, FFABEK1P3 R D Filters : Amazon.co.uk: DIY & Tools

Good mask and a good price that. Got the same one from Screwfix last year but paid more.

 

[Newbeeneil]

My point in the original post is that there have been many posts here debating the types of masks required and most people advocating the used of ones that filter organic acid gases.
I was surprised to find a definitive answer from the manufacturer that a FFP2 mask was adequate!

 

[ericbeaumont]

a definitive answer from the manufacturer

Sublimox recommend A2P3 filters: A is organic gases and P particles, graded from 1 to 3 of strength of filter.

I use a full face mask: eyes have a liquid surface that will absorb some vapour.

 

[Newbeeneil]

If the manufacturers are saying a FFP2 mask we can assume they consider the material is not in a gaseous state and hence no need for the organic acid gases filter. They obviously consider a particle filter is adequate to protect the respiratory system but I take your point about the eyes.

 

[Gilberdyke John]

If the manufacturers are saying a FFP2 mask we can assume they consider the material is not in a gaseous state and hence no need for the organic acid gases filter. They obviously consider a particle filter is adequate to protect the respiratory system but I take your point about the eyes.

https://images.app.goo.gl/U3uXBVbprycyxd9w9

 

[DaveG23]

I found this article useful when choosing a mask

https://www.funnybugbees.com/bee-pe...e-the-right-respirator-filter-for-oxalic-acid
But 3m codes may have changed.

The filters on mine say ABEK1 and the code is 6059, they cover organic, inorganic and acid vapours. There is also a particulate filter.

I am amazed how many people don't use a mask

 

[Monsterasar]

In your quest for safety in the apiary, it's great that you were thorough with COSHH assessments a year ago. Regarding Apibioxal, the Safety Data Sheet's recommendation of an FFP2 mask seemed appropriate, as it ensures protection from any potential inhalation hazards. Safety should always be a top priority in beekeeping.
By the way, speaking of safety and protection, you might find Argireline peptide interesting. It's an anti-wrinkle ingredient that's gaining attention for its potential skincare benefits. It's essential to protect not only yourself but also your skin!

 

[Erichalfbee]

In your quest for safety in the apiary, it's great that you were thorough with COSHH assessments a year ago. Regarding Apibioxal, the Safety Data Sheet's recommendation of an FFP2 mask seemed appropriate, as it ensures protection from any potential inhalation hazards. Safety should always be a top priority in beekeeping.

An FFP2 is not sufficient protection

 

[jenkinsbrynmair]

if in doubt just pull a plastic bag over your head and seal it round your neck with a strong elastic band

 

[Erichalfbee]

if in doubt just pull a plastic bag over your head and seal it round your neck with a strong elastic band

Merry Christmas JBM

 

[Sutty]

An FFP2 is not sufficient protection

The data sheet does specify eye protection and gloves too, but it does state ffp2 for respiratory protection - I would expect this to be adequate as the acid is in the solid particulate state when we are exposed to it (I use an ffp3 though).
I'm surprised they don't specify clothes too eg a bee suit. Visions of beekeepers naked except for mask/gloves/glasses vaping hives

 

[Erichalfbee]

The data sheet does specify eye protection and gloves too, but it does state ffp2 for respiratory protection - I would expect this to be adequate as the acid is in the solid particulate state when we are exposed to it (I use an ffp3 though).
I'm surprised they don't specify clothes too eg a bee suit. Visions of beekeepers naked except for mask/gloves/glasses vaping hives

Do you think you can get a good seal round your mouth and nose with one of these?

 

[jenkinsbrynmair]

Do you think you can get a good seal round your mouth and nose with one of these?


View attachment 38404

If using a varrox, and unless you're a complete imbecile, yes, as the chances of getting into contact with the sublimate is pretty low

 

[Sutty]

Do you think you can get a good seal round your mouth and nose with one of these?


View attachment 38404

I guess I'm lucky that I got "fit tested" for the one I use during the COVID pandemic, so I'm confident of fit. However I wouldn't be very concerned about very minor leaks. If you can feel the mask pull against your face when you take a deep breath, and can't feel any leaks, it's probably a pretty good fit.