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There are no leaks that I notice. I have been using this mask for a year or so. It's also durable. It's as comfortable as I could ask for, not that I like having something strapped to my face :). I can feel the resistance to my breathing, but it's really not bad. I put it on and off frequently and occasionally drop it - no problems. I do notice that one of the exhaust valves is usually stuck when I put the mask on, but I just put one hand over the other valve, blow out a puff of air, and it's good to go.
This is a great product that, apparently, is no longer supported by AO Safety/AeAro/3M. I have not been able to find replacement filters.
I'm looking forward to seeing if I can't break that 11 year record. If it had not been for the rubber head strap finally deteriorating, I would still be using it after 11 years.
It got heavy use as I must cut my 1 acre lawn at least weekly during growing season here in the deep south. I finally retired it a few weeks ago after a long and hard search for an EXACT replacement.
Although I do a bit of woodworking, I originally purchased this respirator in 1998 for use while cutting my lawn (helps me with dust and pollen - no sinus problems afterwards). Filters are easy to change and the whole mask is washable.
I found it to be both rugged yet very comfortable. It mad a good seal around my mouth and nose, even with my moustache.
I am very please that the new replacement has a better grade of rubber for the head strap. AO Safety 95190 Woodworker's Respirator
The mask is a lung saver; do not think that the disposable masks at the box stores do the job of protecting your health. The price of a good mask is incidental compared to the damage even casual dusty conditions can do. This mask comfortably seals to allow only filtered breathing--a feat that the dainty masks at the box stores simply does not do.
This is an inexpensive option to actually provide some protection, if you are so inclined. I bought this respirator at the peak of the H1N1 Swine flu scare. I am also a handy man and have used it in the garage while doing some cutting/sanding projects. The filter included in this respirator is a NIOSH certified N95 filter, which is the recommended standard used by health care professionals. The dust masks that people tend to wear to ward off virus are virtually useless at preventing disease, other than to stop you from putting your hands near your mouth or nose. I find that it fills with dust very quickly, but this is encouraging as the filter is clearly doing its job. I also have a twin cartridge 95115 respirator from AO Safety, which I prefer when working around the garage, as it has two filters, and therefore clogs a little less quickly.
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