What Respirator size?

[lebolewis]

I've researched Respirators on the Internet and know what I want.....but I am not sure about the size! I want the half-face type and they seem to come in 3 sizes - small, medium and large. Ideally, you would try all three for a good fit, but I will be ordering from the Internet and that is not possible.

I have what I would describe as a full, round face, wear a 7 1/2 hat.

Any suggestions? Bill

[CanoeStream]

I had to find a small one for a petite co-worker. Until then I didn't even know they came in sizes. Got mine at Rockler. But have seen them since at Home Depot IIRC. I'd think Lowes would carry it too. Check in the paint department. Most of these places simplify it to one size for your average painter/worker. I'd say large is what you want. The straps adjust until you have a good seal. I'll say again how comfortable these are. I wear glasses - no problem. And can wear my hearing protector muffs in the shop too -- though that's a bit more of a bother.

I got my paint mist respirator long before using Rot Doctor. I had sensitized myself to fumes from milling western red cedar -- very nasty upper respiratory symptoms. Now I have no problems after using the respirator.

[Sixty3TW4US]

A good quality one will give you options for the cartrages. that way you can get a different cartarge suitable for a the different chemicals, solvents, acids, pestasides, paint etc. Also if you have a beard you will need a full face respirator.

[dreadydreame]

my husband works in an industry that uses respirators and he says you just need to make sure it is fitting correctly each time you use it. tighten the straps, put your hands over the side cartridges and try to breath in, you should get no air. once that is tight, cover the mouth part hole and exhale, no air should come out of the respirator. This makes sure it will protect you. As for what size I have no idea, perhaps you can call the company and ask what size to order. We got ours at Lowe's.

[bertro]

I have a full face Draeger resp. even a full face will not seat correctly with a beard. Once fit hold your hand over the cartridge and suck in, if the mask will collapse and stay you have a proper seal. Robert