Respiratory Protection: Let’s Talk Fresh Air
1910.134 – Respiratory Protection
We might take our breath for granted, but when air quality is compromised, it can quickly feel like the walls are closing in around us.
The air your employees breathe on the job can make all the difference, especially if they’re exposed to dust, fumes, or chemicals.
And don’t forget—medical questionnaires, training, and fit-testing are crucial! For fit-tesing, respirators aren’t one-size-fits-all. It’s like a good pair of shoes —you’ve gotta make sure they fit just right!
Here are some essential points from 191.134 to keep lungs safe:
Scope: Applies to general industry, shipyards, marine terminals, long-shoring, and construction.
Primary objective: Prevent atmospheric contamination through engineering controls. When not feasible, appropriate respirators must be used.
Employer responsibilities: Provide suitable respirators, and establish and maintain a respiratory protection program.
Respiratory protection program: Must be written, with worksite-specific procedures, and include elements such as respirator selection, medical evaluations, fit testing, proper use procedures, maintenance, and employee training.
Voluntary use: Employers may allow voluntary use of respirators if it doesn't create a hazard. Some program elements are still required. This requires a review of Appendix D of the Respiratory Protection Program. We recommend that you have employees sign this form and retain it for your records if there is voluntary use of respirators.
Respirator selection: Based on workplace hazards and user factors. NIOSH-certified respirators must be used.
IDLH atmospheres: Specific respirator types are required for Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) situations.
Brandy’s Fast Fact: Did you know your left lung is smaller with only two lobes whereas the right has three? That’s because there needs to be room for the heart! So yes, there’s a lot to love about respirators!
Do you need assistance developing your respiratory protection program?
Contact us today!
This blog was written by Brandy Zadoorian, CSP, and Triangle Safety Consulting LLC's Owner and Principal Consultant.
She offers audits, expertise, resources, and guidance to help small to medium-sized manufacturing facilities improve their safety program, including compliance with OSHA Requirements.
She is a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) under the Board of Certified Safety Professionals.
