Respirator Selection Guide

    The implementation of a respirator selection guide is recommended for choosing the proper respirator for the job. There are many choices of full face, half face, masks and supplied air respirators available from numerous manufacturers and distributors.
    Following is a brief explanation concerning respirator selection for the workplace. As each Industry and job function can result in very specific circumstances for a
particular location a respiratory protection program should be implemented for every individual situation.
   OSHA Respiratory Protection Standard 29 CFR 1910.134 provides the basic
requirements for implementing a safety protection program. A standard practice needs to include proper care and maintenance of reusable respirators. Regardless of the type of respirator used whether it is a full face, half face, masks and supplied air respirators a fit test must be performed in order to assure the proper protection. The fit test will also take into account the fact that the appropriate respiratory device for each individual is comfortable. When a worker is uncomfortable with equipment there is always the result of the irritating factor being removed if only for a short period and resulting in a loss of protection. 
   The respiratory protection program must also take into account the protection factor for the workplace exposure. The selected style of respirator must have a rating greater then the determined exposure level and must be worn at all times when there is a chance of exposure to contaminants.
    It is the responsibility of the employer to perform an onsite assessment as to the exposure level of the airborne particles, gases of vapors and determine the appropriate respiratory protection required.

    For a full detailed guide for respirator selection 3M has a very good guide which you can access at:

3M Worldwide

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