Investigation of efficiency of Iranian respiratory mask used in welding process for controlling exposure to toxic metal fumes

 Welding is one of the most common occupations associated with occupational lung disease and is often associated with respiratory symptoms because inhalation is a common way of exposure with welding fume in welders. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficiency and Total Internal Leakage (TIL) valve fabric respiration protection mask made in Iran against different metals in the welding fume. 

 To determine the efficiency of the mask, the concentration of pollutants in the air outside the mask and the concentration of pollutants in the air inside the mask were measured simultaneously. NIOSH 7302 method was used to sample the air inside and outside of the masks. The elements Al, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ti, and Zn in the welding fume were analyzed. 

 The efficiency of the mask against titanium and iron metals is higher than other metals. The average efficiency of the respiratory mask is 75.46% and the TIL rate is 23.42%. 

 The mask absorbs different metals of welding fumes with different efficiencies. Improving the efficiency of the mask body to create a suitable fit that eliminates or minimizes the leakage caused by the seal is a priority.