Respiratory Protection
Overview
OSHA’s primary objective for Respiratory Protection is the prevention of atmospheric contamination. Accepted engineering control measures are to be used to accomplish this (for example, enclosure or confinement of the operation, general and local ventilation, and substitution of less toxic materials). When effective engineering controls are not feasible or sufficient, or while they are being instituted, OSHA requires that employees use appropriate respirators. When your employees need respirators to do their jobs, setting up an effective respirator safety program is essential. The Respiratory Protection regulation (29 CFR 1910.134) establishes uniform guidelines for protecting your workers when they must work in hazardous atmospheres.
