Howdy! What kind of respiratory protective mask should I wear when
working with MDF (medium density fiberboard)? I have read that MDF
gives off formalahyde when cutting/sanding it (I will be doing both).
I'm assuming that the kind of mask I'd need would be available from a
store, like Home Depot.

misterrachel...

Thanks for your question.  Formaldehyde is found in MDF from the resin
that is used to hold the fibers together.  In the last 15 or so years,
the amount of formaldehyde emissions from fiberboard has been
dramatically reduced to where the amount of formaldehyde released is
less than one-sixth of that released in fiberboard in the 1980's.  The
formaldehyde is carried into the respiratory tract via the fine dust
that is released when sanding. That being said, whenever sawing or
sanding, you should wear a protective mask to prevent the inhalation
of dust.  A simple dust mask should suffice when working with MDF.  If
you have a strong concern regarding toxins, etc, you can move up to a
respirator type of mask that has replaceable filters.  These are
commonly referred to as Sanding Respirators and can be found at Home
Depot or Lowes.  You can also find them at http://www.homedepot.com
and searching under the term "mask"

Formaldehyde-free MDF is available as well.  It is traditionally more
expensive than regular MDF.  You can learn more about
Formaldehyde-free MDF at
http://www.advancedbuildings.org/main_t_finishes_formaldehyde.htm

Thanks again for your question and I hope the information I have
provided has been helpful.  If you need any additional clarification,
please let me know prior to rating my answer.

Regards,

-THV

Search Strategy:
respiratory protection MDF

References:
Respiratory Protection
http://www.vitrex.co.uk/safety02.htm

MDF Products
http://www.norbord.com/english/mdf/

WOOD DUST
http://www.workershealth.com.au/facts023.html

Thanks, that helps a lot!

misterrachel..

Thanks for the high rating and the generous tip.  Glad I could be of assistance

-THV