The use of respirators and gas detectors in accordance with OSHA 29 CFR standards

Respirators are used to prevent workers from inhaling small particles, including airborne or aerosolized infectious agents. They must be provided and used in accordance with OSHA’s Respiratory Protection standard at 29 CFR 1910.134, and must be certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).  OSHA mandates what PPE is required when workers are either directly exposed to H2S or working near a site where the gas is present. Whenever respirators are used, the employer must have a respiratory protection program that meets the requirements of OSHA’s Respiratory Protection standard (29 CFR 1910.134). This program must include proper respirator selection, fit testing, medical evaluations, and training.  The correct respirator  should be discussed with a qualified safety professional, but for the purpose of this training,  it should be noted that the respirator must be a positive-pressure, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).