😷 Respiratory Protection
OSHA Compliant Safety Meeting | ~12 minutes
Respirator selection guide
Is the atmosphere oxygen-deficient or IDLH?
Yes
IDLH or oxygen-deficient
Supplied-air respirator (SAR) or self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) required. Air-purifying respirators will NOT protect you.
No
Is the hazard a particulate (dust, silica, welding fume)?
Yes
Particulate hazard
Use an N95/P100 filtering facepiece or half-face respirator with particulate cartridges. Match the protection factor to the exposure level.
No
Gas or vapor hazard
Use a half-face or full-face respirator with the correct chemical cartridge for the specific gas/vapor. Check cartridge change-out schedule.
When Required
- Silica exposure (cutting concrete, masonry)
- Lead paint removal
- Spray painting
- Chemical exposure
Key Points
- Must be fit tested annually
- Clean-shaven for proper seal
- Inspect before each use
- Know your cartridge type