Respirator Use

Inhalation Hazards

Inhalation is one of the principal routes by which harmful materials can enter the body. If an individual is exposed to a hazardous airborne concentration of such a material, then undesirable health effects can result.

EHS Services

EHS can assist in determining whether a member of the University community’s exposure to these agents exceeds available exposure limits established by entities such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH).  If these limits are exceeded, and exposure cannot be reduced to acceptable levels through substitution with a less hazardous agent or the use of engineering controls, such as ventilation, then respiratory protection may be necessary.

When to Contact EHS

Contact EHS to conduct an exposure assessment to determine if respiratory protection is necessary. If a respirator is recommended for your use, then you must be fit-tested and trained by EHS and receive medical clearance from Employee Health Services, in order to wear one.

Staff

Sean Farrell
Safety Program Manager
609-258-3658