PVG:
I have used the 7500 myself for years.
Uh...not the same one, just that 3M 7500 type.
You have some choices.
You can
either buy the multi-vapor and particulate combination cartridge and filter which will be adequate for all the exposures you identified.*
Or you can buy filters for dusts and particulates and, separately, buy the organic vapor cartridge for resins, two-part putties and the other chemical vapors you mentioned. They all have twist-lock type connections and fit together easily.
Normally I'd buy the filters/cartridges from the same place I bought the mask. Filters/cartridges and masks are available from Wal-Mart or Amazon or lots of other online retailers or, depending on where you live, local stores. I'm not trying to favor the two large retailers, just giving examples.
Manufacturers match
their respirators with
their filters and cartridges. So - only 3M filters or cartridges with 3M masks. If you change masks to for example, North or Moldex or MSA, you have to re-equip with cartridges and filters made by the same manufacturer. When you finish using the mask, remove the filters or cartridges and wash with dish washing soap and water - no stronger cleaning agent. Let the mask air dry and then put it in sealed plastic bag when not in use. Don't open the filters or cartridges plastic bags until you need them. Probably you can use the same filters/cartridges for 3 or 4 sessions, but then you need to dispose and replace. When the respirator straps are starting to be stiff and inflexible or the silicone becomes brittle, replace the mask.
Here's the part nobody wants to hear. You have to be clean-shaven in the area where the respirator makes contact with the facial skin for this and all half-face and full-face respirators to work correctly. Respirators like the 3M7500 depend on making a vacuum seal between skin and the respirator mask so that you are breathing only thru the filters/cartridges. Facial hair creates gaps allowing air to bypass the filters.
Exposures to two part air-drying putties can cause dermatitis and skin/eye irritation with progressive sensitization. Don't forget the thin tight-fitting rubber safety gloves when mixing and working with two part putties. During and after use of the putties, keep your hands out of your eyes and wash with soap and water.
If you have any other questions, let me know.
All the best,
Dan Morton
* Use good ventilation in the area where you are grinding, mixing putties, etc. Unless you are using the products daily, you probably do not need an exhaust ventilation fan, paint booth, etc. If you are using putty, painting, grinding, cutting, etc., daily, then give me some more details in a conversation and I'll try to help. Ventilation and respirators are not the only way to provide protection.
