A Study on the Effectiveness of Applying a Non-flammable Protective Cover Filter to a Half-face Dust Mask with an Exposed Filter

Objective: The purpose of this study is to verify whether or not the filter-exposed anti-vibration mask used in welding work secures non-combustibility when exposed to high-temperature spatter and melt and maintains performance.<br/>Background: Welding poses a direct risk to a worker's respiratory health protection due to the generation of spatter, harmful gases, and welding fumes caused by high heat. However, existing commercial masks have been developed mainly based on filtration efficiency and intake resistance, so thermal safety in high-temperature environments is relatively weak. Therefore, it is necessary to experimentally verify the effect of applying a non-combustible protective cover filter.<br/>Method: In the target of eight types of domestic filter-exposed anti-vibration masks (A–H), damage caused by spatter was evaluated in horizontal and overhead welding positions. In addition, dust collection efficiency and intake resistance were measured using TSI 8130A, and the material components of non-combustible filters (G, H) were analyzed through FE-SEM/EDS.<br/>Results: In tow different welding posture, all existing products (A–F) were damaged, but products (G, H) applied with non-combustible protective covers were not damaged. The collection efficiency of G and H products exceeded the standard value at 99.6% and 99.99%, respectively, and the intake resistance was 113.4 Pa and 154.6 Pa, respectively, which were within the standard value. As a result of component analysis, the main components were carbon and oxygen, and no harmful heavy metals or carcinogens were detected.<br/>Conclusion: The non-combustible protective cover filter satisfies all of the non-combustibility, filtration performance, convenience of wearing, and material safety compared to existing products, thereby simultaneously ensuring the health and safety of workers in high-temperature environments such as welding.<br/>Application: This study provides basic data for the selection and use of dust masks suitable for industrial sites, and presents an ergonomic basis for establishing a safety culture and protecting workers in a high-temperature and high-intensity work environment.