: You are correct that you need different filters for fumes, vapors and
: particulates. However You are incorrect about paper dust masks. I don't
: believe they even have a protection factor rating. On asbestos jobs they
: are illegal.

I think ytou are talking the thin little paper masks while we are talking about the approved mask with the rubber coating inside, the charcoal layer in the middle and a very thick paper filter on the outside. They have a exhaust valve to stop them from being pushed off your face when you breath out just as a respirator does. They seal well enough that in the last testing we did at work they were far superior to the respirators.

Contrary to what was said here, respirators are NOT dust masks and are ILLEGAL to use as such. Check the NIOSH standards.

You must have the proper tool for the job and this means a dust mask and a respirator. You can buy dust masks that appear the same as a respirator and are very comfortable but do not mistake them for a respirator, they are not.

Ian