Which respirator is suitable when removing wallboard?

• A. Half-mask respirator
• B. Full-face respirator
• C. N95 respirator
• D. Powered air-purifying respirator

Answer: (A)

Dust from removing wallboard consists of fine particles that can be inhaled and irritate the lungs. The goal is to block those particulates while staying comfortable and practical for the job. A half-mask respirator fits tightly over the nose and mouth and uses replaceable particulate filters, making it well suited for drywall dust. It provides solid protection against fine dust without the extra bulk or cost of a full-face unit or the complexity of a powered system, which helps you move and work more easily during removal tasks.

A full-face respirator would offer eye protection, but it’s heavier and often unnecessary for typical drywall dust. An N95 describes a filter efficiency but doesn’t specify the facepiece design, and the half-mask with appropriate filters delivers reliable particulate protection in a common, practical setup. A powered air-purifying respirator provides more protection but is usually overkill for standard wallboard removal and adds equipment and battery requirements.