Methanol is quite toxic yes, but not so much that an aware hobbiest can't handle it safely. There are several mL of methanol in every bottle of wine, and every shot of bourbon, for instance.

I'm collaborating with girl mark right now to write a new, cohesive biodiesel tutorial that includes all the recent advances in vaporless reactors and chemical safety.

You are right that no VOC respirators filter out methanol vapor. There are a few specialty cartridges that can, but they are veeery expensive, and only function for a few minutes before becoming saturated. In industry, delivered air systems are the only ones considered appropriate for methanol.

But in homebrewing, like industry, the method used for methanol safety is to not make the fumes in the first place. Sealed methoxide mixers (simple as an HDPE carboy that you rock back and forth), and sealed reaction vessels and storage containers mean very little methanol vapor.

We're also working on a more complete set of guidelines for handling disposal and spills of methanol and other chemicals.

Don't let the chemicals scare you off of biodiesel. Like I said, with care and education, anyone can safely handle the chemicals.

peace,
sam

__________________
"That f***in' biodiesel is makin' me hungry."

1982 300TD Astral Silver w/ 250k (BIO BNZ)
2001 Aprilia SR50 Corsa Red w/ 5.5k (>100 MPG)