Every day I cycle through the busy car traffic in Brussels and not only find the many exhaust fumes unpleasant, but also wonder if I can do anything to reduce exposure to it while cycling. There are mouth masks on the market, and I occasionally see other cyclists wearing one. I wonder whether such masks have proven their worth, and if so, which types are recommended? What to look for when buying such a mask? Thank you!
Answer
An ordinary “surgical” mouth mask has no effect against air pollution. But a mask that properly encloses the mouth and nose (without slits) and has a filter to stop fine particles (“submicron”), does offer partial protection against unhealthy soot and other particles. Although this protection is not 100% because very fine dust particles will probably not stop it, and neither will the dangerous nitrogen oxide. I am not yet aware of any good studies demonstrating the effectiveness of certain types. I would especially pay attention to the good connection, the filter(s) that must be able to be replaced or washed out regularly, and the presence of valves for exhaled air. I also think it’s a good idea to find a course that leads along less busy streets.
Answered by
Prof. dr. dr. Luc Bouwens
Biomedical Sciences
Avenue de la Plein 2 1050 Ixelles
http://www.vub.ac.be/
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