- Permissible
practice.
1910.134(a)(1)
In the control of those occupational diseases caused
by breathing air contaminated with harmful dusts, fogs,
fumes, mists, gases, smokes, sprays, or vapors, the
primary objective shall be to prevent atmospheric contamination.
This shall be accomplished as far as feasible by accepted
engineering control measures (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 while they
are being instituted, appropriate respirators shall
be used pursuant to this section.
1910.134(a)(2)
Respirators shall be provided by the employer when such
equipment is necessary to protect the health of the
employee. The employer shall provide the respirators
which are applicable and suitable for the purpose intended.
The employer shall be responsible for the establishment
and maintenance of a respiratory protection program
which shall include the requirements outlined in paragraph
(c) of this section.
- Definitions.
The following definitions are important terms used in the
respiratory protection standard in this section.
Air-purifying respirator means a respirator
with an air-purifying filter, cartridge, or canister
that removes specific air contaminants by passing ambient
air through the air-purifying element.
Assigned protection factor (APF) means the workplace
level of respiratory protection that a respirator or
class of respirators is expected to provide to employees
when the employer implements a continuing, effective
respiratory protection program as specified by this
section.
Atmosphere-supplying respirator means a respirator
that supplies the respirator user with breathing air
from a source independent of the ambient atmosphere,
and includes supplied-air respirators (SARs) and self-contained
breathing apparatus (SCBA) units.
Canister or cartridge means a container with
a filter, sorbent, or catalyst, or combination of these
items, which removes specific contaminants from the
air passed through the container.
Demand respirator means an atmosphere-supplying
respirator that admits breathing air to the facepiece
only when a negative pressure is created inside the
facepiece by inhalation.
Emergency situation means any occurrence such
as, but not limited to, equipment failure, rupture of
containers, or failure of control equipment that may
or does result in an uncontrolled significant release
of an airborne contaminant.
Employee exposure means exposure to a concentration
of an airborne contaminant that would occur if the employee
were not using respiratory protection.
End-of-service-life indicator (ESLI) means a
system that warns the respirator user of the approach
of the end of adequate respiratory protection, for example,
that the sorbent is approaching saturation or is no
longer effective.
Escape-only respirator means a respirator intended
to be used only for emergency exit.
Filter or air purifying element means a component
used in respirators to remove solid or liquid aerosols
from the inspired air.
Filtering facepiece (dust mask) means a negative
pressure particulate respirator with a filter as an
integral part of the facepiece or with the entire facepiece
composed of the filtering medium.
Fit factor means a quantitative estimate of
the fit of a particular respirator to a specific individual,
and typically estimates the ratio of the concentration
of a substance in ambient air to its concentration inside
the respirator when worn.
Fit test means the use of a protocol to qualitatively
or quantitatively evaluate the fit of a respirator on
an individual. (See also Qualitative fit test QLFT and
Quantitative fit test QNFT.)
Helmet means a rigid respiratory inlet covering
that also provides head protection against impact and
penetration.
High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter
means a filter that is at least 99.97% efficient in
removing monodisperse particles of 0.3 micrometers in
diameter. The equivalent NIOSH 42 CFR 84 particulate
filters are the N100, R100, and P100 filters.
Hood means a respiratory inlet covering that
completely covers the head and neck and may also cover
portions of the shoulders and torso.
Immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH)
means an atmosphere that poses an immediate threat to
life, would cause irreversible adverse health effects,
or would impair an individual's ability to escape from
a dangerous atmosphere.
Interior structural firefighting means the physical
activity of fire suppression, rescue or both, inside
of buildings or enclosed structures which are involved
in a fire situation beyond the incipient stage. (See
29 CFR 1910.155)
Loose-fitting facepiece means a respiratory
inlet covering that is designed to form a partial seal
with the face.
Maximum use concentration (MUC) means the maximum
atmospheric concentration of a hazardous substance from
which an employee can be expected to be protected when
wearing a respirator, and is determined by the assigned
protection factor of the respirator or class of respirators
and the exposure limit of the hazardous substance. The
MUC can be determined mathematically by multiplying
the assigned protection factor specified for a respirator
by the required OSHA permissible exposure limit, short-term
exposure limit, or ceiling limit. When no OSHA exposure
limit is available for a hazardous substance, an employer
must determine an MUC on the basis of relevant available
information and informed professional judgment.
Negative pressure respirator (tight fitting)
means a respirator in which the air pressure inside
the facepiece is negative during inhalation with respect
to the ambient air pressure outside the respirator.
Oxygen deficient atmosphere means an atmosphere
with an oxygen content below 19.5% by volume.
Physician or other licensed health care professional
(PLHCP) means an individual whose legally permitted
scope of practice (i.e., license, registration, or certification)
allows him or her to independently provide, or be delegated
the responsibility to provide, some or all of the health
care services required by paragraph (e) of this section.
Positive pressure respirator means a respirator
in which the pressure inside the respiratory inlet covering
exceeds the ambient air pressure outside the respirator.
Powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) means
an air-purifying respirator that uses a blower to force
the ambient air through air-purifying elements to the
inlet covering.
Pressure demand respirator means a positive
pressure atmosphere-supplying respirator that admits
breathing air to the facepiece when the positive pressure
is reduced inside the facepiece by inhalation.
Qualitative fit test (QLFT) means a pass/fail
fit test to assess the adequacy of respirator fit that
relies on the individual's response to the test agent.
Quantitative fit test (QNFT) means an assessment
of the adequacy of respirator fit by numerically measuring
the amount of leakage into the respirator.
Respiratory inlet covering means that portion
of a respirator that forms the protective barrier between
the user's respiratory tract and an air-purifying device
or breathing air source, or both. It may be a facepiece,
helmet, hood, suit, or a mouthpiece respirator with
nose clamp.
Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) means
an atmosphere-supplying respirator for which the breathing
air source is designed to be carried by the user.
Service life means the period of time that a
respirator, filter or sorbent, or other respiratory
equipment provides adequate protection to the wearer.
Supplied-air respirator (SAR) or airline respirator
means an atmosphere-supplying respirator for which the
source of breathing air is not designed to be carried
by the user.
This section means this respiratory protection
standard.
Tight-fitting facepiece means a respiratory
inlet covering that forms a complete seal with the face.
User seal check means an action conducted by
the respirator user to determine if the respirator is
properly seated to the face.
Top
- Respiratory
protection program.
This paragraph requires the employer to develop and implement
a written respiratory protection program with required worksite-specific
procedures and elements for required respirator use. The
program must be administered by a suitably trained program
administrator. In addition, certain program elements may
be required for voluntary use to prevent potential hazards
associated with the use of the respirator. The Small Entity
Compliance Guide contains criteria for the selection of
a program administrator and a sample program that meets
the requirements of this paragraph. Copies of the Small
Entity Compliance Guide will be available on or about April
8, 1998 from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's
Office of Publications, Room N 3101, 200 Constitution Avenue,
NW, Washington, DC, 20210 (202-219-4667).
1910.134(c)(1)
In any workplace where respirators are necessary to protect
the health of the employee or whenever respirators are
required by the employer, the employer shall establish
and implement a written respiratory protection program
with worksite-specific procedures. The program shall be
updated as necessary to reflect those changes in workplace
conditions that affect respirator use. The employer shall
include in the program the following provisions of this
section, as applicable:
1910.134(c)(1)(i)
Procedures for selecting respirators for use in the workplace;
1910.134(c)(1)(ii)
Medical evaluations of employees required to use respirators;
1910.134(c)(1)(iii)
Fit testing procedures for tight-fitting respirators;
1910.134(c)(1)(iv)
Procedures for proper use of respirators in routine and
reasonably foreseeable emergency situations;
1910.134(c)(1)(v)
Procedures and schedules for cleaning, disinfecting, storing,
inspecting, repairing, discarding, and otherwise maintaining
respirators;
1910.134(c)(1)(vi)
Procedures to ensure adequate air quality, quantity, and
flow of breathing air for atmosphere-supplying respirators;
1910.134(c)(1)(vii)
Training of employees in the respiratory hazards to which
they are potentially exposed during routine and emergency
situations;
1910.134(c)(1)(viii)
Training of employees in the proper use of respirators,
including putting on and removing them, any limitations
on their use, and their maintenance; and
1910.134(c)(1)(ix)
Procedures for regularly evaluating the effectiveness
of the program.
1910.134(c)(2)
Where respirator use is not required:
1910.134(c)(2)(i)
An employer may provide respirators at the request of
employees or permit employees to use their own respirators,
if the employer determines that such respirator use will
not in itself create a hazard. If the employer determines
that any voluntary respirator use is permissible, the
employer shall provide the respirator users with the information
contained in Appendix D to this section ("Information
for Employees Using Respirators When Not Required Under
the Standard"); and
1910.134(c)(2)(ii)
In addition, the employer must establish and implement
those elements of a written respiratory protection program
necessary to ensure that any employee using a respirator
voluntarily is medically able to use that respirator,
and that the respirator is cleaned, stored, and maintained
so that its use does not present a health hazard to the
user. Exception: Employers are not required to include
in a written respiratory protection program those employees
whose only use of respirators involves the voluntary use
of filtering facepieces (dust masks).
1910.134(c)(3)
The employer shall designate a program administrator who
is qualified by appropriate training or experience that
is commensurate with the complexity of the program to
administer or oversee the respiratory protection program
and conduct the required evaluations of program effectiveness.
1910.134(c)(4)
The employer shall provide respirators, training, and
medical evaluations at no cost to the employee.
Top
(d) Selection
of Respirators
Selection of respirators. This paragraph requires the
employer to evaluate respiratory hazard(s) in the workplace,
identify relevant workplace and user factors, and base
respirator selection on these factors. The paragraph also
specifies appropriately protective respirators for use
in IDLH atmospheres, and limits the selection and use
of air-purifying respirators.
1910.134(d)(1)
General requirements.
1910.134(d)(1)(i)
The employer shall select and provide an appropriate respirator
based on the respiratory hazard(s) to which the worker
is exposed and workplace and user factors that affect
respirator performance and reliability.
1910.134(d)(1)(ii)
The employer shall select a NIOSH-certified respirator.
The respirator shall be used in compliance with the conditions
of its certification.
1910.134(d)(1)(iii)
The employer shall identify and evaluate the respiratory
hazard(s) in the workplace; this evaluation shall include
a reasonable estimate of employee exposures to respiratory
hazard(s) and an identification of the contaminant's chemical
state and physical form. Where the employer cannot identify
or reasonably estimate the employee exposure, the employer
shall consider the atmosphere to be IDLH.
1910.134(d)(1)(iv)
The employer shall select respirators from a sufficient
number of respirator models and sizes so that the respirator
is acceptable to, and correctly fits, the user.
1910.134(d)(2)
Respirators for IDLH atmospheres.
1910.134(d)(2)(i)
The employer shall provide the following respirators for
employee use in IDLH atmospheres:
1910.134(d)(2)(i)(A)
A full facepiece pressure demand SCBA certified by NIOSH
for a minimum service life of thirty minutes, or
1910.134(d)(2)(i)(B)
A combination full facepiece pressure demand supplied-air
respirator (SAR) with auxiliary self-contained air supply.
1910.134(d)(2)(ii)
Respirators provided only for escape from IDLH atmospheres
shall be NIOSH-certified for escape from the atmosphere
in which they will be used.
1910.134(d)(2)(iii)
All oxygen-deficient atmospheres shall be considered IDLH.
Exception: If the employer demonstrates that, under all
foreseeable conditions, the oxygen concentration can be
maintained within the ranges specified in Table II of
this section (i.e., for the altitudes set out in the table),
then any atmosphere-supplying respirator may be used.
1910.134(d)(3)
Respirators for atmospheres that are not IDLH.
1910.134(d)(3)(i)
The employer shall provide a respirator that is adequate
to protect the health of the employee and ensure compliance
with all other OSHA statutory and regulatory requirements,
under routine and reasonably foreseeable emergency situations.
1910.134(d)(3)(i)(A)
Assigned Protection Factors (APFs) Employers
must use the assigned protection factors listed in Table
1 to select a respirator that meets or exceeds the required
level of employee protection. When using a combination
respirator (e.g., airline respirators with an air-purifying
filter), employers must ensure that the assigned protection
factor is appropriate to the mode of operation in which
the respirator is being used.
Table 1. -- Assigned Protection Factors (5)
Type of Respirator(1,2) |
Quarter Mask
|
Half Mask
|
Full Facepiece
|
Helmet/Hood
|
Loose-fitting facepiece
|
1. Air-Purifying Respirator |
5
|
(3) 10
|
50
|
..............
|
..............
|
2. Powered Air-Purifying Respirator
(PAPR) |
..............
|
50
|
1000
|
(4) 25/1,000
|
25
|
3. Supplied-Air Respirator (SAR) or
Airline Respirator
o Demand mode
o Continuous flow mode
o Pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode
|
..............
..............
..............
|
10
50
50
|
50
1,000
1,000
|
..............
(4) 25/1,000
..............
|
..............
25
..............
|
4. Self-contained Breathing Apparatus
(SCBA)
o Demand mode
o Pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode
(e.g., open/closed circuit)
|
..............
..............
|
10
..............
|
50
10,000
|
50
10,000
|
..............
..............
|
Notes:
(1) Employers may select respirators assigned for use
in higher workplace concentrations of a hazardous substance
for use at lower concentrations of that substance, or
when required respirator use is independent of concentration.
(2) The assigned protection factors in Table 1 are only
effective when the employer implements a continuing, effective
respirator program as required by this section (29 CFR
1910.134), including training, fit testing, maintenance,
and use requirements.
(3) This APF category includes filtering facepieces, and
half masks with elastomeric facepieces.
(4) The employer must have evidence provided by the respirator
manufacturer that testing of these respirators demonstrates
performance at a level of protection of 1,000 or greater
to receive an APF of 1,000. This level of performance
can best be demonstrated by performing a WPF or SWPF study
or equivalent testing. Absent such testing, all other
PAPRs and SARs with helmets/hoods are to be treated as
loose-fitting facepiece respirators, and receive an APF
of 25.
(5) These APFs do not apply to respirators used solely
for escape. For escape respirators used in association
with specific substances covered by 29 CFR 1910 subpart
Z, employers must refer to the appropriate substance-specific
standards in that subpart. Escape respirators for other
IDLH atmospheres are specified by 29 CFR 1910.134 (d)(2)(ii).
1910.134(d)(3)(i)(B)
Maximum Use Concentration (MUC)
1910.134(d)(3)(i)(B)(1)
The employer must select a respirator for employee use
that maintains the employee's exposure to the hazardous
substance, when measured outside the respirator, at or
below the MUC.
1910.134(d)(3)(i)(B)(2)
Employers must not apply MUCs to conditions that are immediately
dangerous to life or health (IDLH); instead, they must
use respirators listed for IDLH conditions in paragraph
(d)(2) of this standard.
1910.134(d)(3)(i)(B)(3)
When the calculated MUC exceeds the IDLH level for a hazardous
substance, or the performance limits of the cartridge
or canister, then employers must set the maximum MUC at
that lower limit.
1910.134(d)(3)(ii)
The respirator selected shall be appropriate for the chemical
state and physical form of the contaminant.
1910.134(d)(3)(iii)
For protection against gases and vapors, the employer
shall provide:
1910.134(d)(3)(iii)(A)
An atmosphere-supplying respirator, or
1910.134(d)(3)(iii)(B)
An air-purifying respirator, provided that:
1910.134(d)(3)(iii)(B)(1)
The respirator is equipped with an end-of-service-life
indicator (ESLI) certified by NIOSH for the contaminant;
or
1910.134(d)(3)(iii)(B)(2)
If there is no ESLI appropriate for conditions in the
employer's workplace, the employer implements a change
schedule for canisters and cartridges that is based on
objective information or data that will ensure that canisters
and cartridges are changed before the end of their service
life. The employer shall describe in the respirator program
the information and data relied upon and the basis for
the canister and cartridge change schedule and the basis
for reliance on the data.
1910.134(d)(3)(iv)
For protection against particulates, the employer shall
provide:
1910.134(d)(3)(iv)(A)
An atmosphere-supplying respirator; or
1910.134(d)(3)(iv)(B)
An air-purifying respirator equipped with a filter certified
by NIOSH under 30 CFR part 11 as a high efficiency particulate
air (HEPA) filter, or an air-purifying respirator equipped
with a filter certified for particulates by NIOSH under
42 CFR part 84; or
1910.134(d)(3)(iv)(C)
For contaminants consisting primarily of particles with
mass median aerodynamic diameters (MMAD) of at least 2
micrometers, an air-purifying respirator equipped with
any filter certified for particulates by NIOSH.
Table II |
Altitude |
Oxygen deficient atmospheres (%O2) for which the
employer may rely on atmosphere-supplying respirators. |
Less than 3,001 |
16.0-19.5 |
3,001-4,001 |
16.4-19.5 |
4,001-5,001 |
17.1-19.5 |
5,001-6,001 |
178.8-19.5 |
6,001-7,001 |
18.5-19.5 |
7,001-8,0011 |
19.3-19.5 |
(1) Above 8,000 feet the
exception does not apply. Oxygen-enriched breathing
air must be supplied above 14,000 feet.
|
Top
- Medical evaluation.
Using a respirator may place a physiological burden
on employees that varies with the type of respirator worn,
the job and workplace conditions in which the respirator
is used, and the medical status of the employee. Accordingly,
this paragraph specifies the minimum requirements for medical
evaluation that employers must implement to determine the
employee's ability to use a respirator.
1910.134(e)(1)
General. The employer shall provide a medical evaluation
to determine the employee's ability to use a respirator,
before the employee is fit tested or required to use the
respirator in the workplace. The employer may discontinue
an employee's medical evaluations when the employee is
no longer required to use a respirator.
1910.134(e)(2)
Medical evaluation procedures.
1910.134(e)(2)(i)
The employer shall identify a physician or other licensed
health care professional (PLHCP) to perform medical evaluations
using a medical questionnaire or an initial medical examination
that obtains the same information as the medical questionnaire.
1910.134(e)(2)(ii)
The medical evaluation shall obtain the information requested
by the questionnaire in Sections 1 and 2, Part A of Appendix
C of this section.
1910.134(e)(3)
Follow-up medical examination.
1910.134(e)(3)(i)
The employer shall ensure that a follow-up medical examination
is provided for an employee who gives a positive response
to any question among questions 1 through 8 in Section
2, Part A of Appendix C or whose initial medical examination
demonstrates the need for a follow-up medical examination.
1910.134(e)(3)(ii)
The follow-up medical examination shall include any medical
tests, consultations, or diagnostic procedures that the
PLHCP deems necessary to make a final determination.
1910.134(e)(4)
Administration of the medical questionnaire and examinations.
1910.134(e)(4)(i)
The medical questionnaire and examinations shall be administered
confidentially during the employee's normal working hours
or at a time and place convenient to the employee. The
medical questionnaire shall be administered in a manner
that ensures that the employee understands its content.
1910.134(e)(4)(ii)
The employer shall provide the employee with an opportunity
to discuss the questionnaire and examination results with
the PLHCP.
1910.134(e)(5)
Supplemental information for the PLHCP.
1910.134(e)(5)(i)
The following information must be provided to the PLHCP
before the PLHCP makes a recommendation concerning an
employee's ability to use a respirator:
1910.134(e)(5)(i)(A)
(A) The type and weight of the respirator to be used by
the employee;
1910.134(e)(5)(i)(B)
The duration and frequency of respirator use (including
use for rescue and escape);
1910.134(e)(5)(i)(C)
The expected physical work effort;
1910.134(e)(5)(i)(D)
Additional protective clothing and equipment to be worn;
and
1910.134(e)(5)(i)(E)
Temperature and humidity extremes that may be encountered.
1910.134(e)(5)(ii)
Any supplemental information provided previously to the
PLHCP regarding an employee need not be provided for a
subsequent medical evaluation if the information and the
PLHCP remain the same.
1910.134(e)(5)(iii)
The employer shall provide the PLHCP with a copy of the
written respiratory protection program and a copy of this
section.
Note to Paragraph (e)(5)(iii): When the employer replaces
a PLHCP, the employer must ensure that the new PLHCP obtains
this information, either by providing the documents directly
to the PLHCP or having the documents transferred from
the former PLHCP to the new PLHCP. However, OSHA does
not expect employers to have employees medically reevaluated
solely because a new PLHCP has been selected.
1910.134(e)(6)
Medical determination. In determining the employee's ability
to use a respirator, the employer shall:
1910.134(e)(6)(i)
Obtain a written recommendation regarding the employee's
ability to use the respirator from the PLHCP. The recommendation
shall provide only the following information:
1910.134(e)(6)(i)(A)
Any limitations on respirator use related to the medical
condition of the employee, or relating to the workplace
conditions in which the respirator will be used, including
whether or not the employee is medically able to use the
respirator;
1910.134(e)(6)(i)(B)
The need, if any, for follow-up medical evaluations; and
1910.134(e)(6)(i)(C)
A statement that the PLHCP has provided the employee with
a copy of the PLHCP's written recommendation.
1910.134(e)(6)(ii)
If the respirator is a negative pressure respirator and
the PLHCP finds a medical condition that may place the
employee's health at increased risk if the respirator
is used, the employer shall provide a PAPR if the PLHCP's
medical evaluation finds that the employee can use such
a respirator; if a subsequent medical evaluation finds
that the employee is medically able to use a negative
pressure respirator, then the employer is no longer required
to provide a PAPR.
1910.134(e)(7)
Additional medical evaluations. At a minimum, the employer
shall provide additional medical evaluations that comply
with the requirements of this section if:
1910.134(e)(7)(i)
An employee reports medical signs or symptoms that are
related to ability to use a respirator;
1910.134(e)(7)(ii)
A PLHCP, supervisor, or the respirator program administrator
informs the employer that an employee needs to be reevaluated;
1910.134(e)(7)(iii)
Information from the respiratory protection program, including
observations made during fit testing and program evaluation,
indicates a need for employee reevaluation; or
1910.134(e)(7)(iv)
A change occurs in workplace conditions (e.g., physical
work effort, protective clothing, temperature) that may
result in a substantial increase in the physiological
burden placed on an employee.
Top
- Fit testing.
This paragraph requires that, before an employee may be
required to use any respirator with a negative or positive
pressure tight-fitting facepiece, the employee must be fit
tested with the same make, model, style, and size of respirator
that will be used. This paragraph specifies the kinds of
fit tests allowed, the procedures for conducting them, and
how the results of the fit tests must be used.
1910.134(f)(1)
The employer shall ensure that employees using a tight-fitting
facepiece respirator pass an appropriate qualitative fit
test (QLFT) or quantitative fit test (QNFT) as stated
in this paragraph.
1910.134(f)(2)
The employer shall ensure that an employee using a tight-fitting
facepiece respirator is fit tested prior to initial use
of the respirator, whenever a different respirator facepiece
(size, style, model or make) is used, and at least annually
thereafter.
1910.134(f)(3)
The employer shall conduct an additional fit test whenever
the employee reports, or the employer, PLHCP, supervisor,
or program administrator makes visual observations of,
changes in the employee's physical condition that could
affect respirator fit. Such conditions include, but are
not limited to, facial scarring, dental changes, cosmetic
surgery, or an obvious change in body weight.
1910.134(f)(4)
If after passing a QLFT or QNFT, the employee subsequently
notifies the employer, program administrator, supervisor,
or PLHCP that the fit of the respirator is unacceptable,
the employee shall be given a reasonable opportunity to
select a different respirator facepiece and to be retested.
1910.134(f)(5)
The fit test shall be administered using an OSHA-accepted
QLFT or QNFT protocol. The OSHA-accepted QLFT and QNFT
protocols and procedures are contained in Appendix A of
this section.
1910.134(f)(6)
QLFT may only be used to fit test negative pressure air-purifying
respirators that must achieve a fit factor of 100 or less.
1910.134(f)(7)
If the fit factor, as determined through an OSHA-accepted
QNFT protocol, is equal to or greater than 100 for tight-fitting
half facepieces, or equal to or greater than 500 for tight-fitting
full facepieces, the QNFT has been passed with that respirator.
1910.134(f)(8)
Fit testing of tight-fitting atmosphere-supplying respirators
and tight-fitting powered air-purifying respirators shall
be accomplished by performing quantitative or qualitative
fit testing in the negative pressure mode, regardless
of the mode of operation (negative or positive pressure)
that is used for respiratory protection.
1910.134(f)(8)(i)
Qualitative fit testing of these respirators shall be
accomplished by temporarily converting the respirator
user's actual facepiece into a negative pressure respirator
with appropriate filters, or by using an identical negative
pressure air-purifying respirator facepiece with the same
sealing surfaces as a surrogate for the atmosphere-supplying
or powered air-purifying respirator facepiece.
1910.134(f)(8)(ii)
Quantitative fit testing of these respirators shall be
accomplished by modifying the facepiece to allow sampling
inside the facepiece in the breathing zone of the user,
midway between the nose and mouth. This requirement shall
be accomplished by installing a permanent sampling probe
onto a surrogate facepiece, or by using a sampling adapter
designed to temporarily provide a means of sampling air
from inside the facepiece.
1910.134(f)(8)(iii)
Any modifications to the respirator facepiece for fit
testing shall be completely removed, and the facepiece
restored to NIOSH-approved configuration, before that
facepiece can be used in the workplace.
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- Use of respirators.
This paragraph requires employers to establish and
implement procedures for the proper use of respirators.
These requirements include prohibiting conditions that may
result in facepiece seal leakage, preventing employees from
removing respirators in hazardous environments, taking actions
to ensure continued effective respirator operation throughout
the work shift, and establishing procedures for the use
of respirators in IDLH atmospheres or in interior structural
firefighting situations.
1910.134(g)(1)
Facepiece seal protection.
1910.134(g)(1)(i)
The employer shall not permit respirators with tight-fitting
facepieces to be worn by employees who have:
1910.134(g)(1)(i)(A)
Facial hair that comes between the sealing surface of
the facepiece and the face or that interferes with valve
function; or
1910.134(g)(1)(i)(B)
Any condition that interferes with the face-to-facepiece
seal or valve function.
1910.134(g)(1)(ii)
If an employee wears corrective glasses or goggles or
other personal protective equipment, the employer shall
ensure that such equipment is worn in a manner that does
not interfere with the seal of the facepiece to the face
of the user.
1910.134(g)(1)(iii)
For all tight-fitting respirators, the employer shall
ensure that employees perform a user seal check each time
they put on the respirator using the procedures in Appendix
B-1 or procedures recommended by the respirator manufacturer
that the employer demonstrates are as effective as those
in Appendix B-1 of this section.
1910.134(g)(2)
Continuing respirator effectiveness.
1910.134(g)(2)(i)
Appropriate surveillance shall be maintained of work area
conditions and degree of employee exposure or stress.
When there is a change in work area conditions or degree
of employee exposure or stress that may affect respirator
effectiveness, the employer shall reevaluate the continued
effectiveness of the respirator.
1910.134(g)(2)(ii)
The employer shall ensure that employees leave the respirator
use area:
1910.134(g)(2)(ii)(A)
To wash their faces and respirator facepieces as necessary
to prevent eye or skin irritation associated with respirator
use; or
1910.134(g)(2)(ii)(B)
If they detect vapor or gas breakthrough, changes in breathing
resistance, or leakage of the facepiece; or
1910.134(g)(2)(ii)(C)
To replace the respirator or the filter, cartridge, or
canister elements.
1910.134(g)(2)(iii)
If the employee detects vapor or gas breakthrough, changes
in breathing resistance, or leakage of the facepiece,
the employer must replace or repair the respirator before
allowing the employee to return to the work area.
1910.134(g)(3)
Procedures for IDLH atmospheres. For all IDLH atmospheres,
the employer shall ensure that:
1910.134(g)(3)(i)
One employee or, when needed, more than one employee is
located outside the IDLH atmosphere;
1910.134(g)(3)(ii)
Visual, voice, or signal line communication is maintained
between the employee(s) in the IDLH atmosphere and the
employee(s) located outside the IDLH atmosphere;
1910.134(g)(3)(iii)
The employee(s) located outside the IDLH atmosphere are
trained and equipped to provide effective emergency rescue;
1910.134(g)(3)(iv)
The employer or designee is notified before the employee(s)
located outside the IDLH atmosphere enter the IDLH atmosphere
to provide emergency rescue;
1910.134(g)(3)(v)
The employer or designee authorized to do so by the employer,
once notified, provides necessary assistance appropriate
to the situation;
1910.134(g)(3)(vi)
Employee(s) located outside the IDLH atmospheres are equipped
with:
1910.134(g)(3)(vi)(A)
Pressure demand or other positive pressure SCBAs, or a
pressure demand or other positive pressure supplied-air
respirator with auxiliary SCBA; and either
1910.134(g)(3)(vi)(B)
Appropriate retrieval equipment for removing the employee(s)
who enter(s) these hazardous atmospheres where retrieval
equipment would contribute to the rescue of the employee(s)
and would not increase the overall risk resulting from
entry; or
1910.134(g)(3)(vi)(C)
Equivalent means for rescue where retrieval equipment
is not required under paragraph (g)(3)(vi)(B).
1910.134(g)(4)
Procedures for interior structural firefighting. In addition
to the requirements set forth under paragraph (g)(3),
in interior structural fires, the employer shall ensure
that:
1910.134(g)(4)(i)
At least two employees enter the IDLH atmosphere and remain
in visual or voice contact with one another at all times;
1910.134(g)(4)(ii)
At least two employees are located outside the IDLH atmosphere;
and
1910.134(g)(4)(iii)
All employees engaged in interior structural firefighting
use SCBAs.
Note 1 to paragraph (g): One of the two individuals located
outside the IDLH atmosphere may be assigned to an additional
role, such as incident commander in charge of the emergency
or safety officer, so long as this individual is able
to perform assistance or rescue activities without jeopardizing
the safety or health of any firefighter working at the
incident.
Note 2 to paragraph (g): Nothing in this section is meant
to preclude firefighters from performing emergency rescue
activities before an entire team has assembled.
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- Maintenance
and care of respirators.
This paragraph requires the employer to provide for the
cleaning and disinfecting, storage, inspection, and repair
of respirators used by employees.
1910.134(h)(1)
Cleaning and disinfecting. The employer shall provide
each respirator user with a respirator that is clean,
sanitary, and in good working order. The employer shall
ensure that respirators are cleaned and disinfected using
the procedures in Appendix B-2 of this section, or procedures
recommended by the respirator manufacturer, provided that
such procedures are of equivalent effectiveness. The respirators
shall be cleaned and disinfected at the following intervals:
1910.134(h)(1)(i)
Respirators issued for the exclusive use of an employee
shall be cleaned and disinfected as often as necessary
to be maintained in a sanitary condition;
1910.134(h)(1)(ii)
Respirators issued to more than one employee shall be
cleaned and disinfected before being worn by different
individuals;
1910.134(h)(1)(iii)
Respirators maintained for emergency use shall be cleaned
and disinfected after each use; and
1910.134(h)(1)(iv)
Respirators used in fit testing and training shall be
cleaned and disinfected after each use.
1910.134(h)(2)
Storage. The employer shall ensure that respirators are
stored as follows:
1910.134(h)(2)(i)
All respirators shall be stored to protect them from damage,
contamination, dust, sunlight, extreme temperatures, excessive
moisture, and damaging chemicals, and they shall be packed
or stored to prevent deformation of the facepiece and
exhalation valve.
1910.134(h)(2)(ii)
In addition to the requirements of paragraph (h)(2)(i)
of this section, emergency respirators shall be:
1910.134(h)(2)(ii)(A)
Kept accessible to the work area;
1910.134(h)(2)(ii)(B)
Stored in compartments or in covers that are clearly marked
as containing emergency respirators; and
1910.134(h)(2)(ii)(C)
Stored in accordance with any applicable manufacturer
instructions.
1910.134(h)(3)
Inspection.
1910.134(h)(3)(i)
The employer shall ensure that respirators are inspected
as follows:
1910.134(h)(3)(i)(A)
All respirators used in routine situations shall be inspected
before each use and during cleaning;
1910.134(h)(3)(i)(B)
All respirators maintained for use in emergency situations
shall be inspected at least monthly and in accordance
with the manufacturer's recommendations, and shall be
checked for proper function before and after each use;
and
1910.134(h)(3)(i)(C)
Emergency escape-only respirators shall be inspected before
being carried into the workplace for use.
1910.134(h)(3)(ii)
The employer shall ensure that respirator inspections
include the following:
1910.134(h)(3)(ii)(A)
A check of respirator function, tightness of connections,
and the condition of the various parts including, but
not limited to, the facepiece, head straps, valves, connecting
tube, and cartridges, canisters or filters; and
1910.134(h)(3)(ii)(B)
A check of elastomeric parts for pliability and signs
of deterioration.
1910.134(h)(3)(iii)
In addition to the requirements of paragraphs (h)(3)(i)
and (ii) of this section, self-contained breathing apparatus
shall be inspected monthly. Air and oxygen cylinders shall
be maintained in a fully charged state and shall be recharged
when the pressure falls to 90% of the manufacturer's recommended
pressure level. The employer shall determine that the
regulator and warning devices function properly.
1910.134(h)(3)(iv)
For respirators maintained for emergency use, the employer
shall:
1910.134(h)(3)(iv)(A)
Certify the respirator by documenting the date the inspection
was performed, the name (or signature) of the person who
made the inspection, the findings, required remedial action,
and a serial number or other means of identifying the
inspected respirator; and
1910.134(h)(3)(iv)(B)
Provide this information on a tag or label that is attached
to the storage compartment for the respirator, is kept
with the respirator, or is included in inspection reports
stored as paper or electronic files. This information
shall be maintained until replaced following a subsequent
certification.
1910.134(h)(4)
Repairs. The employer shall ensure that respirators that
fail an inspection or are otherwise found to be defective
are removed from service, and are discarded or repaired
or adjusted in accordance with the following procedures:
1910.134(h)(4)(i)
Repairs or adjustments to respirators are to be made only
by persons appropriately trained to perform such operations
and shall use only the respirator manufacturer's NIOSH-approved
parts designed for the respirator;
1910.134(h)(4)(ii)
Repairs shall be made according to the manufacturer's
recommendations and specifications for the type and extent
of repairs to be performed; and
1910.134(h)(4)(iii)
Reducing and admission valves, regulators, and alarms
shall be adjusted or repaired only by the manufacturer
or a technician trained by the manufacturer.
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- Breathing
air quality and use.
This paragraph requires the employer to provide employees
using atmosphere-supplying respirators (supplied-air and
SCBA) with breathing gases of high purity.
1910.134(i)(1)
The employer shall ensure that compressed air, compressed
oxygen, liquid air, and liquid oxygen used for respiration
accords with the following specifications:
1910.134(i)(1)(i)
Compressed and liquid oxygen shall meet the United States
Pharmacopoeia requirements for medical or breathing oxygen;
and
1910.134(i)(1)(ii)
Compressed breathing air shall meet at least the requirements
for Grade D breathing air described in ANSI/Compressed
Gas Association Commodity Specification for Air, G-7.1-1989,
to include:
1910.134(i)(1)(ii)(A)
Oxygen content (v/v) of 19.5-23.5%;
1910.134(i)(1)(ii)(B)
Hydrocarbon (condensed) content of 5 milligrams per cubic
meter of air or less;
1910.134(i)(1)(ii)(C)
Carbon monoxide (CO) content of 10 ppm or less;
1910.134(i)(1)(ii)(D)
Carbon dioxide content of 1,000 PPM or less; and
1910.134(i)(1)(ii)(E)
Lack of noticeable odor.
1910.134(i)(2)
The employer shall ensure that compressed oxygen is not
used in atmosphere-supplying respirators that have previously
used compressed air.
1910.134(i)(3)
The employer shall ensure that oxygen concentrations greater
than 23.5% are used only in equipment designed for oxygen
service or distribution.
1910.134(i)(4)
The employer shall ensure that cylinders used to supply
breathing air to respirators meet the following requirements:
1910.134(i)(4)(i)
Cylinders are tested and maintained as prescribed in the
Shipping Container Specification Regulations of the Department
of Transportation (49 CFR part 173 and part 178);
1910.134(i)(4)(ii)
Cylinders of purchased breathing air have a certificate
of analysis from the supplier that the breathing air meets
the requirements for Grade D breathing air; and
1910.134(i)(4)(iii)
The moisture content in the cylinder does not exceed a
dew point of -50 deg.F (-45.6 deg.C) at 1 atmosphere pressure.
1910.134(i)(5)
The employer shall ensure that compressors used to supply
breathing air to respirators are constructed and situated
so as to:
1910.134(i)(5)(i)
Prevent entry of contaminated air into the air-supply
system;
1910.134(i)(5)(ii)
Minimize moisture content so that the dew point at 1 atmosphere
pressure is 10 degrees F (5.56 deg.C) below the ambient
temperature;
1910.134(i)(5)(iii)
Have suitable in-line air-purifying sorbent beds and filters
to further ensure breathing air quality. Sorbent beds
and filters shall be maintained and replaced or refurbished
periodically following the manufacturer's instructions.
1910.134(i)(5)(iv)
Have a tag containing the most recent change date and
the signature of the person authorized by the employer
to perform the change. The tag shall be maintained at
the compressor.
1910.134(i)(6)
For compressors that are not oil-lubricated, the employer
shall ensure that carbon monoxide levels in the breathing
air do not exceed 10 PPM
1910.134(i)(7)
For oil-lubricated compressors, the employer shall use
a high-temperature or carbon monoxide alarm, or both,
to monitor carbon monoxide levels. If only high-temperature
alarms are used, the air supply shall be monitored at
intervals sufficient to prevent carbon monoxide in the
breathing air from exceeding 10 PPM
1910.134(i)(8)
The employer shall ensure that breathing air couplings
are incompatible with outlets for nonrespirable worksite
air or other gas systems. No asphyxiating substance shall
be introduced into breathing air lines.
1910.134(i)(9)
The employer shall use breathing gas containers marked
in accordance with the NIOSH respirator certification
standard, 42 CFR part 84.
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- Identification
of filters, cartridges and canisters. 1910.134(j)
The employer shall ensure that all filters, cartridges and
canisters used in the workplace are labeled and color coded
with the NIOSH approval label and that the label is not
removed and remains legible.
- Training
and information.
This paragraph requires the employer to provide effective
training to employees who are required to use respirators.
The training must be comprehensive, understandable, and
recur annually, and more often if necessary. This paragraph
also requires the employer to provide the basic information
on respirators in Appendix D of this section to employees
who wear respirators when not required by this section or
by the employer to do so.
1910.134(k)(1)
The employer shall ensure that each employee can demonstrate
knowledge of at least the following:
1910.134(k)(1)(i)
Why the respirator is necessary and how improper fit,
usage, or maintenance can compromise the protective effect
of the respirator;
1910.134(k)(1)(ii)
What the limitations and capabilities of the respirator
are;
1910.134(k)(1)(iii)
How to use the respirator effectively in emergency situations,
including situations in which the respirator malfunctions;
1910.134(k)(1)(iv)
How to inspect, put on and remove, use, and check the
seals of the respirator;
1910.134(k)(1)(v)
What the procedures are for maintenance and storage of
the respirator;
1910.134(k)(1)(vi)
How to recognize medical signs and symptoms that may limit
or prevent the effective use of respirators; and
1910.134(k)(1)(vii)
The general requirements of this section.
1910.134(k)(2)
The training shall be conducted in a manner that is understandable
to the employee.
1910.134(k)(3)
The employer shall provide the training prior to requiring
the employee to use a respirator in the workplace.
1910.134(k)(4)
An employer who is able to demonstrate that a new employee
has received training within the last 12 months that addresses
the elements specified in paragraph (k)(1)(i) through
(vii) is not required to repeat such training provided
that, as required by paragraph (k)(1), the employee can
demonstrate knowledge of those element(s). Previous training
not repeated initially by the employer must be provided
no later than 12 months from the date of the previous
training.
1910.134(k)(5)
Retraining shall be administered annually, and when the
following situations occur:
1910.134(k)(5)(i)
Changes in the workplace or the type of respirator render
previous training obsolete;
1910.134(k)(5)(ii)
Inadequacies in the employee's knowledge or use of the
respirator indicate that the employee has not retained
the requisite understanding or skill; or
1910.134(k)(5)(iii)
Any other situation arises in which retraining appears
necessary to ensure safe respirator use.
1910.134(k)(6)
The basic advisory information on respirators, as presented
in Appendix D of this section, shall be provided by the
employer in any written or oral format, to employees who
wear respirators when such use is not required by this
section or by the employer.
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- Program evaluation.
This section requires the employer to conduct evaluations
of the workplace to ensure that the written respiratory
protection program is being properly implemented, and to
consult employees to ensure that they are using the respirators
properly.
1910.134(l)(1)
The employer shall conduct evaluations of the workplace
as necessary to ensure that the provisions of the current
written program are being effectively implemented and
that it continues to be effective.
1910.134(l)(2)
The employer shall regularly consult employees required
to use respirators to assess the employees' views on program
effectiveness and to identify any problems. Any problems
that are identified during this assessment shall be corrected.
Factors to be assessed include, but are not limited to:
1910.134(l)(2)(i)
Respirator fit (including the ability to use the respirator
without interfering with effective workplace performance);
1910.134(l)(2)(ii)
Appropriate respirator selection for the hazards to which
the employee is exposed;
1910.134(l)(2)(iii)
Proper respirator use under the workplace conditions the
employee encounters; and
1910.134(l)(2)(iv)
Proper respirator maintenance.
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- Recordkeeping.
This section requires the employer to establish and retain
written information regarding medical evaluations, fit testing,
and the respirator program. This information will facilitate
employee involvement in the respirator program, assist the
employer in auditing the adequacy of the program, and provide
a record for compliance determinations by OSHA.
1910.134(m)(1)
Medical evaluation. Records of medical evaluations required
by this section must be retained and made available in
accordance with 29 CFR 1910.1020.
1910.134(m)(2)
Fit testing.
1910.134(m)(2)(i)
The employer shall establish a record of the qualitative
and quantitative fit tests administered to an employee
including:
1910.134(m)(2)(i)(A)
The name or identification of the employee tested;
1910.134(m)(2)(i)(B)
Type of fit test performed;
1910.134(m)(2)(i)(C)
Specific make, model, style, and size of respirator tested;
1910.134(m)(2)(i)(D)
Date of test; and
1910.134(m)(2)(i)(E)
The pass/fail results for QLFTs or the fit factor and
strip chart recording or other recording of the test results
for QNFTs.
1910.134(m)(2)(ii)
Fit test records shall be retained for respirator users
until the next fit test is administered.
1910.134(m)(3)
A written copy of the current respirator program shall
be retained by the employer.
1910.134(m)(4)
Written materials required to be retained under this paragraph
shall be made available upon request to affected employees
and to the Assistant Secretary or designee for examination
and copying.
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- Dates.
- Paragraphs (d)(3)(i)(A) and (d)(3)(i)(B) of this section
become effective November 22, 2006.
Top
- Appendices.
1910.134(o)(1)
Compliance with Appendix A, Appendix B-1, Appendix B-2,
and Appendix C of this section is mandatory.
1910.134(o)(2)
Appendix D of this section is non-mandatory and is not
intended to create any additional obligations not otherwise
imposed or to detract from any existing obligations.
[63 FR 1152, Jan. 8, 1998; 63 FR 20098, April 23, 1998;
71 FR 16672, April 3, 2006; 71 FR 50187, August 24, 2006]
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