The Best Mask for Dust Protection

Sanding, stripping, resurfacing and demolition – dust is a given on a worksite. But, with increasing awareness around the health risks of silica, concrete and other types of construction dust, it’s no longer something you should put up with. 

Quality masks filter out many of the tiny particles that could cause damage, protecting you and your team from harm and helping you meet health and safety standards on-site. 

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1. Best overall — GVS Elipse P100 Respirator
2. Best versatility – 3M Respirator Assembly
3. Best heavy-duty - 3M Rugged Comfort Quick Latch Half Facepiece
4. Best on a budget - Trend STEALTH/ML Stealth Air APF10 Respirator
5. Best disposable - 3M Particulate Respirator 8511 

1: Best overall — GVS Elipse P100 Respirator

The GVS Elipse combines high-quality P100 filters, rated for wood dust, silica and concrete particles, with breathability and comfort. The mask is lightweight enough to wear all day – so it’s more likely your team will use it consistently. 

• Lightweight – only 130g 
• Low profile – can be worn with glasses or protective goggles 
• HEPA filters – low breathing resistance 
• Soft headband and comfortable face shield 
• NIOSH-approved P100 filters 

2: Best for versatility — 3M Respirator Assembly (6291/07002 AAD)

3M’s Respirator Assembly Half-mask protects against a wide range of airborne particles, both oil-based and non-oil-based. It’s designed to filter out paint fumes and chemicals as well as construction dust, making it a versatile option for projects with lots of different elements. 

• Particulate filter blocks oil and non-oil particles 
• NIOSH-approved P100 filtration 
• Uses NIOSH-approved 3M cartridges to filter fumes and gases 
• Lightweight and compact 
• Soft seal over nose and mouth 
• Half-piece design works with other protective gear 

3: Best heavy-duty — 3M Rugged Comfort Quick Latch Half Facepiece 

3M’s Rugged Comfort Mask is a quality, lasting mask with plenty of protection options. The mask can be worn as is for general dust protection, or with added 3M cartridges to filter hazardous particles like silica dust. It also features a quick-latch mechanism for easy removal and a silicone seal to minimise particle entry. 

• NIOSH-approved filters and cartridges for reliable filtration
• Quick latch for quick removal 
• Stretchy straps for ease of adjustment and fit 
• Exhalation valve minimises breathing issues and glasses fogging 
• Compatible with most 3M cartridges and filters 

4: Best on a budget — Stealth Air APF10 Respirator 

The Stealth Air Respirator offers quality dust protection at a relatively affordable price. Like other masks on the list, the Stealth uses N100 filters designed to block 99% of particles from wood, plaster, bricks, concrete, silica and even aerosols. While it’s comfortable to wear, the single strap design may make it harder to adjust the fit. 

• NIOSH-approved N100 filters 
• The exhalation valve minimises fog and maximises breathability 
• Affordable and reusable 
• Soft, safe seal and quick-release straps 

5: Best disposable — 3M Particulate Respirator 8511

While reusable masks are usually better for the planet – and your budget – disposables can be a good option if you have contractors or temporary workers on-site. 3M’s Particulate Respirators come in packs of ten and offer 95% filtration of dust particles. However, the masks don’t protect against oil-based particles and can be less comfortable than reusable options. 

• Compact and affordable 
• NIOSH-approved N95 filters block wood dust and silica 
• Adjustable nose-clip and stretchy ear straps 
• Cool flow valve for breathability 

Pick the right mask for the job 

Protecting yourself, your team, and any subcontractors isn’t just your responsibility as a business owner – it’s the right thing to do. When you’ve got health and safety sorted, it’s time to organise the admin side of things – and that’s where Tradify comes in. Our job management software is designed for tradespeople, and it’s another great tool to have in your business toolbox. 

Want to experience the benefits of an organised business? Sign up for a 14-day free trial with Tradify. No credit card required. No commitment. Or visit one of our live demo webinars to see Tradify in action.