Gerson 1940 R95 Particulate Respirator with Exhalation Valve – Flame Resistant, Made in USA (Box of 10)

Gerson 1940 R95 Particulate Respirator with Valve — Box of 10 — NIOSH-Approved R95 Disposable Respirator

Gerson 1940 R95 Particulate Respirator with Valve — Box of 10 is Gerson's standard R95 disposable respirator with exhalation valve in a 10-count box — no face gasket, but with R95 oil resistance for one shift and a valve for cooler wear, making it a cost-effective volume option for oil-mist and spray-paint environments.

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The Gerson 1940 R95 Particulate Respirator with Valve — Box of 10 is a NIOSH-approved R95 filtering facepiece respirator from Gerson, listed on the NIOSH Certified Equipment List. Read the complete disposable respirator guide to compare NIOSH filter classes before ordering.

Key Features — 1940

• NIOSH R95 approval for oil-resistant particulates at minimum 95% efficiency for one shift
• Exhalation valve reduces heat and humidity buildup during extended wear
• Cup design maintains shape in oil-mist and spray-paint environments
• No face gasket — lower cost per unit than 1840/1845 gasket variants
• 10-count box for volume purchasing in oil-mist environments

Specifications

Typical Applications

• Volume spray painting programs; see all R95 respirators
• Oil-mist machining and automotive paint prep at volume
• Industrial maintenance in oil-mist environments; see all disposable respirators
• Consider step-up to P100 for sustained oil exposure; read our respirator guide

Hazard Coverage — Gerson 1940 R95 Particulate Respirator with Valve — Box of 10

The Gerson 1940 R95 Particulate Respirator with Valve — Box of 10 is NIOSH-approved under 42 CFR 84 Subpart K as an R95 respirator: ≥95% filtration, rated for both non-oil and oil-resistant particulates for up to one work shift of oil aerosol exposure. Covered environments: spray painting, automotive body work, machining with cutting fluids, oil-mist coolants. Browse all R95 respirators.

The R95 is oil-resistant not oil-proof — after one shift of continuous oil exposure, discard the 1940. Step up to a P100 for heavy or extended oil mist. See our N95 vs P100 guide.

Compare 1940 vs 1840 vs 1845

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the exhalation valve on the 1940 do?

The exhalation valve opens when you breathe out, allowing warm humid air to exit directly rather than passing back through the filter media. This reduces heat and moisture buildup inside the mask — a significant comfort advantage during extended or physically demanding wear. Inhalation closes the valve, so all inhaled air is filtered normally.

Does the valve on the 1940 reduce filtration efficiency?

No. The exhalation valve does not affect inhalation filtration efficiency — the 1940 still filters inhaled air at the rated N95/R95/P100 level. The valve only controls exhaled air routing. Note: because exhaled air is not filtered, valved respirators are not appropriate as source-control devices (e.g., in surgical environments or when protecting others from the wearer).

Is a valved respirator like the 1940 acceptable for source control?

No. A valved respirator directs exhaled air outward unfiltered and is not appropriate where the wearer must also protect others (surgical settings, some healthcare environments). Facility policies may prohibit valved masks in sterile or at-risk patient areas. For source-control requirements, use an unvalved N95 or a surgical N95.

Is the 1940 NIOSH-approved for oil mist?

Yes. The 1940 holds NIOSH R95 approval under 42 CFR 84 Subpart K, confirming ≥95% filtration of both non-oil and oil-resistant particulates. The R in R95 means the mask is approved for oil-based aerosols for up to one work shift (8 hours of continuous oil aerosol exposure). Compare classes in our N95 vs P100 guide.

What is the difference between R95 and N95 for the 1940?

The 1940 is rated R95 — oil-resistant (one shift) — while N95 masks are rated for non-oil environments only. If you spray paint, work with cutting fluids, or handle oil mist, the R95 class is the correct minimum; for extended or heavy oil exposure, step up to a P100 (oil-proof, no time limit). Browse all R95 respirators.

Can the 1940 be used for spray painting?

Yes, the 1940's R95 rating covers oil-based aerosols including spray paint and primer mist for up to one shift. OSHA recommends pairing it with forced-air ventilation in enclosed spray environments. For longer exposures or lacquers with solvent vapors, also consider an OV cartridge — the R95 particle filter alone does not capture organic vapors.

Does the 1940 require a fit test?

Yes. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134 mandates a fit test before first workplace use of any tight-fitting respirator. See our fit testing guide for the qualitative and quantitative options. Proper seal at the nose bridge and chin is required for rated R95 performance.

How long can I use the 1940 in an oil mist environment?

The R95 class is approved for up to one work shift of oil aerosol exposure; after that, oil can degrade the electret filter media and reduce efficiency below 95%. Discard the 1940 at end of shift if used in oil-mist conditions, or sooner if breathing resistance increases noticeably.

What does the 1940 NOT protect against?

The 1940 protects against oil and non-oil particulates only — it does not filter gases, vapors, or chemical vapors such as organic solvents or acid gases. Nuisance-relief versions add a thin sorbent layer for comfort only, not IDLH chemical protection. For vapor hazards, use a half-face or full-face respirator with an OV or AG cartridge.

Can I use the 1940 for welding?

Welding fume is classified as a particulate hazard. An R95 like the 1940 provides adequate particle protection for mild steel MIG/TIG welding. For stainless steel, galvanized metal, or chromate primer grinding — which generate hexavalent chromium — a P100 provides higher protection. Check your welding fume exposure assessment or SDS.

How many 1940 respirators come in a box?

Pack size is shown in the product title. For bulk orders, contact our B2B team for volume pricing. Browse all R95 respirators for available pack formats.

Is the 1940 reusable?

No, the 1940 is a disposable respirator. Discard it when soiled, damaged, breathing becomes difficult, or at end of shift in oil-mist environments. Attempting to clean or wash a disposable N95/R95 can damage the electret filter and reduce filtration efficiency without providing any visible indication.