General FAQ's
Where is PK Safety Supply located?
Who am I talking to when I call in?
Can I set up an online account?
What are the OSHA requirements for my job?
What are your company hours?
Order FAQ's
General Order FAQ's
Do you offer promotional discounts?
Government and Public Institution Purchases
I'm tax exempt, how do I remove tax from my order?
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I need a quote.
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Confined Space FAQ's
Are you able to do winch repair?
How do I select a gas detection kit for my confined space?
What kind of ventilation is needed for my confined space?
What gas monitor should I get for my confined space?
What kind of gas could be in confined space?
Do I need a pumped monitor for confined space or is diffusion fine?
Do you rent equipment?
Do you have any blowers that are intrinsically safe?
Fall Protection FAQ'S
Is there a maximum weight limit for a harness?
Is there a maximum weight limit for a tripod?
I need a leading edge SRL
I need a price for a ladder system
Flame Resistance (FR) Clothing FAQ's
Gas Detection FAQ's
Will my gas monitor come with a factory calibration certificate?
How do you properly dispose of your gas monitors?
How many bump tests can I get from a cylinder of calibration gas?
What is a confined space?
What’s the difference between a bump test and a calibration?
What gases are included in 4-gas monitors?
How often do I need to calibrate my monitor?
What gas monitor do I need for my application?
Respirator FAQ's
What size respirator do I need?
Do you offer onsite fit testing services?
What filter/cartridge do I need for my respirator mask?
How long do filters last?
I need an N95 mask.
Safety Equipment FAQ's
Do you offer logo services?
Will this earmuff/earplug help with ____?
What kind of mask do I need for mold?
I'm looking for the towelettes with sunscreen on it.
Safety Glove FAQ's
Workwear FAQ's
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- What size respirator do I need?
What size respirator do I need?
Updated by Stephanie Sousa
The size question is a vexing one. There are no metrics to go by. That is, no measurements or size charts are reliable in making the choice, so none are published. In our decades of experience with customers, we've found roughly 70-75% of the population will fit a Medium size respirator. If you have what you feel is a notably small face (think petite woman) then Small may be the right choice. On the other hand, if your face is quite large (notably so), then a Large may be best.
The best way to actually determine fit is with all 3 sizes in front of you, with preferably more than just one brand choice, and try them on. Then a fit test by one of the common means; Smoke, Saccharin/Bitrex, or banana oil (Isoamyl Acetate). It helps to have a person experienced in this to assist you, but it is not absolutely necessary. Again, for most people a Medium mask will work. Check out this article for more information on how to choose the right size respirator for you or give us a call at 800.829.9580.