This is a good thread. I do use a respirator for sanding, always. I also have one of these: http://woodworker.com/cgi-bin/FULLPRES.exe?PARTNUM=923-838
which helps with the dust & the odors. Some more expensive models have charcoal scrubbers & stuff. I use a shop vac for active dust collection and most all of my power tools have dust ports.
Its a good point about the fibers released when cutting glass. I guess I should throw on the respirator for that too. Thanks.
I have an orange tree that produces fruit year-round. Before glassing, I go out & pick an orange and cut it in half & set it right outside the shop door. When I’m done glassing, I get the orange halves & squeeze the juice & then rub the pulp on my gloves & squeegees. Rub it all over, the epoxy turns milky white & full of pulp. Then rinse with plain water & everything’s clean. Yes, really. I get 10+ uses out of good neoprene gloves. They’re only $3 a pair anyway, but it all adds up. And they don’t get as hot inside as the latex or nitrile ones, and I think they give better feel.