Anybody have experience trying both a full face respirator versus a 1/2 mask for getting the best seal to keep out the toxins? Do the full face windows get fogged? Any and all input please, thanks.
I have 3 half masks and 2 full face.
I never wear the half masks anymore.
No problem with fogging. But I say, draw your own conclusions?
Regardless of the seal quality (both are good) I will never have to do a “got catalyst (resin//spraypaint) in my eye” thread.
The full face masks keep toxins and fumes out of your eyes as well. One problem I have found with them is they restrict your vision and if you use them for any length of time with your top half stooped or you eyes facing down, say sanding or shaping you place undue strain on your neck. They may feel nice and light but after an extended period you can feel the weight. Get a scratch or some resin or something on the visor and its a pain in the arse because you eyes are always drawn to the blemish on the screen. Ever gotten a scratch on your sunnies?
I now only use the full face mask for glassing and the half face masks for shaping and sanding.
Neither the full face nor the 1/2 face has a "best" seal. Respirators must be individually selected by the person who will wear them. Your face may not match the manufacturer's target.
That said, a full face positive pressure unit has a much better protection factor than a half mask negative pressure unit. If there is anything about this concept or terminology that escapes you, then you are not adequately informed and should do your homework.
A full face positive pressure respirator "should" be better, but it can all be for nothing if the fit is bad (such as, you haven't shaved in days or weeks, or it never fit your face in the first place), or if the respirator filter is old and no longer effective as it should be.