Sally:
Volatiles are vapors (not fumes although this is a common term used) and therefore cannot be trapped in any type of face covering unless it is splashed by the chemical. We have had a very long discussion already on using face coverings in labs so I will not reiterate that point further other than to say if a respirator is needed-wear a respirator. If there is the possibility of a splash, wear a face shield. If you are working in a hood and it is properly designed, there should be no chance of any inhalation of vapors unless the student puts their head in the hood or it is not turned on or not functioning properly.
I am sure others will chime in.
Zack
S.Z. Mansdorf, PhD, CIH, CSP, QEP
Consultant in EHS and Sustainability
7184 Via Palomar
Boca Raton, FL 33433
561-212-7288
From: ACS Division of Chemical Health and Safety <DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**Princeton.EDU> On Behalf Of Burgmeier, Sally
Sent: Tuesday, June 23, 2020 4:11 PM
To: DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**Princeton.EDU
Subject: [DCHAS-L] Cloth face masks trapping fumes
My teaching colleagues are concerned that cloth or surgical face masks worn by students or faculty in a chemistry lab setting where volatile chemicals are used, for example organic lab, could trap fumes within the masks and therefore be harmful to the user? They are wondering if face shields should be worn in labs instead of cloth face masks to prevent covid19 spreading, but mot allow chemical fume buildup.
We do have fume hoods for every student to use. Any guidance on this issue?
Thank you,
Sally Burgmeier
Chemistry Safety Officer
Augustana College
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