Effective pollution masks N95/N99/P95/99

[Number 6]

13 minutes ago, TallGuyJohninBKK said:

BTW, here's a good recap of how Bangkok air, for example, is NOT meeting the standards of the WHO, U.S. EPA or EU when it comes to PM2.5 particulate pollution, which is the smallest particles that can get into your lungs and bloodstream and cause various health problems, even premature death.

 

Out of compliance with the WHO daily limit for nearly 5 months out of the year, and out of compliance with the looser U.S. EPA standard for two months out of the year.

 

 

http://berkeleyearth.lbl.gov/air-quality/local/Thailand/Bangkok/Bangkok

Wow thanks. If it doesn't markedly improve, I'll leave in five years, head south.

[Airbagwill]

One of the most worrying things is there has been a lot in the Thai press lately about organisations voicing concerns that there are nowhere near enough stations monitoring pollution and many of those don't monitor PM2.5 particulates.

Furthermore, if you look on the AQI maps, what sparse info there is constantly varies between "moderate" and unhealthy" and hardly ever enters the green let alone get down to the EU standard of 25. 

The North has the burning season, but really the 2 areas for most concern are BKK and the EEC earmarked zones in Rayong, (163 UNHEALTHY at 2 pm Wednesday 14/3/18) Chonburi and Chachoengsao........they are already poor and set to get a lot worse.....and it isn't seasonal

Edited March 14, 2018 by Airbagwill

[TallGuyJohninBKK]

4 minutes ago, Airbagwill said:

The North has the burning season, but really the 2 areas for most concern are BKK and the EEC earmarked zones in Rayong, Chonburi and Chachoengsao........they are already poor and set to get a lot worse.....and it isn't seasonal

 

I believe you're right that the air in Bangkok rarely tends to rate as "good" because of the persistent PM2.5 levels.  More often in the moderate or unhealthy for sensitive people range. But there definitely are seasonal aspects to it, as the chart below shows.

 

As I noted before, this chart's black line shows monthly average readings, so those tend to mask the shorter term high spikes like we've been having this past week where the daily ratings get into the RED unhealthy for all category. Below, green means good, yellow is moderate, and the orange is unhealthy for sensitive people.

 

 

http://berkeleyearth.lbl.gov/air-quality/local/Thailand/Bangkok/Bangkok

[Airbagwill]

Even Arnold thinks it's dreadful.......

 

 

 

[Airbagwill]

5 hours ago, TallGuyJohninBKK said:

 

I believe you're right that the air in Bangkok rarely tends to rate as "good" because of the persistent PM2.5 levels.  More often in the moderate or unhealthy for sensitive people range. But there definitely are seasonal aspects to it, as the chart below shows.

 

As I noted before, this chart's black line shows monthly average readings, so those tend to mask the shorter term high spikes like we've been having this past week where the daily ratings get into the RED unhealthy for all category. Below, green means good, yellow is moderate, and the orange is unhealthy for sensitive people.

 

 

http://berkeleyearth.lbl.gov/air-quality/local/Thailand/Bangkok/Bangkok

You will note the readings are NEVER in the green, let alone below the EU standard of 25.

[Airbagwill]

5 hours ago, TallGuyJohninBKK said:

 

I believe you're right that the air in Bangkok rarely tends to rate as "good" because of the persistent PM2.5 levels.  More often in the moderate or unhealthy for sensitive people range. But there definitely are seasonal aspects to it, as the chart below shows.

 

As I noted before, this chart's black line shows monthly average readings, so those tend to mask the shorter term high spikes like we've been having this past week where the daily ratings get into the RED unhealthy for all category. Below, green means good, yellow is moderate, and the orange is unhealthy for sensitive people.

 

 

http://berkeleyearth.lbl.gov/air-quality/local/Thailand/Bangkok/Bangkok

You can't just put up one year and claim a seasonal pattern ... There may be variations but they are not reliably recorded.

BKk's pollution stems from weather that traps or at least fails to move on particulates but even the sources aren't constant. Self generated particulates come from a traffic, but also industry in various parts of the city. There is a wide variation on a yearly basis between various parts of BKK itself - but also outside sources can be brought in....e.g. the recent pollution that drifting from the 3 changwats EEC industrial estates.

The other major problem is that we don't have a complete for even continuous picture due to the inadequate number of AQI detectors. And of the ones that do exist many stop functioning quite often.

I'm sure there are seasonal variations but they cannot be relied on for uninterrupted "safe" or even "moderate" level.

[TallGuyJohninBKK]

15 minutes ago, Airbagwill said:

You will note the readings are NEVER in the green, let alone below the EU standard of 25.

 

As I mentioned in my post, the readings on that chart are monthly averages, not daily readings.

 

The same source has a chart that breaks down the daily results for BKK's air, that does at times get into the green "good" category, but not very often, on a daily basis:

 

 

http://berkeleyearth.lbl.gov/air-quality/local/Thailand/Bangkok/Bangkok

[TallGuyJohninBKK]

22 minutes ago, Airbagwill said:

I'm sure there are seasonal variations but they cannot be relied on for uninterrupted "safe" or even "moderate" level.

 

Seasonal trends don't mean the air is going to automatically be good, or bad, every day during those periods. It's a chart of monthly averages. But the chart I posted above, according to its source, wasn't just monthly averages for one year, but rather, historical monthly averages. So the trend lines are broader and more indicative than you suggest.

 

Here's the full chart with the explanatory text underneath (which I think I cropped off the prior version).

 

 

To me, that kind of data, even as monthly averages, is likely to be a pretty good TREND indicator of what's likely to happen during different periods of the year.

 

But it's clearly not a trend line of DAILY readings, which obviously would look different and have vastly more peaks and dips. The chart I posted above shows the summary results of the daily readings, but not in a form that shows seasonality.

 

Here's their daily averages chart for the past two years, which pretty clearly shows the same peak pollution periods toward the end of each calendar year and continuing through about March. And then the April through October periods, generally, showing consistently lower levels.

 

 

Both the Bangkok daily and monthly PM2.5 charts look pretty seasonal to me.

Edited March 14, 2018 by TallGuyJohninBKK

[ChidlomDweller]

7 hours ago, TallGuyJohninBKK said:

The China-based site smartairfilters.com did testing of various masks including various 3M models to test just how much particle blocking the masks did when being worn on the face, which is what really counts. In general, the 3M masks scored the best results (both in filtering and in cost effectiveness), and a lot of the fashion type masks did not.

 

https://smartairfilters.com/en/blog/masks-really-work/

 

 

Of the models they tested in late 2017, the 3M 9010 scored among the best results in both filtering (99%+) and cost effectiveness.

 

I just bought a case of 50 from Amazon U.S. for $35. But I see they're also available from the 3MDelivery website for an even better price, and they're in stock there. The only drawback of that model mask, AFAICS, is it doesn't have the newer Cool Flow exhalation vent, which is the type I'd want to use/wear if I was exercising.

 

 

 

Here's the 3MDelivery info for their sold out 3M 9105 Vflex mentioned above:

 

https://www.3mdelivery.com/product/309/9105-vflex-n95-particulate-respiratormedium/

With a supply of 50 you'llbe good for a while, but as a general tip, it's worth experimenting with different types as well.  First I started with the 3M 9501 masks you can buy in Boots for 35 Baht.  It's doable while running but quite uncomfortable.  They press against the tip of my nose and the elastic bands are uncomfortable at the back of my ears.  Then I got the 3M 8210 ones (from Lazada) which have a cup shape (no more pressure against my nose) and elastic bands that go behind the head (more comfortable).  They don't have the respirator vent but I don't find that mask uncomfortabe to breathe at all.  I'm sold on it, even when the air goes back to "normal".  

 

Surprisingly, my friend prefers the 9510 over the 8210 ones, hence my point it may be worth experimenting.  

 

The 8210 masks have a good seal on the sides, but when the air is particularly nasty I put 3M Transpore tape (sort of like a masking tape but for the skin) around the edges for a perfect seal.  

 

Wish I'd figured this out when I moved here because I've been timing my runs around the pollution, and there's been times when I really felt like a good run but decided to stay in because of the bad air.   People talk about it more now, but I've been checking the AQI daily for the past 2–3 years and it's frequently been in the orange zone, and sometimes in the red, not just the past 2 months.   

[TallGuyJohninBKK]

11 minutes ago, ChidlomDweller said:

With a supply of 50 you'll be good for a while, but as a general tip, it's worth experimenting with different types as well.

 

 

I think that and everything that followed in your post is good, sound advice.

 

If I had a choice from Amazon, I probably would have gone with a smaller number, but they only had one size, and that was the 50 count. Same with the 3MDelivery site for that particular model.

 

But once I get something in hand, I'll probably look to branch out and start trying individual other models/styles, when I can find them in single packs. The 9010s I bought for just general wearing when the conditions are bad. But I'm also looking for an exhaust vent style for use when cycling.

 

PS - the 9501 got a pretty good rating in the above test results, 97.5% filtration. No mention of the 8210 in those results.

 

Edited March 14, 2018 by TallGuyJohninBKK

[ChidlomDweller]

17 minutes ago, TallGuyJohninBKK said:

PS - the 9501 got a pretty good rating in the above test results, 97.5% filtration. No mention of the 8210 in those results.

 

Any 3M mask that's N95 is good enough for me.  At that point it's about what's most comfortable and gives the best seal.  

 

The link you put did note those masks don't help with gasses like NO2, but when I just checked the AQI, those are all well into the green zone.  

 

Nice to know at least we have some control over this.  

[Airbagwill]

Here's a off about usage, storage and wearing of 3M masks.

https://www.google.co.th/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=http://www.3m.com/3MContentRetrievalAPI/BlobServlet%3Flmd%3D1367907358000%26locale%3Den_HK%26assetType%3DMMM_Image%26assetId%3D1361602626042%26blobAttribute%3DImageFile&ved=2ahUKEwixqKjE8OzZAhVFto8KHVJlAOcQFjAMegQIBhAB&usg=AOvVaw02s-0RXGAKpYifFpQCVal8

 

[manchega]

16 hours ago, Airbagwill said:

You can't just put up one year and claim a seasonal pattern ... There may be variations but they are not reliably recorded.

BKk's pollution stems from weather that traps or at least fails to move on particulates but even the sources aren't constant. Self generated particulates come from a traffic, but also industry in various parts of the city. There is a wide variation on a yearly basis between various parts of BKK itself - but also outside sources can be brought in....e.g. the recent pollution that drifting from the 3 changwats EEC industrial estates.

The other major problem is that we don't have a complete for even continuous picture due to the inadequate number of AQI detectors. And of the ones that do exist many stop functioning quite often.

I'm sure there are seasonal variations but they cannot be relied on for uninterrupted "safe" or even "moderate" level.

There are seasonal variations. Just speak to any pilot.

 

Seasonal variations do occur, it means when things get so bad even government can't cover it up and talk about cleaning up the city/country/ hairy discoloured bit arounnd the hole starts again

[edwardandtubs]

18 hours ago, ChidlomDweller said:

With a supply of 50 you'llbe good for a while, but as a general tip, it's worth experimenting with different types as well.  First I started with the 3M 9501 masks you can buy in Boots for 35 Baht.  It's doable while running but quite uncomfortable.  They press against the tip of my nose and the elastic bands are uncomfortable at the back of my ears.  Then I got the 3M 8210 ones (from Lazada) which have a cup shape (no more pressure against my nose) and elastic bands that go behind the head (more comfortable).  They don't have the respirator vent but I don't find that mask uncomfortabe to breathe at all.  I'm sold on it, even when the air goes back to "normal".  

  

Thanks, I didn't know the 9501 was available in Boots. Just bought one and first impression is not quite as comfortable as the 9105 vflex but it does have foam padding for the nose which the vflex doesn't so I'll give it time.

[manchega]

I prefer the vflex, its designed for work so longer term comfort and speaking has been allowed for.  the 9501 pulls the ears a bit too much for me.

[ChidlomDweller]

I was in Homepro today and they had several types in stock, including the 3M 8210 ones (2 masks for 80 Baht IIRC).  

 

Haven't heard of the vflex ones but I'll check them out.

[TallGuyJohninBKK]

3 hours ago, ChidlomDweller said:

I was in Homepro today and they had several types in stock, including the 3M 8210 ones (2 masks for 80 Baht IIRC).  

 

 

Did they have the 8210 version in stock at the Ploenchit HomePro?

[ChidlomDweller]

10 hours ago, TallGuyJohninBKK said:

 

Did they have the 8210 version in stock at the Ploenchit HomePro?

Yes.  Also some other brands.

[balo]

I always wear a mask when I visit central Bangkok . I don't care if people are staring at me, anyway many Thais wear a mask so I'm not alone.

[GymShoe]

Thanks Bangkok Danish for sticking up for us here at Style Seal.  We appreciate your support.  Edwardadtubs we would like to invite you by our shop so we can teach you a bit about our products.  Please drop by sometime if you can.  

[manchega]

Basically you should try and use something generally accepted as industry standard.

3M ones have a nice valve in now adays.

while those designer type ones are nice, they don't fit every bodies face type.

[mitebbots]

I haven't seen a 3M mask with a valve yet. Style Seal basically told me to go fish. 

 

leaving Bangkok today, never found anything, Luckily I have an AQBlue from VN that works well. 

 

 

[edwardandtubs]

The way many people are wearing their 3M masks around Bangkok is funny. They don't realise you have to shape the noseclips to create a seal, otherwise it's completely ineffective.

Edited January 18, 2019 by edwardandtubs

[mitebbots]

yes, the nose seal is important and doesn't work well with all masks. 

 

home pro at ploenchit is out of masks.

 

style seal gave me the bum's rush. not sure how well they work anyway. that nose seal is critical. 

 

[TallGuyJohninBKK]

11 minutes ago, mitebbots said:

yes, the nose seal is important and doesn't work well with all masks. 

 

home pro at ploenchit is out of masks.

 

style seal gave me the bum's rush. not sure how well they work anyway. that nose seal is critical. 

 

 

The operative lesson here in Thailand is -- you need to purchase and keep a sufficient supply of these N95 masks at home BEFORE the heavy smog season starts each year, typically in December.  Otherwise, oftentimes, out of luck.

 

[Pib]

I was in two Global House and one Thai Watsadu hardware stores looking for some water plumbing parts today but also swung by their face mask sections to see what kinds of masks they had in stock.....all three stores were out of N95 rated face masks....plenty of the the cheaper hospital type masks...just no N95 rated masks.

[TallGuyJohninBKK]

One funny thing I noticed out and around in BKK yesterday -- actually, the PM2.5 levels yesterday were not so bad, especially prior to late afternoon.. Nor were they particularly bad earlier today -- despite the forecast for today being for very bad smog.

 

And yet yesterday, I saw lots of Thais wearing masks when out and around in BKK, mostly the cheap drugstore kind, and maybe 25% of those with masks wearing the better N95 type masks... But all of them wearing them on a day when the pollution levels didn't really require it.

 

Which kind of suggests, a lot of locals out there don't know where to, or don't bother to, find accurate and up to date info on the real time smog levels. With the AQI level under 100 in BKK for most of yesterday, I was walking around without any mask. But lots of local folks still wearing their masks.

 

But I'm not making any bets on how the air quality levels will be for tomorrow and the rest of the weekend, since the forecasts continue to say BAD!

 

 

Edited January 18, 2019 by TallGuyJohninBKK

[TallGuyJohninBKK]

 

Looks like this 3M site for Thailand still has some N95 type masks in stock:

 

https://www.3mdelivery.com/bestdeals

 

All in TH language, but not hard to navigate with or without Google Translate.

 

[mitebbots]

I ordered a couple Mojimasks.

 

the valve isn't functional. I guess it's just there for looks. I'll need to do something with the adjustable straps as they slip and can not get a seal at all. still looking for masks.

 

https://www.lazada.co.th/shop/mojimask/

 

[mitebbots]

I'll be back in a month. hopefully, I can find some better masks. 

 

I'm actually in Singapore, no idea where I would find them here.