Toya Posted June 5, 2023 Report Share Posted June 5, 2023 What type of respirator has the best protection from sanding dust and stain fumes? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post wtnhighlander Posted June 5, 2023 Popular Post Report Share Posted June 5, 2023 Dust / particulate respirators and "fume" respirators use different filtration systems. The solution for those of use that needs mostly protection from dust, and occasionally work with volatile compounds, is a half-face mask with interchagable cartridges. The dust cartridges are typically less expensive than those that filter VOCs. 3M makes several decent models: https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/p/c/ppe/respiratory-protection/i/consumer/?utm_term=cbg-chim-na-en_us-ba-cmpn_brnd-cpc-google-google-learn-general-jan23-00000&gclid=Cj0KCQjwj_ajBhCqARIsAA37s0zE8E5BboWcf3FWfQAasvrbIMUQ2LutFhJSuf7-hMYj4-RC1wUWrgoaAiXwEALw_wcB My local home centers carry some variation of these. 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Mark J Posted June 5, 2023 Popular Post Report Share Posted June 5, 2023 A half mask filter can be a problem if you wear eyeglasses, particularly bifocals. Eyeglasses ride too high, distorting your vision. The solution for me was a powered air purifying resperator (PAPR). But these are north of $1k. Don't neglect collecting dust at the source; that is the first line of defense. 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gee-dub Posted June 5, 2023 Report Share Posted June 5, 2023 I have been through several iterations of masks. I do not like being blind in my peripheral areas. This is a problem with typical half mask / cartridge formats for my long, narrow face. The cartridges block my natural site-lines below and to the sides. My favorite AO Safety mask was discontinued when 3M gobbled them up. My eventual alternative is the Miller. I keep one for dust and one for finishes and keep plenty of spare filters around. Unfortunately they became quite popular about 10 years ago and the price has doubled. They are still at the low end of the price range for a good mask but I am glad I have a good stock of filters ;-) The mask fits well, does not interfere with my prescription safety glasses or ear muffs and is quick-on, quick-off. A mask fit and comfort is very dependent on your head shape so I cannot vouch for a good fit for you. The good news is that Amazon and Home Depot sell them so if the fit isn't good you can return them. You need a mask that supports filters that work for the environment you will be in. For wood dust and the finishes I use the Miller p-100 filters are fine. Other vapors require specialized filter media so check your products that you use and filter accordingly. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mark J Posted June 5, 2023 Report Share Posted June 5, 2023 30 minutes ago, gee-dub said: My eventual alternative is the Miller I believe these are also sold under the name "Elipse". 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gee-dub Posted June 5, 2023 Report Share Posted June 5, 2023 On 6/5/2023 at 9:03 AM, Mark J said: I believe these are also sold under the name "Elipse". Yes. Also Klein. It is the same mask with different logos. Shop by price. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wtnhighlander Posted June 5, 2023 Report Share Posted June 5, 2023 The Elipse / Miller / whatever is the one I use most, as I hardly ever feel the need to worry with VOC protection. I just open the windows and turn on the externally-vented dust collector to move fresh air in quickly. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Toya Posted July 8, 2023 Author Report Share Posted July 8, 2023 Great, thank you everyone! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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