How to Choose a Respirator and Other Personal Protection for Painting Jobs

Choosing the right respirator and protective clothing for your painting project depends on numerous factors. The most important being the type of paint that will be used (solvent-based, water-based or powder paint), and the kind of paint application you are going to use (spraying, airless spraying, roller painting, dip coating, brush painting). In addition to the painting process, personal protection is also helpful for the prepping stage of the project. When preparing surfaces for painting, cleaning and degreasing can expose you to numerous health risks. Along with the general protective measures, like working outside or in a well-ventilated area and covering up any exposed areas, wearing protective clothing and using personal protective equipment is extremely helpful.

The aerosol spray can was invented in 1927 by Erik Rotheim. Spray can insecticides were developed to protect US troops against malaria in the Pacific during the World War II. Today, more than one method of spray painting is used: air gun spraying, HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure), LVLP (Low Volume Low Pressure), electrostatic spray painting, air assisted airless spray guns, airless spray guns. These methods of painting are fantastic for paint jobs in the industrial sector, but they also create a toxic environment in the working area. You will need reliable well-fitted PPE to successfully complete your painting projects.

Personal Protection Must-Haves:

1. Respirator

What to look for in a respirator? First, verify that it is NIOSH–approved, then check its filter capacity, a level of comfort, and determine if you need a disposable or a reusable respirator. The type of filter you choose should be based on the type of paint you use, your application method, and your budget.

We recommend this hassle-free Premium Paint Respirator kit for pesticide and paint spray.

3M Premium Paint Respirator Kit

Kit Includes a 3M 7500 series half mask respirator, a pair of 3M 6001 organic vapor cartridges, a box of 3M 5P71 P95 prefilters, and a pair of 3M 501 filter retainers. Add the alcohol-free cleaning wipes to your cart to make sure you are able to clean your respirator when needed. These wipes will not harm even the most sensitive parts of your respirator!

Read what our customers are saying about the benefits of buying the kit versus purchasing the items separately.

 “I like that they set up the kit for you based upon your needs. I am far from an expert in respirators but I could probably have figured out what I needed after hours of research and a few phone calls. In this case, I just called and they hooked me up in a few minutes with exactly what I needed for a competitive price and oh yeah, I actually don't mind wearing the gear! It's a great fit and very comfortable. I figure I saved at least $100 or more in time using them.”

 “I picked this up to replace an older, cheaper 2 canister respirator I had. The company that made it was bought by 3m and 3m no longer sold the canisters. I'm glad I upgraded. I picked the 7500 series over the next series down because of the soft silicone face piece. It is VERY comfortable. And PK has a part number which gets you all the necessary 3M parts to have a complete mask w/ dust pre filter. The first day I used it, a skunk had visited outside my shop, but the filters stopped even that odor, as well as the paint fumes :)”

2. Goggles

Eye protection is critical in maintaining safety at a job site. Commonly called “chemical splash goggles,” the Pyramex G204 Goggles are a great choice for painting jobs because they contain indirect vents to restrict the influx of liquids and a convenient elastic headband.

Here is what one customer had to say about the product:

“If you are renovating, or demoing - these are a must have! They do an excellent job of protecting your eyes from falling debris or dust. We're removing old plaster and lath, and these were a lifesaver. I looked a little like a mad scientist, but I wore them every day on site.”

If you are wearing prescription glasses, the most suitable option will be Pyramex Capstone Anti-Fog Safety Goggles with 100% polycarbonate, scratch-resistant lenses. The benefit of using them is that they have enough room to fit your prescription glasses. If you are painting outdoors, these goggles offer 99% protection from harmful UV rays.

Pyramex Capstone Anti-Fog Safety Goggles

Check out what a customer thought of these Goggles and the benefits they provide:

“I love these goggles. They fit perfectly over my prescription glasses. It has never fell down and won't let anything in, except air to keep them from fogging up. These glasses are not costly at all and I've been searching forever. Hope they last a long time!”

3. Gloves

Hand protection is vital when you are performing painting either on a regular basis or just from time to time.

The Memphis 9688 Flex Tuff II Gloves are among the most popular safety gloves. They feature a breathable 10 gauge grey cotton/polyester knit shell, coated with a grey latex dip to provide a rough finish for better grip and wear. The gloves are made in the shape of a relaxed hand for extra comfort. These general purpose safety gloves are great for painting and demolition work.

Memphis 9688 Flex Tuff II Gloves

Check out our customers’ feedback:

“Purchased these gloves for hazmat work and found them more versatile and comfortable to wear performing a host of projects. They are flexible and allow for far better dexterity than lesser gloves at many times the price.”

4. Protective Clothing

Protective clothing is an essential part of your protective gear. Disposable coverall suits are the best for any painting applications.

DuPont Tyvek Disposable Coverall 1414 Suit

This lightweight disposable Tyvek coverall features an attached hood, non-skid booties, and elastic wrist for the total body coverage. Wear it with a respirator and protective gloves to be completely covered. The suit can be used for asbestos removal, fiberglass insulation, painting, and insecticide application inside rafters.

Check out our customers’ feedback:

“Works great! It's thin, and you will sweat like crazy in a warm attic, but it works great and I am buying more to have around whenever I need to go into the attic. We also used it to paint the ceilings in our entire house with a spray gun.”

When it comes to your safety, you should always put it first. We have what you need to complete your painting project safely. To easily get in touch with us for some good advice, call us at 800-829-9580, or visit us online fle pksafety.com.

Sources:

1. Rawlings Paints Blog
2. PRV Engineering Blog
3. Body Shop Business