Respiratory Protection
Respiratory protection is a critical component of workplace safety and is governed by OSHA's Respiratory Protection Standard, 29 CFR 1910.134. Employees who are required to wear a respirator as part of their job duties must complete respiratory protection training and understand the limitations, proper use, inspection, maintenance, and storage requirements of their assigned equipment. OSHA also requires employers to implement a respiratory protection program whenever respirators are necessary to protect workers from airborne hazards.
Before an employee can be authorized to wear a respirator, OSHA requires a medical evaluation to determine whether the individual is physically capable of safely using the equipment. Once medically cleared, the employee must successfully complete a fit test for the specific make, model, style, and size of respirator they will use. Fit testing ensures the respirator forms an effective seal against the face and provides the intended level of protection. Medical evaluations and fit testing must be maintained and updated in accordance with regulatory requirements and organizational policy.
Completion of Respiratory Protection training, medical clearance, and fit testing is a prerequisite for employees seeking Confined Space Entry Certification. Personnel who are not medically qualified and fit tested cannot be assigned duties requiring the use of respiratory protection in confined spaces. Departments should also be aware that participation in this program carries additional costs beyond the training itself. These costs include the purchase of an approved respirator, ongoing cartridge and filter replacements, and the required medical evaluation. All associated expenses are the responsibility of the employee's department and should be budgeted accordingly prior to enrollment in Confined Space Certification training.