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Source: https://outdoors.stackexchange.com/q/10891
License name: CC BY-SA 3.0
License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

<p>Sometimes while hiking/trekking/whatever I practice <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urban_exploration" rel="noreferrer">urbex</a> (in random buildings, factories, farms, tunnels, the usual), and I'm aware of the risks to my health caused by toxic gas, asbestos, lead and other substances. To protect my lungs, what kind of respirator should I get? Should a surgical mask be enough?</p>

<p><a href="https://i.stack.imgur.com/DZY0J.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.stack.imgur.com/DZY0J.jpg" alt="respirator"></a>
<a href="https://i.stack.imgur.com/jgleD.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.stack.imgur.com/jgleD.jpg" alt="surgical mask"></a></p>

<p>There are so many different variables, I don't even know where to start. Because I usually explore spontaneously while I'm out, I need something that is at least a bit practical, that I can bring in my backpack.</p>

<p>Also, something as discreet as possible would also be great. I don't want to be caught in the woods after exiting a tunnel looking like a wasteland warrior.</p>

<p><a href="https://i.stack.imgur.com/3drMx.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.stack.imgur.com/3drMx.jpg" alt="Wasteland Warrior with gasmask"></a> &lt;-- Looks cool, but no thanks.</p>

<p>Any info that helps me understand how all this works and what I should look for is much appreciated. Cheers.</p>