Which of the following is the correct option for the respirator used during paint mixing and general painting operations?

• A. N95
• B. Full-face respirator
• C. Supplied-air respirator
• D. Chemical Cartridge

Answer: (D)

Paint mixing and general painting expose you to organic solvent vapors from paints and thinners. To protect against those vapors, you need a respirator that can filter organic vapors rather than just particulates. A device that filters particulates, like an N95, won’t protect you from solvent vapors. A full-face respirator is capable of providing protection, but it requires the appropriate cartridge to do so. A supplied-air respirator is used when the vapor concentration is very high or ventilation is inadequate and you’re supplied with clean air from an external source.

The cartridge itself is what provides the vapor protection, and for paints this means a chemical (organic vapor) cartridge. So the option that specifies a chemical cartridge identifies the component that actually filters the paint solvents, making it the best choice for this scenario.